Birthstones
Birthstones have been used since at least the first century as a way to give good luck on ones birthday. Gemstones are associated with each month and each precious stone has designated qualities associated with it. Birthstones are also a fun way to share something about yourself. Our birthstone chart lets you choose from many stones to find the right stone for yourself or a loved one.
Birth stones have been used for centuries to celebrate ones birth. Since different traditions have associated different gemstones with each month, We have included several so you can choose the birthstone which works best for you. Know whichever birth stones you choose, your gift will be very much enjoyed. If you want a birthstone with the most significance choose one from the older traditions; otherwise, simply choose the gemstone you like most.
Birth Month | Modern Birthstones | Traditional Birthstones | Mystical Birthstone | Ayurvedic Birthstones | |
Use Birthstone Search results to find stores that carry birthstone jewelry. Also see Gemstone Therapy for more detailed information on the mystical properties of certain stones.
Please see Zodiac Gem Stones for stones related to Astrological Signs.
The Modern Birthstone chart is the official birthstone list from the American National Association of Jewelers, Jewelers of America. These birthstones were officially adopted in 1912. In October 2002, this list was updated to include Tanzanite for December's birthstone by the American Gem Trade Assoc. (AGTA). In the US, this birthstone list is the accepted list.
The Traditional birthstone list shows some societal birthstone traditions, many going back to the 15th century. Many stores combine this Traditional Birthstone list and the Modern Birthstone list. (We have noticed conflicting information from various jewelers on how they list traditional birthstones. That can be very confusing!)
The Mystical Birthstone chart was obtained from a Tibetan book said to be over a thousand years old. Legend has it that these birthstones really help one overcome the obstacles of their birth month.
The Ayurvedic Birthstone list is from Ayurvedic Indian Medicine - an ancient type of medicine used for at least a thousand years. If you want a healing gemstone, you may wish to consider one of these.
Stones listed in the "15th to 20th Century" column were correlated by George Frederick Kunz in The Curious Lore of Precious Stones. This book has a wonderful list of birthstones from different cultures.
Birthstone Rings make wonderful gifts. When you give someone a birthstone gift, be sure to add some care tips and/or lore from the specific gemstone page associated with it by clicking on the link associated with each stone.
