What is my Birthstone Based on my Birth Month?
What is a Birthstone?
If everyone has their zodiac sign based on the month and day that they were born, then it is no different that everyone will have their birthstone based on their birth month.
A birthstone is a precious or semi-precious gemstone that associates with and represents a person’s month of birth. Your birthstones are determined based on your birth month.
In addition, there are a total of 20 birthstones for all 12 months from January to December, but there are a few particular months that have more than one birthstone.
But to no avail, no matter what age you are, you will always have a birthstone. And each birthstone has its unique history, symbolism, and characteristics.
Curious about what your birthstone is based on your birth month? Then continue reading to find out!
The Origin and History of Birthstones
Scholars believed that the rise of birthstones is dated back to the Breastplate of Aaron, which is described in the Book of Exodus in the Bible.
In the Book of Exodus, it stated that the Breastplate boasted 12 unique gemstones that represented the 12 tribes of Israel. It was a ceremonial religious garment with specific symbolism regarding the tribes.
However, in modern tradition, birthstones are assigned according to the birth month of that person. Birthstones are gifted for birthdays, and anniversaries, and even push gifts for a soon-to-be-born baby. Each birthstone has its unique properties and powers.
Moreover, some even say if the birthstone is worn on their assigned month, it will heighten its healing powers, but if individuals want to have the full effect, all birthstones need to be collected and worn based on the month the birthstones are associated with.
January: Garnet
History & Meaning
For people born in January, Garnet comes in a wide variety of colours, but are commonly red. Garnets are the perfect gemstone to start the year with, and those born in January are lucky to have this beautiful and complex gem as their Birthstone.
The name “garnet” originates from the medieval Latin Granatus meaning “seed”. Which is a 14th Century Middle English word gernet, meaning “dark red.”, showing a resemblance to the red seeds of the pomegranate.
Colour
As mentioned above, Garnets commonly comes in red, but also comes in a diverse range of beautiful colours, including orange, yellow, purple and vibrant green (called Tsavorite, the most valuable variety of Garnet).
Garnets even changes colour and hue in different lighting.
Symbolism
A few believe that garnets have protective powers, protecting the wearer from injury. Occasionally associated with life-giving blood, red garnets are said to bring vitality, love, and light.
Some even believe that Garnet’s powers are to bring good health, wealth and happiness.
February: Amethyst
History & Meaning
Amethyst is a quartz that ranges from a light lilac to a deep violet purple. Although February might often be a short, cold and dark month for most people, Amethyst is a perfect birthstone for this month because of its rich-colour, and gorgeous contrast.
The name comes from the word methustos, an Ancient Greek word meaning “intoxicated” or “a remedy for drunkenness”.
Colour
Amethyst purple variety quartz whose saturation may range from light pale lilac to vibrant deep purple. Deeper and darker stones are highly sought-after and valuable than paler ones.
Symbolism
Amethyst is a gemstone that related to royalty, they were favoured by rulers. Over time, Amethysts are also associated with spirituality, mental clarity, personal empowerment, inner strength and healing.
Amethyst lore also includes several claims to mystical powers, including that it would convey strength and wit to those who wore it.
March: Aquamarine & Bloodstone
March is one of the months that have more than one birthstone, and that is Aquamarine and Bloodstone.
Both birthstones are very different in terms of appearance but share a common
trait that brings benefits to one’s well-being.
Aquamarine
History & Meaning
Aquamarine’s name comes from the Latin word aqua, meaning water; and marina, meaning the sea, because this gem evokes the tranquillity and colour of the sea. Aquamarine is also used to celebrate 19th wedding anniversaries.
Colour
Aquamarine’s colours range from a blueish green to greenish blue, detailed Aquamarines are often as clear as water.
Larger Aquamarines have more intense colour, and darker blue ones are more valuable.
Symbolism
This gem symbolizes purity of spirit and soul, and it’s believed to keep sailors safe at sea. Not only that, but it is also believed to give unconquerable and amiable, and to quicken the intellect of the wearer.
Bloodstone
History & Meaning
Bloodstone is the 2nd birthstone of March, it is also known as heliotrope, which comes from a Greek word meaning “to turn the sun”.
In fact, in ancient times, some believed that the sun would turn red if placed into water.
Colour
Bloodstone is typically dark green with vivid red spots which are iron oxide. There are two types of bloodstones, heliotrope and plasma.
A solid green colour with visible red veins is considered a good quality bloodstone.
Symbolism
For Bloodstone, the “blood” on the gem were said to attribute metaphysical properties such as increasing strength, giving invisibility, and preserving health and youth.
