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For centuries, birthstones have been cherished by many. The concept of birthstones is simple (each month of the year is represented by a unique precious or semi-precious gemstone), but their symbolism is complex and diverse, with each stone demonstrating unique meanings and significance related to folklore, ancient history and symbolism. Birthstones are fascinating both as individual gemstones and as the centrepiece of jewellery and wearable treasures.
To celebrate the symbolic birthstone pieces available in our range of gemstone jewellery here at Bonds the Jewellers, we have put together this complete birthstone guide. Read on to discover how to find your birthstone and what it means.
January Birthstone – Garnet
The birthstone for the first month of the year is Garnet, a gemstone characterised by its rich, deep hues. It’s an incredibly complex stone when it comes to symbolism and meaning, traditionally associated with the values of passion, protection and strength. It has subsequently come to represent friendship, making Garnet a brilliant gift for those with a January birthday.
The January birthstone is also notably versatile. While usually associated with red tones, Garnets come in a beautiful range of shades and this diversity helps the birthstone pair naturally with all metal types when woven into statement jewellery.
February Birthstone – Amethyst
February’s birthstone is Amethyst, a gemstone characterised by a regal purple or lilac tone. It has been one of the most beloved gemstones since ancient times due to its calming and peaceful energy, subsequently coming to embody the values of clarity and balance. Amethyst looks particularly stunning set in silver or white gold for pendants and rings.
March Birthstone – Aquamarine
It’s widely acknowledged that the characteristics of each month’s birthstone shift as the seasons change and March’s birthstone encapsulates this perfectly. The much-loved pale blue tones of Aquamarine effortlessly capture the essence of early spring and have led to this stone being associated with peace, youthfulness and calm.
Aquamarines are also often given as treasured anniversary gifts. The calming nature of this gemstone is said to be a good influence on couples, bringing them luck for the years ahead!
April Birthstone – Diamond
April’s birthstone needs no introduction. Diamonds are arguably the best-known of all birthstones, having adorned engagement rings and family heirlooms for centuries. However, the character of Diamond still holds rich symbolism for those born in April, with its sense of purity and embodiment of eternal love.
It will come as no surprise to learn that the April birthstone pairs brilliantly with platinum ring bands, but we also love the combination of Diamond with yellow gold as it creates a quintessentially classic feel. There are some stunning examples of this combination in our range of Diamond gemstone jewellery.
May Birthstone – Emerald
The May birthstone, Emerald, has an incredibly longstanding history. These rich green gemstones have gained their symbolism as far back as Cleopatra’s reign, since coming to sit alongside the likes of Diamond on the popularity scale. The lush and vibrant nature of Emerald makes it particularly eye-catching in ornate designs or antique-style yellow gold settings, while its connotations with love and new beginnings make it a birthstone that can be treasured forever.
June’s Birthstone – Alexandrite
Marking the transition towards summer, June’s birthstone is known for its magical, colour-changing ability. Alexandrite appears green in daylight and purplish-red in incandescent light, thus representing the ideas of transformation and balance. The unique nature of these gemstones makes them particularly rare and a brilliant gift for those who value individuality highly.
July Birthstone – Ruby
July’s birthstone follows Diamond and Emerald in terms of popularity. This gemstone, often referred to as the King’s jewel, is highly recognisable due to its fiery, fearless and passionate tones. With bold red hues, it’s no wonder that Rubies have traditionally come to symbolise love and are synonymous with the milestone 40th wedding anniversary. It’s a truly timeless gemstone and, of course, a striking symbol for those born in July.
August Birthstone – Peridot
Peridot is the stone of positivity and good fortune and the birthstone of August. In the past, it was often grouped into the same associations as Emerald due to its green hues, but it has gradually formed its own identity and symbolism. In fact, the lime-green glow of Peridot is said to bring prosperity and protect against negativity. It also looks stunning set against white gold or silver for a modern twist.
September Birthstone – Sapphire
Though the classic royal blue remains a favourite and the best-known iteration of the September birthstone, Sapphire actually comes in a wide variety of hues. These gemstones are particularly popular for engagement rings as the stone most commonly symbolises loyalty and peace. Sapphires pair particularly well with yellow, rose, and white gold – just take a look at our Sapphire gemstone jewellery for some fine examples.
October Birthstone – Opal & Tourmaline
October babies are lucky enough to have two birthstones to choose from: Opal and Tourmaline. Both October birthstones are known for their extraordinary range of colours and unique visual display, with Opal in particular known for its iridescence and kaleidoscope-like effects. These gemstones are traditionally thought to reflect the mood of the wearer, making them deeply personal birthstones!
November Birthstone – Citrine
The November birthstone, Citrine, is best known for its warm, golden hues that mirror the changing Autumn sun. Its shades range from pale yellow to rich amber, said to bring energy and joy to those who wear and associate with it.
The cheerful glow of Citrine makes it a standout in a range of jewellery pieces. Whether set in yellow gold or rose gold, the birthstone’s honey-like tones are enhanced and create a uniquely radiant effect.
December Birthstone – Topaz & Tanzanite
December is brightened by the striking colours of its birthstones: Topaz and Tanzanite. Both offer vivid pops of colours, with Topaz the more traditional December birthstone said to symbolise loyalty, honesty and communication.
Tanzanite, however, is rarer and a more modern addition to the birthstone list. It’s found only in Tanzania near Mount Kilimanjaro and represents transformation and intuition – valuable sentiments for those with a December birthday to carry into the New Year.
Celebrate Your Birthstone Today
Whether you’re choosing a piece to mark your own birth month or searching for a meaningful gift for a loved one, birthstones undoubtedly offer a personal and thoughtful way to connect with history and symbolism. You can delve deeper into these fascinating gemstones right away by exploring the full collection of gemstone jewellery at Bonds the Jewellers.
