Birthstone Jewelry Guide:
What is Your Birthstone?
What is the Birthstone for January? – Garnet
The garnet is a deep red gemstone that is not only the January birthstone, but is also used as the 2nd anniversary gift. The name derives its meaning from the 14th century word “gernet” which means a deep red color, and the Latin word for seed (“granatum”) because the stone looks like a pomegranate seed. This stone symbolizes friendship, trust, and love.
What is the Birthstone for February? – Amethyst
The amethyst is a bright purple stone, and it derives its name from the Greek word “amethystos” meaning “not drunken,” as the stone was believed to guard against intoxication. The February birthstone is a member of the quartz family of gemstones, associated with royalty, and represents wealth, strength, and courage.
What is the Birthstone for March? – Aquamarine
The aquamarine is a light blue stone, and it derives its name from two separate words – aqua for water, and marina for sea. Because of this, aquamarine gemstones were often gifts of good luck to sailors to ensure safety on the open sea. Aquamarines are part of the beryl family of gemstones – and you might recognize the green cousin, aka the emerald.
What is the Birthstone for April? – Diamond
Diamonds are arguably the most popular gemstone, featured in engagement rings and birthday gifts, but they’re also the April birthstone. As pure carbon lattice, they are the hardest mineral on Earth, and they come in a variety of colors. They are a symbol of eternal love and promise, making them the perfect gift for a loved one.
What is the Birthstone for May? – Emerald
Emeralds are a brilliant green stone associated with spring, and they derive their name from the Greek word “smaragdus” which means green. They are a member of the beryl family of gemstones (like the aquamarine mentioned above), and they are the rarest gemstones. Emeralds represent wisdom, healing, and rebirth.
What is the Birthstone for June? – Pearl
Pearls are not minerals found in the earth, rather they are formed from a grain of sand inside of mollusks. The mollusks coat the irritating grain of sand with a smooth coating over the course of 8 years, which results in a pearl. Most pearls are white, but they can come in other colors. These precious stones symbolize faithfulness, purity, and friendship.
What is the Birthstone for July? – Ruby
Rubies are deep red gemstones that are technically red sapphires. They are also extremely rare, joining the ranks of diamonds and emeralds as the most sought-after gemstones. Because of this, it’s common to find treated or synthetic rubies as more affordable alternatives. Rubies are often given as anniversary gifts, and they represent love and energy.
What is the Birthstone for August? – Peridot
The peridot is a light and vibrant green gemstone, known as the “gem of the sun,” and sometimes called the “evening emerald.” They are formed deep in the earth before being surfaced by volcanoes. These gemstones are believed to ward off nightmares, and they represent good luck, beauty, and success.
What is the Birthstone for September? – Sapphire
Sapphires are commonly known as blue gemstones, though they can be found in a variety of colors (except when they are red they’re called rubies). Sapphires are also extremely hard stones, which is why they’re used in many electronics today. They are considered to be symbols of loyalty, integrity, and wisdom.
What is the Birthstone for October? – Opal
Opals are fiery gemstones, containing a multitude of colors because the stones diffract light. The name comes from the Latin word “opalus” which means “precious jewel” and the Greek word “opallios” meaning “to see a change of color.” And while most opals are white, though they can be found in other colors. Opals symbolize faithfulness, confidence, and love.
What is the Birthstone for November? – Citrine
Citrine is another variety of quartz (like amethyst) with the stone being bright orange in color. It’s one of the rarest types of quartz, but it is also one of the most popular. Citrine is believed to have healing properties, as well as providing energy and vitality. The stone is also associated with success and prosperity for those who wear it.
What is the Birthstone for December? – Blue Topaz
Blue topaz is, as the name says, an icy blue gemstone that has a range of hues. The gemstone is symbol of love and affection. It is also believed to bring peace and health to the wearer, while symbolizing leadership and insight. It’s also the state gemstone of Texas, giving it an extra dose of meaning for anyone who lives in the Lone Star State.
