The Complete Guide to Birthstones by Month
January: Garnet
Quick Facts
- Color: Red is most common, though garnets can also appear in green, orange, and pink shades
- Mohs hardness: 6.5–7.5
- Both the traditional and modern birthstone
- Meanings: Love, passion, commitment, courage, and protection
Origin & History
Garnet has been cherished across cultures for thousands of years. Its name is derived from the Latin word granatus, meaning grain or seed, inspired by the jewel’s resemblance to a bright red pomegranate seed. This connection links garnet to the myth of Persephone—a Greek story in which Persephone, daughter of Zeus, is abducted by Hades, king of the underworld, who later gives her pomegranate seeds to ensure her safe passage back to the mortal world and that she will always return to him.
Like those seeds, garnet came to represent eternal love, loyalty, and protection. Ancient travelers carried garnet as talismans for safe journeys, while warriors and soldiers believed it brought courage and protection in battle.
Present Day
Today, garnet is often seen as a stone of friendship, trust, and passion. Its deep red hue symbolizes the heart, love, and vitality, making it a meaningful gift between loved ones. Many also associate garnet with renewal, grounding, and energy, making it a fitting birthstone to begin the year with intention and strength.
Alternatives
Garnet is recognized as both the modern and traditional January birthstone.
February: Amethyst
Quick Facts
- Color: Purple
- Mohs hardness: 7
- Both the traditional and modern birthstone
- Meanings: Mental clarity, emotional balance, and royalty
Origin & History
While its shade can range from soft lilac to deep violet, amethyst is the purple variety of quartz. Its color develops when trace amounts of iron within the crystal are altered by natural radiation over time. The name amethyst comes from the Greek word amethystos, meaning “not intoxicated,” reflecting an ancient belief that the stone could protect against excess and clouded judgment.
Roman naturalist Pliny the Elder, writing in the 1st century CE, later recorded similar beliefs in his encyclopedic work, further linking amethyst with clarity and moderation. In medieval Europe, the stone took on strong spiritual significance, appearing in the rings of bishops and in royal regalia as a symbol of dignity, devotion, and authority. Before large deposits were discovered in Brazil in the 19th century, fine amethyst was considered rare and precious, helping explain its enduring status across cultures and centuries.
Present Day
Today, amethyst is far more accessible than it once was, yet its beauty, durability, and distinctive purple hue have helped it remain one of the most beloved gemstones in jewelry. Drawing on its long history, amethyst is still associated with clarity, reflection, and spiritual growth. In many modern traditions, it is linked to the crown chakra and believed to encourage calm and inner awareness. For those born in February, its soothing color and symbolic connection to the quiet winter months make it a meaningful and contemplative stone to wear.
Alternatives
Amethyst is recognized as both the modern and traditional February birthstone.
March: Aquamarine
Quick Facts
- Color: Blue to blue-green
- Mohs hardness: 7.5–8
- Modern birthstone (traditional is bloodstone)
- Meanings: Interpersonal harmony, good luck, mental clarity, and serenity
Origin & History
With its clear blue-green color, aquamarine has long been associated with the sea. Its name comes from the Latin aqua marina, meaning “seawater,” a reference to the way its hue mirrors calm ocean waves. In ancient folklore, aquamarine was believed to protect sailors, bringing courage and safe passage on long voyages. It was often carried as a talisman against storms and uncertainty, and over time became associated with harmony, communication, and peaceful relationships.
Different cultures layered their own meanings onto the stone. Medieval healers associated aquamarine with protection and clarity, while in Roman folklore it was sometimes carved with symbolic figures and worn to promote peace. While these beliefs belong to myth and tradition, they help explain why aquamarine has long been viewed as a symbol of serenity, trust, and guidance.
Present Day
Today, aquamarine remains highly valued for its serene blue color and its gentle associations with peace, clarity, and emotional connection. As a durable member of the beryl family (measuring approximately 7.5–8 on the Mohs hardness scale), it is well suited for everyday jewelry. Beyond representing those born in March, aquamarine is also a popular choice for engagement rings and symbolic gifts, and is recognized as the gemstone for the 19th wedding anniversary, symbolizing trust and the steady strength of long-term partnership.
Alternatives
Aquamarine is the modern birthstone for March, while bloodstone is the traditional birthstone.
April: Diamond
Quick Facts
- Color: Colorless (white) most common; also pink, blue, yellow, green, orange, red, and black
- Mohs hardness: 10 (maximum)
- Both the traditional and modern birthstone
- Meanings: Everlasting love, strength, resilience, and inner clarity
Origin & History
Long regarded as one of the most valuable gemstones in history, diamond has symbolized strength and endurance for thousands of years. Its name comes from the Ancient Greek word adamas, meaning “unbreakable” or “invincible,” a fitting description for a stone that ranks a maximum 10 on the Mohs hardness scale. Diamonds are so durable that they can only be cut by other diamonds, regardless of size or color.
