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Birthstones are gemstones traditionally associated with each month of the year—a long‑standing custom with roots in ancient traditions. They have been popular choices for personalized jewelry such as birthday rings, necklaces, and mother’s rings. The tradition is commonly traced to the biblical breastplate of Aaron, which featured twelve gemstones representing the tribes of Israel.
The modern U.S. birthstone list was officially standardized in 1912 and has been updated over time to reflect gemstone availability and consumer preferences, with some months now offering multiple gemstone options. Today’s list is widely recognized across the American jewelry industry.
From an educational perspective, birthstones go beyond appearance. Each gemstone carries cultural symbolism, historical associations, and identifiable physical characteristics such as color range, hardness, and durability. While their alleged healing or protective properties are not scientifically proven, birthstones remain deeply embedded in jewelry traditions. Understanding these details helps in choosing jewelry that feels both personal and enduring.
Below is a complete guide to modern U.S. birthstones by month, organized for clarity, readability, and reference value.
January Birthstone: Garnet
Garnet refers to a group of closely related gemstones most commonly recognized for their deep red color, though varieties also appear in green, orange, and other hues. Garnets typically have a Mohs hardness of 6.5–7.5 and a bright, glass‑like luster, making them suitable for everyday jewelry.
Symbolically, garnet is associated with loyalty, friendship, trust, and protection. In ancient times, travelers wore garnet as a protective stone during long journeys, and medieval cultures believed it could ward off negative energy. Its rich color, durability, and relative affordability make garnet a versatile choice for January birthdays.
February Birthstone: Amethyst
As winter transitions toward early spring, February’s birthstone introduces lighter, more calming tones. Amethyst is the purple variety of quartz, ranging from pale lavender to deep violet. It has a Mohs hardness of 7 and is known for its clarity and durability.
Historically associated with peace, balance, and clarity of mind, amethyst was believed in ancient Greece to protect against intoxication. Once considered a gemstone reserved for royalty, modern sources have made it widely accessible. Amethyst remains a popular choice for February birthdays and meaningful gifts.
March Birthstone: Aquamarine
March marks a shift toward cooler, refreshing colors. Aquamarine, a member of the beryl family, displays soft blue to blue‑green tones reminiscent of the sea. With a hardness of 7.5–8, it is both durable and typically very clear.
The name aquamarine comes from the Latin words for “sea water.” Traditionally, it symbolizes calmness, courage, and good health. Sailors once believed aquamarine protected them at sea and ensured safe voyages. While bloodstone is a traditional alternative, aquamarine is the most widely recognized modern birthstone for March.
April Birthstone: Diamond
April’s birthstone is defined by strength and brilliance. Diamond is the hardest natural substance known, ranking 10 on the Mohs scale. While most commonly associated with colorless stones, diamonds also occur in a wide range of natural colors.
Diamonds symbolize eternal love, purity, and resilience. Ancient cultures regarded them as symbols of invincibility, and today they are closely associated with engagement rings and lifelong commitments. Diamond remains the iconic and timeless birthstone for April.
May Birthstone: Emerald
As spring reaches full bloom, May’s birthstone reflects renewal and growth. Emerald is the green variety of beryl, colored by trace elements such as chromium or vanadium. It has a Mohs hardness of 7.5–8 and is known for natural inclusions often referred to as “jardin.”
Emerald has long symbolized rebirth, love, and vitality. Revered by ancient civilizations and associated with royalty throughout history, emeralds continue to be valued for their rich color and timeless appeal.
June Birthstones: Pearl, Alexandrite & Moonstone
June is one of the few months with multiple official birthstones, offering a wide range of styles and meanings.
Pearl is an organic gemstone formed within mollusks and prized for its soft luster and smooth surface. It traditionally symbolizes purity, loyalty, and wisdom.
Alexandrite is a rare gemstone known for its remarkable color‑changing ability—appearing green in daylight and red under incandescent light. It is associated with adaptability, joy, and balance.
