The Beauty of Birthstones: A month by month guide to their magic

February 26, 2025
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From the moment you’re born, your story begins—and there’s a gemstone to celebrate it. Birthstones have long been cherished for their beauty, symbolism, and personal significance. It’s only natural to wonder, “What’s my birthstone?” and “What does it mean?” Let’s dive in and explore the meaning behind these special stones.

The Meaning Behind Birthstones

Each birthstone is tied to a specific month and, in some cases, a Zodiac sign. Beyond their striking colors and timeless appeal, birthstones are believed to carry energy—offering protection, balance, or even a little extra luck when worn during their corresponding month. (For example, ruby, the birthstone of July, is thought to be at its most powerful in the heat of summer.)

Since no two months (or signs) are alike, no two birthstones are, either. Each one holds a unique history and meaning. But with some months featuring multiple birthstones, how do you choose the right one? Simple—you go with the one that speaks to you.

Traditional vs. Modern Birthstones

Birthstones as we know them today were standardized in 1912 by the National Association of Jewelers (now Jewelers of America). The list was intended to create consistency in jewelry design, though historians debate whether the selections were based on cultural traditions, religious significance, or just clever marketing.

When people mention “traditional birthstones,” they’re usually referring to that original 1912 list—featuring classics like emerald, ruby, and sapphire. Over time, the list evolved. In 1952, certain months were expanded to include additional gemstones, which is why December now boasts three: tanzanite, turquoise, and zircon.

Fast forward to today, and many jewelers (myself included!) embrace an even broader approach. Beyond the traditional stones, there are softer, subtler, and sometimes more unique alternatives—ones that still feel connected to history but offer a fresh perspective.

Find Your Birthstone

Now for the fun part! Curious about your birthstone? Below, you’ll find both the traditional and modern birthstones for each month, along with their meanings and symbolism.

✨ Explore jewelry by birthstone:

Which birthstone speaks to you? Whether you're drawn to yours for its traditional significance or simply love the way it looks, there’s something special about wearing a stone connected to your story.

January Birthstone: Garnet

Left: Gold Filled Gemini Ring, Garnet | Right: Gold Filled Horizon Earrings, Garnet

Traditional: Garnet
Modern: Garnet

Garnet, January’s birthstone, has been cherished for centuries for its deep red hues and striking brilliance. Historically associated with protection and strength, garnets were often worn by travelers as a talisman against harm. This gemstone symbolizes passion, love, and vitality—perfect for kicking off the new year with energy and confidence.

A fun fact about garnet? While most people recognize it for its rich red shade, garnet actually comes in a variety of colors, including green, orange, and even purple! As a crystal, garnet is believed to inspire courage, self-empowerment, and emotional balance, making it an excellent stone for those looking to embrace transformation and inner strength.

Choose a Garnet: January Birthstone

February Birthstone: Amethyst

Left: Gold Filled Libra Stud Earrings, Amethyst | Right: Sterling Silver Libra Necklace, Amethyst

Traditional: Amethyst
Modern: Amethyst

Amethyst is the birthstone of February, celebrated for its regal purple hues and association with wisdom and intuition. Once reserved for royalty, this gemstone has long been linked to spirituality and mental clarity. Whether you’re drawn to its rich color or its deeper meaning, amethyst is a timeless stone that symbolizes peace and protection.

Did you know ancient Greeks believed amethyst could prevent drunkenness? In fact, its name comes from the Greek word amethystos, meaning "not intoxicated." As a crystal, amethyst is thought to bring calmness, clarity, and emotional balance, making it a perfect companion for meditation, stress relief, and deepening intuition.

Choose an Amethyst: February Birthstone

March Birthstone: Aquamarine

Left: Gold Filled Dewdrop Earrings | Right: Gold Filled Gemini Ring, Aquamarine

Traditional: Bloodstone
Modern: Aquamarine

Aquamarine, the birthstone of March, is a stunning gemstone that mirrors the serene blues of the ocean. Its name comes from the Latin aqua marina, meaning "water of the sea," and it was once believed to calm waves and protect sailors during their voyages. Aquamarine symbolizes tranquility, courage, and clarity—making it a meaningful stone for those seeking peace and confidence.

