What Are the Different Birthstones?

Birthstones provide a lot of meaning for people, whether you’re the one receiving an item adorning a birthstone, or the one giving it to someone else. However, while you could choose a stone based on its colour alone, because you like it, forgetting any symbolism that might be behind it, the general idea is that you’re choosing jewellery pieces that showcase the birthstone that corresponds to the gift receiver. But why? 

Different birthstones mean different things, and there’s quite a lot of history behind the symbolism associated with them. According to the IGS, birthstones have some biblical origins, right back to the Book of Exodus. It details a high priest who wore a breastplate that was adorned with twelve different stones, with each stone representing one of the twelve tribes of Israel. The stones, according to the Book of Exodus, were said to possess certain powers, and had some ability to tell people their fate. 

These days, however, those twelve stones have different connotations. It wasn’t until 1912, states the IGS, that the National Association of Jewellers officially standardised a list of birthstones, together with the month that each one was associated with. The list created then is the list we know today, and that’s what we’re going to be discussing in this article. What are the different birthstones? Let’s take a look:

January – Garnet

Often associated with the colour red, a garnet gemstone can be found in any colour, making them a popular addition to many jewellery items. The garnet family of gemstones is an extensive one, so the world is your oyster if you’re on the lookout for a January birthstone that will be just the right colour for the person you’re buying it for. 

Typically, depending on the species of garnet you choose, you can pick from red, purple, green, yellow and even orange colours. A garnet symbolises protection, aptly being dubbed a ‘protection stone’. It’s said to protect the wearer from injury, which is a reason as to why garnets were so popular with warriors and royalty centuries ago, according to Al Romaizan.

February – Amethyst

An amethyst is considered to be crystalline quartz. These can vary from a light, lilac shade of purple and a darker, deeper purple tone. Unlike a garnet, an amethyst is incredibly hard, with a hardness level of seven. Its strength property also makes an amethyst scratch-resistant. In terms of symbolism, because of its varying purple tones, it’s often associated with royalty, meaning they’re highly-favoured by the aristocracy. However, they are also said to symbolise spirituality, mental clarity and healing.

March – Aquamarine

This stone is named after the colour of seawater, and so an aquamarine birthstone is usually blue-to-blue-green in colour. Despite their blue/green colour, they will always be light and clear. Aquamarines will never come in dark or deep shades of either green or blue. Aquamarines are a member of the beryl stone family, making them moderately-priced – perfect if you’re looking for an affordable-yet-meaningful gift for someone who has a birthday in March. It is also said to be used to protect those who fear the sea, or to protect those who go into the sea or travel on the sea. Aquamarines are also said to be associated with marital happiness and superior intellect.

April – Diamond

This is an incredibly popular stone, whether someone’s birthday is in April or not. Prized for their beauty and clarity, diamonds are an obvious choice for rings, earrings, necklaces and more. While the diamond has now become a status symbol, the April gemstone is associated with strength and eternal love, which is why they’re the stone of choice for many engagement rings and wedding bands. As well as being naturally stunning, diamonds are also extremely hard, although they are, most of the time, colourless.

May – Emerald

An emerald has been synonymous with green for centuries. A breath-taking birthstone and, much like an aquamarine, part of the beryl family, it is often considered to be one of the traditional “Big Four” gems. The other two are: diamond, ruby and sapphire. As already mentioned, an emerald is green, and is associated with heightened intelligence, promotion of healing and it’s even said to give the wearer the ability to predict the future. 

June – Pearl

Pearls are the only gemstones to be found inside a living creature – freshwater and saltwater mollusks. Although, most of the pearls out there today are cultivated as they become more rare in nature. Pearls are often white or cream in colour and they have somewhat of a sheen to them also. For those with birthdays in June, pearls symbolise honesty, purity and wisdom. In some cultures, pearls are associated with divine beings, said to be tears shed from heaven. This is often while you will sometimes see pearls placed at the graves of loved ones.

July – Ruby

A traditional birthstone with a famous shade of red, ruby birthstones are incredibly strong and durable, making them perfect for placement in jewellery pieces. However, they are an expensive stone, especially if you’re going to choose the finest on the market. They are said to symbolise physicality, strength, stamina and even passion. It’s also thought that ruby birthstones connect with the body of the wearer, helping them to navigate through feelings of anger, especially in social situations.

August – Peridot

A peridot has been said to be a popular stone with jewellery wearers alike since ancient times. Peridots are always green in colour, but the shade will often differ depending on its source. Some peridots may have some yellow hues to them, becoming more or less obvious as the light shines onto it. In terms of symbolism, peridots are said to protect the wearer at night, repelling dark, evil spirits that come out at night.

September – Sapphire

Sapphires, along with diamonds and rubies, are one of the most popular, well-known stones in the world. Its pure blue colour has made them a stunning addition to any jewellery collection, no matter how small the stone might be. However, this does make sapphires expensive, depending on their source. 

However, despite the colour blue being associated with sapphires, they can come in other colours, including yellow and purple. In terms of their symbolism, a sapphire is considered to be a protective birthstone, protecting the wearer from harm. It can also stop the wearer from having bad intentions or envious thoughts, it’s said. In addition to this, sapphires exhibit natural asterism in the form of a six-rayed star.

October – Opal

Opals come in different patterns with each opal being distinctly individual. They’re incredibly delicate stones. As such, they should be worn and taken care of in a very special way to ensure their integrity. Opals are commonly associated with light and magic, often having connotations with healing properties and powers. It’s also said that opals can make the wearer invisible, but people will usually wear them for good luck. However, there have been some negative connotations with opals, although positive associations outweigh more controversial interpretations. 

November – Citrine 

Much like an amethyst, a citrine is a crystalline quartz. Aptly named, a citrine is typically either yellow or orange in colour and it’s incredibly durable. This is why it’s a popular choice for jewellery lovers, regardless of whether their birthday is in November. A citrine is said to symbolise healing and happiness. It is also thought to provide relief for a variety of ailments. They can range from stress and insomnia to stomach bugs and flus.

December – Blue Topaz

When extracted from the earth, a topaz is usually a very pale blue colour. In some cases, they may not have any colour to them at all. However, they’re then taken to a laboratory to be treated. This is where their blue colour becomes more prominent. Rather than being predominantly blue, they’re considered to be more green than anything else. Topaz stones are beautiful, but they’re also inexpensive to purchase. In terms of what they symbolise, a blue topaz is associated with wealth and the ability to attract gold.

Little Star Jewellery has a wide range of stunning jewellery pieces available for women, children and men. Regardless of the occasion, from birthdays and christenings to weddings and ‘push’ gifts, and everything in between, you’ll be sure to find the perfect present for your loved ones. We have an impressive collection of precious jewellery items of seamless quality, meaning they can be treasured by the recipient for years to come. If you would like further information about our selection of gorgeous, stand-out jewellery pieces, then get in touch with a member of our friendly, professional team today – we can also offer a free engraving service, where applicable, to make your gift extra special.