Birthstone and their Meanings

From ancient times, gemstones have been believed to be possessing mysterious special powers. These birthstones were traditionally linked to the Zodiac.

However, modern birthstones are linked to calendar months, and each month has its own unique birthstone, with its own fabled properties. Many people love to wear jewellery set with their birthstone, as the ancient meanings and associations with these stones still intrigue them.

The first written records for the use of birthstones, can be found in the book of ‘Exodus’, in the ‘Old Testament’. It is agreed by some that the initial use of gemstones for tapping their powers may have stemmed from their use in breastplate of the Hebrews’ High Priest. The breast plate had various gemstones set in a gold filigree pattern. The twelve gemstones were supposed to have been representing the twelve tribes of Israel. However historians also believe them to be representations of the 12 signs of zodiac. Despite this being the first ever written record on the use of gemstones, it is said that wearing birthstones actually became popular in Poland, in the 15th and 16th centuries.

JANUARY – GARNET
The birthstone for January is the garnet, a gem with a rich history and deep symbolism. Once believed to be connected with the blood, garnets were often worn as protective talismans, thought to shield the wearer from harm, particularly during travel, and to bring guidance through the darkness—both literal and metaphorical. This gemstone has long been associated with strength, vitality, and passion. While garnets are most commonly known for their deep red color, they actually occur in a stunning variety of shades, including vibrant oranges, rich greens, and even purples, making them versatile and suited to many tastes. Garnet’s powerful symbolism of love, friendship, and enduring bonds makes it a meaningful stone, perfect for starting the new year with energy, protection, and clarity.

FEBRUARY – AMETHYST
The birthstone for this month is the amethyst, and the folklore attached to this gem associates it with sobriety, tranquility, protection and peace. This birthstone as also been linked to improving the skin and preventing baldness, as well as protection from deceit. The amethyst birthstone comes in varying shades of purple, and can be a pale lilac in colour.

MARCH – AQUAMARINE
This month’s birthstone is aquamarine, which has been linked to the making of new friends as well as affection and love, hope and health. This stone was once also thought to protect those at sea. As the name of this birthstone suggests, it is a green-blue in colour and has a rich, sparkling look. You can get aquamarine birthstones in a variety of shapes and sizes.

APRIL – DIAMOND
One of the most popular gems throughout history, diamonds are the birthstone for this month, and these stones are linked to love, eternity and strength. This has contributed towards diamonds being the most popular gems of all time when it comes to romance, such as engagement rings and wedding bands. Diamonds are very strong and hardwearing, making them the perfect birthstone to wear on a daily basis. You can enjoy many different cuts of this stone.

MAY – EMERALD
The birthstone for May is the enchanting emerald, a gemstone revered throughout history for its lush green color and mystical qualities. Once believed to possess healing powers, emeralds were thought to cure ailments and restore vitality, making them a symbol of health and renewal. Ancient cultures also believed emeralds could enhance intuition and grant the ability to see into the future, adding to their magical and almost otherworldly reputation. Often associated with fertility, rebirth, and eternal love, emeralds have long been cherished by royalty and spiritual leaders alike. Beyond their captivating beauty, these gems are thought to bring wisdom, patience, and a sense of calm, making them a perfect emblem of springtime and growth. Their vibrant green hue reflects nature’s renewal, embodying balance, harmony, and hope.

JUNE – ALEXANDRITE
The captivating Alexandrite is June’s birthstone, famed for its unique color-changing ability, shifting from green in daylight to red under artificial light. This rare and mystical gem symbolizes balance, joy, and good fortune, while also representing transformation and renewal. Alexandrite’s dual nature reflects adaptability and resilience, helping the wearer navigate life’s changes with grace. Its beauty and rarity make it a truly special and enchanting birthstone, embodying both personal empowerment and wonder.

JULY – RUBY

The birthstone for this month is the ravishing ruby, renowned for its deep red hue and vibrant energy. This fiery gem has long been associated with passion, courage, and strength. Throughout history, rubies were believed to offer protection from misfortune and danger, making them a powerful talisman. Known as the “King of Gems,” rubies are also said to inspire love, enhance confidence, and bring harmony into relationships, making it a symbol of both inner strength and emotional vitality. This gemstone’s intense color and symbolism of power and prosperity make it a beloved birthstone for July.

AUGUST – PERIDOT
The birthstone for the month of August is peridot, which was commonly linked with protection against evil and night terrors, as well as a gem that enhanced the properties of healing drugs. Lime green in colour, this birthstone is a by-product of volcanic action, and comes in all sorts of shapes and sizes. This birthstone gives off its own unique energy.

SEPTEMBER – SAPPHIRE
Sapphire is the birthstone associated with September, and this gem has been linked with faith and purity, as well as foresight. It was thought that the stronger the sparkle of the gem, the more faithful and honest the wearer. Sapphires can come in other colours as well as blue. These are strong and durable gems that will last for years to come, and can be passed down to future generations.

OCTOBER – OPAL
The birthstone of October is the opal, a stone that has been linked to purity, hope and innocence. This gem has also been linked to healing forces, friendship and emotion, so it has experienced its fair share of folklore over the years. This type of birthstone comes in white or black, and both variations have remnants of other colours within them. Opals have a unique look and beauty, making them a very interesting birthstone with a strangely exquisite appearance.

NOVEMBER – YELLOW TOPAZ & CITRINE
The birthstones for this month are Yellow Topaz and Citrine, both known for their warm, golden hues. Yellow Topaz has been historically linked with sanity, healing, and vitality, believed by the ancient Greeks to bestow strength and even the power of invisibility in dangerous situations. Citrine, often called the “Merchant’s Stone,” is associated with prosperity, joy, and abundance. Both gems are thought to bring warmth, clarity, and positive energy to their wearers. With their sunny tones, Yellow Topaz and Citrine radiate happiness and are believed to inspire creativity, self-confidence, and overall well-being.

DECEMBER – TOPAZ & TANZANITE
The birthstones for December are Topaz and Tanzanite, both radiant and captivating in their unique ways. Topaz, often linked to love, good fortune, and harmony, comes in a stunning array of colours, including icy blue, which is particularly associated with December. Tanzanite, a rarer gemstone, dazzles with its deep blue-violet tones and is believed to inspire spiritual growth, clarity, and transformation. Together, these two gems represent serenity, wisdom, and protection, making them perfect symbols of the winter month. Their captivating colours and mystical qualities make Topaz and Tanzanite truly remarkable December birthstones.