A fascinating fact about aquamarine? The largest aquamarine ever found weighed over 100 pounds! Beyond its beauty, aquamarine is believed to promote inner peace, clear communication, and emotional healing—helping the wearer navigate life's waves with grace.

Choose an Aquamarine: March Birthstone

April Birthstone: Diamond

Left: Desire Ring, 14k | Right: Covet Ring, 14k

Traditional: Diamond
Modern: Diamond

Diamond, the birthstone of April, is a symbol of strength, love, and resilience. The hardest natural material on Earth, diamonds have been prized for centuries, not just for their brilliance but for their deep-rooted meaning. Often associated with eternal love, diamonds are the ultimate gemstone for those who appreciate timeless beauty and enduring strength. At LanaBetty we use Salt and Pepper diamonds sourced locally from our friends at Misfit Diamonds.

A fun fact? Diamonds form over a billion years deep within the Earth’s mantle, making them one of the oldest gemstones on the planet. As a crystal, diamonds are said to amplify clarity, focus, and positive energy, making them a powerful stone for manifestation and mental strength.

Choose a Diamond: April Birthstone

May Birthstone: Emerald

Left: Emerald Desire Ring, 14k | Right: Vega Earrings, Emerald

Traditional: Emerald
Modern: Emerald

May’s birthstone, emerald, is known for its lush green color and historical significance. Cleopatra was famously obsessed with emeralds, believing they symbolized fertility, rebirth, and prosperity. This vibrant gemstone represents wisdom, growth, and harmony, making it a beloved choice for those who seek renewal and connection.

Did you know that the world's largest emerald weighs over 1.1 kg? Emeralds are also known for their natural inclusions, often called “jardin” (French for "garden") due to their organic, moss-like patterns. As a crystal, emerald is believed to enhance intuition, attract love, and promote emotional healing, making it a stone of deep connection and renewal.

Choose an Emerald: May Birthstone

June Birthstone: Pearl & Moonstone

Left: Large Pearl Stud Earrings | Right: Mauve Pearl Necklace, 14k

Traditional: Pearl
Modern: Pearl, Alexandrite, Moonstone

June is one of the rare months with multiple birthstones, and I embrace moonstone and pearl for their timeless, luminous beauty. Moonstone has an ethereal glow that reflects light like the moon itself, symbolizing intuition, femininity, and new beginnings. Pearls, the only gemstones formed by living creatures, have long been associated with purity, wisdom, and classic elegance.

A fascinating fact? Ancient Romans believed moonstone was made from solidified moonlight, and in some cultures, it was thought to bring prophetic dreams. As a crystal, moonstone is said to enhance intuition, emotional balance, and inspiration, making it a stone of inner wisdom and transformation.

Choose a Pearl: June Birthstone Choose a Moonstone: June Birthstone

July Birthstone: Ruby

Left: Silver Virgo Necklace, Opaque Ruby | Right: Ruby Covet Ring, 14k

Traditional: Ruby
Modern: Ruby

The fiery ruby, July’s birthstone, has long been associated with passion, courage, and vitality. In ancient times, warriors would embed rubies into their armor, believing they provided protection and strength in battle. Today, rubies symbolize love and determination, making them a powerful gemstone for those who embrace life fearlessly.

A fun fact? Some rubies glow under UV light due to their natural fluorescence! As a crystal, ruby is believed to ignite motivation, boost confidence, and attract prosperity, making it an empowering stone for those seeking boldness and success.

Choose a Ruby: July Birthstone

August Birthstone: Peridot

Left: Gold Filled Horizon Necklace, Peridot | Right: 14k Gold Covet Ring, Peridot

Traditional: Peridot
Modern: Peridot, Spinel, Sardonyx

For August, I love working with peridot and spinel, two vibrant yet distinct gemstones. Peridot’s fresh green color has long been linked to warmth, happiness, and renewal, while spinel—often mistaken for ruby or sapphire—offers a striking range of colors with a history tied to strength and endurance.

