The Fascinating Origin of Birthstones
Birthstones have a very ancient history, starting some thousands of years ago with the Breastplate of Aaron described in the Book of Exodus. The high priest Aaron should wear a decorated breastplate, adorned with 12 stone species, which meant the association of one particular tribe each. Later, they evolved onto the symbolic with the linking of the 12 months of year and 12 signs of zodiac.
How Birthstones Became Linked to Calendar Months
While the original stones of Aaron’s breastplate symbolized tribes, through the centuries they came to be associated with months and astrology in the following ways:
- Ancient Civilizations: Gemstones started to be associated with the zodiac through various civilizations such as the Babylonians and Greeks, who viewed them as possessing metaphysical properties in the influence of the cosmos.
- Early Christian Traditions: Over time, during the 8th and 9th centuries, scholars attributed many of the gemstones to particular months and suggested that an individual wear their birthstone for good luck.
- Modern Birthstone Lists: In 1912, the American National Retail Jewelers Association, now called Jewelers of America, standardized the list to create the chart we use today.
Birthstones Meaning – What is Birthstones?
A birthstone is a stone assigned to the month of birth, believed to possess unique qualities related to personality, fortune, and spiritual energy. The word “birthstone” is derived from the combination of the words “birth” and “stone,” reflecting very well its intimate connection with your month of birth.
The meaning, attributes, and mystical properties are believed to be associated with every birthstone. From the courage of rubies to the purity of pearls, these precious stones imbue jewelry with a deeper meaning for personal significance and are a perfect fit for custom necklaces, rings, bracelets, or charms.
Birthstone Chart: A Month-to-Month Guide to Birthstones
Here are some of the most popular birthstones and the meanings associated with each. Find your birthstone on this chart and learn about the attributes that make it unique.
January – Garnet
Garnet has long been valued since ancient times for its brilliant color and hardness. Often considered to offer protection for travelers, it is likewise believed to ensure growth in creativity and emotional healing.
- Colour: Deep red – though garnets also exist in green, orange and purple hues
- Symbolism: Friendship, trust, and vitality
February – Amethyst
Amethyst is of the quartz family and, once upon a time, was considered one of those Cardinal gems: those thought to be precious because they were rare and beautiful. To the ancient Greeks, it was said to protect against drunkenness and inspire calm—a stone of emotional balance.
- Color: Purple
- Symbolism: Peace, loyalty, and clarity
March – Aquamarine
Aquamarine—aquamarine-colored ocean water (a member of the beryl family, as is the emerald)—derives its name from its resemblance to seawater. The sailors of old carried aquamarine with themselves for safe voyages and an unruffled sea.
- Color: Pale blue or turquoise
- Symbolism: Bravery, confidence, and tranquility
April – Diamond
Diamonds are considered the hardest natural substance on Earth and signify unbreakable bonds. Brilliance and rarity give diamonds their symbolic meanings of eternal love and perfection.
- Color: Clear, though rare diamonds can appear in shades like blue, pink, or yellow
- Symbolism: Love, strength, and purity
May – Emerald
The gemstones have been treasured since ancient times and are considered to be the stone of Venus, the Roman goddess of love. Cleopatra was famously enamored with emeralds, and they were once believed to grant foresight to those who wore them.
- Color: Vivid green
- Symbolism: Growth, wisdom, and rebirth
June – Pearl
Unlike most other gemstones, pearls are an organic process in which mollusks naturally develop within the tissues of mollusk species. It is this natural luster and smooth feel that gives it the place of timeless classics. Its more common usage seems to relate to bridals due to the conventional associations with purity and grace.
- Color: White, cream, pastel shades
- Symbolism: Purity, innocence, and harmony
July – Ruby
Known as the “King of Gems,” a ruby is a mineral type of corundum. Traditionally, warriors wore rubies to give them more bravery and strength. Rubies also symbolize love and are given to show one’s love for another person.
- Color: Deep red or pinkish-red
- Symbolism: Courage, passion, and vitality
August – Peridot
Peridot is a rare mineral that forms in the mantle of the Earth, not in the crust. This stone, associated with light and everything good, was a talisman in ancient Egypt to protect against evil spirits.
- Color: Lime green
- Symbolism: Prosperity, luck, and protection
September – Sapphire
Sapphires are the colored type of corundum, and due to their rich color and hardness, they have become very popular. Traditionally, they were worn by royalty and clergy as a symbol of divine favor and honesty.
- Colour: Blue, but also in yellow, pink, and green varieties
- Symbolism: Loyalty, trust, and wisdom
October – Opal
Opals are made up of silica and water and exhibit a distinctive “fire” of colours. To the ancient world, an opal was magical and thus an embodiment of the rainbow itself. Black opals represent the most rare, while commanding high values due to this striking appearance.
- Color: Multicolored, exhibiting a play-of-color effect
- Symbolism: Confidence, faithfulness, and creativity
November – Topaz
Topaz has been valued throughout history for its colors and spiritual properties. In medieval times, it was believed to ward off evil spells and sicknesses; thus, it was an important talisman.
- Color: Golden yellow, blue, pink
- Symbolism: Good fortune, healing, and joy
December – Turquoise
Turquoise has been one of the oldest stones used by mankind, frequently appearing in Egyptian tombs and Native American relics. It is still valued for its soothing energy and striking color, hence remaining a popular choice in modern and traditional jewelry.
- Color: Blue/greenish blue opaque
- Symbolism: Protection, good fortune, and serenity
What is the Rarest Birthstone?
While diamonds are among the best-known and most desired gemstones, the rarest birthstone is actually tanzanite, an alternative birthstone for December. First discovered in the 20th century in Tanzania, tanzanite is extremely rare because of its few sources. Its striking blue-violet color makes it one of the most dazzling gemstones in the world. Other rare birthstones include alexandrite, which is the stone for June and red beryl. Rare birthstones are fantastic choices with which to make uniquely designed, one-of-a-kind pieces with custom necklaces or other one-of-a-kind statement pieces.