Engagement Ring Guide

Birthstones by Month

Every month of the year has a stone traditionally tied to it. Find the birthstone for each month, what it is said to mean, and where the custom comes from.

A curving row of small faceted gemstones in many colours, from red and orange through green and blue to pink and gold.

Birthstones

Birthstones are stones or crystals that are traditionally associated with a person's month of birth.

Throughout history, birthstones have been credited with spiritual, therapeutic and symbolic virtues, and sometimes even with protective power or good fortune. Belief in birthstones has existed for thousands of years and stems from a belief in the stones' ability to influence our lives.

The use of birthstones is widespread in jewelry - rings, necklaces, bracelets - and it holds deep emotional meaning for many people.

Origins and cultural significance:

The idea of birthstones originates in Jewish tradition, which connects the 12 stones on the breastplate of judgement of the High Priest with the 12 tribes of Israel.

Why are birthstones so special?

A personal connection: each birthstone represents unique qualities and energies connected with the month of birth. Choosing a birthstone is like choosing a loyal friend who accompanies us throughout life. A connection to nature: birthstones are a gift from nature and they carry within them its power and its energy. A symbol of fortune: it is believed that birthstones bring good luck, protect us from negative energies and amplify our inner strengths. A personal gift: a piece of jewelry with a birthstone is a unique and deeply meaningful gift, expressing love, appreciation and thoughtfulness. Over time, a separate tradition developed of assigning stones to the months of the year, particularly in Europe and the USA.

In 1912, the American jewelers' association (Jewelers of America) published an official list of birthstones for each month, which became the accepted standard still in use today.

List of birthstones by month (according to the modern version):

1. January - Garnet: symbolizes protection and friendship.

2. February - Amethyst: identified with tranquillity, balance and spiritual cleanliness.

3. March - Aquamarine: represents courage, calm and hope.

4. April - Diamond: a symbol of strength, eternal love and purity.

5. May - Emerald: connected with love, fertility and wisdom.

6. June - Pearl or Alexandrite: represent purity and enchantment.

7. July - Ruby: symbolizes passion, love and vitality.

8. August - Peridot: considered a stone of protection against negativity.

9. September - Sapphire: a symbol of loyalty, wisdom and truth.

10. October - Opal or Tourmaline: associated with inspiration, creativity and love.

11. November - Topaz or Citrine: represent abundance, warmth and optimism.

12. December - Turquoise, Zircon or Tanzanite: symbolize good fortune, success and healing.

Spiritual and alternative uses:

Birthstones are beautiful and, beyond their beauty, they are widespread among believers in alternative medicine, crystal therapy and various spiritual fields. Some believe that wearing your personal birthstone can support emotional balance, personal empowerment and energetic protection.

Choosing a birthstone as a piece of jewelry

Many people like to mark a birthday or an anniversary with a piece of jewelry set with the relevant birthstone, whether a ring, a pendant or a pair of earrings. If you are choosing a stone to wear, buying from a direct gemstone supplier lets you compare certified stones side by side and see how they look before setting them to your own design. Israel Diamonds keeps a guide to birthstones (opens in new tab) alongside a range of loose gemstones (opens in new tab) you can build a ring around.