The birthstone links each month to a gem, following a Western tradition set in the 20th century. It's a classic, personal gift idea. Here is the complete month-by-month calendar, the traditional meaning of each stone, and how to choose it well in jewellery.
The idea of linking a stone to a month is ancient, but the modern list was standardised in 1912 by American jewellers. It varies slightly by country; we give the most common version below. It's a cultural tradition, loved for offering a personalised piece of jewellery.
| Month | Stone | Meaning (tradition) |
|---|---|---|
| January | Garnet | Passion, vitality |
| February | Amethyst | Serenity, wisdom |
| March | Aquamarine | Serenity, courage |
| April | Diamond | Purity, strength |
| May | Emerald | Renewal, love |
| June | Moonstone / pearl | Intuition, gentleness |
| July | Ruby | Passion, energy |
| August | Peridot | Luck, calm |
| September | Sapphire | Wisdom, loyalty |
| October | Opal / tourmaline | Creativity, hope |
| November | Citrine / topaz | Joy, confidence |
| December | Turquoise / tanzanite | Protection, luck |
The birthstone makes a personal gift (ring, pendant, bracelet). For a mounted piece, demand the metal hallmark and the exact nature of the stone. Check hardness if the stone is worn daily — see our natural stone jewellery guide.
By the most common Western list: January garnet, February amethyst, March aquamarine, April diamond, May emerald, June moonstone/pearl, July ruby, August peridot, September sapphire, October opal/tourmaline, November citrine/topaz, December turquoise/tanzanite.
The modern list was standardised in 1912 by American jewellers; it varies slightly by country. It's a cultural tradition loved for offering a personalised piece, not a universal rule.
As a ring, pendant or bracelet to suit the person. For a mounted gold or silver piece, demand the metal hallmark and the exact nature of the stone, and check hardness if it will be worn daily.
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