📖 About Your Birthstone
🏛️ History
✨ Fun Fact
Birthstone Chart by Month
Click any month to visit its dedicated birthstone page and learn about its meaning, symbolism, and history.
What Is a Birthstone?
A birthstone is a gemstone associated with the month of a person's birth. Birthstones have been used for thousands of years — ancient cultures believed gemstones possessed mystical powers and healing properties, and that wearing your birthstone would bring good luck, health, and protection.
History of Birthstones
The concept of birthstones is believed to have originated from the Breastplate of Aaron described in the Book of Exodus — a sacred garment set with twelve gemstones representing the twelve tribes of Israel. Over centuries, these twelve stones became associated with the twelve months of the year and the twelve signs of the zodiac.
The modern standardized list of birthstones was established by the American National Retail Jewelers Association (now Jewelers of America) in 1912 and has been updated slightly since — most recently in 2002 when tanzanite was added as an alternative December birthstone.
Traditional vs. Modern Birthstones
Several months have both traditional and modern birthstone assignments. For example, June has both Pearl (traditional) and Alexandrite (modern). This guide uses the most widely accepted modern list.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is my birthstone?
Your birthstone is determined by your birth month. Select your month in the calculator above to instantly find your birthstone. Common ones include Diamond for April, Ruby for July, and Sapphire for September.
Can I wear a birthstone that isn't mine?
Absolutely. While birthstones are traditionally associated with your birth month, there is no rule against wearing any gemstone you love. Many people choose to wear the birthstones of loved ones, or simply gemstones they find beautiful.
Why do some months have two birthstones?
Some months have been assigned two birthstones — one traditional and one modern — due to updates to the official list over time. For example, June has Pearl (traditional) and Alexandrite (modern), and October has Opal and Tourmaline.
What are birthstones used for?
Birthstones are most commonly used as meaningful personal jewelry — rings, necklaces, earrings, and bracelets. They are popular birthday and anniversary gifts. Some people also believe in the metaphysical or healing properties associated with each stone, while others simply appreciate their beauty.
Which birthstone is the rarest?
Alexandrite (June) is considered the rarest birthstone. Fine alexandrite with strong color change from green to red is extremely rare and valuable. Tanzanite (December) is also exceptionally rare — found only in one location in Tanzania — and is about 1,000 times rarer than diamond.