What's My Birthstone?

Written By Allie Perry January 23, 2023

What are Birthstones:

The answer is simple: birthstones are precious or semi-precious gemstones that are associated with each specific month of the year. The concept of birthstones dates back to ancient times, when it was believed that certain stones had the power to bring good luck and protection to the person wearing them.

What’s My Birthstone?

I compiled the chart below to help you figure it out! These are the traditional stones used for each month, but they're not the only options! 

 

What do birthstones mean?

Each month has a traditional birthstone that is said to have special meaning and properties.  There are many interpretations to the meaning behind each stone!

• January: garnet (truth, faith, constancy)
• February: amethyst (spirituality, humility, and sobriety)
• March: aquamarine (courage)
• April: diamond (innocence)
• May: emerald (success)
• June: pearl (purity)
• July: ruby (passion)
• August: peridot (strength)
• September: sapphire (wisdom)
• October: opal (hope)
• November: topaz (courage)
• December: turquoise (good fortune)

Are there multiple birthstones for each month?

Yes! For example, you June babies out there may be more familiar with seeing Pearl as your birthstone. The use of alternate birthstones not only allows for more personalization, it provides more options for people to choose the birthstone that they like best or feel most connected to. These alternate birthstones also allow people to use stones that are more affordable or readily available. Additionally, some stones (like pearls) are very soft and not great for every day wear, while others are only available in cuts that may not be approprite for all jewelry styles. In those cases, the alternate stones for those months may be a better fit for you and your lifestyle. 

• January: garnet, rose quartz
• February: amethyst, onyx
• March: aquamarine, bloodstone
• April: diamond, white sapphire
• May: emerald, chrysoprase
• June: pearl, moonstone
• July: ruby, carnelian
• August: peridot, spinel
• September: sapphire, lapis lazuli
• October: opal, tourmaline
• November: topaz, citrine
• December: turquoise, zircon

Are birthstones determined by month or zodiac?

Birthstones are determined by month, specifically the month you were born! 

Maybe one of the greatest things about birthstones is that no matter who you are or where you're from, everybody has one!

If you're looking to incorporate a birthstone into your jewelry, do your homework! You might find an alternate choice to be a better fit for your aesthetic or your lifestyle, or you may want to learn special precautions or proper care techiques that are appropriate for your traditional birthstone. Either way, always be sure to talk to a professional about which stone is right for you and your project!

If you'd like more in-depth information about each birthstone including meaning and history, where these stones can be found in nature, and proper care and cleaning, be sure to explore this article from the Gemological Institute of America!

Hopefully you've found this information helpful!