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The Modern Birthstone Guide: Discover Your Gem

The Modern Birthstone Guide: Discover Your Gem

Discover the Meaning Behind Each Birthstone

For centuries, gemstones have been treasured not only for their beauty but also for their symbolic meanings. While the tradition of associating stones with birth months dates to ancient times, it wasn’t until 1912 that the National Association of Jewellers formalised the modern list of birthstones we know today.

Each stone carries its own unique story, believed to reflect the spirit of the month it represents. Whether you're shopping for a meaningful gift or curious about your own birthstone, explore the vibrant colours and rich symbolism behind these timeless gems.

 

January – Garnet
Available in an array of colours, Garnet makes your choice for a coloured gem almost limitless. Commonly known as a red gemstone, Garnet symbolises love and friendship and is associated with the heart, inner fire, and life force.

February – Amethyst
Amethyst is a purple quartz and can be found in many shades, ranging from light through to deep violet. Bringing the wearer motivation, passion, and insight, Amethyst represents ‘purity of spirit’.

March – Aquamarine
Symbolising happiness, hope, and everlasting youth, Aquamarine is mostly known for its light blue colouring, though it can also be found in green. A stone of courage, it has long been believed to protect those at sea.

April – Diamond
Though often admired in its classic colourless form, Diamonds come in shades of pink, yellow, champagne, red, blue, and black. Known as a symbol of ‘pure insight’, the Diamond represents health, longevity, and fearlessness.

May – Emerald
With its lush green tones, Emerald stands for truth, love, and hope. As the purest green crystal, it is often called a ‘growth crystal’, believed to attract wealth, abundance, and renewal.

June – Pearl
Pearls are timeless symbols of purity, wisdom, and peace. Found in both freshwater and saltwater, they vary in colour from white and cream to black, pink, and even gold. Pearls are also said to have a calming and centring effect on the wearer.

July – Ruby
Known for its rich red hue, Ruby can also appear in various shades of pink. It is a gemstone of passion, purity, and protection, inspiring confidence, energy, and love.

August – Peridot
This bright green gemstone is associated with good health, restful sleep, and a peaceful spirit. Peridot is often called the stone of compassion for its healing and balancing energy.

September – Sapphire
Though most recognised in blue, Sapphires come in nearly every colour except red. Unique varieties like Colour Change Sapphires and Parti Sapphires offer fascinating shifts and blends of colours. Traditionally linked to royalty, Sapphire represents joy, wisdom, and spiritual insight.

October – Opal
A mesmerising stone that reflects flashes of colour with every movement, Opal is believed to inspire creativity, freedom, and emotional expression. It is an intuitive gem, said to reflect the mood and energy of its wearer.

November – Citrine
Citrine’s warm golden tones have earned it the nickname ‘the success stone’. Known for attracting abundance and positivity, Citrine is a joyful gem that radiates self-confidence and energy.

December – Tanzanite
Found only in Tanzania, this rare gem ranges in hues from rich blue to deep violet. Tanzanite is said to harmonise the heart and mind, symbolising truth, wisdom, and emotional depth.

 

A Gem for Every Story

Whether you wear your birthstone for its deeper meaning, its stunning colour, or simply its connection to you, these gemstones are more than just beautiful—they're personal. Each stone is a celebration of individuality, memory, and meaning.

Add a touch of timeless elegance to your jewellery collection or gift someone special a piece that speaks to who they are. After all, a birthstone is more than a gem—it's a story waiting to be told.

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