In the world of colorful and dazzling gemstones, there are some truly mysterious birthstones that represent their respective months. Birthstones have always been recognized for their magical powers, and it’s easy to see why! As early as the mid-16th century in Europe, people began to align different types of birthstone with months. This was done as a symbol of each person’s birth, and it’s a tradition that’s still going strong today! These 12 natural birthstones have their own meanings, powers, and legends. That’s why they are called birthstones. The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) actively promotes them, and for good reason!
Birthstone with months are now popular worldwide. They have become a favorite for both gifts and personal use, and it’s easy to see why! It’s said that wearing a birthstone as an accessory can bring you luck, provide protection, and enhance your aura. Get ready to discover your birthstone below!
Birthstone With Months
January – Garnet: The Protector’s Gem
- Garnet – Sincerity, Chastity, Friendship, Prosperity
- 2nd Wedding Anniversary Gemstone
The name Garnet is derived from the Latin word granatus. Garnets come in a variety of colors, influenced by other metallic elements, the most common being dark red, purplish red or brownish red. According to Indian astrology, garnet helps to eliminate negative emotions (anger, frustration, guilt) and gradually brings more self-confidence and clarity of thought, maintaining inner peace.
To explore more about Garnet, please refer to Everything You Need To Know January Birthstone Garnet.
February – Amethyst: The Stone of Serenity
- Amethyst – Purity, Nobility, Peace of Mind
- 6th Wedding Anniversary Gemstone
The word “amethyst” has a fascinating history! It comes from the Greek word “amethystos,” which means “not drunk.” The ancient Greeks had a fascinating belief about amethyst. They thought that if they wore amethyst rings, necklaces, or used amethyst wine containers to drink wine, they would never get drunk from a thousand glasses! In ancient times, purple was the color of nobility, symbolizing dignity and authority. For thousands of years, the elegant and noble purple gemstone has been loved! It is believed that amethyst stabilizes the wearer’s emotions, keeps the mind clear, and keeps the wearer witty and sharp at all times.
To explore more about Amethyst, please refer to The Magic of Amethyst: February Birthstone.
March – Aquamarine: The Tranquil Ocean Gem
- Aquamarine – Courage, Happiness and Longevity
- 19th Wedding Anniversary Gemstone
In ancient Greek mythology, aquamarine was believed to be connected to the soul of the sea. People would carve images of the sea god onto aquamarine and worship it with devotion. For a long time, aquamarine has been regarded as the “Stone of the Brave” and seen as a symbol of happiness and eternal youth. Many countries around the world have designated aquamarine as the “birthstone of March,” symbolizing composure, courage, and wisdom.
To explore more about Aquamarine, please refer to March Birthstone: The Magic Of Aquamarine.
March – Bloodstone: The Stone of Power
- Bloodstone – Health, Strength, Healing, Courage
Bloodstone is believed to represent the blood of Jesus, which makes it a truly special and meaningful stone! In a truly remarkable tale, it is said that this magnificent stone was formed when the blood of Jesus was shed during his crucifixion. As the blood dripped onto the green stone at his feet, it was transformed into a beautiful, crimson hue! Another name for bloodstone, heliotrope, is derived from an ancient Greek word meaning “facing the sun.” Isn’t that fascinating? In ancient times, people believed that heliotrope could turn the sun red! Bloodstones have been attributed with maintaining health, increasing strength, and even healing spiritual wounds. How incredible is that?
April – Diamond: The Stone of Eternal Strength
- Diamond – eternity, purity, flawlessness, and faithfulness
- 10th and 60th Wedding Anniversary Gemstone
April’s Birthday Stone is the hardest substance in the earth, the king of gemstones, the diamond! Its name comes from the Greek word “adamas,” meaning “unbreakable.” With its dazzling light, the diamond represents one’s status and power, and is also a symbol of eternal love that transcends time and space.
To explore more about Diamond, please refer to April Birthstone Diamonds: A Symbol of Strength and Love.
May – Emerald: The Gem of Renewal
- Emerald – Luck, Happiness, Love
- 20th and 35th Wedding Anniversary Gemstone
The emerald is one of the most precious gemstones in the world. It has been adored for thousands of years and is known as the “King of Emeralds.” In fact, it is said that Cleopatra wore emeralds more than any other gemstone! It is believed that emerald can bring success, luck, wisdom, and joy! It also possesses a strong power of love, which is said to have the effect of attracting the opposite sex and enhancing the luck of love.
To explore more about Emerald, please refer to May Birthstone Emerald: A Symbol of Love.
