Birthstone Colours - what's yours?

Birthstones hold a special place in our hearts, representing our birth month and embodying unique meanings. In this blog post, we will take a fascinating journey into the realm of birthstone colours. We will explore the traditional birthstones and their symbolic significance, while also uncovering the allure of alternative birthstones, which have been gaining increasing popularity. Join us as we unlock the secrets of these captivating gemstones and the vibrant birthstone colours which underpin each month.

Traditional Birthstones and Their Meanings
The world of birthstones is steeped in tradition and folklore. Each month has its own designated gemstone, believed to bestow unique qualities upon its wearer. From the mesmerising beauty of January’s garnet, symbolising strength, and prosperity, to the serene blue of September's sapphire, representing wisdom and loyalty, traditional birthstones have long held significance in various cultures. With a rich tapestry of meaning behind these timeless gems. 

Rising Popularity of Alternative Birthstones
In recent years, though, alternative birthstones have emerged as a captivating trend, offering a fresh and personalised approach to birthstone choices. These alternative options provide a diverse range of gemstone colours, allowing individuals to express their unique style and personality and provide affordable options such as alternative birthstones for April, which has diamond as it's precious gemstone. As the desire for individuality grows, more people are turning to alternative birthstones to embrace their distinct identities. Join us as we delve into the realm of alternative birthstones and uncover their increasing popularity.

Birthstone Charts
Discover our comprehensive birthstone charts, which showcase both traditional and alternative options for each month. This invaluable resource will guide you in selecting the perfect gemstone associated with your birth month.

Traditional Birthstone Chart

Alternative Birthstone Chart

Why choose alternative birthstones?

These offer more accessible options compared to traditional precious gemstones in the birthstone list. While original gemstones remain in the selection where they are readily available, alternative birthstones provide a wider range of choices that are often more affordable while still holding special meaning and the allure of natural gemstones. Such is the case with finding an alternative birthstone: April birthstones alternate, instead of diamonds, opt for quartz / rock crystal or cubic zirconia as an alternative. This inclusivity allows individuals to choose based on personal preferences, budget, and availability, ensuring everyone can find a birthstone that resonates with them. Our birthstone range is developed on this alternative gemstone birthstone chart; view this here.

Birthstone Colour Alternatives

In addition to natural gemstone alternatives, birthstones can also be represented through colour, often presented in materials such as cubic zirconia (CZ) and glass. These alternatives provide an affordable and accessible solution for individuals seeking the desired colour of a specific birthstone without the expense or rarity of natural gemstones. While these coloured birthstones may not possess the exact properties or value of their natural counterparts, they still offer a compelling opportunity to embrace the beauty and symbolism associated with birthstones without straining the budget. Although they may differ in natural characteristics, these alternative options remain visually appealing and serve as a cost-effective choice for those looking to adorn themselves with birthstone jewellery.

Here is a list of traditional birthstones and their corresponding birthstone colours.

• January: Garnet / Birthstone Colour: Deep Red
• February: Amethyst / Birthstone Colour: Purple
• March: Aquamarine / Birthstone Colour: Light Blue
• April: Diamond / Birthstone Colour: Clear
• May: Emerald / Birthstone Colour: Green
• June: Pearl or Alexandrite / Birthstone Colour: Light Violet or White
• July: Ruby / Birthstone Colour: Deep Red
• August: Peridot / Birthstone Colour: Light Green
• September: Sapphire / Birthstone Colour: Blue
• October: Opal or Pink Tourmaline / Birthstone Colour: White or Pink
• November: Citrine or Yellow Topaz / Birthstone Colour: Yellow
• December:  Blue Topaz / Birthstone Colour: Light Blue

Highlighting the Unique Qualities and Symbolism

Discover the distinctive qualities and symbolic meanings behind each alternative birthstone. From the calming energies of amethyst to the transformative properties of moonstone, delve into the fascinating world of alternative birthstones and find the gem that resonates with your individuality.

Immerse yourself in the rich historical and cultural significance of alternative birthstones. Unearth the captivating narratives and traditions woven into these gemstones, as they have been cherished and revered by various cultures throughout the ages. Gain a deeper appreciation for the cultural heritage that surrounds alternative birthstones.

