The idea of birthstones dates back to the Bible where Aaron wears a breastplate with 12 stones, for the 12 tribes of Israel. In the 1st century, historian Flavius Josephus linked those 12 stones to the months of the year and the zodiac signs. In 1912, the Jewelers of America (at the time called the American National Retail Jewelers Association) standardised the official monthly selection making birthstone jewellery easier to craft.
That also makes birthstone jewellery one of the most personal gifts you can give, and one of the easiest to get right, because it's already tailored to the person wearing it. Each stone is not only connected to a month, but has a meaning and is believed to
Here's a quick guide to each month, and how people tend to wear theirs.
January - Garnet
Deep red, associated with protection and strength. A popular choice for someone starting a new year or a new chapter.
February - Amethyst
Purple, linked to calm and clarity. Often chosen by people who want a gentle daily reminder to slow down.
March - Aquamarine
Pale blue, associated with courage and clear-headedness - traditionally worn by sailors for safe travel, now often chosen as a "keep steady" stone.
April - Diamond
Clarity and strength. The most classic birthstone, but far from the only meaningful one.
May - Emerald
Green, tied to renewal and growth - a lovely choice for someone marking a fresh start.
June - Pearl (or Alexandrite)
Pearls represent purity and new beginnings, traditionally linked to brides but equally meaningful as a symbol of a new chapter of any kind.
July - Ruby
Deep red, linked to passion, vitality, and courage.
August - Peridot
A soft green stone, associated with strength and protection against negative energy.
September - Sapphire
Deep blue, tied to wisdom, loyalty, and calm - a favourite for both gifts and self-purchases.
October - Opal (or Tourmaline)
Known for its shifting colours, opal is often linked to hope and creativity.
November - Topaz (or Citrine)
Warm golden tones, associated with confidence and joy.
December - Turquoise (or Tanzanite)
A protective stone historically linked to good fortune and calm.
How to choose a birthstone piece
A birthstone works well on its own, but it's especially meaningful layered into a piece that already carries symbolism - a courage necklace with your birthstone at its centre, or a hope pendant paired with the birthstone of someone you love. It's also one of the easiest ways to personalise a gift for someone without needing to know their taste in jewellery - you just need their birthday.
Most of our necklaces and rings can be personalised with a birthstone, so you can combine "meaningful" and "made for them" in a single piece.
