What is my Birthstone?


The idea of a single birthstone for each month is a modern idea with a long history, but today's consumers can choose gems from traditional or modern lists.

9 Minute Read

IGS may receive customer referral fees from the companies listed in this page.

Chart showing a mix of modern and traditional birthstones by month.

The Origin of Birthstones

The idea of a birthstone, a gemstone that corresponds to a person's birth month, is a relatively modern creation. However, its origin dates back to biblical times. Historians believe the twelve gemstones of the breastplate of Aaron corresponded originally to the twelve tribes of Israel. However, Josephus and St. Jerome, in the 1st and 5th centuries CE respectively, began linking these gems with the signs of the zodiac. Presumably, each stone offered wearers special powers during the corresponding astrological period. Therefore, people tried to collect and wear all twelve gems throughout the year as talismans or for therapeutic benefits.

The modern association of one gem to each month, and the practice of wearing just the stone connected to your birth month, arose between the 16th and 18th centuries. The list of so-called ancient or "traditional birthstones" originated in Poland during this time. In the United States in 1912, the National Association of Jewelers released a list of so-called "modern birthstones."

Interested in this topic?

This article is also a part of our Spinel Specialist Mini Course, in the unit Synthetic Spinels as Simulated Gemstones.

How do Traditional and Modern Birthstone Jewelry Differ?

Although the lists differ somewhat, romantic gem enthusiasts in Western cultures today commonly choose birthstones from both selections. While most contemporary consumers don't typically attribute special powers to these stones, the gems do have popular meanings and associations.

While traditional birthstones include a mix of transparent and opaque gems, such as opal, pearl, and turquoise, the modern list features only transparent gems. Practically speaking, this makes it easier to mix different gems into one piece of modern birthstone jewelry. However, if you prefer the traditional look to the modern alternative, choose one of the ancient stones for your jewelry.

January

Garnet is January's traditional and modern birthstone. Although garnets are a blend of mineral species with many commonalities, the deep red variety is most associated with January. However, garnets range in color from deep red and dark pink/purple to yellow, orange, and several shades of green. You might even find an incredibly rare blue garnet.

Garnets popularly signify trust and friendship. Traditionally, this gem was believed to protect people during their travels. Due to its hardness, a garnet makes an excellent stone for jewelry intended for daily wear.

The rose gold chain perfectly complements the deep red garnet center stone.
Find this Necklace
at James Allen
View all January birthstone jewelry

February

Amethyst has many popular associations, including serenity and royalty. Traditionally, it's believed to provide courage and strengthen relationships. It appears as the February birthstone on both the traditional and modern lists.

You can find amethysts in a wide range of violet colors, from pale lavender to deep, rich purple. While deeper hues typically draw higher values, your choice should ultimately depend on your color preference. Amethyst has good hardness as well as no cleavage. This makes it ideal for everyday wear.

This vintage amethyst and pave diamond ring is on trend.
Find this Ring
at James Allen
View all February birthstone jewelry

March

Aquamarine is March's modern birthstone. These gems have a wide range of blue and blue-green colors, including a deep, yet pastel, blue and a nearly clear shade of blue. Darker stones commonly have greater value. However, many consumers prefer the lighter, clearer stones in their jewelry. This gemstone exhibits good hardness and excellent transparency and clarity. Unlike other members of the beryl family, aquamarine doesn't have cleavage or inclusions. Thus, it makes a strong, durable gemstone for jewelry.

These delicate aquamarine and diamond earrings are perfect for that special someone born in March.
Find these Earrings
at James Allen

In the past, people attributed healing powers to aquamarine, especially for the heart, liver, and stomach. Today, this stone's associations include youth, health, hope, and love.

The traditional March birthstone is bloodstone. This striking green variety of chalcedony with orange and red spots had strong associations with the Crucifixion in Medieval times.

March birthstone - traditional bloodstone
"Sterling Silver Ring with Bloodstone Inlay" by Jessa and Mark Anderson. Licensed under CC By 2.0.
View all March birthstone jewelry

April

April boasts the well-known diamond as its traditional and modern birthstone. You can find diamonds in just about any shade imaginable. Its colors range from clear to black and every color of the rainbow in between. Though colorless diamonds are the most popular jewelry choices, other colors, such as yellow, champagne, and brown are gaining ground.

Often chosen for engagement and wedding rings, diamond has long symbolized love, marriage, and courage. The hardest known material makes an excellent stone for any type of jewelry.

A simple diamond pendant is a wardrobe staple.
Find this Pendant
at Blue NIle
View all April birthstone jewelry

May

Emerald, another beryl variety, has a rich body of symbolism, including associations with fertility, health, and faithfulness. This traditional and modern May birthstone has served as a symbol of rebirth throughout history. This green gem was said to have been Cleopatra's favorite. According to traditional beliefs, this gem brings its owner foresight, youth, and good fortune. So if you have a May birthday, wear your birthstone in good health.

Finding high-quality, clear emeralds can be difficult, especially in larger carat weights. However, scientists have created many treatments to improve the clarity and color of emeralds.

