Meaningful and personal, birthstone jewellery adds a touch of sentiment to any occasion. Whether it's Christmas, birthdays, anniversaries, or just to celebrate life's milestones, birthstone jewellery is a timeless choice and makes a fantastic addition to your jewellery collection.
In our latest journal entry, and with the season of gift giving well and truly upon us, we’ve been inspired to take a deep dive into the history, meaning, and science behind each birthstone. Join us on this colourful and often sparkling journey as we’ll also share some top gift ideas and helpful tips on caring for these precious gems!
What are Birthstones?
Birthstones are gemstones associated with each month of the calendar year and are believed to bring luck, protection, and meaningful symbolism to those who wear them. The concept of birthstones can be traced back to ancient times, with connections to various cultures and civilizations. The modern list of birthstones was officially standardised by the American National Retail Jewellers Association in 1912.
Each birthstone carries its unique charm, symbolism, and historical significance. Whether it’s garnet's fiery embrace to fend off peril during January travels or the emerald's verdant charm in fostering renewal in May, each birthstone carries a unique legacy which will be explored in more detail below.
What is my Birthstone?
Birthstones incorporate a vast array of gems, everything from dazzling diamonds to gleaming emeralds. Although sometimes they are associated with different signs of the zodiac they are more commonly linked to months. Below you’ll find a list of each birthstone as well as the corresponding month and a little bit of detail about their history and symbolism.
January - Garnet: The deep red hue of garnet, the birthstone for January, symbolises enduring strength and passion. This gemstone has a rich history dating back to ancient times, where it was believed to offer protection during travel and enhance energy and vitality. In mediaeval times, garnet was also thought to possess healing properties, promoting good health and warding off negative energies. Today, garnet is cherished for its versatile beauty and is said to bring courage and strength to its wearer.
February - Amethyst: Amethyst, the birthstone for February, is a stunning purple quartz that has been associated with royalty and sobriety throughout history. The ancient Greeks believed that wearing amethyst could prevent intoxication, and the word "amethyst" itself is derived from the Greek word "amethystos," meaning "not drunk." This gemstone is often linked to qualities of peace, stability, and inner strength, bringing balance and tranquillity to the wearer.
March - Aquamarine: March is represented by aquamarine, a gemstone that evokes the mesmerising beauty of the ocean with its cool blue hues. The name "aquamarine" is derived from the Latin words "aqua" (water) and "mare" (sea), emphasising its connection to the sea. Throughout history, this gem has been associated with courage, communication, and clarity of thought. Legends tell of sailors using aquamarine to bring good luck and ensure a safe voyage. Today, aquamarine is cherished not only for its aesthetic appeal but also for its ability to inspire calmness and enhance communication.
April - Diamond: April's birthstone needs little introduction – the diamond, a symbol of everlasting love and strength. Known for its exceptional hardness and brilliance, the diamond is often associated with commitment and clarity. In ancient times, diamonds were believed to possess healing powers and were considered symbols of invincibility. Today, diamonds are not only prized for their use in jewellery but also for the symbolism of endurance and eternal love they carry.
May - Emerald: The lush green emerald, birthstone for May, has long been associated with rebirth and renewal. Its vibrant colour is a symbol of fertility, growth, and prosperity. Cleopatra, the famous Egyptian queen, was known for her love of emeralds and believed they brought her eternal youth. The emerald is also considered a symbol of loyalty and was believed to have the power to reveal the truth. May birthdays are celebrated with this captivating gem, believed to bring harmony, wisdom, and good fortune to those who wear it.
June - Pearl, Alexandrite, and Moonstone: June boasts three unique birthstones - pearl, alexandrite, and moonstone. Pearls, the only gemstones formed within living creatures, symbolise purity and innocence. Alexandrite, known for its colour-changing properties, is associated with good luck, love, and creativity. Moonstone, with its ethereal glow, is linked to intuition and emotional balance. These diverse options allow June birthdays to choose a birthstone that resonates with their individual style and personality.
July - Ruby: Radiant red ruby, the birthstone for July, is a symbol of passion, vitality, and love. Throughout history, rubies were believed to possess protective powers and were associated with good fortune. In some cultures, rubies were thought to bring success in love and relationships.
August - Peridot: Peridot, the birthstone for August, is a vibrant green gemstone associated with healing and positive energy. This lively gem is believed to ward off nightmares and bring peace to its wearer. In ancient Egypt, peridot was considered the "gem of the sun" and was thought to have protective powers against evil spirits. Today, peridot is celebrated for its refreshing colour and is believed to bring prosperity and happiness to those born in August.
September - Sapphire: The deep blue sapphire, birthstone for September, has long been associated with wisdom, loyalty, and nobility. Sapphires have adorned the robes of kings and queens throughout history, symbolising power and protection. Ancient civilizations believed that sapphires had mystical properties, providing insight and protection against envy. Today, sapphires are cherished for their timeless beauty and are said to bring clarity, focus, and spiritual enlightenment to those born in September.