The earliest known diamonds were mined in India, with major sources later discovered in Brazil and, eventually, South Africa, shaping the global diamond trade as we know it today. Ancient cultures believed diamonds could ward off evil, protect the wearer from illness, and strengthen both mind and body. Diamonds became firmly associated with engagement rings in 1477, when Archduke Maximilian of Austria presented a diamond ring to Mary of Burgundy—one of the earliest recorded examples of the stone being used to symbolize lifelong commitment.
Present Day
Today, diamonds remain the most iconic choice for engagement rings, continuing their centuries-old association with everlasting love and commitment. The diamond is also recognized as the gemstone for the 60th and 75th wedding anniversaries. While colorless white diamonds remain the classic standard, modern jewelry increasingly celebrates diamonds in a wide spectrum of colors. As tastes evolve, highly saturated colored diamonds have become especially sought after, offering a contemporary expression of individuality while preserving the timeless durability that makes diamonds so enduring.
Alternatives
Diamond is recognized as both the modern and traditional April birthstone.
May: Emerald
Quick Facts
- Color: Green
- Mohs hardness: 7.5–8
- Both the traditional and modern birthstone
- Meanings: Good fortune, renewal, loyalty, and wisdom
Origin & History
Valued across civilizations for its vivid green color, emerald has long been associated with renewal, vitality, and insight. In ancient Egypt, emeralds were linked with rebirth and eternal life, and were often buried with the dead to aid their journey into the afterlife. Cleopatra herself was known for her fondness of emeralds, further cementing their status as a gemstone of power and prestige.
Ancient Greek and Roman writers also attributed special qualities to the stone. Pliny the Elder wrote that emeralds could soothe the eyes of gem cutters simply by gazing at their green hue—a belief that resonates today, as modern studies have shown that green tones can be calming and reduce eye strain. Other traditions held that emeralds enhanced eloquence, sharpened intellect, and revealed truth within relationships, helping expose broken promises or dishonesty.
Present Day
Today, emerald’s lush green color strongly connects it to springtime, growth, and renewal, making it a natural fit for the month of May. Its rich color has also made emerald a cultural symbol of beauty and abundance, famously lending its name to places like Ireland, often called “The Emerald Isle". As one of the Big Four gemstones alongside diamond, ruby, and sapphire, emerald remains among the most treasured and recognizable stones in fine jewelry.
Alternatives
Emerald is now recognized as both the traditional and modern birthstone for May. In earlier birthstone lists prior to 1912, agate was sometimes associated with the month.
June: Alexandrite
Quick Facts
- Color: Blue-green in daylight, reddish-purple under incandescent (warm) light
- Mohs hardness: 8.5
- Both the traditional and modern birthstone
- Meanings: Balance, intuition, and transformation
Origin & History
Alexandrite was first discovered in the Ural Mountains of Russia in the 1830s and was named after Tsar Alexander II. Its ability to shift from greenish hues in daylight to red or purplish tones under candlelight captivated gemologists and collectors alike. The phenomenon was especially symbolic in imperial Russia, as the gem’s red and green colors echoed the nation’s military colors, contributing to its early prestige.
Because of its rarity and optical complexity, alexandrite has long been regarded as one of the most extraordinary gemstones, rivaling rubies and diamonds in value and desirability. While original Russian deposits are now largely depleted, alexandrite has since been found in smaller quantities in regions such as Brazil, Sri Lanka, and East Africa, though fine-quality natural stones remain exceptionally rare.
Present Day
Today, alexandrite remains one of the most sought-after gemstones, and its shifting appearance has made it a modern symbol of adaptability, balance, and personal transformation. A distinctive and deeply personal alternative to more traditional gems for those born in June, alexandrite's durability makes it suitable for fine jewelry, including engagement and keepsake pieces, while its color-changing nature gives it a sense of individuality—no two moments, or views, are ever quite the same.
Alternatives
June has three birthstones associated with it: alexandrite, pearl, and moonstone.
July: Ruby
Quick Facts
- Color: Red
- Mohs hardness: 9
- Both the traditional and modern birthstone
- Meanings: Protection, passion, and power
Origin & History
In ancient India, rubies were known as the “King of Precious Stones” and were believed to grant prosperity, protection, and even rebirth into royalty when offered to the gods. Its name comes from the Latin ruber, meaning “red,” a direct reference to its unmistakable color. For thousands of years, ruby has been revered as one of the most precious gemstones in the world, symbolizing power, vitality, and divine favor across many cultures.
Stories surrounding ruby grew wherever the gemstone traveled. In what is now Myanmar, warriors believed rubies could make them invincible in battle, while in medieval Europe the stones were thought to contain an inner fire that could bring good fortune. These legends helped cement ruby’s reputation as a gem of immense power, protection, and passionate energy.