It is also believed to act as a lucky charm, clearing negative energy to those who wear it.
April: Diamond
History & Meaning
This incredibly hard gem was first found as early as 4 BC. Its name comes from a Greek word “adamas”, meaning “unbreakable”.
Diamonds were desired by loyalty and the wealth and is the only gem that is made of one element: carbon.
Moreover, they are also the world’s toughest gem, with a Mohs scale of 10! Making it 58 times harder than anything, it is basically indestructible, and it can only be scratched by another diamond.
Colour
Majority of Diamonds are colourless, but they also come in different colours like brown, yellow, red, pink, blue, and green.
Their colour ranges from vivid to pale, the more saturated the colour, the more valuable it is.
Symbolism
Diamonds symbolises clarity, eternal love and strength, hence diamonds are commonly used in engagement and wedding rings.
It is also believed that Diamonds have healing powers, bringing longevity, strength, beauty and happiness to those who owns it.
May: Emerald
History & Meaning
Emerald’s name comes from a Greek word “smaragdus”, meaning “green gem”. Emeralds were mined in 330 BC and were adorned by royalty.
Cleopatra is the most famous historic figure that adore Emeralds and used it in her adornments.
Emerald is a variety of the Beryl family, a mineral that grows up to 6 foot in size and have 6 sides in total. Emeralds are also considered as one of the Big 4 gemstones, alongside diamond, ruby, and sapphire.
Colour
Their colour can range from light green to deep green. The deeper the green, the more value it has.
Some emeralds with an intense green-blue colour are considered rare. High quality Emeralds will have a vivid green hue.
Symbolism
This gem symbolizes loyalty, new beginnings, peace, and security, legends say that it has the power to make the owner more intelligent and quick-witted.
They are believed to have healing powers and to allow the wearer to predict the future.
June: Pearl, Alexandrite, and Moonstone
June is one of the 3 months with 3 birthstones!
Giving you 3 beautiful birthstones to choose from.
Pearl
History & Meaning
Pearl’s name comes from an old Frech word “perle”, and Latin word “perna”, meaning “leg”. Pearls are also the only gemstones in the world made by living creatures – oysters, mussels and mollusks.
Furthermore, they have been used as far back as ancient Greece, where it was believed they were the tears of the gods.
Colour
Pearls are thought to be mostly white, however they are now available in a range of colours including black, green, gold, silver, and even pastels.
In addition, finer pearls have a natural lustre, making them white with iridescent that casts many colourful hues.
Symbolism
Pearls were associated with honesty, purity, and wisdom. Some cultures believed that pearls were tears shed from heaven.
While some believed that pearls represent wisdom and power and are carried by dragons in ancient China.
Alexandrite
History & Meaning
Alexandrite was first discovered in a Russian mine in 1834. It was named after Russian Czar Alexander II (heir to the throne).
Moreover, some describes Alexandrite as “Emerald by day, Ruby by Night”, because of its remarkable change of colour throughout the day; bluish green in daylight to purplish red under incandescent light.
Colour
Alexandrite will have a bluish-green colour when exposed under sunlight, reminiscent of emeralds.
Therefore, at night, under incandescent lighting, it will appear as purplish-red colour, like a ruby, hence why this gemstone was described as “Emerald by day, Ruby by Night”.
Symbolism
Alexandrite symbolizes good luck, prosperity and intellect. Some believed that Alexandrite promotes a strong sense of creativity, imagination, and intuition.
However, it is also believed to bring joy, purpose, and hope to the wearer.
Moonstone
History & Meaning
Moonstone, was named by Pliny, a Roman nature historian. Moonstone is the best-known gem for its microscopic layers of feldspar that scatters light to cause an adularescence effect.
Moreover, they were also been associated with Roman and Greek deities.
Colour
Moonstones shows a blue shine against a white background. Thinner layers of the feldspar produce a bluish shine, and thicker layers produce white.
Subsequently, they come in different colours ranging from yellow, gray, green, blue, peach, to pink.
Symbolism
Moonstone is often associated with good luck, love, passion and fertility. Moonstone symbolizes the feminine, intuition, new beginnings, and inner wisdom in New Age beliefs.
However, because of the association with the moon, it is said to promote healthy menstrual cycles in women.
July: Ruby
History & Meaning
Ruby’s name comes from a Latin word ruber, meaning “red”. Ruby was called the “king of precious stones” during ancient India, for its rarity, and hardness.
In addition, it is also one of the Big 4 gemstones, alongside Emerald, Sapphire and Diamond.