Moonstone is recognized for its glowing optical effect known as adularescence. Often linked to intuition and new beginnings, moonstone offers a softer, more ethereal aesthetic.
July Birthstone: Ruby
July’s birthstone brings intensity and warmth. Ruby is the red variety of corundum and ranks 9 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it one of the most durable gemstones available.
Often referred to as the “king of gemstones,” ruby symbolizes passion, protection, and prosperity. Historically worn by royalty and warriors, rubies have long been associated with power and vitality.
August Birthstones: Peridot & Spinel
Late summer introduces vibrant, energetic tones through August’s birthstones.
Peridot is known for its olive‑green color and glassy transparency. With a hardness of 6.5–7, it symbolizes strength, peace, and positive energy. Some peridot crystals have even been found in meteorites.
Spinel, added as an official birthstone in 2016, comes in a wide range of colors and is valued for its durability and brilliance, offering a modern alternative for August birthdays.
September Birthstone: Sapphire
September’s birthstone reflects depth and stability. Sapphire is a variety of corundum best known for its rich blue color, though it occurs in nearly every hue except red. With a Mohs hardness of 9, it is well‑suited for daily wear.
Sapphire traditionally symbolizes wisdom, loyalty, and integrity. In historical traditions, it was believed to offer protection and attract positive influence, making it a long‑standing favorite in fine jewelry.
October Birthstones: Opal & Tourmaline
October’s birthstones are defined by color diversity and creativity.
Opal is admired for its play‑of‑color, displaying flashes of multiple hues within a single stone. It symbolizes creativity, hope, and inspiration.
Tourmaline appears in nearly every color of the rainbow, with pink varieties being especially popular. It is often associated with emotional balance and personal expression.
November Birthstones: Topaz & Citrine
November features warm, golden tones.
Topaz commonly appears in blue or golden shades and is traditionally associated with love, affection, and strength.
Citrine, a golden variety of quartz, symbolizes joy, abundance, and success, making it a bright and uplifting choice for November birthdays.
December Birthstones: Turquoise, Tanzanite & Zircon
December offers one of the widest selections of birthstones.
Turquoise is an opaque blue‑green gemstone historically associated with protection and good fortune.
Tanzanite is known for its vivid blue‑violet color and natural pleochroism. It symbolizes transformation and new beginnings.
Zircon, often misunderstood, is a natural gemstone prized for its brilliance and fire. Blue zircon is especially popular and is associated with wisdom and prosperity.
How to Choose the Right Birthstone for You
While birthstones are traditionally linked to birth months, many people choose them based on personal preferences rather than strict rules. Considering a few practical factors can help you select a piece that feels truly meaningful.
Choose by color preference. Some people feel naturally drawn to certain colors. If a gemstone’s hue complements your wardrobe or resonates emotionally, it can be just as meaningful as a traditional birthstone.
Choose by lifestyle and durability. For everyday jewelry, harder gemstones such as diamond, sapphire, and ruby are more resistant to scratches. Softer or organic stones like pearl or opal may be better suited for occasional wear.
Choose by symbolism. Each birthstone carries traditional meanings—such as love, protection, renewal, or creativity. Selecting a stone whose symbolism aligns with a life stage or personal value can add emotional significance.
Choose for gifting. Birthstone jewelry is a thoughtful gift for birthdays, anniversaries, Mother’s Day, or milestones. Pairing the recipient’s birth month with their favorite color or style often creates the strongest connection.
Final Thoughts
Birthstones are a meaningful part of American jewelry culture, offering a personal way to celebrate birthdays, milestones, and relationships. Whether chosen for symbolism, color preference, or durability, birthstones allow jewelry to carry emotional significance beyond its design.
This guide follows current U.S. birthstone standards and is intended to help readers make informed, thoughtful choices when selecting birthstone jewelry for themselves or others.
