Birthstones
The idea of gemstones being associated with certain months originated centuries ago and in many different cultures. It was believed that particular stones had talismanic properties that are heightened when worn at the right time of year.
The traditional birthstone list reflects ideas that date back centuries but have no documented origin, and as a result it differs from source to source. The modern birthstone list is the official list adopted by the American National Association of Jewelers in 1912.
Birth Month | Traditional Stone | Modern Stone |
January | Garnet, Rose Quartz | Garnet |
February | Amethyst, Onyx | Amethyst |
March | Bloodstone, Jade | Aquamarine |
April | Diamond, Rock Crystal | Diamond |
May | Emerald, Chrysoprase | Emerald |
June | Alexandrite, Moonstone | Pearl |
July | Carnelian | Ruby |
August | Sardonyx | Peridot |
September | Sapphire, Lapis Lazuli | Sapphire |
October | Tourmaline | Opal |
November | Citrine | Topaz |
December | Turquoise | Zircon |