To explore the Cultural Significance and meanings behind the alternative birthstones check out our Blog post The Ultimate Guide to Birthstones by Month: Discover Your Unique Gem‎  

Whether you opt for your traditional birthstone or venture into the realm of alternative choices, understanding the unique qualities, symbolism, and historical context of each gemstone empowers you to make a meaningful and personalised selection. Explore our comprehensive birthstone chart and embark on an enchanting journey through the captivating world of gemstones.

Factors Influencing Alternative Birthstone Selection
When it comes to the selection of alternative birthstones, several factors contribute to their popularity and appeal. Firstly, affordability plays a significant role. Natural gemstones, particularly precious ones, can come with a hefty price tag, making them less accessible for some individuals. Alternative birthstones, encompassing semi-precious gemstones, offer a great way to still access the meaning and beauty of gemstones. While CZ and glass options offer a more budget-friendly option without compromising on the desired colours or aesthetics.

Secondly, availability is a crucial factor. Some traditional birthstones may be rare or difficult to find, leading to limited options in terms of availability. Alternative birthstones provide a broader range of options, ensuring that individuals can find their desired birthstone without facing scarcity or sourcing challenges.

Lastly, personal preference and style also drive the selection of alternative birthstones. With a growing emphasis on individuality and self-expression, people are increasingly seeking unique options that align with their tastes and resonate with their personalities. Alternative birthstones allow for a more personalised choice, enabling individuals to select gemstones that truly reflect their individual preferences and resonate with their sense of style.

The Origin of Newer Birthstone Lists
The emergence of newer birthstone lists can be attributed to various sources. One influential contributor is the jewellery industry, which seeks to offer a wider range of options to cater to diverse consumer preferences. Jewellers and gemstone experts have researched and curated alternative birthstone lists based on gemmological properties, colours, and symbolic associations to provide alternative choices that captivate and inspire.

Furthermore, astrological beliefs and cultural traditions have also influenced the creation of newer birthstone lists. Different cultures and belief systems attribute specific gemstones to each month based on astrological alignments, folklore, or historical significance. These alternative birthstone lists provide alternative options that resonate with specific cultural or astrological practices.

The Trend of Personalised Birthstone Choices and Personalised Birthstone Jewellery
In recent years, there has been a significant trend towards personalised birthstone choices and the creation of personalised birthstone jewellery. People are seeking meaningful and unique ways to represent their birth month or commemorate special occasions through their jewellery. This trend aligns with the desire for self-expression and the celebration of individuality.

Personalised birthstone choices allow individuals to select alternative birthstones or mix and match different gemstones to create a bespoke piece that holds personal significance. Birthstone jewellery, such as rings, necklaces, or bracelets, can be customised with birthstones representing family members, loved ones, or important milestones, making them cherished and sentimental keepsakes, Our Build Your Own Necklace is a perfect way to achieve this.

The growing popularity of personalised birthstone choices and personalised birthstone jewellery highlights the desire for meaningful and one-of-a-kind pieces that beautifully represent personal connections and stories. Whether it's wearing your own birthstone, combining birthstones of loved ones, or exploring alternative options, personalised birthstone choices offer a delightful way to showcase individuality and create truly unique pieces of jewellery.

Conclusion

In conclusion, alternative birthstones offer a world of possibilities, with their affordability, availability, and unique symbolism. Embrace the diversity of birthstone colours and meanings and let your birthstone journey reflect your individuality. Unleash your imagination and create a personalised collection that tells your own story, adorned with the captivating allure of alternative birthstones.

The enchantment of birthstones is an ever-evolving journey. While traditional birthstones continue to hold their timeless allure, the rise of alternative birthstones offers an exciting avenue for exploration. Whether you are captivated by the rich history and symbolism of traditional birthstones or seek the vibrant colours and personal significance of alternative options, there is a birthstone waiting to adorn your life. Embrace the kaleidoscope of birthstone colours and immerse yourself in the fascinating world of birthstones, where timeless tradition meets contemporary expression.

We invite you to embark on a journey of discovery and explore the captivating world of alternative birthstones. Dive into the birthstone colours they offer and find a gemstone that resonates with your unique personality and style. Whether you opt for a traditional birthstone or venture into the realm of alternative choices, each gemstone holds its own beauty and significance, waiting to be embraced.