A birthstone chart lists gemstones associated with each month of the year. The idea of birthstones dates back to ancient times when people believed that certain gems had special powers or meanings. Some cultures also assign different stones to different zodiac signs or seasons.
In this blog post, we will explain what a birthstone chart is, how it originated, and what each birthstone represents.
The Origin of Birthstone Charts
The idea of associating gemstones with months or zodiac signs dates back to ancient times. The earliest reference to a birthstone chart can be found in the Book of Exodus in the Bible, where twelve different gemstones are mentioned as representing the twelve tribes of Israel. These gemstones were also engraved on the breastplate of Aaron, the high priest, and were believed to have mystical powers.
Later, in the first century AD, the Jewish historian Josephus wrote that these twelve gemstones also corresponded to the twelve signs of the zodiac, and that people should wear the gemstone of their zodiac sign during its month. However, this practice was not very common until the Middle Ages, when some people started to collect and wear all twelve gemstones throughout the year.
In 1912, the National Association of Jewelers in the United States published a standardized list of modern birthstones, which is still widely used today. This list was based on popularity and availability and included only transparent gems. Some other sources, such as the American Gem Society or the International Gem Society, have added or modified some gemstones to the modern list over time.
The birthstone chart has different versions, depending on the source or tradition. The most common ones are the modern and the traditional charts, which were created by jewelers in the 20th century to promote gem sales.
Here is a comparison of the modern and traditional birthstone charts:
| Month | Modern | Traditional |
|---|---|---|
| Jan | Garnet | Garnet |
| Feb | Amethyst | Amethyst |
| Mar | Aquamarine | Bloodstone |
| Apr | Diamond | Diamond |
| May | Emerald | Emerald |
| Jun | Alexandrite | Pearl |
| Jul | Ruby | Ruby |
| Aug | Peridot | Spinel |
| Sep | Sapphire | Sapphire |
| Oct | Tourmaline | Opal |
| Nov | Topaz | Topaz |
| Dec | Zircon | Turquoise |
Birthstones and Their Meanings
January: Garnet
Garnet is a red gemstone that comes in various shades and types. It is derived from a word that means “seed”, because it resembles the color and shape of a pomegranate seed. Garnet represents confidence, energy, and willpower. If you were born in January, you are likely to be a feisty and spontaneous person who can take on any challenge. You are also loyal, passionate, and courageous.
February: Amethyst
Amethyst is a purple gemstone once thought to prevent drunkenness and keep the wearer clear-headed. It is named after a Greek word that means “sober”. Amethyst represents peace, serenity, and wisdom. If you were born in February, you will likely be a calm, intuitive person who values spirituality and creativity. You are also compassionate, gentle, and artistic.
March: Aquamarine and Bloodstone
March has two birthstones: aquamarine and bloodstone. Aquamarine is a blue-green gemstone that was believed to protect sailors and travelers. It is derived from a Latin word that means “water of the sea”. Aquamarine represents courage, protection, and communication. If you were born in March, you are likely to be a brave and adventurous person who loves to explore new places and express yourself. You are also friendly, honest, and optimistic.
Bloodstone is a dark green gemstone with red specks thought to have healing powers. It is also known as heliotrope, which means “sun turner” in Greek. Bloodstone represents strength, vitality, and endurance. If you were born in March, you are likely to be a strong and resilient person who can overcome any obstacle. You are also determined, ambitious, and generous.
April: Diamond
Diamond is a clear gemstone that is the hardest natural substance on Earth. It is derived from a Greek word that means “invincible”. The diamond represents love, purity, and eternity. If you were born in April, you will likely be a sparkling and radiant person who attracts attention and admiration. You are also loyal, faithful, and romantic.
May: Emerald
Emerald is a green gemstone that was one of Cleopatra’s favorite jewels. It is derived from a Greek word that means “green”. Emerald represents fertility, rebirth, and growth. If you were born in May, you are likely to be a vibrant and lively person who enjoys nature and life. You are also wise, loyal, and compassionate.
June: Pearl
Pearl is a white gemstone that is formed by mollusks in the sea. It is derived from a Latin word that means “unique”. Pearl represents purity, innocence, and beauty. If you were born in June, you are likely to be a graceful and elegant person with refined taste and style. You are also gentle, kind, and nurturing.
July: Ruby
Ruby is a red gemstone that is one of the most valuable gems in the world. It is derived from a Latin word that means “red”. Ruby represents passion, courage, and power. If you were born in July, you are likely to be a bold and charismatic person who has a strong presence and influence. You are also confident, enthusiastic, and generous.
August: Peridot
Peridot is a green gemstone once believed to ward off evil spirits and nightmares. It is derived from an Arabic word that means “gem”. Peridot represents harmony, prosperity, and happiness. If you were born in August, you are likely to be a harmonious and prosperous person who enjoys peace and abundance. You are also optimistic, cheerful, and loyal.
September: Sapphire
Sapphire is a blue gemstone that was once associated with royalty and divinity. It is derived from a Greek word that means “blue”. Sapphire represents wisdom, loyalty, and faith. If you were born in September, you are likely to be a wise and loyal person who values truth and justice. You are also calm, sincere, and faithful.
October: Opal
Opal is a multicolored gemstone that displays flashes of different colors depending on the angle of view. It is derived from a Sanskrit word that means “precious stone”. Opal represents creativity, imagination, and hope. If you were born in October, you are likely to be a creative and imaginative person who has a vivid and colorful personality. You are also optimistic, hopeful, and expressive.
November: Topaz and Citrine
November has two birthstones: topaz and citrine. Topaz is a yellow-orange gemstone that was once thought to enhance mental powers and heal physical ailments. It is derived from a Greek word that means “to seek”. Topaz represents wisdom, courage, and success.
Citrine is a yellow gemstone also known as the “merchant’s stone” because it was believed to attract wealth and prosperity. It is derived from a French word that means “lemon”. Citrine represents joy, abundance, and energy.
If you were born in November, you will likely be wise and courageous, seeking knowledge and achievement. You are also adventurous, ambitious, and generous.
December: Turquoise, Zircon, and Tanzanite
December has three birthstones: turquoise, zircon, and tanzanite. Turquoise is a blue-green gemstone prized by Native Americans and ancient civilizations for its healing and protective properties. It is derived from a French word that means “Turkish stone”. Turquoise represents health, protection, and wisdom. If you were born in December, you will likely be a healthy and protected person with a deep connection with nature and spirituality. You are also wise, honest, and friendly.
Zircon is a colorful gemstone ranging from colorless to red, blue, green, or brown. It is one of the oldest minerals on Earth, dating back to 4.4 billion years ago. Zircon represents beauty, purity, and prosperity. If you were born in December, you will likely be a beautiful and pure person with timeless charm and elegance. You are also prosperous, generous, and loyal.
Tanzanite is a blue-violet gemstone that was discovered in Tanzania in 1967. It is one of the rarest gems in the world, found only in one location. Tanzanite represents transformation, intuition, and magic. If you were born in December, you are likely to be a transformative and intuitive person with a unique and magical personality. You are also adventurous, curious, and spiritual.