What are the Birthstones by Month: History, Colors, Meaning

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What are Birthstone By Month?

Birthstones are gemstones with a specific meaning and historical significance that correspond with a person’s birth month. Birthstones have been popular since ancient times, when people thought that gemstones had amazing properties like prosperity, health, and good fortune.

Even though every month has its own signs and birthstone and is usually associated with a zodiac sign, certain months have more than one birthstone, as you can see below.

History of Birthstones By Months

First-century historian Josephus believed the twelve stones in Aaron’s breastplate (representing Israel’s tribes in the Book of Exodus), the twelve months, and the twelve zodiac signs were related.

The breastplate chapter in Exodus has been translated and interpreted differently, with Josephus giving two lists of the twelve stones. According to George Frederick Kunz, Josephus saw the Second Temple breastplate, not Exodus.

St. Jerome, citing Josephus, claimed Christians should worship the New Jerusalem Foundation Stones (Revelation.^[1]

Modern vs. Traditional Birthstones: What’s the Difference?

In the 16th and 18th centuries, Poland started introducing the traditional birthstones that we don’t know about in the states.

The National Association of Jewelers published a list of “modern birthstones” in 1912.

One significant difference between the current and traditional lists was the addition of purely transparent gems. 

Birthstones are timeless and represent each month with different gemstones. On the other hand, there are two different lists for birthstones, traditional and modern.^[2]

Each one has its own charms and significance. Let’s examine how they differ.

People freely choose the stones that appeal to them from both lists in the United States today. 

So Let’s begin exploring the connection between birthstones by month, and how they can positively or negatively impact your life based on individual experiences.

Garnet | January

Garnet, the birthstone for January, is said to protect the wearer during traveling. The name garnet comes from a word that means “seed” because the gem resembles a pomegranate seed.

Less Common January Stones: January is primarily connected with Garnet but there are other less common stones for January like Rose Quartz with soft pink color and Black colored Onyx.

Discovery History: Over 5000 years ago, Egypt and Sumeria discovered garnets.

Color: This beautiful gem has a deep red color but they are also available in different colors like purple, pink and colorless shade.

Symbolism: Garnet symbolizes love, energy and protection, it also symbolizes passionate friendship and trust in relationships.

Amethyst | February

Amethyst is the birthstone for February. The gemstone used to be restricted to royalty in the Ancient times.

Less Common February Stones: For February, jasper (earthy red brown) and opal (white or rainbow-like) are alternates.

Discovery History: Ancient Greece and Egypt discovered them (before 3000 BCE).

Color: The colors of amethyst range from light violet to deep purple, frequently with hints of red or blue. The ruling class preferred amethysts because purple has always been associated with monarchy.

Symbolism: Amethysts have also been linked to healing, mental clarity, and spirituality over time. It is also a symbol of protection.

Aquamarine | March

Aquamarine gets its name from the color of saltwater. Early fishermen thought that items made of aquamarine, which was carved with the image of the sea lord Neptune, would shield them from the dangers of the ocean.

Less Common March Stones: Bloodstone is the other stone for the March borns, Found in dark green color with red spots on it.

Discovery History: It’s likely that aquamarine was discovered in ancient Brazil or India.

Color: There are blue and blue/green varieties of these stones. You won’t see any dark blues or greens in aquamarine stones because they always have a light color saturation and tone.

Symbolism: In the ancient time it was believed that this stone protected the sailors from the dangers of the ocean. They took it as a symbol of protection.

Diamond | April

The most common ring stone in the world is the diamond. Diamond jewelry has grown into a status symbol, and these gems are valued for their timeless beauty and clarity. The diamond is known in Sanskrit as vajra, which also means lightning.

Less Common April Stones: White Topaz is an alternative stone for April, they are mostly Transparent and colorless.

Discovery History: The first ones were found in India, specifically in Golconda, around the 4th century BCE.

Color: Although diamonds have a wide range of beautiful colors, the great majority of them are colorless. There is a fancy colored diamond for every taste and occasion, ranging from warm yellows to deep blues to rare reds.

