Birthstones have a long and complicated history that likely started when Aaron, the brother of Moses, wore a breastplate with twelve gemstones. A Jewish historian named Josephus believed that these gemstones were connected to the twelve calendar months. It became tradition to own all of these stones and wear them during the appropriate month.
Modern Birthstones
Not all historians agree on the connection between Aaron and the modern-day birthstone list. Regardless of how birthstones fell into popular culture, it’s a practice that is here to stay. Over the years, some stones have fallen in and out of fashion. The Spinel, which was added in 2016, is the most recent addition, and some months feature up to three stones.
There are also disputes over the traditional and modern birthstones. Sapphire, which is featured in Diamondere’s collection, has remained September’s birthstone for over 100 years. However, December’s birthstones have changed two stones in 50 years.
The Definitive Guide to Birthstones
January – Garnet
Garnet is found in a wide range of colors, but the red garnets are specifically January’s birthstone. Garnet represents romantic passion, love, intimacy, sensuality, loyalty, trust, and friendship. In Medieval times, garnet was thought to protect against poisons and disease.
February – Amethyst
Dark purple amethysts represent February and are known for their prominence in myth and legend. Amethysts are so powerful that they can ward off gods, guard against guilty thoughts, and symbolize nobility. This stone is now associated with courage, peace, and inner strength.
March – Aquamarine
Aquamarine takes its name from the Latin word “Aqua,” meaning “water.” This stone has been associated with the sea for millennia and is thought to protect wearers from ocean-related disasters. Aquamarine may enhance courage, happiness, hope, love, and good health.
April – Diamond
The forever sought-after diamond is the hardest naturally made mineral and has been treasured throughout history, particularly with Indians, Greeks, and Romans. Diamonds were thought to be God’s tears, are a symbol of eternal love, and remain as a symbol of luxury and wealth.
May – Emerald
Emeralds were Cleopatra’s favorite, but royals throughout history seem to share that trait with her. Although many color varieties exist, green emeralds are the most popular and the choice for May. They are thought to promote wisdom, faithfulness, friendship, patience, and good fortune.
June – Pearl, and Alexandrite
The first month with two gemstones, June sports the organic pearl created by mollusks and the rare Alexandrite. Pearls are completely spherical-shaped, often white, and represent happiness, purity, and luck. Alexandrite can change color based on the light and are exceptionally valuable.
July – Ruby
Blood red rubies are the most expensive gemstone by carat. There are endless legends associated with rubies, from the Ancient Hindus to the Greeks. In the Middle Ages, rubies were used to cure bleeding and repel evil but now represent happiness, wealth, health, and wisdom.
August – Peridot and Spinel
Periods gains the nickname the “gem of the sun” for its beautiful yellow-green color and protection from night terrors and envious thoughts. The recently added Spinel is often confused with the Ruby throughout history. Its wearers can expect strength, energy, and power.
September – Sapphire
A symbol of godliness and the heavens, the September birthstone comes in multiple colors but is almost always associated with blue. Sapphires are the second most popular stone next to diamonds and are said to bring good fortune, wisdom, love, truth, and faithfulness.
October – Tourmaline
Tourmaline is an incredible stone with no ancient history. This gemstone exhibits one of the broadest color spectrums and can even be seen with bi- or tri-colored hues. Pink tourmaline, the October birthstone, is thought to ease fear, attract unconditional love and calm the wearer.
November – Topaz, and Citrine
Topaz is one of the oldest known stones on Earth and has an extended lore filled with powerful Gods who wore this stone for healing purposes, love, and protection from greed. Citrine is incredibly hard to find and provides the wearer with similar properties as the topaz and energy.
December – Tanzanite, and Zircon
Tanzanite can only be found in one location, Tanzania, and can help wearers overcome anxiety and fear and connect them with spiritual guides. Blue Zircon was used as a talisman to protect from plagues and sickness and was thought to increase motivation, confidence, and energy.
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