June – Pearl: The Gem of Purity
- Pearl – wealth, longevity, good fortune, beauty, noble
- 3rd and 30th wedding anniversary gemstone
The international jewelry community has crowned pearls as the official birthstone of June! Pearls are a symbol of grace and elegance, exuding unassuming beauty. They represent humility and purity, and are the commemorative stone for the 3rd and 30th wedding anniversaries! The English name “Pearl” is derived from the Latin word “Pernulo.” Another name for pearls is “Margarite,” derived from ancient Persian and Sanskrit, poetically describing pearls as “children of the sea.”
To explore more about Pearl, please refer to Everything You Need to Know About Pearls: June Birthstone.
June – Moonstone: The Gem of Wealth
- Moonstone – health, wealth and beauty
In stark contrast to the classic elegance of pearls, moonstone exudes a mysterious and gentle quality that is absolutely captivating! For over three hundred years, it was worn by Emperor Akbar of the Mughal Empire and his beloved Princess Jodha. The stone’s distinctive moonlight hue has long attracted the attention of many admirers. In Indian folklore, moonstone is regarded as a sacred stone imbued with the energy of the moon. It is believed that wearing moonstone during a full moon can foster romantic love as radiant as moonlight – how incredible is that? In the United States, moonstone is recognized as a “sacred stone,” designated as the birthstone for June and the commemorative gemstone for the thirteenth wedding anniversary.
To explore more about Pearl, please refer to Moonstone: The June Birthstone of Magic, Love, and Intuition.
June – Alexandrite: The Gem of Prosperity
- Alexandrite – Health, Longevity, Prosperity, Honor and Prosperity
- 55th Wedding Anniversary Gemstone
Alexandrite is an amazing, rare gemstone that can change color in the blink of an eye! It looks green or blue-green in the sun and then changes to red or purplish red under artificial light. Because of its incredible color-changing effect and rarity, people all over the world have come to associate it with health, prosperity, and longevity. That’s why it’s the perfect choice for high-end jewelry!
July – Ruby: The Fiery Gem of Passion
- Ruby – Pure Love, Passion, Nobility, Courage
- 15th and 40th Wedding Anniversary Gemstone
The color red is often associated with passion and love, which is why people use the term “love stone” to describe rubies. And with good reason! Rubies are a stone that truly captures the essence of love. Rubies symbolize so many positive qualities! They represent burning passion, the beauty of love, eternity, and fidelity. That’s why ruby is not only the birthstone for the month of July, but also the commemorative gemstone for the 40th and 15th wedding anniversaries!
The Old Testament of the Bible, particularly the Book of Exodus, contains fascinating accounts of sacred robes and breastplates crafted according to the Lord’s command. The breastplate is a magnificent square shape, comprising four rows of three stones symbolizing the twelve tribes of Israel. The first stone is a stunning ruby, imbued with extraordinary meaning and significance.
To explore more about Ruby, please refer to The Fascinating Story of July Birthstone.
August – Peridot: The Stone of Light
- Peridot – Happiness, Harmony, Love Between Husband and Wife
- 16th Wedding Anniversary Gemstone
The name “peridot” comes from the Arabic word “faridat,” which means “precious stone.” Its gorgeous emerald color and semi-translucent visual effect, even in the dark, can be seen sparkling like a ray of hope in the midst of adversity. Peridot is full of positive connotations! For centuries, peridot has been used as a talisman to protect the wearer from disasters and evil spirits, and to help dispel negative energies and bring about fresh, positive thinking. In addition, peridot is also known as the “stone of husband and wife,” symbolizing happiness and harmony between husband and wife – how wonderful is that?
August – Spinel: The Stone of Purity
- Spinel – Romance, Purity, Wealth
- 22nd Wedding Anniversary Gemstone
The word “spinel” comes from the Latin word “spina”, which means “thorn”, as in the shape of spinel crystals, which come in a wide variety of colors, from rich red to bright pink, orange, purple and blue, etc. They are said to help the wearer meet the destiny of love and bring about a good marriage. It is said that spinel can help the wearer meet the destiny of love and bring about a good marriage.
August – Sardonyx: The Stone of Self-Confidence
- Sardonyx – Courage, happiness, optimism, self-confidence
Sardonyx is the oldest August birthstone, although it is not as popular, expensive or present as Peridot or Spinel. In ancient times, Roman soldiers believed that Sardonyx represented the power of the spiritual life, and that wearing a ring of Sardonyx engraved with the god of war would give them protection in battle. When a person loses their willpower and cannot find the motivation to achieve their goals, it will help them regain their direction in life.