Symbolism: Diamonds are linked to strength and unending love because of their exceptional hardness, general strength, and absolute beauty.

Emerald | May

One of Cleopatra’s favorite stones was emerald. This stone was even dedicated to Venus, the goddess of beauty and love, by the ancient Romans.

Less Common May Stones: Chrysoprase is an alternative stone of May. The Apple green color of these stones is beautiful.

Discovery History: These Emerald mines were discovered around 1500 BCE in Egypt and called Cleopatra mines.

Color: Best emeralds are uniformly green.It is well known that emeralds frequently have noticeable inclusions. In general, a stone’s value increases with the number of inclusions.

Symbolism: Emerald, the birthstone for May, represents the family joy, wise love, and victorious faith. It is used as a defense against evil in many civilizations.

Pearl | Alexandrite | June

• Pearl

The only gems present in living things, including freshwater and saltwater snails, are pearls. However, because pearls are now so uncommon in nature, the majority of pearls sold today are grown or farmed.

Discovery History: The first pearls were found in Ancient times in south India and Sri Lanka, likely in the 4th millennium BCE.

Color: Although most people still associate pearls with white, depending on where they were grown. They can now be found in a variety of colors, such as black, green, gold, silver, and even pastels.

Symbolism: The ancient Greeks thought that pearls were the tears of pleasure from the goddess of love, and they have long been associated with purity.

• Alexandrite

Alexandrite is known for exhibiting one of the most remarkable color shifts in the gem industry, green in sunlight and red in darkness.

Discovery History: It was discovered in Russia in 1830.

Color: They are famously known because of their color changing quality, they change color according to daylight.

Symbolism: Alexandrite’s dramatic color shift makes it a symbol of change and flexibility. It is also linked to joy, balance, and self-assurance.

Ruby | July

One of the most popular gemstones worldwide is the ruby, which is the birthstone for July. It is known for its durability and has a Mohs hardness rating of 9, which makes it perfect for daily use. 

Less Common July Stones: While Ruby is July’s birthstone, Carnelian, a vibrant reddish orange stone, is considered the alternative.

Discovery History: Over 2000 years ago, rubies were discovered in Burma, now called Myanmar.

Throughout history, rubies have been utilized in crowns and tiaras, and they are frequently linked to royal precious stones.

Color: Deep red to lighter pinkish-red hues are among the colors of rubies. The rich, silky ruby of the most valuable rubies is sometimes called “pigeon blood” red.

Symbolism: Rubies have always been associated with strength and physicality. Rubies were considered to be closely related to the human body and were therefore preferred by fighters.

Peridot and spinel | August

The birthstones of spinel and peridot make August special. Both stones are admired for their beauty and meaning, providing people born in this month with a range of options.

• Peridot

August’s birthstone, peridot, is a hard gemstone that ranges from 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs hardness scale.

It is one among the few gemstones that originate deep below the Earth’s core and is frequently found in volcanic rocks. Fine jewelry, including necklaces, earrings, and rings, frequently uses peridot.

Discovery History: Around 1500 BCE, Egyptians discovered them.

Color: Peridot is distinguished by its bright green hue, which can range from olive to yellow-green. The most prized peridots have a vibrant lime green color with a faint hint of gold.

Symbolism: Peridot is thought to represent strength, rebirth, and growth. Additionally, it is said to protect against bad energy and bring good fortune.

• Spinal

The other birthstone for August is spinel and what a remarkable gem it is, with a hardness of 8 on the Moh’s scale. 

Though existing in Sri Lanka and sometimes in Myanmar it is one of the clearest and splendid gemstones.

Discovery History: It was around the 8th century that spinel was found in Sri Lanka and Burma.

Color: Some of the many colors of spinel include shades of red, pink, blue, and purple that are dynamism in nature. 

Unlike rubies which have their most valuable variants generally pink or dark red, the most valuable spinels are similarly pink or dark red.

