Lets explore what are the birthstones?

In the world of jewellery, there exists a category that marries the timeless beauty of jewellery with the more modern personalisation trend. Welcome to Birthstone Jewellery. Exciting wearers with its personalised symbolism and aesthetic appeal, without shouting personalised but carrying deep sentiment. These beautiful gemstones, each associated with a specific month of the year, weave tales of history, mythology, and personal significance. Birthstones have been treasured for centuries, believed to bring good luck, protection, and unique energies to those who wear them. Join us in the quest to unearth the trends and meaning behind birthstone jewellery, where tradition, sentiment, and beauty converge, and delve into what are the birthstones for each month of the year.

The history of birthstones

The concept of birthstones dates back thousands of years, with origins rooted in ancient civilizations from the biblical era and the breastplate of Aaron. Over time, various cultures have assigned different gemstones to each month drawing connections between the stones and their astrological and mystical properties. Today, a multitude of birthstone lists have been applied and developed, from the classic precious birthstones to more modern and accessible alternative's that are becoming recognised internationally, and people around the globe embrace the tradition of wearing their birthstone as a symbol of identity and protection.

Birthstones by month January – December

Starting with January Birthstones - Garnet

January has just one birthstone, appearing on the precious birthstone chart and the alternative list, Garnet is an accessible gemstone and may be found as a cabochon or faceted gemstone in pieces such as a garnet birthstone necklace. Symbolising love, friendship, and trust, the deep red hues of garnet make it a popular choice for those born this month. Garnet, with its rich history and varied shades ranging from deep reds to vibrant greens, has been cherished for centuries. It is believed to inspire love and devotion while enhancing the bonds of friendship and trust.

Birthstones for month of February - Amethyst

There is just one birthstone for February, again an accessible gemstone that translates easily from the precious birthstone chart to the alternative selection due to its availability Renowned for its royal purple colour, it symbolises clarity of mind and spiritual growth. With hues ranging from delicate lilacs to deep purples, this captivating gemstone has been revered for centuries for its ability to foster wisdom and insight. Believed to unlock higher realms of consciousness, amethyst serves as a potent talisman for those born in February, guiding them on a journey of self-discovery and inner transformation, encouraging the embrace of intuition and the unlocking of the mysteries of the soul.

March has two birthstones to consider: Aquamarine and Bloodstone

Aquamarine, with its serene blue tones reminiscent of the ocean, evokes a sense of peace and clarity. Providing courage and protection, this gemstone has long been loved for its calming influence and its ability to instil a sense of inner strength. It can be found across a multitude of jewellery designs, as the gemstone can be found amongst a range of different guises, from facets to cabochons and beads.

Similarly, Bloodstone, with its deep green hues flecked with red spots, carries its own powerful symbolism. Known as the "stone of courage," it is believed to enhance vitality and strength while also promoting self-confidence and resilience in the face of adversity. Together, aquamarine and bloodstone offer March-born individuals a powerful combination of serenity and strength, guiding them towards inner peace and unwavering courage.

What are the Birthstones for April?

April encompasses the well-known and classic birthstone of diamond, but luckily there is another alternative that is far more accessible and has a similar appearance and properties, welcome crystal. Crystal, which is strongly associated with strength, purity, and invincibility, proves an ideal choice for those born in April. Its transparent beauty symbolises clarity of thought and resilience in the face of challenges, serving as a reminder of the unyielding spirit that resides within.

Similarly, the diamond, with its dazzling brilliance, embodies purity, strength, and everlasting love. Revered as the "king of gemstones," the diamond symbolises invincibility and resilience. Its timeless beauty makes it a fitting representation of the enduring bonds of love and steadfastness, offering a beacon of hope and inspiration to all who wear it.

May's birthstones are Chrysoprase and Emerald

Firstly, Chrysoprase: this may be an unfamiliar gemstone for many, but in true examples, it is a stunning, vivid green that, representing rebirth and fertility, emerges as a lush green gem, embodying vitality and renewal for those born in May. Its verdant hue evokes the lushness of springtime, symbolising the rejuvenation of nature and the promise of new beginnings.

More familiar to most is the precious birthstone for May - Emerald, which exudes a captivating green brilliance that symbolises growth, prosperity, and eternal youth. Known as the "stone of successful love," emerald is believed to enhance harmony and unity in relationships while fostering inner wisdom and balance.

What are the birthstones for June? Three options are available for this month: Moonstone, Pearl, and Alexandrite

Firstly, moonstone, known for its timeless elegance, emerges as a symbol of good fortune and freedom for those born in June. Its captivating play of light evokes a sense of enchantment and mystery, drawing parallels to the ever-changing phases of the moon. June-born individuals are believed to be blessed with the gifts of intuition and emotional balance.
 
In addition to moonstone, pearls have been long stated as the traditional birthstone for June, representing purity, innocence, and wisdom. Formed within the depths of the ocean, pearls are treasures of the sea, revered for their luminescent and timeless beauty, and are associated with love, loyalty, and femininity. 