Furthermore, Ruby is one of the second toughest gems in the world, just behind diamond, with a Mohs scale of 9 (Diamond’s scale is 10).
Colour
Top quality Ruby has a deep red with a hint of purple, called “pigeon’s blood”. Ruby gets its colour from amounts of the element chromium.
In which, the chromium that gives the red colour also causes fluorescence, which makes rubies glow like a fire.
Symbolism
Rubies were a symbol of power and youthful energy in Indian jewelry. Some believed Ruby could predict misfortune or danger.
However, while some believed rubies bestowed health, wisdom, wealth, and success in love.
Therefore, Rubies were a favorite amongst warriors because of its connection with physicality and strength. Rubies were also thought to calm the wearer down from anger.
August: Peridot, Sardonyx, and Spinel
August is another of the 3 months with 3 birthstones!
Peridot
History & Meaning
Peridot’s name is from an Arabic word faridat, meaning “gem”, however, some believe the name came from the Greek word peridona, meaning “giving plenty.”
However, it has often been confused with topaz and emerald throughout history.
Colour
Peridot is a variety olivine. It’s green colour comes from the composition of the mineral.
Which makes Peridot one of the gems that comes in one colour, which ranges from yellowish green to olive to brownish green. The green hue of some peridot may be like emeralds.
Symbolism
This gem was associated with prosperity and good fortune. This is because the appearance of Peridot is associated with the sun.
Moreover, it was also believed that keeping it close during night-time can repelled evil spirits.
Sardonyx
History & Meaning
Sardonyx is a combination of two types of chalcedony, sard and onyx. Its name, combines sard, which was a reference to the ancient Persian city, Sardis, with onyx, which was from the Greek word onyx, which meant “nail or claw.”
Colour
Sard ranges in colour from yellowish red to reddish-brown with typically white or black layers of the onyx.
Symbolism
Sardonyx is associated with courage, happiness and clear communication, bringing stability to one’s marriage.
Furthermore, it is also believed to represent the strength of spiritual life which was referred in the Old Testament.
Spinel
History & Meaning
Spinel’s name is from a Latin word spina, meaning “thorn”, which refers to the shape of the gem.
In contrast, Spinel has been mistaken as a Ruby for centuries because of its resemblance, sometimes Spinel act as a replacement gem for Ruby.
Colour
It comes in many colours; however, vivid red is the most valuable colour for Spinel, followed by cobalt blue, bright pink, and bright orange.
However, Spinel that is lighter and paler in colour, are usually affordable in terms of price, but are less valuable in terms of value.
Hence, some Spinel can be found in other colours like black, violet blue, greenish blue, greyish, pale pink, mauve, yellow, or brown.
Symbolism
It is said to help ease anger and promote harmony between people. Spinel is believed to encourage great passion, devotion and longevity.
Other than that, it is also associated with Chakra, which helps increasing physical energy and stamina.
September: Sapphire
History & Meaning
Sapphire’s name comes from a Latin word sapphirus and Greek word sappheiros, meaning “blue stone”. However, those words might refer to lapis lazuli.
They have a Mohs scale of 9, making it one of the second toughest gems in the world (alongside Ruby).
Colour
Sapphire comes in a rainbow of other colours but are commonly blue, follow by pink, orange, yellow, green, purple, and more!
However, some Sapphires also comes colourless. However, when mentioning Sapphires, is usually referred to the blue variety.
Symbolism
They have been commonly connected with royalty and romance, it also symbolizes fidelity, sincerity, truth, faithfulness and nobility.
Moreover, a few believed Sapphires are a protection stone, which protects wearer from physical harm as well as envy. It was also believed that Sapphires had healing powers as well.
October: Opal & Tourmaline
Opal
History & Meaning
Opal’s name comes from the Greek word opallios, meaning “to see a change in colour.” However, some believed it originated from India, hence the name comes from Sanskrit upala, meaning “precious stone.”
Nonetheless, most opals are valued for their shifting colours, which is known as “play-of-colour.”
Colour
Opals display the phenomenon “play-of-colour”, which were dazzling flashes of colour that move as the stone is turned.
In addition, only Opals can show this effect, but not all do. These Opals are called “precious opals” while Opals without play-of-colour are called “common opals.”
Symbolism
Opals were a symbol of love, which some refer this as a Cupid Stone.
In contrast, which led to some believing it has the power to promote romance and passion. Opals has also been a symbol of hope, purity, and truth.
Tourmaline
History & Meaning
Tourmaline’s name comes from a Sinhalese word tura mali, meaning “stone with mixed colours” because of its wide colour variety in every shade of the rainbow.