Did you know peridot is one of the only gemstones found in meteorites? As a crystal, peridot is believed to attract abundance, relieve stress, and promote joy, making it a powerful mood-boosting stone.

Choose a Peridot: August Birthstone

September Birthstone: Sapphire

Left: Trinity Stud Earrings, Montana Sapphire | Right: 14k Vega Sapphire Studs

Traditional: Sapphire
Modern: Sapphire

Sapphire, September’s birthstone, is revered for its deep blue hues and symbolism of wisdom and truth. Once believed to protect kings and priests from envy and harm, sapphire remains a stone of integrity and clarity.

A fun fact? While most people associate sapphire with deep blue, this gemstone comes in nearly every color of the rainbow except red. As a crystal, sapphire is thought to enhance focus, intuition, and emotional stability, making it ideal for those seeking inner wisdom.

Choose a Sapphire: September Birthstone

October Birthstone: Opal

Left: Silver Lyra Studs, Opal | Right: Gold Filled Horizon Necklace, Opal

Traditional: Opal
Modern: Opal, Tourmaline

October’s birthstone, opal, is one of the most mesmerizing gemstones, known for its unique play of color. Ancient civilizations believed opals contained the power of all gemstones combined, as they shimmer in an array of hues. This stone symbolizes creativity, inspiration, and emotional expression.

A fascinating fact? Opals contain up to 20% water and are incredibly delicate, making them one of the most unique gemstones in nature. As a crystal, opal is said to enhance imagination, deepen emotional connections, and encourage spontaneity.

Choose an Opal: October Birthstone

November Birthstone: Citrine

Left: Gold Filled Horizon Necklace, Citrine | Right: Silver Ursa Major Ring, Citrine

Traditional: Topaz
Modern: Citrine, Topaz

November’s birthstone, citrine, radiates warmth with its golden hues. Known as the "merchant’s stone," citrine has long been associated with prosperity and success, making it a favorite among business owners and creatives alike.

Did you know natural citrine is rare, and most citrine on the market is actually heat-treated amethyst? As a crystal, citrine is believed to boost confidence, attract abundance, and spark joy, making it an uplifting stone for those who love optimism and positivity.

Choose a Citrine: November Birthstone

December Birthstone: Swiss Blue Topaz

Left: Swiss Blue Topaz Ursa Major Ring | Right: Gold Filled Libra Necklace, Swiss Blue Topaz

Traditional: Turquoise, Lapis Lazuli
Modern: Tanzanite, Zircon, Swiss Blue Topaz

December has several birthstones, but I love working with Swiss Blue Topaz for its vibrant sky-blue color and brilliance. This gemstone symbolizes communication, wisdom, and clarity, making it a perfect choice for those who value self-expression and mental clarity.

A fun fact? Swiss Blue Topaz gets its striking color through heat treatment, enhancing its brilliance. As a crystal, it’s believed to encourage clear thinking, boost confidence, and promote emotional healing, making it a calming yet energizing stone.

Choose a Topaz: December Birthstone

Celebrate Your Birthstone, Celebrate Yourself

Birthstones are more than just beautiful gems—they carry stories, meanings, and connections that make them truly special. Whether you wear yours for its traditional symbolism, its modern aesthetic, or simply because it speaks to you, a birthstone is a reflection of who you are. From the fiery passion of ruby to the tranquil blues of Swiss blue topaz, each gemstone has a unique energy waiting to be embraced.

✨ Which birthstone resonates with you the most? Whether you're looking for a meaningful piece to celebrate your birth month or a gemstone that aligns with your energy, I’d love to help you find the perfect fit. Explore my collection and let’s create something that feels truly yours. 💎💕

A little bit about me!

At LanaBetty, I create handcrafted, high-quality jewelry that blends traditional goldsmithing techniques with modern 3D design. Based in Vancouver, Canada, I specialize in thoughtfully designed, wearable pieces that celebrate individuality, craftsmanship, and sustainability. From birthstone jewelry to stacking rings and statement necklaces, each piece is crafted with precision and care.

Looking for jewelry that resonates with your personal style and story? Learn more about me and LanaBetty here and explore my collections.

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