January

Garnet

Deep red garnet has been a symbol of trust, friendship, and vitality for thousands of years. This durable gemstone ranges from fiery orange to rich burgundy.

February

Amethyst

Amethyst was once reserved for royalty. This violet variety of quartz is prized for its striking color and has a long history tied to clarity and calm.

March

Aquamarine

Aquamarine evokes the clear blue sea. Sailors once carried it for protection, and its serene color has made it one of the most beloved gemstones worldwide.

April

Diamond

Diamond is the hardest natural mineral on Earth. For collectors seeking crystal alternatives, Herkimer diamonds and clear quartz offer brilliant, accessible options.

May

Emerald

Emerald is one of the four precious gemstones. Its rich green color comes from trace amounts of chromium, and fine specimens can rival diamonds in value.

June

Pearl, Moonstone & Alexandrite

June claims three birthstones: lustrous pearls formed in mollusks, iridescent moonstone with its ethereal glow, and rare color-changing alexandrite.

July

Ruby

Ruby is the red variety of corundum and one of the most valuable gemstones in the world. Its name comes from the Latin rubeus, meaning red.

August

Peridot, Spinel & Sardonyx

August offers three distinct stones: vivid green peridot born in volcanic rock, vibrant spinel in every color, and layered sardonyx with its ancient history.

September

Sapphire

Sapphire is most famous in blue, but this corundum variety occurs in nearly every color. It has represented wisdom, nobility, and faithfulness for centuries.

October

Opal & Tourmaline

October pairs the kaleidoscopic play-of-color in opal with tourmaline, which occurs in more colors than almost any other mineral species.

November

Topaz & Citrine

November features golden topaz and warm citrine. Both stones range from pale yellow to deep amber, and citrine is one of the most affordable golden gemstones.

December

Tanzanite, Zircon & Turquoise

December has three birthstones spanning blue hues: tanzanite found only in Tanzania, ancient zircon with exceptional brilliance, and turquoise treasured for millennia.

What is a birthstone?

A birthstone is a gemstone traditionally associated with a specific month of the year. The modern list was standardized by the American Gem Trade Association and Jewelers of America, though birthstone traditions date back to ancient civilizations. Each stone carries its own history, symbolism, and geological story.

How are birthstones chosen?

The modern birthstone list was established in 1912 by the National Association of Jewelers (now Jewelers of America) and has been updated periodically. Tanzanite was added for December in 2002, and spinel was added for August in 2016. Earlier traditions linked gemstones to the twelve stones on the High Priest’s breastplate and to the zodiac.

Can I wear a birthstone that isn’t my month?

Absolutely. Birthstones are a tradition, not a rule. Many people collect stones from the birth months of loved ones, choose gems based on color preference, or simply wear whichever crystal resonates with them. There is no wrong way to enjoy gemstones.