Present Day
Today, ruby remains one of the most valuable gemstones, prized for both its beauty and durability. With a hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale, it is well suited for fine jewelry meant to be worn and cherished for generations. Ruby’s defining feature is its color: any gemstone of the same mineral species (corundum) that is not red is classified as a sapphire, making ruby’s rich hue its most essential characteristic.
Alternatives
Ruby is recognized as both the modern and traditional July birthstone.
August: Peridot
Quick Facts
- Color: Green (yellowish-green to olive green)
- Mohs hardness: 6.5–7
- Modern birthstone (along with spinel; traditional is sardonyx)
- Meanings: Positive energy, protection, and healing
Origin & History
Peridot has been treasured since ancient times for its vibrant green color and distinctive glow. Unlike many gemstones, its green hue is entirely natural and not typically enhanced, giving it a sense of authenticity and warmth. The name peridot is believed to come from the Arabic word faridat, meaning “gem,” though its origin isn't known for certain. One of the oldest recorded sources of peridot was the volcanic island of Topazios in the Red Sea (now known as St. John’s or Zabargad Island), where the gemstone was mined as early as the second millennium BC.
Ancient Egyptians referred to peridot as the “gem of the sun” and believed it could protect its wearer from night terrors and evil spirits. In medieval Europe, the stone was set into churches and royal jewelry as a symbol of divine light, healing, and spiritual protection. Through history, peridot was sometimes confused with other green gems such as emerald, with early church treasures and jewelry often misidentifying it; some historians believe Cleopatra’s famed “emeralds” may actually have been fine peridot. Though once rare and highly prized, peridot’s accessibility increased with new discoveries, and it has maintained its place as a cherished gemstone across many cultures.
Present Day
Today, peridot is appreciated for its bright, uplifting color and natural brilliance. Modern symbolism often connects peridot with emotional renewal, optimism, and protection, making it a meaningful choice for August birthdays, new beginnings, or personal keepsakes. Peridot is also traditionally given to celebrate the 16th wedding anniversary, honoring warmth, devotion, and the continued growth of a lasting partnership.
Alternatives
August now has multiple recognized birthstones: sardonyx as the traditional stone, joined more peridot and spinel.
September: Blue Sapphire
Quick Facts
- Color: Blue (from light cornflower to deep royal blue)
- Mohs hardness: 9
- Both the traditional and modern birthstone
- Meanings: Wisdom, loyalty, sincerity, and nobility
Origin & History
Sapphire has been admired for thousands of years for both its beauty and symbolism. The name comes from the Latin sapphirus and Greek sappheiros, terms historically used for blue stones and later applied specifically to sapphire. Geologically, sapphire is the blue variety of the mineral corundum (aluminum oxide), with its color produced by trace amounts of iron and titanium within the crystal. It is one of the hardest natural gemstones, second only to diamond, which helped it survive through the ages as an heirloom stone in crowns, regalia, and jewelry.
Ancient Greeks and Romans believed sapphires protected rulers from harm and jealousy, and that the stone could guard against misfortune and deception. During the Middle Ages, sapphire took on even deeper religious and royal meaning; clergy wore blue sapphires to symbolize heaven, truth, and purity, while kings and queens valued them as emblems of wisdom and protection. Some medieval texts even suggested that sapphires could reconcile enemies or reveal truth by remaining clear when placed near dishonesty. Across cultures, the stone became tied to sincerity, loyalty, and spiritual clarity—qualities that helped secure sapphire’s lasting reputation as a noble and contemplative gemstone.
Present Day
Today, sapphire remains one of the most beloved gemstones in fine jewelry. Best known in its classic blue, it is also found in a spectrum of “fancy” colors including pink, yellow, green, and colorless. With a hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale, sapphire is durable enough for everyday wear, which contributes to its popularity for both classic heirloom pieces and contemporary jewelry designs. Symbolically, sapphire continues to represent loyalty, honesty, and thoughtful commitment, which is why it is also associated with both the 5th and 45th wedding anniversaries.
Alternatives
Sapphire is recognized as both the modern and traditional September birthstone.
October: Pink Tourmaline
Quick Facts
- Color: Pink
- Mohs hardness: 7–7.5
- Modern birthstone (traditional is opal)
- Meanings: Love, compassion, and emotional healing
Origin & History
Pink tourmaline belongs to the tourmaline group, a complex family of minerals that share the same crystal structure while containing different combinations of elements. The word tourmaline comes from the Sinhalese phrase tura mali, meaning “stone of mixed colors,” a nod to the gem family’s incredible variety. Subtle differences in chemistry create tourmaline’s remarkable color range, from greens and blues to vivid reds and pinks. In the case of pink tourmaline, trace amounts of manganese are what give the stone its distinctive rosy hue.