Furthermore, Tourmaline is made up of multiple minerals with chemical and physical properties, which may result in multiple variants with their own name.
Colour
As the name implies, Tourmaline comes in a variety of colours that come in the rainbow. These varieties are known by their trade names.
Moreover, dark pink to red tourmalines is called “rubellites.” While neon-blue tourmalines were known as “paraíbas“, which are highly valuable and rare.
Symbolism
Tourmaline represents wisdom, voice, insight, and creativity. Some believed that Tourmalines have healing properties, and to help relieve stress.
In addition, Tourmalines are popular amongst artist, which says that it helps boost creativity, while some wear the gem to help sooth their broken heart.
November: Topaz and Citrine
Topaz
History & Meaning
Topaz’s name derives from a Greek name Topazios, a name for St. John’s Island in the Red Sea.
However, some believe topaz’s name comes from the Sanskrit word tapas, meaning “fire.” From 1300s to 1600s, Europeans believed it has magic spells and could calm anger.
Colour
Throughout history, Topaz was always thought to only come in yellow. However, Topaz comes in multiple colours, which includes light blue, orange, pink, violet, brown, red (very rare) and colourless.
Subsequently, Imperial Topaz is the most valuable colour, which features a vibrant orange hue with pink undertones.
Symbolism
Topaz’s symbolizes as health, love, and astrology. However, Topaz’s is mostly associated with wealth.
Moreover, the Greeks believed that it gives them strength, while others believed it can attract love to create invisibility.
Citrine
History & Meaning
Citrine’s name was believed to be from a French word citron, meaning “lemon”. Citrine has been used in jewellery for thousands of years and was often mistaken for Topaz because of their similarities.
Hence, many thought that Citrine have the same powers and properties as Topaz.
Colour
Citrines are famous for their warm orange and yellow hues, perhaps with some hints of brown.
Subsequently, they also have colour ranges from pale yellow to a honey orange colour. Study shows that Citrine’s yellow hues are caused by traces of iron in quartz.
Symbolism
Citrine is associated with healing and happiness. And was believed to help relieve the wearer from stomach ache, insomnia, and stress.
Not only that, but Citrine was also thought to help soothe tempers and calm nerves.
December: Tanzanite, Turquoise, and Zircon
Tanzanite
History & Meaning
Named for its limited geographic origin in Tanzania, Tanzanite is a blue-purple variety of zoisite, which has risen to popularity since its discovery in 1967.
However, Tanzanite may be a new discovery, but it was one of the most exciting finds of the 20th century.
Colour
Tanzanite can display different colours when viewed from different angles due to its pleochroism.
Furthermore, Tanzanite is often described as “velvety,” mostly because of its deep and saturated colour, which ranges from blue to violet, with the blue as most valuable.
Symbolism
Tanzanites are believed to represent heart and intellect combined with intuition and purity. These stones are used as symbols of dignity, truth, judgement and longevity.
In addition, some believe that it aids in detoxifying the body and improving vitality.
Turquoise
History & Meaning
For Turquoise, the name dates back to the 13th century, drawing from the French expression pierre tourques, meaning “Turkish stone” brought to Europe from Turkey.
Other than that, Turquoise has been adorned by the pharaohs and other rulers of ancient Egypt. While Chinese artisans carved it for more than 3,000 years ago.
Colour
Turquoise ranges from blue to green and often has veins of matrix running through it. Turquoise is known for its distinct colour, which ranges from powdery blue to greenish robin egg blue.
It’s one of few minerals to lend its name to anything that resembles its striking colour.
Symbolism
Turquoise represents wisdom, tranquility, protection, good fortune, and hope.
While Ancient peoples believed in its profound power to protect, as well as its tranquil energy and its association with enduring love.
Zircon
History & Meaning
Some believe Zircon’s name comes from an Arabic word zarkun, meaning “cinnabar” or “vermilion.” Others think is from a Persian word zargun, meaning “gold coloured.”
However, Zircon is a gemstone that’s often confused with Zirconia due to similar names and shared use as diamond simulants.
Colour
Considering the broad colour palette – red, orange, yellow, brown, green and blue – either seems possible. Zircon commonly occurs as brownish red, which can be popular for its earth tones.
However, most gem-quality stones are heat treated until colourless, gold or blue (the most popular colour).
Symbolism
Zircon is used to aid in meditation and developing psychic intuition. It is said to clear negative energy and has a protective aura.
Furthermore, other properties attributed to zircon are that it can attract wisdom, success, honor, and wealth.
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