About the birthstone finder
Each month of the year has a traditional birthstone. Wearing it is believed to bring luck and protection.
The modern list was standardised in the United States in 1912, and several months have two or more stones, such as June with pearl, moonstone and alexandrite.
Birthstones are popular gifts for birthdays and anniversaries, and many people choose them for rings and pendants.
Birthstones by month
- January: Garnet – protection, friendship and energy
- February: Amethyst – calm, clarity and wisdom
- March: Aquamarine – courage and peace (some lists add bloodstone)
- April: Diamond – strength, love and lasting bonds
- May: Emerald – growth, harmony and renewal
- June: Pearl, moonstone or alexandrite – purity and intuition
- July: Ruby – passion, courage and vitality
- August: Peridot, spinel or sardonyx – luck and renewal
- September: Sapphire – wisdom and truth
- October: Opal or tourmaline – creativity and hope
- November: Topaz or citrine – joy and abundance
- December: Turquoise, tanzanite or zircon – good fortune and protection
The history of birthstones
The idea goes back to the breastplate of the high priest in the Bible, which held twelve stones. Over the centuries the stones were linked to the months and the zodiac. In 1912, the American jewellery trade published a standard list, which most people still use, and later added new stones such as alexandrite and tanzanite.
Modern and traditional lists
Many months have more than one stone because some traditional stones were rare or costly. Choosing between them is a matter of taste and budget. For example, citrine is a popular and affordable choice for November, and moonstone is a lighter alternative to pearl for June.
Choosing a birthstone gift
Birthstones make meaningful gifts for birthdays, anniversaries and new babies. Rings, necklaces and bracelets are popular. Think about the person’s style, their skin tone and metal preference such as gold or silver. Also check hardness: diamond, ruby and sapphire are very hard and suit daily wear, while pearl and opal are softer and need gentle care.
Caring for your stone
- Clean most stones with warm water, mild soap and a soft cloth.
- Keep pearls and opals away from harsh chemicals and perfume.
- Store pieces separately so harder stones do not scratch softer ones.
- Have settings checked by a jeweller once a year.
Zodiac stones
Some people prefer a stone linked with their zodiac sign instead of their birth month. You can find your sign with our zodiac sign calculator.
Beliefs about the powers of gemstones are traditions without scientific proof. Choose a stone because you love it.
Frequently asked questions
What is my birthstone?
Select your birth month above.
Are birthstones the same worldwide?
Mostly, but some countries use different traditional lists.
Is there a zodiac stone too?
Yes. Some people prefer stones linked with their zodiac sign instead of their month.
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