Because tourmaline appears in so many colors, it was often mistaken for other gemstones throughout history. Some famous “rubies” and “emeralds” were later discovered to be tourmaline. It wasn’t until the 1800s that scientists formally identified tourmaline as a distinct mineral group. Soon afterwards, tourmaline gained popularity in the United States thanks to gemologist George F. Kunz of Tiffany & Co., who celebrated deposits found in Maine and California. Around the same time, vivid pink and red tourmaline from Southern California became especially prized in China, where large quantities were carved and worn at the Imperial court.
Present Day
Today, tourmaline is one of the birthstones for October, and pink tourmaline has become one of the most loved varieties. It is also recognized as the gemstone for the 8th wedding anniversary, often chosen to symbolize tenderness, emotional closeness, and enduring affection.
Alternatives
October is one of the months with two recognized birthstones: opal as the traditional stone, and tourmaline — most commonly featured in pink — as the modern option.
November: Citrine
Quick Facts
- Color: Yellow-orange
- Mohs hardness: 7
- Modern birthstone (traditional is topaz)
- Meanings: Positivity, prosperity, and creativity
Origin & History
Citrine is a yellow-to-orange variety of quartz. The name citrine comes from the French word citron, meaning lemon, a reference to its bright, citrus-like color, the cause of which is still a bit of a mystery. Research suggests that its color is likely influenced by a combination of factors, including iron, aluminum-based color centers, and the way the crystal reacts to light, rather than any one element alone. Most citrine on the market today is created by heat-treating other varieties of quartz, most commonly purple amethyst or smoky quartz, to achieve its golden hue.
Egyptians used citrine as protective talismans, while ancient Greeks carved images and symbols into it. In Ancient Rome, priests fashioned citrine into large signet rings. Throughout history, citrine has been associated with happiness, vitality, and abundance. In ancient times, it was believed to calm tempers, soothe anger, and help manifest desires and prosperity. These beliefs led to citrine being nicknamed the “Merchant’s Stone” or “Money Stone,” reflecting a long-standing superstition that it could attract wealth and success. The stone’s popularity resurfaced during the Victorian era, particularly in colorful Scottish jewelry, and again during the Art Deco period of the 1920s and 1930s.
Present Day
Today, citrine is also associated with the 13th wedding anniversary, where its sunny color is often seen as a reflection of warmth, optimism, and enduring partnership. Other modern symbolic interpretations link citrine with confidence, creativity, clarity of thought, and personal power. Its golden color is often associated with the energy of the sun and, in spiritual traditions, with the Solar Plexus chakra—an energy center connected to self-esteem, motivation, and purpose. With its inviting glow, rich history, and everyday durability, citrine continues to be a meaningful and versatile gemstone for both personal wear and thoughtful gifting.
Alternatives
Citrine is the modern birthstone for November, while topaz is the traditional birthstone.
December: Tanzanite
Quick Facts
- Color: Blue-violet
- Mohs hardness: 6–7
- Modern birthstone (traditional is turquoise and zircon)
- Meanings: Transformation, intuition, and personal growth
Origin & History
Tanzanite’s story begins deep in the Earth’s past. It formed roughly 585 million years ago, when intense heat and powerful tectonic activity reshaped the land in what is now northern Tanzania, near Mount Kilimanjaro. These extraordinary forces caused the surrounding rock to fold and compress in very specific ways, creating the rare geological conditions needed for tanzanite to form. One of the most captivating qualities of tanzanite is its pleochroism, which is when a stone displays different colors depending on the angle of the light and how it’s viewed. Rather than showing a single, uniform hue, tanzanite can reveal a shifting interplay of blue, violet, and purple tones.
It was first discovered in 1967 and referred to as “blue zoisite”, since it is a blue-colored variety of the mineral zoisite. The gemstone was later renamed “tanzanite” by Tiffany & Co. and introduced to the international market. The name was chosen to honor Tanzania, the only place on Earth where it’s found, and to give the stone a name that reflected its beauty and rarity.
Present Day
Today, tanzanite is frequently linked to transformation, intuition, and personal growth. Its rich, shifting color is often described as evoking a sense of depth and quiet elegance, and in spiritual traditions, it’s associated with enhanced communication, insight, and inner understanding. Tanzanite is also associated with the 24th wedding anniversary, where it’s often chosen to symbolize the uniqueness and depth of a long-lasting partnership. Because it’s found in only one small region of the world, tanzanite has come to represent something rare, intentional, and deeply personal—qualities many couples see reflected in enduring relationships.
Alternatives
December is one of the months with multiple birthstones: turquoise and zircon are the traditional options, and tanzanite was added later as the modern birthstone.