September – Sapphire: The Stone of Wisdom
- Sapphire – Wisdom, Loyalty, Nobility, Compassion
- 5th and 45th Wedding Anniversary Gemstone
The name “Sapphire” is derived from the stone’s beautiful, clear, and bright color. In ancient times, the sapphire was cloaked in mystical, supernatural significance and regarded as a symbol of good fortune. Some say that the sapphire is a gift from the gods, with its deep and vast blue representing divine favor. This unique blue color captivates and draws in all who see or touch it, evoking a sense of being transported into an infinite, dreamlike night sky, where they experience an unprecedented sense of tranquility, wisdom, and peace.
To explore more about Sapphire, please refer to Magic of September Birthstone Sapphire.
October – Opal: The Mysterious Gem of Inspiration
- Opal – Hope, Purity and Happiness
- 14th Wedding Anniversary Gemstone
Shakespeare referred to opal as the “queen of gems,” calling it a “magician” with magical powers, capable of holding emotions and desires, and bringing a bright future to its wearer. The opal’s vibrant and colorful appearance attracts those in search of a beautiful life. It is celebrated as the birthstone for October, symbolizing hope, purity, and happiness.
October – Tourmaline: The Gem of Good Fortune
- Tourmaline – happiness, good fortune
- 8th Wedding Anniversary Gemstone
In ancient Greek mythology, tourmaline is said to be the fire left to humanity by Prometheus. In ancient Egyptian legend, it is described as a rainbow that traveled from the Earth’s core to the sun. Tourmaline is renowned for its diverse range of colors, evoking a kaleidoscope reminiscent of a rainbow descending to Earth. Its captivating hues ignite boundless creativity, making it a highly sought-after gemstone among designers and collectors globally. In 1952, the American jewelry industry proposed designating tourmaline as an alternative to opal as an October birthstone, symbolizing tranquility and peace.
November – Topaz: The Stone of Positivity
- Topaz – Friendship, Happiness, Hope
- 4th and 23rd Wedding Anniversary Gemstone
Topaz can be worn as a talisman. It represents sincere and steadfast love, helping to rebuild confidence and refocus on goals. Symbolizing unity, wisdom, friendship, and loyalty, topaz expresses the desire for long-term harmonious relationships. Because of this, it is also known as the “Stone of Friendship” and is celebrated as the birthstone for November.
November – Citrine: The Stone of Wealth
- Citrine – Wealth, Health, Wisdom
- 13th Wedding Anniversary Gemstone
Citrine, with its warm yellow and orange hues, is associated with happiness, positivity, and prosperity. It is believed to carry the energy of the sun, promoting joy, creativity, and clarity of thought. Citrine is often used to attract wealth and success.
December – Tanzanite: The Healing Gem
- Tanzanite – Reiki, Healing, Optimism, Positivity
- 24th Wedding Anniversary Gemstone
Initially, Tanzanite served as a substitute for sapphire and blue diamonds. Known as the “Gem of the Century” in the 20th century, it symbolizes the depth of love. Tiffany & Co. promptly recognized its appeal and created luxurious designs for it. In 2002, the American Gem Society listed it alongside turquoise as a birthstone for December, symbolizing victory, good fortune, and success.
To explore more about Diamond, please refer to Tanzanite: the Magic of December Birthstone.
December – Turquoise: The Luck Gem
- Turquoise – Success, Victory and Luck
- 11th Wedding Anniversary Gemstone
This gemstone is known for its captivating blue-green color and is one of the oldest known gemstones, valued in many cultures for thousands of years. Turquoise symbolizes protection, healing, and spiritual well-being. It is believed to bring peace, balance, and good fortune.
December – Zircon: The Success Gem
- Zircon – Prosperity, Success, Good Luck
Zircons are known for their brilliance and colorful fire! They have a high refractive index and intense luster, and are often confused with diamonds because of their similarities in properties. The best part is that zircons are much more affordable! In ancient times, zircons were believed to help people sleep well, ward off evil spirits, and bring wealth, wisdom, and health.
Conclusion
When choosing a birthday stone, whether for yourself or as a gift, there are so many possibilities! Apart from considering the month of your birthday, you can also try to pick the most suitable stone from the symbolism of each gemstone. This way, you can make your birthday a lucky and memorable one!
Gemstones are absolutely gorgeous! They come in a kaleidoscope of colors, and they’re just so dazzling and gorgeous to look at! But I thinks there’s something missing when it comes to deciding whether it’s worth owning just by looking at it. It doesn’t matter if you believe in these legends and stories or not. What’s undeniable is that the special meaning and energy behind the birthday stone, which symbolizes the period from January to December, brings fun and romance to people! Life is so much more fun when you have a sense of ritual!
One Birthstone has an amazing selection of birthstones that will add a unique and special meaning to your jewelry. Check out the Homepage to see what we have in store for you!