Symbolism: Strength and assurance stand for the spinal birthstone of August which responds to the brightness of its shades and density. 

Moreover, it symbolizes rejuvenation, or optimizes its users; regaling them with energy, and motivation.

Sapphire | September

Sapphire It is the September birthstone and it was earlier considered to have the powers of safeguarding one from poison and evil.

Less Common September Stones: The other birthstone by month of September is Lapis Lazuli which is a beautiful stone of rich royal blue color. 

Discovery History: Ancient times, sapphires were treasured in Sri Lanka.

It was thought that putting a poisonous snake in a sapphire jar would cause it to die. In fact, in previous centuries, it was preferred especially by priests and kings.

Color: Sapphire is a lovely and calm stone that is usually in royal blue, but can also be sky blue.

Symbolism: Sapphires are regarded as a protection gemstone. Hood may shield the wearer against jealousy, motive for killing as well as death.

Tourmaline and Opal | October

Tourmaline and opal are two important gems that have extraordinary color and qualities and are associated with the month of October.

• Tourmaline

An all-round great gemstone known for its hardness and being incredibly clear is tourmaline. Gem lovers love it because of its special structure of crystals.

Color:  The natural tourmaline available in the market are found in many colors. Some of these color variations have their commercial names used in naming them.

Symbolism: The tourmaline is very well demanded around the world. Introducing the powers of tourmalines, some people mentioned that it can give people the function of curing themselves and releasing stress.

Tourmalines are especially appreciated by artists and authors and as for the improvements of creativity, tourmalines are also helpful here.

• Opal

Opals are a different class to all other gemstones. Rather, the patterns of opal are so special as a species that they possess their own kind of language of description. 

Discovery History: There are Opals in hungry places that were discovered over 4000 years ago.

Every opal is unique. Moreover, among all the listed varieties of gems, opal is one that is most tender and is used more often and in more varied jewelry requiring additional care.

Color: Opal demonstrates a very bright play of colors ranging from blue, yellow, green, and red. The special quality that makes it genuinely unique is its shimmering hues.

Symbolism: Opals are associated with light and magic, possibly due to the liveliness of form. Therefore, it was folkloric that opals possessed some sort of healing properties especially for the eyes.

Citrine and Topaz | November

Topaz and citrine are November’s birthstones, and both of these stones can perfectly symbolize the warm feelings of the fall season.

• Citrine

Citrine is a wide variety of quartz which is particularly valued for its ability to withstand strong light and for its lack of interference. It is widely used in jewelry making because of its presence and price.

Color: Citrine is a warm color and can be as dark as amber or as light as a pale yellow. It is brightly coloured with a simple and natural appearance like it is painted by the sun.

Symbolism: Citrine is another variety of quartz that is related to amethyst. Citrine is primarily known as the stone of healing and joy or happiness.

• Topaz

Topaz is the birthstone of the month of November, and is very famous for its outstanding fire and cleanliness. 

This is a hard gemstone which makes it ideal for use in creating jewelry that will be both stunning and durable.

Discovery History: The first ones were discovered on Topazios Island around 500 BCE.

Color: Some of the shades that collect include soft pink, sky blue, and golden yellow amongst others. It has a vivid coloration for which this material is most appreciated and used for illuminating purposes.

Symbolism: According to Gemstone Energy Information, Topaz is often associated with clarity and strength as well as being a stone of healing. Some believe that it has a positive effect on confidence, creativity and stability.

Zircon, Tanzanite and Turquoise | December

Zircon, Tanzanite, and Turquoise are the three birthstones which create December as a special month. These jewels are unique and symbolic which exist associatively with stories and brilliant colors.

• Zircon

The zircon is an excellent gemstone, with high dispersion, and percent larger than that of diamond. Being a hardy material and producing some of the most eye popping and attractive hues it has been in use in beautiful jewelry for ages.

Discovery History: Ancient times were when zircon was discovered. The oldest zircon was found in Australia (4.4 billion years old), but they’re found everywhere.

