Traditional Birthstones by Month

A birthstone is a precious gemstone specific to the month of birth. They vary according to the date of birth, zodiac symbols and month. We will come to know their significance in better details if we delve into the history of birthstones. The use of birthstones is vividly described in the book of Exodus (the second book of the Old Testament). Gemstones were worn by Hebrew priests as breastplates. They were believed to possess power, capable of controlling destiny. Birthstones are also categorized according to zodiac symbols. In this context, you can read about birthstones by zodiac. Here in this article, you will come to know about birthstones by month and meaning associated with them.

List of Traditional Birthstones by Month

The twelve birthstones have specific meaning attached with it. From the explanation given below you will come to know their influence in an individual's life. The characteristics are synonymous to them and the mystic powers are believed to rule one's destiny. Therefore, check out the interesting facts about birthstones by month.

Garnet ~ January
The birthstone of January is garnet, meaning seed. It signifies trust and eternal friendship. It's forms the perfect gift to friends born in the month of January. It's a combination of a group of minerals that yield a deep red (pyrope) , orange and vibrant green (tsavorites). Garnets are widely found across Sri Lanka, India and Africa.

Amethyst ~ February
The purple colored gem, amethyst is believed to keep the wearer free from worries, calm and quick witted. This gemstone is associated with many myths, folklores and legendary stories. The finest form of amethyst was mined in Russia and it was one of the most prized possession of the European jewelry. Brazil and Zambia are the leading producers of amethyst.

Bloodstone ~ March
Legendary stories say that this stone was created where Christ's blood dripped on jasper lying at the foot of the cross. It's a dark green colored jasper having clear red spots on it. It's basically used as amulets and is believed to possess healing powers. Bloodstone is also known as martyr's stone and is widely mined across Australia and Brazil.

Diamond ~ April
Diamonds! The expensive most jewel forms a wonderful gift for your loved ones. It symbolizes passion, love, trust, faith and commitment. The expensive jewelry is largely mined in South Africa and today colorful and fancy diamonds have gained immense popularity. Diamond is a true gem and worth possessing. Check for clarity color and carat before purchasing.

Emerald ~ May
Emerald is a symbol of rebirth. It's believed to endow upon fortune, good luck and prosperity on the wearer. Emerald is derived from the Greek word smaragdus which means green. It was first mined in Egypt before 330 B.C. Today it's popular in Zambia, Brazil, Afghanistan and Columbia. Perform a clarity check before purchasing.

Alexandrite ~ June
Alexandrite was fort mined in Russia in the year 1831. It's a rare variety chrysoberyl having 'chameleon-like qualities'. It reflects beautiful green color under fluorescent and day light while transforms into purplish red when the source of light is incandescent. It's also known as enchanting gemstone. The synthetic variety of Alexandrite is widely used as birthstone jewelry.

Ruby ~ July
The mineral conundrum in ruby makes it one of the most expensive of all gemstones mentioned in the list of birthstones for each month. It comes in different tones of red. Ruby is also known as fancy color sapphire. The bright red is symbolic of passion, love, success and promise. The best quality ruby was mined in Burma. Today it's popular in India, Australia, Kenya, Sri Lanka, Pakistan and Tanzania.

Sardonyx ~ August
The stone appears reddish brown layered with white bands. This was a popular gemstone among Greek and Romans. It symbolizes victory and courage. You can come across this stone over the images of Hercules and Mars. Attractive pieces are found in India, although it's largely mined across Germany, Czechoslovakia, Brazil and the U.S. It's a symbol of security and relaxation.

Sapphire ~ September
Sapphire is one of the most popular of all gemstones. It's known to protect the wearer from evil fate, mishap and harm and envy. It also signifies loyalty, commitment, sincerity and truth. The color ranges from pink, yellow, orange, green and purple. Ruby is a red sapphire. Blue sapphires are very popular and occurs as dark blue, light blue to violet tinge.

Tourmaline ~ October
This is one of the most sought after gem among jewelry designers. It's available as different combination, popular as bi-color and tri-color trend. The watermelon tourmaline is very common containing a combination of white, green and pink color blends. It mostly found in Afghanistan, Brazil, the U.S.A and Eastern Africa. It symbolizes endurance and balance in relationships.

Citrine ~ November
It's a quartz crystal having orange and yellow colors. It reflects fidelity, youthfulness, good health, cheerfulness and hope. It's also renowned as, 'the healing quartz'. It's a golden color gemstone and comes in affordable cost. Citrine is mined in Spain, Brazil and Bolivia. The gemstone is also believed to instill upon energy and warmth in the wearer.

Zircon ~ December
The traditional birthstone of December is zircon, derived from two Arabic words 'zar' and 'gun'. It comes in many hues like red, golden, yellow, green, brown and orange. Colorless zircon emulates diamond. Zircon is supposed to relieve one from pain and ailment. It's worn as a protection against disease and injury. It also enhances appetite. It's found in Vietnam, Thailand and Cambodia.

Whether you use them for astrological purposes or for mere fashion, gemstones look beautiful when adorned on body.