Birth Stone

What Is a Birthstone?

Birthstones are gems associated with a birth month, and each stone carries its own meaning and significance. Much like horoscope signs, when you ask someone “What is your birthstone?” they almost always know the answer. Today, birthstones are commonly featured in jewelry such as necklaces, bracelets, rings, and earrings as a way to celebrate your birth month all year long.

Beyond jewelry, birthstones—or the colors that symbolize them—appear in a wide variety of gifts and keepsakes, making birthday shopping both meaningful and easy. Since ancient times, it has been widely believed that wearing your birthstone symbolizes wellness and good fortune. Discover which birthstone is meant for you below.

What Is the Origin of Birthstones?

Christian scholars in the 5th century connected the twelve gemstones in the Breastplate of Aaron with the twelve months of the year and the twelve signs of the zodiac. They theorized that each gem corresponded to a specific month or astrological alignment and provided therapeutic benefits when worn during that time.

Initially, people wore a different gemstone for each month of the year and attributed unique meanings and values to each one. Over time, this practice evolved so individuals wore only the gemstone associated with their birth month—giving rise to the term “birthstone.”

Disagreements over which gemstone should represent each month persisted until 1912, when Sears published an “official” list of birthstones. While there have been minor updates since, the list remains largely unchanged.

Birthstones by Month: What Do They Mean?

What’s My Birthstone?

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