BirthStones Buying Guide

Select a birthstone to learn more

Select a birthstone to learn more.
Birthstones are gemstones associated with each month of the year. This guide explores their unique significance and historical value.

For some months, there is a difference between the modern and traditional birthstone. This difference lies in their historical and cultural origins, with traditional birthstones reflecting ancient customs and beliefs and modern birthstones accommodating contemporary tastes and the availability of new gems. For the months where there are two types of birthstones, individuals can choose between the historical significance of traditional stones and the modern appeal of contemporary gems.

 

Month

Modern Birthstone

Traditional Birthstone

January

Garnet

Garnet

February

Amethyst

Amethyst

March

Aquamarine

Bloodstone

April

Diamond

Diamond

May

Emerald

Emerald

June

Pearl, Alexandrite

Pearl

July

Ruby

Ruby

August

Peridot, Spinel, Sardonyx

Sardonyx

September

Sapphire

Sapphire

October

Opal, Tourmaline

Opal

November

Citrine, Topaz

Topaz

December

Tanzanite, Zircon, Turquoise, Blue Topaz

Turquoise, Lapis Lazuli

BirthStone for Every Month

find your favorite BirthStone

January Birthstone: Garnet

Garnet, the birthstone for January, is known for its rich, deep red color, symbolizing peace, prosperity, and health. It is believed to provide the wearer with protection and is often associated with friendship and trust. Garnets come in a variety of colors, although red is the most common. The durability and vibrant color make garnet a popular choice for jewelry. Learn more in our Garnet Guide.                               

February Birthstone: Amethyst


Amethyst, the birthstone for February, is a variety of quartz known for its stunning purple hue. This gemstone is associated with clarity of mind and protection from negative energies. Historically, amethysts were worn by royalty and believed to promote calmness and wisdom. Its striking color and relatively affordable price make it a favorite among gem enthusiasts.

March Birthstone: Aquamarine


Aquamarine, the birthstone for March, evokes the tranquility of the sea with its beautiful pale blue color. This gem symbolizes courage, health, and clear communication. Its name is derived from the Latin for “water of the sea,” and it has been believed to protect sailors and guarantee safe voyages. The light blue to blue-green shades make it a sought-after gemstone for jewelry. Learn more in our Aquamarine Guide.

April Birthstone: Diamond


Diamond, the birthstone for April, is renowned for its unmatched brilliance and hardness. Representing eternal love and strength, diamonds have been a symbol of wealth and power throughout history. The clear, sparkling appearance of diamonds makes them a timeless and versatile choice for all types of jewelry. Learn more in our Diamond Guide.

May Birthstone: Emerald


Emerald, the birthstone for May, is famous for its lush green color that symbolizes renewal. This gem has been cherished since ancient times and is believed to bring foresight, good fortune, and youth. The vivid green hue and rarity of high-quality emeralds make them one of the most valuable and sought-after gemstones. Learn more in our Emerald Guide.

June Birthstones: Pearl & Alexandrite


June has two birthstones: pearl and alexandrite. Pearls are unique as they are gems grown in oysters and mussels. They symbolize purity, wisdom, and integrity. Alexandrite, known for its color-changing properties, is a rare and captivating gemstone. It changes from green in daylight to red under incandescent light, symbolizing balance and adaptability. Learn more in our Pearl Guide and Alexandrite Guide.

July Birthstone: Ruby


Ruby, the birthstone for July, is known for its vibrant red color, symbolizing passion, love, and courage. Rubies have been treasured throughout history and are often associated with royalty and power. The intense red color and rarity of fine-quality rubies make them one of the most valuable gemstones.

August Birthstone: Peridot, Spinel & Sardonyx


August has three birthstones: peridot, spinel, and sardonyx. Peridot is known for its bright green color and is believed to bring good health, restful sleep, and peace. Spinel, which comes in a range of colors including red, pink, and blue, is often mistaken for other gemstones but is cherished for its own beauty. Sardonyx, characterized by its bands of red and white, symbolizes strength and protection.

September Birthstone: Sapphire


Sapphire, the birthstone for September, is best known for its deep blue color, symbolizing wisdom, loyalty, and nobility. Historically, sapphires have been favored by royalty. The striking blue color and exceptional hardness make sapphires a popular choice for engagement rings and other fine jewelry. Learn more in our Sapphire Guide.

October Birthstone: Opal & Tourmaline


October has two birthstones: opal and tourmaline. Opal is known for its unique play of colors, symbolizing creativity and hope. Tourmaline comes in a variety of colors, each with its own significance, and is believed to promote inspiration and happiness.

November Birthstone: Citrine & Topaz


Citrine and topaz are the birthstones for November. Citrine is known for its warm yellow to orange color, symbolizing happiness, success, and abundance. Topaz is known for its various hues, from blue to yellow and pink, and represents love and affection. Learn more in our Topaz Guide.

December Birthstone: Tanzanite, Zircon, Turquoise & Blue Topaz


December has four birthstones: tanzanite, zircon, turquoise, and blue topaz. Tanzanite, discovered in Tanzania, is known for its deep blue to violet hues and symbolizes transformation and new beginnings. Zircon, which comes in a variety of colors, is one of the oldest known minerals on earth and is believed to bring prosperity and honor. Turquoise, with its distinctive blue-green color symbolizes protection and good fortune. Blue topaz, a popular gemstone known for its vibrant blue shades, symbolizes calm, peace, and tranquility. It is cherished for its clarity and brilliance.