The official guide to wearing your birthstone

For those who may not be in the know, a birthstone is a gemstone that represents a person’s period of birth–usually attributed to a particular month or zodiac sign. Beyond their aesthetic appeal (we’re talking about the vibrant colours, beautiful shapes, and unlimited craftsmanship possibilities), birthstones are also supposed to hold special properties and meanings. There aren’t any restrictions for wearing these gorgeous gems as jewellery, but adorning yourself with your own birthstone can enhance their power and bring you luck. 

Birthstones have been known to affect your aura, mood and energy levels, helping you manifest your goals. If you’re looking to learn more about them, scroll ahead to take a look at our guide. 

Garnet for January

If your birthday falls in the first month of the year, then your birthstone is garnet. This deep pomegranate coloured stone stands for goodwill, happiness, and purpose. In ancient times, Egyptians believed that this bold gemstone was a symbol of life and often wore them as signet rings. 

Alternative Birthstone: rose quartz 

Amethyst for February 

The second (and shortest) month of the year’s birthstone is amethyst, a vibrant stone found in shades of deep purple to pastel pink. The stone symbolises stability, clarity of mind, and spirituality. At one point in history, amethyst was a symbol of royalty, but today it is believed to be a natural hormone balancer.

Alternative Birthstone: onyx

Aquamarine for March

Invoking tranquility, the serenely coloured aquamarine stone is the official birthstone for those born in March. It is said to aid in meditation and spirituality while bringing about a sense of calmness to the wearer’s life. If you’re looking to encourage honest and compassionate communication, then this is the birthstone for you. 

Alternative Birthstone: jade

Diamond for April

Diamonds are every woman’s best friend–and it’s especially true for those born in the fourth month of the year. This crystal clear gemstone is said to radiate energy and light to the soul. It also provides strength and clarity in stressful situations, unifying mind and body. In ancient Greece, warriors wore diamonds to become invincible and it was during the Renaissance when they were first used in engagement rings! 

Alternative Birthstone: opal

Emerald for May

May-born individuals may (pardon the pun) find themselves attracted to the beautiful emerald. This beautiful pure green stone transforms negative energy into positive vibes. It also brings harmony and security to the wearer. What’s more, it’s said that Cleopatra collected the stone! 

Alternative Birthstone: agate 

Pearl for June

Wildly associated with mermaids and the ocean’s treasure, pearls are also the birthstone of June-borns. These gems of the sea come in a range of colours, from white to black to rare pink. This beautiful sphere is associated with faithfulness, loyalty, and purity. To this day, this precious gem is associated with nobility and elegance. 

Alternative Birthstone: moonstone

Ruby for July

This rich red-coloured gemstone is a result of the element chromium which makes it glow from within. For centuries, rubies have been considered to be a symbol of passion, prosperity, and protection. It increases energy, promotes courage, and brings wealth and love. 

Alternative Birthstone: carnelian

Peridot for August

It’s the only stone that’s found in one colour: green. Inspiring a sense of happiness, peridot is the birthstone for the eighth month of the year. It empowers us to take responsibility and make decisions that encourage prosperity. Believers also associate its green energy with peaceful sleep and internal balance. 

Alternative Birthstone: spinel

Sapphire for September

A beautiful, eye-catching shade, sapphire is the official birthstone for those born in the month of September. Although traditionally it is supposed to be a vibrant blue, it also comes in every colour of the rainbow except red. It’s a symbol of loyalty, nobility, and integrity. Blue sapphires are famously believed to be a cure-all for every disease–including helping insomniacs sleep. 

Alternative Birthstone: lapis lazuli

Opal for October

The birthstone for October-iets is opal, a one-of-a-kind stone that was believed to have fallen out of the sky in bolts of lightning according to an Arabic legend. This gemstone attracts positive energy and centres the mind. 

Alternative Birthstone: tourmaline

Topaz for November

While true topaz is colourless, impurities give it different hues like blue, pink, yellow and brown. The birthstone for those born in the eleventh month of the year, this pretty precious stone solidifies faith and trust. Yellow topaz is associated with antidepressant properties while blue helps clear the mind.

Alternative Birthstone: pearl or citrine

Tanzanite for December

The popular birthstone for those born in the month of Christmas, tanzanite is a unique violet-blue gem that opens up awareness regarding one’s strengths and inspires creativity. In Tanzania, women wear tanzanite beads while giving birth as it is believed to affect the baby’s health. 

Alternative Birthstone: turquoise