Behind the Shimmer - The Meaning Behind Each Month's Birthstone
- Ayushmaan Mishra
- 1 hour ago
- 2 min read
Ever wonder why a pretty gemstone was assigned to each month, or what it means to the person born in that month? There are actually spiritual reasons behind it!
Birthstones can be linked back to ancient civilizations such as the Greeks and Romans, where they believed that certain gemstones linked to each month and zodiac held powers such as protection, health and prosperity to those born in that month. Nowadays, they mostly symbolize love, wisdom as well as strength.
So, what are the twelve birthstones?
January's birthstone is garnet, which symbolizes success. February's is amethyst, which symbolizes focus. March's is aquamarine, which symbolizes communication. April's is quartz, symbolizing intention. May's is emerald, symbolizing vitality. June has pearl, symbolizing resilience. July's birthstone is ruby, symbolizing passion. August's peridot symbolizes radiance. September's sapphire symbolizes intuition. October's pink tourmaline symbolizes self love, November's citrine symbolizes new beginnings, and December's turquoise symbolizes wisdom.
Why do some months have two birthstones?
Traditions for birthstones have changed over time, with several new factors in play. Earlier, several of these gemstones were rare and expensive, so more accessible, affordable options were added. For example, alexandrite was added as an alternative for June when more and more pearls became scarce.
Additionally, several new gemstones were discovered. Tanzanite was discovered in Tanzania in the 1960's and became one of December's birthstones, along with turquoise and zircon.
Along with these birthstones, October additionally has pearl and pink tourmaline and November also has citrine and topaz.
August is the only month with three birthstones- peridot, spinel and sardonyx.
In conclusion, birthstones were originally created to symbolize spiritual and zodiac connection, with modern times bringing multiple birthstones for a few months. Maybe you'll be inspired to buy something with your shimmery stone on it!
Sources: