January - Garnet
February - Amethyst
March - Aquamarine
April - Diamond
May - Emerald
June - Pearls
July - Ruby
August - Peridot
Septmeber - Sapphire
October - Opal/Tourmaline
November - Topaz & Citrine
December - Tanzanite & Turquoise
The tradition of birthstones is a mixture of biblical history, ancient astrology, and modern trends.
Today we often view them as personalized fashion statements, but their origins are rooted in a deep belief that gemstones possess mystical powers tied to the alignment of the heavens.
Biblical Origins and the Breastplate of Aaron
The concept of twelve specific gemstones is most often traced back to the Breastplate of Aaron, a ceremonial religious garment described in the Book of Exodus. This breastplate was set with twelve unique stones arranged in four rows, representing the twelve tribes of Israel.
Centuries later, in the 1st and 5th centuries AD, scholars like the historian Josephus and St. Jerome began to link these twelve stones to the twelve signs of the zodiac and, eventually, the twelve months of the year. However, the early tradition was not to wear a single stone for life; instead, wealthy individuals would own all twelve gems and rotate them throughout the year, believing each stone’s power was amplified during its corresponding month.
Eastern Influence and the Evolution of Lists
While Western traditions focused on the biblical connection, Eastern cultures—particularly in India—developed the Navaratna system. This Hindu tradition linked nine gemstones to celestial bodies and deities. Over centuries, these various traditions merged as trade routes expanded.
By the 16th and 18th centuries in Germany and Poland, the modern custom of wearing just one stone—the gem of your birth month—began to take hold. However, because there was no "official" list, the stones associated with each month varied wildly by region. For example, March was often associated with bloodstone, while October could be linked to opal or aquamarine depending on the country.
The Modern Standard: 1912 and Beyond
To clear up this confusion (and boost sales), the American National Association of Jewelers met in Kansas in 1912 to officially standardize the birthstone list. This meeting created the "Modern" list we recognize today, though it has been updated occasionally to reflect new discoveries and market tastes:
- 1952: Alexandrite (June), Citrine (November), and Zircon (December) were added.
- 2002: Tanzanite was added as a third option for December.
- 2016: Spinel was added to August to provide a colorful alternative to peridot.
Birthstones and Their Meanings
Each stone carries its own lore. For instance, Amethyst (February) derives its name from the Greek amethystos ("not drunken"), as it was once believed to prevent intoxication. Garnet (January) symbolizes protection during travel, and Emerald (May) has long been a symbol of rebirth and fertility.