Color: The shades of blue of zircon are a bit dull but when held against the light they are very beautiful. Most of the blue zircon on the market has received heat treatment so as to improve its appearance.

Symbolism: It might not be shocking to find that the blue zircons are associated with purity and peace as blue color is often associated with serenity and spirituality.

• Tanzanite

Tanzanite, the December birthstone, is found in only one place on Earth: Mererani hills from Tanzania. Its availability is restricted and its rarity exceeds the diamond by a thousand times.

Discovery History: In 1967, Tanzanite was discovered in Merelani hills, Tanzania.

Color: What is amazing about this mineral is that it demonstrates the kind of pleochroism, that is, it has different colors depending on where the light shines on it.

In certain light it can be even more brilliant violet-blue and at other times hardly a detectable shade of burgundy.

Symbolism: Tanzanite helps to overcome great changes in one’s life and it contributes to one’s essential personal growth. 

Moreover, it is associated with the enhancement of insight, and forming contact with the higher knowledge.

• Turquoise 

Turquoise is the December birthstone and is one of the oldest gemstones known to man with History of use dating back more than five thousand years.

Discovery History: Found in Sinai Peninsula, Egypt, about 3000 BCE.

Due to this it is rare and is known to be protective in nature and has been sought after by such civilizations as the Egyptians, Persian and even some Native Americans.

Color: Turquoise is valued for its green-blue color that sometimes contains a ‘web’ like formation. The vivid colors of the stone are as a result of the inclusion of iron and copper.

Symbolism: Turquoise is often believed to be talismanic because it symbolizes protection and knowledge. It also concerns trust in communication and balance.^[3]

How to Choose the Correct Birthstone By Month?

• Discover the conventional gemstone connected to your birth month—Garnet for January or Emerald for May.
• Discover color and meaning; select one that speaks to your ideals or personality from each birthstone.
• Think about alternate stones: Some months, like June (Pearl, Alexandrite), have several choices. Choose the one that most speaks to you.
• Consider practicality when selecting a stone for regular wear or special events; it should complement your taste and way of life.
• Examine Your Budget: Though their prices vary, lab-created stones can be reasonably priced and just as gorgeous as natural gemstones.
• Research Zodiac Options: If you follow astrology, your month may call for a zodiac gemstone rather than the usual birthstone.
• Personal Connection Matters: Choose a stone that, independent of custom or tradition, speaks to you.
• See a jeweler: To find out about the quality, hardness, and maintenance needs of your preferred stone.

FAQS: Birthstone by Month and Zodiac Sign

1. Definition of a birthstone

Often said to provide good fortune, protection, or energy to the wearer, a birthstone is a gemstone connected with a particular month or zodiac sign.

2. Month assignments for birthstones?

Usually assigned based on historical, cultural, and astrological relevance, birthstones Every month corresponds with a certain gemstone with special qualities.

3. What connection exist between birthstones and zodiac signs?

Astrology links particular zodiac signs’ energy to gemstones. Every sign is supposed to improve its qualities or offer equilibrium by means of stones.

4. Do my zodiac birthstone and birth month differ?

Indeed, they can vary. While zodiac stones are based on astrological dates, which overlap months, birth month stones are fixed.

5. Does wearing a birthstone help anything?

Many people believe birthstones protect, balance emotions, and bring good fortune. These advantages, nevertheless, are symbolic rather than based on any scientific evidence.

6. Does Islam contain birthstones?

Though stones like Aqeeq, Yaqoot, and Firoza have cultural and spiritual meaning, Islam does not formally link gemstones with birth months or signs.

Disclaimer:
The following section discusses the emotional, spiritual, and physical benefits of Birthstones according to traditional astrological beliefs. These claims are not supported by scientific evidence, and the effects described are symbolic or metaphysical in nature. These properties are based on the astrologer experience and their research.

Source:

Wikipedia contributors. (2024, November 5). Birthstone. Wikipedia.