Gem Birthstones by Month: Traditional Chart & Birthstone Guide

Have you ever wondered, “What is my birthstone?” or “What’s the birthstone for September?” You’re not alone. Gem birthstones, a tradition assigning specific gemstones to each month, are cherished for their symbolic meanings and personal significance.

Whether you’re a June baby curious about your birthstone color or an August-born individual wondering about your specific birthstone, this guide is for you. We’ll explore the traditional birthstone chart and provide a comprehensive birthstone guide, from the vibrant ruby of July to the serene turquoise of December.

What Are the Gem Birthstones by Month?

• January: Garnet
• February: Amethyst
• March: Aquamarine
• April: Diamond
• May: Emerald
• June: Pearl, Alexandrite
• July: Ruby
• August: Peridot
• September: Sapphire
• October: Opal, Tourmaline
• November: Topaz, Citrine
• December: Turquoise, Zircon, Tanzanite

Each gemstone is believed to bring good fortune and symbolize specific traits, making them meaningful gifts and personal amulets.

What Is My Birthstone?

Your birthstone is the gemstone associated with the month you were born. Each birthstone carries unique symbolic meanings and properties. For example, January’s garnet symbolizes constancy, while December’s turquoise represents success and good fortune.

How Are Birthstones Determined Each Month?

Birthstones are linked to each month based on historical, cultural, and sometimes religious significance. This tradition dates back to ancient civilizations, where specific gemstones were believed to offer protection and bring benefits to the wearer. The modern list of birthstones was standardized in 1912 by the National Association of Jewelers in the United States.

What Are the Colors of Gem Birthstones?

The colors of gem birthstones are as diverse as the months they represent. Each gemstone comes in a variety of vibrant hues that not only symbolize the month of birth but also carry specific meanings and properties.

• January: Garnet – Deep Red
• February: Amethyst – Purple
• March: Aquamarine – Light Blue
• April: Diamond – Clear/White
• May: Emerald – Green
• June: Pearl – White; Alexandrite – Color-Change
• July: Ruby – Red
• August: Peridot – Light Green
• September: Sapphire – Blue
• October: Opal – Multicolor; Tourmaline – Various
• November: Topaz – Yellow; Citrine – Orange
• December: Turquoise – Blue; Zircon – Various; Tanzanite – Blue-Violet

These colors not only enhance the beauty of each gemstone but also reflect their symbolic meanings.

What Is the Historical Significance of Birthstones?

The tradition of birthstones dates back to biblical times, specifically the Breastplate of Aaron, which featured twelve gemstones representing the twelve tribes of Israel. Over centuries, these stones became associated with the twelve months of the year and zodiac signs. Each gemstone was believed to hold unique powers, offering protection and benefits to the wearer. This rich history adds depth to the modern appreciation of birthstones.

What Are the Symbolic Meanings of Each Birthstone?

Each birthstone carries its own symbolic meaning:

• Garnet (January): Health, prosperity, and regeneration.
• Amethyst (February): Wisdom, peace, and spiritual growth.
• Aquamarine (March): Tranquility, courage, and inspiration.
• Diamond (April): Strength, everlasting love, and invincibility.
• Emerald (May): Rebirth, love, and vitality.
• Pearl & Alexandrite (June): Purity, luck, and balance.
• Ruby (July): Passion, energy, and protection.
• Peridot (August): Strength, good fortune, and peace.
• Sapphire (September): Wisdom, nobility, and divine favor.
• Opal & Tourmaline (October): Faithfulness, creativity, and healing.
• Topaz & Citrine (November): Clarity, abundance, and healing.
• Turquoise, Zircon & Tanzanite (December): Luck, protection, and spiritual growth.

These meanings make birthstones not just beautiful gems but also symbols of personal and cultural significance.

Are There Any Months Without a Specific Birthstone?

No, every month of the year has at least one gemstone associated with it. These birthstones offer unique symbolic meanings and historical significance, ensuring that each birth month is celebrated with a special gem. Every month has its unique birthstone, from the deep red garnet of January to the vibrant turquoise of December.

How Can I Find Out My Birthstone?

To discover your birthstone, simply locate your birth month on the traditional birthstone chart above. Each month corresponds to specific gemstones that you can choose from. For example, if you were born in March, your birthstone is Aquamarine, symbolizing tranquility and courage.

Understanding your birthstone can help you connect with its symbolic meanings and choose meaningful jewelry pieces that reflect your personal attributes.

What Is the Birthstone for August in Detail?

The birthstone for August is Peridot. This vibrant green gemstone symbolizes strength, good fortune, and peace. Peridot is also known for its protective qualities, believed to ward off evil and nightmares. Whether you were born on August 30th or August 31st, Peridot remains your birthstone, offering its unique beauty and benefits.

What Is the September Birthstone?

The September birthstone is the Sapphire. Renowned for its deep blue color, sapphire symbolizes wisdom, virtue, and good fortune. While blue is the most common color, sapphires also come in various other hues, excluding red. Historically worn by royalty, sapphires were believed to attract blessings and offer protection.

How Are Monthly Birthstones Assigned?

Monthly birthstones are assigned based on a blend of historical traditions, cultural beliefs, and symbolic meanings. The practice began with the Breastplate of Aaron and evolved through various cultures and religious practices. Today, organizations like the American Gem Society help standardize the list, ensuring each month has gemstones that carry specific attributes and significance.

What Are Birthday Gemstones?

Birthday gemstones, or birthstones, are specific gems associated with each month of the year. They are believed to bring good luck, health, and protection to the wearer. Here is a quick reference:

• January: Garnet
• February: Amethyst
• March: Aquamarine
• April: Diamond
• May: Emerald
• June: Pearl, Alexandrite
• July: Ruby
• August: Peridot
• September: Sapphire
• October: Opal, Tourmaline
• November: Topaz, Citrine
• December: Turquoise, Zircon, Tanzanite

These gemstones are not only beautiful but also carry centuries of history and symbolism, making them meaningful choices for jewelry and personal adornment.

Why Are Birthstones Special?

Birthstones are special because they offer a personal connection to one’s birth month, carrying unique meanings and attributes. Wearing your birthstone can serve as a reminder of your personal traits and aspirations. Additionally, birthstones make thoughtful and personalized gifts for birthdays, anniversaries, and other special occasions.

Discovering your birthstone allows you to embrace its symbolism and incorporate it into your life, whether through jewelry, fashion, or as a source of personal inspiration.

So, whether you’re a fiery ruby for July or a serene aquamarine for March, your birthstone is a sparkling reflection of your unique self.