An emerald eternity band glows for this May birthstone.
Find this Ring
at Blue Nile
View all May birthstone jewelry

June

Historically, the birthstone for June was the pearl. This organic gemstone has a long history of jewelry use that continues to this day. Many myths and legends have grown around pearls, as well. However, alexandrite, a relative newcomer to the gem world, has taken its place on the modern list.

A Tahitian pearl necklace is the perfect way to indulge someone born in June.
Find this Necklace
at James Allen

First discovered in Russia in the 19th century, alexandrite was named after the future Czar Alexander II. This incredibly rare gem can also change colors. Alexandrite appears green in daylight but changes to a purple-red color beneath incandescent lighting.

Alexandrite has no ancient meanings. However, some people associate it with heightened intuition and pleasure. Without question, natural alexandrites command extremely high prices per carat. If you opt for this modern birthstone, you may have to settle for a synthetic, but still very expensive, alexandrite.

June birthstone - alexandrite
"Alexandrite 1," showing color change to red under incandescent light, by P̣h rṇ̒ thiphā. Licensed under CC By-SA 3.0.

In Germany as well as the Scandinavian countries, moonstone is the preferred birthstone for June.

View all June birthstone jewelry

July

July's traditional and modern birthstone is ruby. This gem's many symbolic associations include love, passion, wealth, and peace. In ancient times, people wore it as protection against evil and harm.

An exceptionally hard stone, medium to medium-dark red rubies with little to no purple or orange generally demand the highest prices. Rubies belong to the corundum family. They are the red variety of this mineral. All other colors, including pinks, are considered sapphire.

You may have a difficult time buying fine quality rubies. However, you can find stones of acceptable quality in a variety of shapes and sizes. Rubies make exceptional jewelry stones.

Find this Ruby
at James Allen
View all July birthstone jewelry

August

Peridot is the modern birthstone for August. You can find this gem in colors ranging from yellow-green to brown. However, the light green or lime green variety has the strongest popular connection to August.

These peridot hook earrings can be dressed up or down.
Find these Earrings
at James Allen

Traditionally, peridot symbolized strength and was used as a ward against nightmares, evil, and enchantments. The ancient Hawaiians believed these stones were the tears of the goddess Pele brought to the surface by volcanoes.

Recently, spinel was recognized as a modern August birthstone option.

Spinel, which is similar to corundum - think ruby, sapphire - is gaining in popularity but still hard to find.
Find this Ring
at Blue Nile

The traditional August birthstone is sardonyx, a red and white variety of chalcedony.

August birthstone - traditional sardonyx
"Gemstone (Sardonyx) Cameo," portrait of the Roman emperor Trajan and his wife Plotina, ca. 105-115 AD, at the British Museum, by Carole Raddato. Licensed under CC By-SA 2.0.
View all August birthstone jewelry

September

Although most associated with blue, sapphire comes in a wide variety of colors. In fact, this September birthstone, traditional and modern, occurs in every color except red. (Sapphire, by definition, is the non-red gem variety of corundum). Sapphires have many symbolic associations and a rich folklore. Traditionally, this stone was believed to protect your loved ones from harm. In the Middle Ages, Christian clergy wore blue sapphires as symbols of heaven. For many gem enthusiasts, these gems now symbolize wisdom, purity, and faith.

Durable sapphires make great gems for daily wear jewelry. Typically, pure blue stones or blue stones with a green or purple tint rank as the most valuable. However, you can also choose beautiful pink, purple, orange, green, and yellow as well as colorless stones. Star sapphires are some of the most desired gems in the world.

A blue sapphire halo is a creative way to incorporate this September birthstone into an engagement ring.
Find this Ring
at James Allen
View all September birthstone jewelry

October

Tourmaline is the modern October birthstone. These gems come in many varieties and colors, including beautiful multicolored stones.

These faceted cabochon pink tourmaline earrings draws attention to the charm of tourmaline's deep pink color.
Find these Earrings
at Angara

Opal is the traditional October birthstone. These gems are perhaps most well known for their play of colors and have their own unique gem grading system. Opals also have one of the most divergent sets of symbolic associations. You can choose to believe they're the luckiest or unluckiest gems in the world.

Opals are soft, but wearing them as earrings will avoid daily wear and tear.
Find these Earrings
at Angara
View all October birthstone jewelry

November

Once upon a time, before modern gemology, all yellow stones were considered topaz. In the early 20th century, gemologists defined topaz as a distinct gem species which included yellow as well as blue, pink, purple, and other varieties. So, the traditional November birthstone transformed into the modern version, yellow or golden topaz. However, you can pick the topaz color you like best for birthstone jewelry.

Another modern November option, citrine is an attractive yellow gem. Just keep in mind that while citrine (a quartz) and topaz are sometimes confused, they are distinct gem species. They also have very different price ranges.

A citrine in a rose gold twisted rope ring is a unique take on this November birthstone.
Find this Ring
at Angara

Historically, people believed golden topaz could attract wealth as well as protect the health of your mind and body. In particular, golden topaz could help your eyesight. Today, some view this gem as a sign of love and affection.

