A Complete Guide to Birthstones by Month
For centuries, gemstones have held deep meanings, believed to symbolise luck, love, and protection. Today, birthstones remain a popular and special way to celebrate a birthday or mark a milestone. Whether you’re searching for a meaningful birthday gift or learning more about your own birthstone, our guide explores their stories, colours, and beauty.
Understanding Birthstone Meanings
The history of birthstones is as fascinating as the gemstones themselves. Tracing back to ancient civilisations, these precious stones were once believed to hold powerful connections to the stars and celestial forces.
The concept is thought to have originated from the Breastplate of Aaron, described in the Bible, which was adorned with twelve gemstones representing the twelve tribes of Israel. Historically, they have been associated with religious traditions and culture, but that focus has broadened to more spiritual and holistic practices over the years. Over time, these stones became linked to the twelve months of the year and the zodiac signs, each believed to bring luck, protection, and strength to those born under its influence.
Birthstones are thought to have special protective and celestial powers, and each comes with its own history and legend. You’ll find that different countries and cultures may have their own interpretations and even different stones entirely. It was around the 16th century that it became popular for people to wear a stone for their birth month, and this trend likely came from Germany or Poland.
Today, birthstones continue to carry deep symbolic meaning, from the purity and clarity of April’s diamond to the wisdom and serenity of September’s sapphire. Each gem tells its own story, offering a personal touch that makes birthstone jewellery a truly meaningful choice. At Timothy Roe Fine Jewellery, we bring these gemstones to life in exquisite rings, earrings, pendants, and more.
All Birthstones by Month
January: Garnet
The January birthstone is garnet, a deep red gem symbolising protection, friendship, and vitality. Its name comes from the Latin granatus, meaning “seed,” for its resemblance to pomegranate seeds. Worn since ancient Egypt, garnet has long been associated with safe travels and strong bonds.
February: Amethyst
Amethyst is the birthstone for February. This serene purple variety of quartz was prized by royalty, being believed to bring clarity and calm. Its regal hues range from soft lavender to rich violet, making it one of the most loved true birthstones.
March: Aquamarine
The March birthstone is aquamarine, capturing the tranquil beauty of the sea. Its pale blue tones symbolise hope, courage, and everlasting youth. Ancient sailors wore aquamarine for protection on their voyages, and it continues to represent serenity and strength.
April: Diamond
Few gems are as iconic as April’s birthstone, the diamond. Known for purity and everlasting love, diamonds have been treasured since ancient India. They remain the ultimate symbol of commitment and luxury. For those seeking alternative birthstones by month, white topaz offers a similar brilliance with a modern twist.
May: Emerald
The birthstone for May is emerald. Celebrated for its rich green hue, it symbolises spring’s renewal, love, and vitality. Cleopatra was famously devoted to this vivid green gem and believed it to bring foresight and harmony.
June: Pearl, Moonstone & Alexandrite
June is one of the rare months with three captivating birthstones: pearl, moonstone, and alexandrite. Each gem embodies its own unique beauty and symbolism. Pearls, formed naturally within oysters, represent purity, wisdom, and serenity, prized for their soft, timeless lustre. Moonstone, with its ethereal glow, is associated with intuition, balance, and emotional harmony. Meanwhile, alexandrite is celebrated for its remarkable colour-changing qualities, symbolising transformation and good fortune.
Together, these gems offer a stunning variety of styles and meanings, making June’s birthstones a truly enchanting celebration of individuality and inner light.
July: Ruby
July’s birthstone, ruby, is known as the “king of gemstones.” Its fiery red glow embodies passion, power, and prosperity. Throughout history, rubies have adorned crowns and talismans, believed to bring success and protection to their wearer.
August: Peridot
The birthstone for August is Peridot, offering a burst of summer sunshine. With its fresh green glow, it symbolises happiness and protection against negativity. Ancient Egyptians called it the “gem of the sun,” and it remains a joyful and uplifting choice.
September: Sapphire
The September birthstone is sapphire, representing truth, loyalty, and wisdom. Most famously blue, sapphires also occur in pink, yellow, and white varieties. Throughout history, they’ve been worn by royalty and romantics alike.
October: Opal & Tourmaline
October’s birthstones, opal and tourmaline, are celebrated for their mesmerising colours and individuality. Opal shimmers with a kaleidoscope of hues, with each stone being completely unique in its play of light. It symbolises creativity, passion, and hope. Tourmaline can be found in a spectrum of shades and represents compassion and emotional balance. Together, these vibrant gems embody October’s spirit of expression and harmony.
November: Topaz & Citrine
November’s birthstones, topaz and citrine, radiate warmth and positivity with their bright colours. Topaz, often linked to strength and good fortune, is said to bring clarity and confidence to its wearer. Citrine, with its sunny yellow hue, symbolises joy, abundance, and energy. Together, these uplifting gemstones capture the essence of autumnal glow and optimism.
December: Tanzanite, Zircon & Turquoise
December’s birthstones, tanzanite, zircon, and turquoise, are a dazzling trio that perfectly captures the cool beauty of winter. Tanzanite, known for its vivid blue-violet tones, symbolises transformation and new beginnings. Zircon, one of the oldest minerals on earth, radiates brilliance and clarity, representing wisdom and prosperity. Turquoise, with its striking sky-blue colour, has long been cherished as a stone of protection and tranquillity. Together, these gemstones offer a captivating blend of colour, meaning, and history.
Find Beautiful Birthstone Jewellery at Timothy Roe
At Timothy Roe Fine Jewellery, we celebrate every month’s gemstone through one-of-a-kind jewellery pieces made in our workshop. From deep red rubies to soft aquamarines, each gem is carefully selected for its colour, clarity, and natural beauty and set into expertly crafted designs.
Explore our collection of birthstone jewellery, or visit us in-store to discuss a bespoke design that reflects your personal style and story.
