There are many myths and legends around the different attributes that birthstones have, but each birthstone can show the unique qualities of the birth month you were born. While traditional birthstones include a mix of transparent and opaque gems, such as opal, pearl, and turquoise, the modern list features only transparent gems.
Find out about your Birthstone from the month you were born:
January - Garnet
The name “garnet” originates from the medieval Latin granatus, meaning “pomegranate,” in reference to the similarity of the red colour. According to Indian astrology, garnet helps eliminate negative feelings (depression, guilt) and instil greater self-confidence and mental clarity to promote creative thinking and peace of mind. In ancient and medieval times, gems like garnet were also thought to be remedies for inflammatory diseases and to soothe the angry heart.
February - Amethyst
The name “amethyst” derives from the Greek amethystos, which means “a remedy against drunkenness”. Amethyst is the February birthstone which can be found in the collections of royal families throughout Europe and Asia. The purple variety of quartz that has captivated mankind, is a symbol of personal empowerment and inner strength.
March - Aquamarine
Aquamarine’s name comes from the Latin for seawater. The aquamarine birthstone evokes the colours of the sea and being as clear as water, symbolizing purity of spirit and soul. This March birthstone was also thought to bring happiness in marriage and make the wearer unconquerable and amiable, and to quicken the intellect.
April - Crystal
The April birthstone was traditionally Diamond, the hardest and most durable gemstone, which represents strength, love, and eternal commitment. Known for its unmatched brilliance and sparkle, the diamond has been highly prized throughout history. As a birthstone, it is believed to promote clarity of thought, and self-confidence, and help manifest one’s desires. Crystal represents diamond in the modern world.
May - Emerald
Emerald, the birthstone for May, has been beloved for millennia, evoking rebirth and renewal. The May birthstone emerald has captured hearts and minds through the ages. Legend has it that emerald has the power to make its wearer more intelligent and quick-witted, and it was once believed to cure diseases.
June - Alexandrite
Alexandrite is the rare variety of the mineral chrysoberyl that changes colour in different lighting. The spiritual meaning was taken very seriously, with Czar Alexander II (the stone’s namesake) allegedly wearing an alexandrite ring daily as a talisman. Various cultures purport that alexandrite changes colours to warn its wearer of danger.
July - Ruby
Ruby is the July birthstone – and it’s one of the most coveted of gems. The name is derived from the Latin word ruber, meaning “red” – the colour of love and passion. In past centuries, some believed this birthstone for July could predict misfortune or danger, and others claimed it would cure inflammatory diseases and soothe anger. Medieval Europeans maintained that rubies bestowed health, wisdom, wealth and success in love.
August - Peridot
The word “peridot” comes from the Arabic faridat, meaning gem. Throughout history, peridot has often been confused with other gems such as topaz and emerald. The Red Sea island of Topazios, a purported source of the name “topaz,” actually produced peridot. The peridot birthstone has also been used for centuries as a protective talisman, shielding the owner from evil spirits and “terrors of the night.”
September - Sapphire
“Sapphire” comes from the Greek word sappheiros and blue sapphire is one of the most popular coloured stones. and is the birthstone of wisdom, loyalty and nobility. Sapphires have been long associated with royalty and romance and are also said to symbolize fidelity and the soul.
October - Tourmaline
Tourmaline is the newer October birthstone. The name comes from the Sinhalese word toramalli, which means “stone with mixed colours,” because it often has multiple colours in one crystal. Pink tourmaline embodies love and is associated with compassion and gentleness.
November - Yellow Topaz
This November birthstone was long thought to have many benefits. The ancient Greeks believed that topaz gave them strength. Europeans thought it could thwart magic spells and dispel anger. For centuries, many people in India have believed that topaz worn above the heart assures long life, beauty and intelligence.
December - Blue Zircon
During the Middle Ages, this December birthstone was thought to lull one into a deep sleep and scare off evil spirits. Due to the fact that blue colours are generally considered a soothing and spiritual colour, it comes as no surprise that blue zircons are associated with serenity and purity.