The Ultimate Birthstone Chart: A Guide to Gemstones for Every Month

Birthstones have long been a cherished tradition, with each month's unique gemstone representing the qualities and characteristics associated with that time of year. Whether you're looking to celebrate a special occasion, treat yourself, or find the perfect gift, understanding the significance and symbolism behind birthstones can add a meaningful touch to any jewelry or accessory.

At Natural Gems Belgium, we're passionate about the world of natural gemstones and the stories they hold. In this comprehensive birthstone chart, we'll explore the history, meaning, and stunning variety of birthstones, helping you discover the perfect gemstone for every month.

The Origins of Birthstones

The tradition of birthstones can be traced back to the ancient Israelites, who believed that the 12 stones on the breastplate of the high priest represented the 12 tribes of Israel. Over time, this concept evolved, and different cultures and civilizations began to associate specific gemstones with the months of the year.

The modern birthstone list we know today was largely standardized in the early 20th century by the American National Association of Jewelers. This list has become a beloved tradition, with each month's birthstone representing a unique set of qualities and symbolism.

January: Garnet

The deep, rich hue of the garnet has long been associated with the month of January. This stunning gemstone is known for its ability to inspire passion, energy, and loyalty. Garnets are believed to have protective properties, guarding the wearer against harm and negativity.

Garnets come in a variety of colors, from the classic deep red to vibrant oranges, yellows, and even greens. These versatile stones can be found in a range of cuts and settings, making them a popular choice for both fine jewelry and everyday accessories.

February: Amethyst

Amethyst, the birthstone for February, is a beautiful and calming gemstone known for its rich purple hues. Believed to have a soothing and meditative effect, amethyst is often associated with peace, tranquility, and spiritual awareness.

This versatile gemstone can be found in a range of shades, from pale lavender to deep, velvety purple. Amethyst is a popular choice for jewelry, from delicate pendants to bold statement pieces, and is also used in decorative objects and home decor.

March: Aquamarine

The serene blue-green hues of aquamarine evoke the calming waters of the ocean, making it the perfect birthstone for March. This gemstone is believed to have a calming and cleansing effect, promoting clarity of mind and emotional balance.

Aquamarine is a member of the beryl family, which also includes the emerald. Its crisp, refreshing color makes it a popular choice for engagement rings, necklaces, and other fine jewelry. Aquamarine is also known for its durability, making it a practical and long-lasting choice for everyday wear.

April: Diamond

The diamond, the birthstone for April, is the most iconic and coveted of all gemstones. Renowned for its unparalleled brilliance and hardness, diamonds are a symbol of love, commitment, and eternal strength.

Diamonds come in a wide range of cuts, colors, and clarities, each with its own unique characteristics and value. From the classic round brilliant to the more modern princess and cushion cuts, diamonds can be found in a variety of settings and styles to suit any taste or budget.

May: Emerald

The vibrant green hues of the emerald, the birthstone for May, have long been associated with growth, renewal, and new beginnings. This gemstone is believed to represent fertility, wisdom, and domestic bliss.

Emeralds are known for their rich, deep color, which can range from a pale, grassy green to a deep, almost black-green. These precious stones are prized for their rarity and are often found in high-end jewelry and luxury accessories.

June: Pearl, Alexandrite, and Moonstone

June is unique in that it has three official birthstones: pearl, alexandrite, and moonstone. Each of these gemstones represents different qualities and symbolism.

Pearls are known for their soft, luminous beauty and are often associated with purity, wisdom, and innocence. Alexandrite, a rare and valuable gemstone, is known for its ability to change color from green to red, depending on the lighting. Moonstone, with its ethereal, shimmering appearance, is believed to represent new beginnings and emotional balance.

July: Ruby

The fiery red hue of the ruby, the birthstone for July, is a symbol of passion, courage, and vitality. This gemstone is believed to have protective properties, guarding the wearer against harm and negativity.

Rubies are among the most valuable and sought-after gemstones in the world, prized for their exceptional hardness and brilliant color. These stones can be found in a range of shades, from deep, velvety red to lighter, more pinkish hues.

August: Peridot and Spinel

August is another month with two official birthstones: peridot and spinel.

Peridot, with its vibrant green hues, is associated with growth, renewal, and good fortune. This gemstone is believed to have a calming and soothing effect, promoting harmony and balance.

Spinel, a lesser-known but equally stunning gemstone, is known for its wide range of colors, from deep red to bright pink and even blue. Spinel is believed to represent courage, creativity, and self-confidence.

September: Sapphire

The regal blue hues of the sapphire, the birthstone for September, are associated with wisdom, loyalty, and inner peace. This gemstone is also believed to have protective properties, guarding the wearer against harm and negativity.

Sapphires come in a variety of colors, from the classic deep blue to vibrant yellow, pink, and even green. These versatile stones are a popular choice for engagement rings, as well as a wide range of fine jewelry and accessories.

October: Opal and Tourmaline

October is another month with two official birthstones: opal and tourmaline.

Opal, with its mesmerizing play of colors, is associated with creativity, imagination, and emotional expression. This gemstone is believed to have a calming and soothing effect, promoting self-acceptance and inner harmony.

Tourmaline, a versatile gemstone that comes in a wide range of colors, is associated with balance, creativity, and personal growth. This stone is believed to have a grounding and stabilizing effect, helping the wearer to stay centered and focused.

November: Citrine and Topaz

The birthstones for November are citrine and topaz.

Citrine, with its warm, sunny hues, is associated with optimism, creativity, and personal power. This gemstone is believed to have a uplifting and energizing effect, helping the wearer to tap into their inner strength and potential.

Topaz, a versatile gemstone that can be found in a range of colors, is associated with communication, clarity, and emotional balance. This stone is believed to have a calming and soothing effect, promoting self-expression and inner peace.

December: Turquoise, Zircon, and Tanzanite

December is a month with three official birthstones: turquoise, zircon, and tanzanite.

Turquoise, with its beautiful blue-green hues, is associated with communication, friendship, and spiritual awareness. This gemstone is believed to have a calming and grounding effect, helping the wearer to stay centered and connected to their inner wisdom.

Zircon, a lesser-known but equally stunning gemstone, is associated with wisdom, clarity, and inner strength. This stone is believed to have a purifying and cleansing effect, helping the wearer to let go of negative emotions and embrace a more positive mindset.

Tanzanite, a rare and valuable gemstone, is associated with transformation, intuition, and spiritual growth. This stone is believed to have a powerful and transformative effect, helping the wearer to tap into their deepest inner resources and unlock their full potential.

Celebrating Your Birthstone

Whether you're looking to treat yourself or find the perfect gift for a loved one, understanding the significance and symbolism behind birthstones can add a meaningful touch to any jewelry or accessory. At Natural Gems Belgium, we're dedicated to providing our customers with the finest quality natural gemstones and jewelry, helping them to celebrate their unique birthstones and the stories they hold.

Explore our collection of birthstone-inspired jewelry and accessories, and discover the perfect way to honor your own or a loved one's special day. From classic solitaire rings to stunning statement necklaces, we have a wide range of options to suit every style and budget.

So why not embrace the tradition of birthstones and let your gemstone shine? Whether you're looking to express your personal style, commemorate a special occasion, or simply treat yourself, the world of natural gemstones has something for everyone.