October - Opal and Tourmaline: October's birthstones, opal and tourmaline, showcase a kaleidoscope of colours. Opal is known for its iridescence and is believed to bring good luck, creativity, and spontaneity. Tourmaline, available in a variety of colours, is associated with energy, courage, and balance. Both gemstones offer October birthdays a vibrant array of choices, allowing them to express their unique personalities through these stunning and diverse gems.
November - Topaz and Citrine: November has two birthstones – topaz and citrine – both known for their warm and golden hues. Topaz symbolises strength and intellect, believed to enhance the mental and spiritual abilities of its wearer. Citrine, often associated with positive energy and abundance, is thought to bring prosperity and success.
December - Turquoise, Tanzanite, and Zircon: December offers a trio of birthstones – turquoise, tanzanite, and zircon. Turquoise, with its unique blue-green colour, has been revered for centuries as a symbol of protection, luck, and immortality. Tanzanite, a relatively recent discovery, is known for its violet-blue hues and is associated with transformation and spiritual insight. Zircon, available in various colors, symbolizes wisdom and prosperity. December birthdays can choose from this diverse selection, each stone carrying its own unique beauty and meaning.
Birthstone Jewellery & Gift Ideas
Although birthstones and their colours are nowadays associated with a range of products and gift ideas, there’s nothing more powerful and compelling than exquisite birthstone jewellery. Birthstone jewellery serves as a powerful expression of personal style and sentiment. These timeless pieces can also complement various outfits and carry a unique significance that resonates with the wearer. Amongst the most popular pieces include:
Birthstone Necklaces
A birthstone necklace is a versatile and elegant way to showcase one's personal connection to a specific month. These timeless pieces not only complement contemporary styles but also add a touch of vintage charm to classic looks. For those born in December, our Phoebe Tanzanite Necklace is a great gift birthstone necklace gift idea. This stunning pendant is a testament to our expert craftsmanship, meticulously set in lustrous platinum and featuring a stunning 15-carat tanzanite gemstone with a mesmerising violet-blue hue.
In addition to single birthstone necklaces, customised necklaces with multiple birthstones, each representing the important individuals in the wearer's life, are also popular choices. Such pieces not only add a touch of glamour to any ensemble but also carry a heartfelt narrative.
Birthstone Rings
Birthstone rings offer a unique opportunity to infuse a daily accessory with personal meaning. A simple yet stunning solitaire ring adorned with a radiant sapphire for September or a dazzling diamond for April can make a bold statement. Stackable rings featuring an array of birthstones also allow for a customisable and dynamic style, while birthstone eternity bands symbolise everlasting love and connection.
For a thoughtful gift idea, our Amphitrite Pear Shaped Aquamarine Halo Ring is a spectacular choice. Meticulously handcrafted, this extraordinary piece radiates brilliance and charm and is designed to captivate. The pear-shaped aquamarine at the centre is surrounded by a halo of smaller gemstones, creating a dazzling effect that is perfect for special occasions.
Birthstone Earrings
Birthstone earrings effortlessly add a touch of personal flair to your everyday style, combining fashion with sentimental value. Whether you prefer understated studs or eye-catching dangly designs, these earrings are a versatile accessory that speaks to individuality. Picture small studs with aquamarine for March or dangling ruby earrings for July, showcasing your birth month in a stylish way. To add to the array of options, consider our timeless and elegant Tourmaline earrings—a perfect gift idea. Their classic and tasteful design, paired with the dazzling colour of tourmaline, effortlessly elevates any outfit. These earrings serve as more than just accessories; they become a timeless expression of style and sentiment, making them a thoughtful and cherished gift for any occasion.
Birthstone Bracelets
When it comes to birthstone bracelets, there's a style for every taste. Delicate chain bracelets adorned with individual birthstones create a subtle yet meaningful look, while bolder designs incorporate a mix of stones, representing different aspects of your life. Wrap bracelets, with their effortless and casual vibe, are another popular choice, allowing wearers to layer and stack with ease.
For a more classic or luxurious look, consider a gorgeous diamond tennis bracelet, like our Serenade, which seamlessly blends the timeless beauty of diamonds with the personal significance of birthstones. Our Serenade diamond tennis bracelet radiates sophistication with 33 radiant-cut diamonds, each boasting an impressive 1-carat brilliance.
Shop Our Birthstone Jewellery Now
Discover the perfect expression of individuality at Meaden by exploring our curated collection of exquisite jewellery. Whether you're on the hunt for a meaningful gift or seeking a personal accessory, Meaden is here to assist.
Explore our exquisite collection of jewellery, where each piece holds the potential to become a unique birthstone treasure. At Meaden, we recognize the importance of personal touches, especially for life's significant moments. We offer the flexibility to incorporate your chosen birthstone into any design you love. From elegant bridal pieces to everyday elegance, we can tailor our offerings to include the gemstone that holds special meaning for you. Our skilled artisans excel in bespoke services, ready to transform your vision into a one-of-a-kind keepsake, with our bespoke jewellery services, that narrates your story with sophistication and style. At Meaden, your jewellery becomes more than an accessory; it becomes a deeply personal emblem of your life’s most treasured milestones.
