Birthstones assign a gem to each month of the year. The modern list most widely used today was first published in 1912 by the American National Association of Jewelers, now Jewelers of America, and has been updated since: tanzanite was added for December in 2002 and spinel for August in 2016. Other countries and traditions use different lists.
The modern list
| Month | Birthstone | Hardness (Mohs) | Everyday wear |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | Garnet | 6.5–7.5 | Good |
| February | Amethyst | 7 | Good |
| March | Aquamarine | 7.5–8 | Good |
| April | Diamond | 10 | Excellent |
| May | Emerald | 7.5–8 | With care: often contains fractures |
| June | Pearl, moonstone, alexandrite | 2.5–4.5, 6–6.5, 8.5 | Pearl and moonstone with care; alexandrite good |
| July | Ruby | 9 | Excellent |
| August | Peridot, spinel | 6.5–7, 7.5–8 | Peridot with care; spinel good |
| September | Sapphire | 9 | Excellent |
| October | Opal, tourmaline | 5.5–6.5, 7–7.5 | Opal with care; tourmaline good |
| November | Topaz, citrine | 8, 7 | Good |
| December | Turquoise, tanzanite, zircon | 5–6, 6–7, 6–7.5 | With care |
Choosing a birthstone piece
- For rings worn every day, favour harder stones or protective settings.
- For softer stones, earrings and pendants are safer choices.
- Ask whether a stone is natural or laboratory-grown, and whether it has been treated. Read Natural vs lab-grown gemstones.
Where the idea comes from
The idea of linking gems to months is often traced to the twelve stones on the breastplate of the High Priest described in the Book of Exodus, which later writers associated with the months and the signs of the zodiac. Over the centuries, many different lists developed. The modern list was an attempt to create one consistent standard for jewelers and their clients.
Alternatives and personal choices
Some months have several stones, which gives more choice of colour, durability and budget. Other lists exist too, including traditional, zodiac and national ones. Choosing a stone for its meaning to the wearer, rather than for the calendar, is equally valid.
Care for softer birthstones
- Pearl (June): wipe after wearing; avoid chemicals and soaking.
- Opal (October): avoid heat, sudden temperature changes and soaking.
- Turquoise (December): porous; keep away from oils, cosmetics and water.
- Emerald (May): often oiled; no ultrasonic or steam cleaning.
- Peridot (August): fairly soft for rings; protect from knocks.
Birthstone jewelry ideas
Birthstones are often set in pendants, stud earrings and stacking rings, and several stones can be combined in one piece to represent a family.
Sources: Gemological Institute of America (gia.edu), gem encyclopedia; Jewelers of America, modern birthstone list (first published 1912, updated since).
Frequently asked questions
Why do some months have several birthstones?
The modern list has been updated over time, adding alternatives such as alexandrite and moonstone for June, spinel for August and tanzanite for December.
Are all birthstones suitable for rings?
Not equally. Softer or more fragile stones, such as pearl, opal and turquoise, are better suited to earrings and pendants.
Can I wear a birthstone that is not mine?
Of course. Birthstones are a tradition, not a rule.
Which birthstones are best for engagement rings?
The most durable: diamond (April), ruby (July) and sapphire (September).
