Every month has a birthstone (or two...or three!) Everyone probably knows what their birthstone is, but do you know the meaning of your particular gem? See below for more info.
JANUARY
Garnet is the most well known birthstone for January. While most garnets are a beautiful shade of red, they also come in colors such as orange, yellow, purple and green. The name "garnet" comes from the Latin for "grain" since it resembles a pomegranate seed. This fiery stone symbolizes protection, friendship, trust, commitment, and love. Garnet is also said to keep the wearer safe during travel.
FEBRUARY
Amethyst is actually a quartz. The purple - or reddish purple - crystal can be found all over the world. It was once believed to be a remedy for inebriation. The name comes from the Greek word amethystos, which translates to “a remedy against drunkenness.” Amethysts have been used to symbolize deep love, happiness, humility, sincerity, and wealth.
MARCH
Aquamarine evokes the colors of the sea. From deep green-blue to light, slightly greenish blue hues, faceted aquamarines are often free from inclusions and as clear as water, symbolizing purity of spirit and soul. This gemstone was once believed to give its wearers protection during battle or in litigation. Aquamarine is mostly found in Brazil.
APRIL
Diamond is the birthstone for all those lucky enough to be born in April! This precious stone is believed to provide better relationships and an increase in inner strength. Wearing diamonds is purported to bring other benefits such as balance, clarity and abundance. Diamonds also symbolize romance, grace, serenity, artistry, and humanitarianism.
MAY
Emerald, the birthstone for May, is considered a symbol of rebirth, wealth and abundance, love and passion, and success and wisdom. This brilliant green precious gem is believed to grant the owner foresight, good fortune, and youth. The stone's name is derived from the word “smaragdus,” which translates into “green” in Greek.
JUNE
While June is one of only two months that actually have 3 birthstones, Pearl is the most well-known, and the only gemstone created by living creatures. The other two stones associated with June are Alexandrite and Moonstone. Pearls have been known to symbolize purity, humility, and innocence. This gem was traditionally given as a wedding gift.
JULY
The name of the brilliant red Ruby is derived from the Latin ruber, which means red. It is considered the color of passion and love. The richest color is a deep red with a hint of purple and is called "pigeon's blood". Rubies are a variety of the mineral corundum. The ruby gets its color from traces of chromium. The more chromium, the deeper the red color. The stone's hardness is second only to diamonds. They are often considered to represent courage and good fortune.
AUGUST
While August is another month with more than one birthstone, Peridot is the most well-known. This pale green gem is formed under high pressure and can often be ound in lava rock and in meteorites - truly an "out of this world" birthstone! It is known as the stone of compassion and is believed to bring good health, restful sleep, and balance to emotions and the mind.
SEPTEMBER
Sapphire, the blue variety of corundum (Ruby is the red variety), has been a cherished gem for thousands of years, and actually comes in a variety of colors. This gem was believed to have healing powers, and in ancient Persia it was believed that the Earth rested on a sapphire, which gave the sky its blue hue. Sapphire has traditionally symbolized sincerity, truth and faithfulness.
OCTOBER
Opal was believed to hold lightning and Bedouins believed they fell from the sky during thunderstorms. Ancient Greeks believed they held the power of prophecy and protection from disease. They were first brought to the west from India. They symbolize purity, hope and truth.
NOVEMBER
Topaz is considered the traditional November birthstone. One of the most important sites for the mining of topaz is in Brazil. While topaz comes in several colors the most well known as the November birthstone is the fiery pinkish orange gem. Some believe the word name of this stone comes from the Sanskrit word tapas, which means “fire.” It is thought to have calming energies while bringing fortune and warmth to the wearer.
DECEMBER
Turquoise is associated with meanings of femininity, tranquillity, intuition, serenity, creativity, emotional balance, and loyalty. In European tradition, the gift of a turquoise ring means “forget me not.” Turquoise is considered a national treasure in Tibet, where it is believed to grant health, good fortune and protection from evil. December's birthstone also imparts peace to those who wear it.
Sources: GIA, American Gem Society and International Gem Society