Since their discovery, differing gemstones and minerals have obtained specific meanings over time. In the present day, we recognize these trending types of gemstones as birthstones for particular months of the year. These selected stones—one to four per birth month—have their own fascinating legends and meanings that are thought to bring good fortune to the wearer.
Searching for birthstone information for yourself or a loved one? This cherished centuries-long tradition allows wearers to celebrate their special day and adorn their necks, ears, wrists, and fingers with stunning gems that represent them. Read through Solvang’s compiled list of traditional birthstones by month.
The Historic and Modern Traditions of Birthstones
The practice of gifting and wearing birthstones dates back centuries internationally, yet for some time there was never a general consensus on the list of birthstones by month. This ambiguous dilemma was the case until the 18th century when the National Association of Jewelers met in 1912.
The group combined historic customs and religious origins to officially standardize the birthstones and their months of representation. The modern-day American birthstones list has remained relatively unchanged ever since.
Birthstone Jewelry: Wearing and Gifting
Birthstones are personalized gifts or timeless jewelry pieces to treasure. Their shimmering shades and hues can be proudly worn in your choice of necklace pendants, rings, bracelets, brooches, and earrings. As an enjoyable and classic way to express style and individuality, the assortment of birthstone colors is perfect to wear for any styling occasion.
What Are the Birthstones by Month?
Each month’s birthstone colors are popular in modern and antique jewelry designs for gem-lovers and gift-givers.
January– Garnet
Garnets are often dark red but can be green, yellow, orange, or brown.
February– Amethyst
Amethyst ranges from a light lilac to a rich, deep purple hue.
March– Aquamarine, Bloodstone
Aquamarine is blueish-green, while bloodstone is dark green with red specs of color.
April– Diamond
This classic pure gem has a transparent shine but can also be a natural rainbow of colors.
May– Emerald
The best emeralds on the market are an even, deep shade of green without inclusions.
June– Pearl, Moonstone, Alexandrite
Pearls are traditionally white yet are available in a colorful range. The same varied-hued variety is true of moonstone and the chameleon-like alexandrite.
July– Ruby
As corundum gems, rubies are radiantly red.
August– Peridot, Spinel, Sardonyx
Peridot is a prized green hue with a recognizable yellow undertone. Spinel gems occur in every type of color on the spectrum, while sardonyx is a chalcedony stone of reddish-brown or layered multi-colors.
September– Sapphire
As corundum gemstones of the non-red variety, sapphires can be varied colors but are customarily blue.
October– Opal, Tourmaline
Opals are in their own play-on-color category. Coveted tourmaline gem colors are either blue, green, or violet.
November– Imperial Topaz, Citrine
Imperial topaz from Brazil is pink-orange or yellow-orange, while citrine stones are red-orange, yellow, or brown.
December– Blue Topaz, Turquoise, Zircon, Tanzanite
The last month of the year is known for its varying vivid blueish-green birthstones.
Read through our Gemstone encyclopedia to uncover more about your favorite gemstone or find detailed birthstone information.