Gemstones have long been associated with different months of the year, with roots likely tracing back to the biblical “Breastplate of Aaron”, described in the book of Exodus. The breastplate was adorned with 12 gemstones, said to represent the 12 tribes of Israel. This symbolism was later connected to the 12 months of the year.
Whether you’re looking for a special gemstone to wear yourself, or for a meaningful gift for a loved one, this guide will help you discover the perfect birthstone for every month.
January - Garnet or Rose Quartz
Garnet – Garnet is most commonly recognized for its deep red hue, and symbolizes love, friendship, protection, strength, and courage.
Rose Quartz – Often referred to as the “stone of love” rose quartz is a soft pink stone that symbolizes love, positive relationships, emotional healing, beauty, self-esteem, and self-acceptance.
February - Amethyst
Amethyst – This stunning purple gemstone is believed to help promote calmness, clarity of thought, and offer protection from negative energies.
March - Aquamarine
Aquamarine – This serene blue stone is associated with tranquility, courage, and protection for travelers, especially those at sea.
For a more accessible alternative to aquamarine, consider choosing a blue topaz stone.
April - Diamond (or White Topaz as an Alternative)
Diamond – The hardest natural substance on earth, associated with strength and eternal love.
White Topaz – A brilliant alternative at a more affordable price, white topaz represents wisdom, beauty, and intelligence, and is a sort-after stone in its own right.
May - Emerald
Emerald – This mesmerizing green gemstone represents good fortune, foresight, and wit.
For an alternative to emerald, consider the similar green gemstone, peridot, which is often referred to as the ‘evening emerald’.
June - Moonstone, Alexandrite, or Pearl
Moonstone – The glowing moonstone symbolizes wisdom, good luck, and intuition.
Alexandrite – This fascinating colour-changing gemstone symbolises fortune, luck, and harmony.
Pearl – The pearl is formed inside the shell of some mollusks and is said to symbolize purity, fertility, and balance.
Some consider amethyst, especially in lighter shades, to also be a birthstone of June.
July - Ruby
Ruby – Sometimes referred to as ‘the King of gems’, this stone is a symbol of passion, vitality, and confidence.
A great alternative for a ruby is a garnet, a stone that offers a similar fiery red look.
August - Peridot or Spinel
Peridot – This striking green gemstone, sometimes called the ‘evening emerald’ as it still glows beautifully in low light, is associated with love, abundance, positive energy, and happiness.
Spinel – Spinel comes in a variety of colours including red, blue, and black. It is said to be a highly protective stone that dispels sadness and stress.
September - Sapphire or Iolite
Sapphire – Best known for its deep blue tone, sapphire symbolizes nobility, truth, sincerity, and faithfulness.
Iolite – This captivating purple-blue stone is said to foster strength, knowledge, and a better understanding of ourselves and the world.
October - Opal or Tourmaline
Opal – Known for their dazzling play of colours, opals symbolize creativity, hope, purity, and good luck.
Tourmaline – Tourmaline is said to foster compassion, healing, stability, and friendship. It comes in a variety of colours such as green, pink, black, and blue. The colour of tourmaline most commonly associated with October is pink.
The soft pink stone, rose quartz, is also considered by some to be an alternative birthstone for October.
November - Citrine or Topaz
Citrine – Sometimes called the “sunshine stone”, this golden gemstone is thought to bring prosperity, success, and positivity to its wearer.
Topaz – Topaz is another stone that comes in an assortment of stunning colours, including white, blue, yellow, and pink. Some believe topaz to help channel wisdom, beauty, and intelligence.
December - Tanzanite or Blue Topaz
Tanzanite – Mined only in Tanzania, this rare purple-blue gemstone is associated with wisdom, truth, and positive transformation.
Blue Topaz – This gorgeous alternative December birthstone symbolizes wisdom, beauty, and intelligence.
Find the Birthstone That Speaks to You.
Birthstones are more than just beautiful gemstones, they can also hold deep meaning and history. Wearing one can be a powerful statement of love, connection, and symbolism.
However, keep in mind that when choosing a stone, the best gemstone for you is the one you feel most connected to. It does not necessarily have to be the stone assigned to your birth month.
Looking for the perfect gemstone jewellery piece? Explore our gemstone jewellery collection to find the gemstone pendant or ring that calls to you.