Lastly, alexandrite, the modern birthstone for June, with its remarkable colour-changing properties, shifting from green in daylight to purplish-red in incandescent light, is believed to bring balance and joy to those born in June.

July has a couple of birthstone options available: Carnelian and Ruby

Ruby, the traditional birthstone for July, dazzles with its familiar rich red, symbolising love, passion, and prosperity. As a gemstone of vitality and protection, ruby is believed to bestow strength and good fortune upon its wearer, encouraging them to embrace their inner fire and pursue their dreams with unwavering determination.

As an alternative birthstone, carnelian is renowned for its fiery colour and serves as a powerful symbol of passion, love, and vitality for those born in July. Its beautiful banded oranges evoke the warmth of the sun and the intensity of flames, igniting a sense of energy and enthusiasm. Associated with courage and confidence, Carnelian inspires action and creativity, empowering individuals to pursue their passions with fervour and determination.

August offers two birthstone options of Peridot and Sardonyx

The classic birthstone of peridot, with its soft green glow, offers the promise of prosperity and success for those born in August. Representing the lushness of nature and the vitality of life, symbolising growth, abundance, and renewal. This gemstone lends itself to a sterling silver necklace birthstone pendant, whether as a single pendant or combined with a selection of personalised charms. Believed to bring luck and good fortune, peridot inspires confidence and optimism.

Alternatively, Sardonyx, another birthstone option for August, offers its own unique qualities. With its striking bands of red, white, and black, Sardonyx embodies strength, courage, and protection. Sardonyx encourages its wearers to overcome obstacles and achieve their goals with determination.

September birthstone options include Lapis Lazuli and Sapphire

Lapis lazuli,  often shortened to Lapis, is known for its deep blue hues and stands as a symbol of wisdom, loyalty, and nobility, making it a classic choice for those born in September. Its rich colour evokes the vastness of the night sky, inspiring contemplation and introspection.

Additionally, sapphire, the traditional birthstone for September, enchants with its mesmerising blue shades, representing truth, sincerity, and faithfulness. As a stone of protection and prosperity, sapphire is believed to bring blessings into the lives of its wearers, fostering clarity of thought and unwavering resolve.

October has a couple of options: Opal and Tourmaline

Opal, with its mesmerising play of colours, serves as a captivating symbol of creativity, inspiration, and emotional healing for those born in October. From the precious opal we all recognise with its rainbow qualities to common opals in pink and fire opals in yellow there are more options available to encompass this birthstone.  Opal is believed to stimulate imagination, unlock one's creative potential, and allow one to express themselves authentically. Moreover, opal is associated with emotional healing, helping to soothe anxieties.

Another gemstone available in October is tourmaline, which is also an option, and with its wide range of colours, it offers its own distinctive qualities. Known as a stone of protection and grounding, tourmaline is believed to cleanse the mind, body, and spirit of negative energies, foster a sense of stability and security, and help people navigate life's challenges with resilience and confidence.

November birthstones encompass two options: Citrine and Topaz

Citrine, with its warm golden hues, emerges as a bright symbol of joy and abundance for those born in November. Its sunny colour evokes feelings of optimism and happiness, infusing life with a sense of brightness and warmth. Associated with prosperity and success too.

Whereas Topaz, the alternative birthstone for November, offers its own unique qualities. With its rich spectrum of colours ranging from fiery oranges to deep blues, topaz symbolises strength, courage, and wisdom. It is believed to bestow clarity of mind and inner strength upon its wearer, guiding them through life's challenges with resilience and determination.

December birthstones, Turquoise and Tanzanite, offer protection and spiritual enlightenment for those born in this transformative month

Turquoise, with its vast array of blue and green hues, serves as a protective talisman, warding off negativity and instilling feelings of peace and harmony. Revered by ancient civilizations for its soothing qualities, Turquoise symbolises renewal and regeneration, guiding individuals through periods of transition with its calming energy.

Complementing turquoise, Tanzanite captivates with its ethereal violet-blue hues, serving as a stone of spiritual awakening and inner exploration. Believed to facilitate deep meditation and connection with higher realms, Tanzanite guides December-born individuals on a journey of self-discovery and enlightenment.

In conclusion

Birthstone jewellery has transcended its traditional association with birthdays and become a popular choice for thoughtful and meaningful gift giving and it is what we specialise in here at Nellou. We love giving gifts as much as you do! Whether it’s a Mother’s Day gift, anniversary present or simply a token of appreciation, birthstone jewellery adds a personal touch that goes beyond the aesthetic appeal. Choosing a gemstone that holds significance to the recipient’s birth month or aligns with their personality can make the gift even more special and cherished, and our guide has hopefully answered the question of what are the birthstones for each month of the year? So you can make a choice for whether you are buying for a friend or looking for jewellery that represents your true self.