November birthstone - topaz
"Topaz and Gold Ring" by Mauro Cateb. Licensed under CC By 2.0.
View all November birthstone jewelry

December

While opaque turquoise and lapis lazuli were the traditional December birthstones, the modern shift to transparent gems made tanzanite, blue topaz, and blue zircon the modern alternatives.

This Princess Diana-inspired tanzanite and diamond ring evokes another era.
Find this Ring
at James Allen
A bezel set turquoise lariat necklace is subtle and sweet.
Find this Necklace
at Angara

Although zircon colors also include yellow, orange, green, red, and colorless, blue stones are the officially designated birthstones. However, you can choose whatever color you prefer. Some people believe zircons may relieve pain and boost your appetite.

When shopping for these gems, look for clear stones with few to no flaws and consistent color throughout.

Opting for a blue zircon engagement ring gets you more size and color for your money. This stone is over 4 carats!
Find this Ring
at Angara
View all December birthstone jewelry

International Gem Society

Related Articles

More Articles
Emerald SymbolismPhoto by <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/article/birthstone-guide-birthstones-significance-2/"https://www.flickr.com/photos/82066314@N06/">Iqbal Osman</a>. Licensed under <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/article/birthstone-guide-birthstones-significance-2/"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/legalcode">CC By 2.0</a>." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>

Emerald Symbolism

Emerald symbolism encompasses not only royalty but also wit, eloquence, and foresight. Learn more about the legends surrounding this prized...
Read More
Garnet Symbolism18k rose gold necklace</a> with 8.14-ct heart-cut spessartine garnet and 0.32-ct pear-cut diamond pendant. Image courtesy of <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/article/birthstone-guide-birthstones-significance-2/"https://www.liveauctioneers.com/">liveauctioneers.com and <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/article/birthstone-guide-birthstones-significance-2/"https://www.liveauctioneers.com/auctioneer/1670/auctionata-paddle-8-ag/">Auctionata Paddle 8 AG</a>." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>

Garnet Symbolism

Garnet symbolism is rich and varied. The January birthstone has inspired many legends and popular associations with love, friendship, light,...
Read More
Master Diamond Cutter Mike Botha Takes on Esperanza

Master Diamond Cutter Mike Botha Takes on Esperanza

The Esperanza is the most valuable diamond ever mined in the US. Learn the story behind the find and the...
Read More
Malachite SymbolismPhoto courtesy of <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/article/birthstone-guide-birthstones-significance-2/"https://www.liveauctioneers.com/">liveauctioneers.com and <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/article/birthstone-guide-birthstones-significance-2/"https://www.liveauctioneers.com/auctioneer/6750/one-of-a-kind-finds/">One of a Kind Finds</a>." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>

Malachite Symbolism

Behind every mystical gem is a merchant. Since ancient times, malachite has been “the salesman's stone.” Learn more about malachite...
Read More

Latest Articles

More Articles
Classic Engagement Ring StonesPastel purple sapphire</a>, 1.08 cts, 5.8 mm, round cut, Sri Lanka. © <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/article/birthstone-guide-birthstones-significance-2/"https://www.thegemtrader.com/">The Gem Trader</a>. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>

Classic Engagement Ring Stones

Emerald, ruby, sapphire, and diamond are the most popular choices for classic engagement ring stones. Learn more about these traditional...
Read More
Broken Bangle — The Blunder-Besmirched History of Jade Nomenclature: Book Review

Broken Bangle — The Blunder-Besmirched History of Jade Nomenclature: Book Review

Is fei cui a better term for "pyroxene jade" than jadeite? Jeffery Bergman reviews Broken Bangle, a new book on...
Read More
Cuprite Value, Price, and Jewelry InformationJoel E. Arem</a>, PhD, FGA. Used with permission." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>

Cuprite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information

One of the rarest of all facetable gems, cut cuprites can show magnificent deep red color. However, these beautiful stones...
Read More
Gemstone Radiation TreatmentPhoto courtesy of <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/article/birthstone-guide-birthstones-significance-2/"https://www.liveauctioneers.com/">liveauctioneers.com and <a href=https://www.gemsociety.org/article/birthstone-guide-birthstones-significance-2/"https://www.liveauctioneers.com/auctioneer/1081/eros-auctions-inc/">Eros Auctions, Inc</a>." src="data:image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7" decoding="async" data-nimg="responsive" style="position:absolute;top:0;left:0;bottom:0;right:0;box-sizing:border-box;padding:0;border:none;margin:auto;display:block;width:0;height:0;min-width:100%;max-width:100%;min-height:100%;max-height:100%;object-fit:cover;object-position:50% 50%"/>

Gemstone Radiation Treatment

Gemstone radiation is a common but little understood technique for altering colors. Learn how it works and what gems usually...
Read More

Never Stop Learning

When you join the IGS community, you get trusted diamond & gemstone information when you need it.

Become a Member

Get Gemology Insights

Get started with the International Gem Society’s free guide to gemstone identification. Join our weekly newsletter & get a free copy of the Gem ID Checklist!