Birthstones are gems associated with a birth month, and each stone has a unique meaning and significance. They have become an important element of many celebrations, such as birthdays, engagements, and anniversaries, usually found on rings, bracelets, necklaces, and earrings. Although birthstones have become a jewellery trend, they have been popular for many years due to their beautiful colours and personal sentiment.
The origin of this tradition traces back to biblical times and the Book of Exodus, and it describes the breastplate worn by Aaron – the first high priest of the Israelites. The breastplate included 12 stones, each representing one of the 12 tribes of Israel. Many years later, a historian made connections between the stones, the months of the year, and the zodiac.
After the 16th century, the modern tradition of wearing one stone became more prevalent, and more people started embracing birthstones, making it the popular birthstone trend we know today. Discover what each birthstone means below to find the perfect gift for your loved one.
January: Garnet
Most commonly associated with a rich red colour, garnet is often considered a symbol of love and friendship. Some believe that a garnet offers protection, protecting the wearer from injuries or wounds. This belief made garnets popular among warriors and royalty, which is why they are also associated with life-giving blood.
Garnet embedded into a piece of jewellery is the ideal gift for those born in January. The gemstones can also be found in various colour differences, depending on their chemical compositions. They are also easy to clean with warm water and a gentle cloth.
February: Amethyst
The world’s most popular purple gem, amethyst, is used for various purposes. In addition to being adorned in jewellery, amethyst is also used in face rollers and crystals. Amethyst is famous for its eye-catching colour, as it is available in different shades of purple – from light lavender to pink or reddish-purple.
Amethyst has many popular symbolic and folkloric associations, both ancient and modern, such as love, spirituality, and protection. According to Healthline, “ayurvedic medicine practitioners, crystal healers, reiki practitioners, and other alternative and complementary medicine practitioners may use amethysts” for various purposes, such as enhancing the immune system, improving skin, and promoting digestive health. Although these are not scientific claims, amethyst is the perfect gift for individuals who believe in the power of an amethyst stone, and you can embed them in necklaces, rings, and bracelets.
March: Aquamarine
Named after its resemblance to clear crystal waters, aquamarine is a pale blue gemstone often tied with spiritual beliefs related to youth, happiness, and the ocean. Aquamarine stones can be found in both blue and blue/green hues. This durable birthstone makes the perfect center stone for a ring or necklace, mainly due to its availability and moderate pricing.
April: Diamond
April babies are the luckiest, as diamonds are the most popular gemstones in jewellery. Diamonds are the hardest natural material, making them the perfect center stone for many types of jewellery. Although they are traditionally mined from the earth, lab-grown diamonds are becoming increasingly popular due to their lower environmental impact.
One of the tremendous benefits of gifting someone an April birthstone is the flexibility you have when choosing or designing jewellery. It may also be the perfect opportunity to propose to your loved one. Gifting an April baby their birthstone and engagement ring in one – sounds like a win-win! Reach out to a reputable jeweller like Alexis Gallery to learn the best ways to integrate birthstones into engagement rings. You can add the stone and include subtle details or incorporate a sentimental element.
May: Emerald
Emerald is a fan-favourite gemstone due to its unique colour scheme ranging from light sage to deep greens. Emerald has been synonymous with the colour green for many years. This member of the beryl family is often placed along with the “Big Four” traditional gems, along with diamond, sapphire, and ruby. Believed to promote healing and improve intelligence, an emerald is a perfect gift for a friend or family.
June: Pearl
The pearl is a unique gemstone because, unlike the others, it is mined from the sea and only found with living creatures. Pearls are entirely opaque and display unblemished surfaces with even colouring, which is why they are often associated with purity, honesty, and wisdom. Pearls can be found in necklaces, bracelets, and earrings. Make sure to frequently wipe them with a fresh cloth to preserve their shine.
July: Ruby
As one of the most popular traditional jewellery stones, ruby is famous for its durability and is always found in a striking red. Often connected with strength and favoured by warriors, jewellery with ruby gemstones is ideal for an individual who needs help navigating emotional social situations. Fine-quality rubies are some of the most expensive gemstones found globally, but you can also find affordable versions in jewellery.
August: Peridot
Peridot is one of the few gemstones that only occurs in one colour, but the shades can vary depending on its origin. The deep yellowish-green colour is a unique gemstone that can be used on different forms of jewellery. This unique stone is known for protecting its wearer at night and is claimed to have protective powers that drive away fears and nightmares.
September: Sapphire
Sapphire is a precious gemstone widely recognized for its beautiful blue appearance. But it can come in various colours, such as pink, yellow, black, and more. Let the amazing range of colours that sapphires occur in dazzle and surprise you. As one of the most durable gemstones, sapphire scores nine on the Mohs scale, making it a perfect stone for daily wear.
October: Tourmaline & Opal
October has two birthstones, making it even easier for gift-givers to choose one that best suits the recipient. Tourmaline comes in various colours, such as dark pink, red, and neon blue. Tourmalines can display zones of different colours in a single gem, unlike most other birthstones. Believed to have healing powers, stress-relieving properties, and the power to boost creativity, the gemstone is the perfect option for artists and writers.
The second October opal birthstone is known for its uniqueness and individuality. Although there are many superstitions associated with contributing to its popularity, many people wear opal for good luck. They are also one of the most delicate gemstones that should be worn with care.
November: Topaz & Citrine
Those with November birthdays also have two birthstones to choose from: topaz and citrine. Topaz comes with a rainbow of colours, but yellow is the signature colour of the birth jewellery. The gemstone holds many superstitious beliefs but is often the top choice for those needing calming energies.
A cousin of amethyst, citrine is prized for its charming yellow and orange hues and popular for its calming benefits. The rise of the “earth tone” has made citrine more prevalent in today’s modern world. Citrine is associated with healing and happiness, making it the perfect gemstone for many forms of jewellery. You may gift this to November babies struggling with stress, insomnia, or stomach aches.
December: Tanzanite, Zircon & Turquoise
December has three birthstones: tanzanite, zircon, and turquoise. They all come in shades of blue, with turquoise as the most popular December gemstone. Turquoise is popular for drawing, supporting, and healing from the natural world. The soothing and supportive gemstone is the perfect option for those born in December. But you can also opt for zircon or tanzanite, two other blue gemstones known for their calming properties.