How To Find Out Your Birthstone And The Meaning Behind It

You're probably asking yourself, “What is the birthstone for my month?” We got you covered - check out our list and even what your stone means too!

Birthstones are very popular gifts and representations for gem-lovers because of how beautiful they are, but also, and most importantly, the personal meanings they represent to the wearer.

What Is The History Behind Birthstones?

The modern interpretation of birthstones dates back to the 16th century and originated in either Germany or Poland. According to the interpretation - to which we still subscribe today - there are between one and three gemstones for every birth month of the year. Naturally, each birthstone contains its own mythology behind its meaning.

The tradition of birthstones has been around dating back to the Book of Exodus!

The book of Exodus describes Aaron’s breastplate, which would be worn by all future high priests after Aaron. The book indicates that the breastplate contained 12 different stones, which represented the 12 tribes of Israel.

The first row of gems on Aaron’s breastplate are said to have contained carnelian, chrysolite, and beryl. The second row contained jacinth, agate, and amethyst, and the third row contained topaz, onyx, and jasper.

Oddly enough, though the concept of birthstones has roots going back to the bible, the list has been updated as recently as two years ago!

What is My Birthstone?

The National Association of Jewelers has established the current list of birthstones. Though, there is a more traditional birthstone list which includes birthstones that have been historically associated with each month.

To further complicate it, there are also lists of alternative birthstones based on astrological signs, guardian angels, seasons, and even birth hours! Ultimately, there are many choices for birthstones and you can choose whichever you feel best represents your personality.

Visiting Each Of The Birthstones by Month And Understanding Their Meaning

This is the modern list of birthstones as agreed upon by The National Association of Jewelers.

January Birthstone – Garnet

The January birthstone, garnet, is thought to keep the wearer safe during travel. The word “garnet” is derived from a term that means “seed,” because the gem resembles the color and shape of a pomegranate seed.

February Birthstone – Amethyst

The February birthstone, amethyst, is said to strengthen relationships and give its wearer courage. At one time, only royalty could wear the gem.

March Birthstone – Aquamarine & Bloodstone

The March birthstone, aquamarine, was thought to cure heart, liver, and stomach diseases—all one had to do was drink the water in which the gem had been soaking. Early sailors believed that aquamarine talismans, etched with the likeness of the sea god Neptune, protected them against ocean dangers.

Another March birthstone is the bloodstone, which is dark green with red specks.

April Birthstone – Diamond

In addition to being a symbol of love, the diamond was once thought to bring courage. In Sanskrit, the diamond is called vajra, which also means lightning; in Hindu mythology, vajra was the weapon of Indra, the king of gods.

May Birthstone – Emerald

The May birthstone, emerald, was one of Cleopatra’s favorite gems! It has been associated with fertility, rebirth, and love. Ancient Romans went so far as to dedicate this stone to Venus, the goddess of love and beauty. Today, it is thought that emeralds signify wisdom, growth, and patience.

June Birthstone – Pearl & Alexandrite

The June birthstone, pearl, has long been a symbol of purity. The ancient Greeks believed that pearls were the hardened tears of joy from Aphrodite, the goddess of love.

An extremely rare gemstone, Alexandrite is the Anniversary stone for the 55th year of marriage. The name Alexandrite derives from when the gemstone was first discovered within the emerald mines at the Russian Ural Mountains in 1830 – which also happened to be the day of Russian Prince Alexander II birthday. The gemstone is thought to bring luck, good fortune and love.

July Birthstone – Ruby

Regarded by ancient Hindus as the “king of gems.” It was believed to protect its wearer from evil. Today, the ruby’s red color is a symbol of love and passion

August Birthstone – Peridot

A symbol of strength and is sometimes called the “evening emerald” for its light green color. It was once believed that the green peridot crystals found in volcanic ashes were the tears of the volcano goddess, Pele. When set in gold, this gem was said to protect the wearer from nightmares.

September Birthstone – Sapphire

Once thought to guard against evil and poisoning, many believed that a venomous snake would die if placed in a vessel made of sapphire. Now it has come to symbolize purity and wisdom.

October Birthstone – Opal & Pink Tourmaline

The October birthstone, opal, symbolizes faithfulness and confidence. The word comes from the Latin opalus, meaning “precious jewel.” Necklaces with opals set in them were worn to repel evil.

Pink Tourmaline represents a love of humanity and humanitarianism. It is worn to promote sympathy towards others and promotes better listening and understanding. It carries the virtue of unconditional love and friendship.

November Birthstone – Topaz & Citrine

Topaz symbolizes love and affection. It is believed to give the wearer increased strength and intellect.

Citrine is also known as “healing quartz,” because legend has it that citrine promotes vitality and energy in whomever wears it. And, according to the Chinese feng shui philosophy, citrine creates wealth and abundance.

December Birthstone – Turquoise, Blue Zircon & Blue Topaze

Turquoise is regarded as a love charm. It is also a symbol of good fortune and success, and it is believed to relax the mind and to protect its wearer from harm. Blue Zircon stone represents clearing your mind. As part of its benefits, this gemstone brings your purity back. It is most effective to use when you lose your self-confidence.

Blue Topaz is often used to strengthen emotional support, stabilizing the emotions and making the wearer receptive to love from every source. In fact, Blue Topaz is the anniversary gift to signify both 4 and 19 years of marriage together.