Birthstones bring a personal connection to jewelry, whether you're celebrating your own birthday or choosing something meaningful for someone else. Each month has at least one recognized gemstone, and several months offer more than one. From the vibrant color of ruby to the natural luster of pearls, every stone has a different history, appearance, and character.
This guide explores the birthstones commonly recognized in the United States today, along with their colors, traditions, and basic jewelry care. Birthstone lists have changed over time and can differ by culture or region. You don't have to choose a particular shade—or even your own month's stone—to find jewelry you love.
January: Garnet
Deep red is garnet’s best-known shade, but January’s gemstone family offers a much wider palette.
February: Amethyst
Explore February’s purple quartz, from pale lavender to rich violet, along with its history and care.
March: Aquamarine and Bloodstone
Cool blue aquamarine and deep green bloodstone give March two very different birthstone looks.
April: Diamond
Diamond is April’s birthstone, and naturally pointed Herkimer quartz adds another beautiful clear-sparkle option.
May: Emerald
Discover emerald’s vivid green color, natural inclusions, and the gentle care this beryl variety needs.
June: Pearl, Moonstone, and Alexandrite
Pearl, moonstone, and alexandrite offer June a choice of soft luster, gentle glow, and changing color.
July: Ruby
Ruby brings July rich red color, with a long history of symbolism and a durable corundum structure.
August: Peridot, Spinel, and Sardonyx
Peridot, spinel, and sardonyx give August a varied palette, including the fresh green of peridot.
September: Sapphire
Sapphire is famous for blue, but September’s corundum birthstone appears in many beautiful colors.
October: Opal and Tourmaline
Opal and tourmaline give October a wide choice of colors, patterns, and jewelry styles.
November: Topaz and Citrine
Topaz and citrine represent November, with golden citrine offering a warm, luminous quartz option.
December: Turquoise, Tanzanite, Zircon and Blue Topaz
December has several beautiful blue choices, from turquoise and tanzanite to zircon and blue topaz.