No matter what unique jewelry gift you're shopping for, birthstone jewelry will always make your loved one melt. Consider gifting birthstone pieces for any occasion, whether it be celebrating a graduation, welcoming a new baby into the family, a birthday, or simply just because. From colorful women's engagement rings to sophisticated sapphire bracelets for the special man in your life, birthstones add a special touch to any timeless piece.
Buying jewelry for friends and family can feel daunting—but it doesn't have to! When you start your search, consult our ultimate birthstone gift guide to help you select a meaningful and memorable present that they'll cherish for years to come.
What is a Birthstone?
If you're unfamiliar with the term, a birthstone is a gemstone that aligns with someone's birth month or sometimes astrological sign. Each one has its own unique meaning and personal significance, and many believe that wearing your birthstone in a beautiful jewelry design is a way to connect with your inner self.
Get to Know the Birthstones
If you're shopping for your daughter, mother, or long-term significant other, selecting the correct birthstone should be a breeze. If you're unsure of your loved one's official stone, enlist the help of a trusted friend or family member before you begin your quest to find her the perfect women's birthstone ring or earrings.
First things first—you must determine their birth month. Each month of the calendar year has its own assigned precious gemstone (sometimes even two or three). To avoid getting the wrong one, make sure you know for sure when your special someone was born and, if they’re in a month with multiple options, which they prefer, before you shop for their birthstone jewelry gift.
The Official Birthstones for Every Month
- January: Garnet
- February: Amethyst
- March: Aquamarine
- April: Diamond
- May: Emerald
- June Pearl or Moonstone
- July: Ruby
- August: Peridot
- September: Sapphire
- October: Opal or Tourmaline
- November: Topaz or Citrine
- December: Tanzanite, Zircon or Turquoise
The History Behind Birthstones
The origin of birthstones is a fascinating one, spanning over time and cultures. Birthstones can first be traced back to the biblical days of Moses and his brother, Aaron. There were 12 gemstones on Aaron's ceremonial breastplate to represent each of the 12 tribes of Israel. Unfortunately, varying translations make it difficult to decipher what each of the birthstones was initially representing or their natural order.
Sometime around the 15th century, the world saw a transition from a religious meaning to a more secular one. The Polish began to wear the stones to represent power, regardless of one's birth month. It became common to wear all 12 stones at once to signify a higher level of standing. After that practice became accepted, the more modern tradition of wearing one stone to symbolize your month of birth took off in 16th-century Europe—and we've never looked back.
How Birthstones Are Determined Today
Although birthstones had already become an international trend rooted in different cultures around the world, there was no consensus on which gemstone was assigned to which month. In 1912, the National Association of Jewelers began to develop the official, modern list of birthstones.
Technically, we recognize three separate lists of birthstones: ancient, traditional, and modern. On the ancient list, the gemstones are widely recognizable and have been in use for thousands of years, while gems on the traditional list have been in use for the last 500 years. It is only in the past 100 years that we have seen the modern list of birthstones in use. Many of the gemstones grace two or more lists.
One thing is sure – birthstone jewelry always has and always will hold great significance to the wearer, making birthstone gifts an ideal choice for just about everyone in your life.
Finding Your Birthstone Using the Zodiac
While many people stick to a strict month-to-month method for determining birthstones, others follow the astrological calendar. Since zodiac dates cross over into multiple months, the gemstones assigned to each of the 12 signs do vary when compared to the modern list. If you're shopping for someone who is passionate about their astrological sign, consider using this list:
- Capricorn (December 22 to January 19): Garnet
- Aquarius (January 20 to February 18): Amethyst
- Pisces (February 19 to March 20): Aquamarine
- Aries (March 21 to April 19): Diamond
- Taurus (April 20 to May 20): Emerald
- Gemini May 21 to June 20): Pearl
- Cancer (June 21 to July 22): Ruby
- Leo (July 23 to August 22): Peridot
- Virgo (August 23 to September 22): Sapphire
- Libra (September 23 to October 22): Opal
- Scorpio (October 23 to November 21): Topaz
- Sagittarius (November 22 to December 21): Tanzanite
Do Birthstones Have Spiritual Meanings?
Although birthstones no longer hold religious symbolism, many believe the stones hold physical and emotional healing powers, beliefs, and superstitions. Each birthstone is thought to have its own spiritual properties. For example: Opal, the October birthstone, is thought to hold the power of protection from spiritual decline and breakdown, while amethyst, February’s birthstone, is all-healing.
A Month-by-Month Guide to Birthstone Jewelry
Your friends and family deserve a gift that will make them feel special—so why not take the time to select designer birthstone jewelry just for them? Discover the unique meanings behind each month's birthstone and find stylish suggestions for sentimental gifts for each of your loved ones with this helpful month-by-month guide.
Garnet: Birthstone for January
If you're shopping for January birthstone presents, the gorgeous glittering garnet is your stone. In fact, it can be found on both traditional and modern birthstone lists, making each necklace, ring, and bracelet a timeless piece across the board. The name of the stone comes from the Middle English word for pomegranate, and if you look closely at the seeds of the red fruit, you can see why.
While garnet can be found in a rainbow of colors, red is always the chosen hue for January birthstone pieces. Rich in color and brilliant in all shapes and cuts, the garnet gemstone shines brightly when set into any metal, from sterling silver to classic yellow gold.
What Does Garnet Symbolize?
Garnet is a beloved gemstone often believed to bring protection to its wearer—especially if worn by someone born in January. Donning a pair of garnet earrings or a garnet pendant is thought to strengthen trust in relationships and symbolize commitment—making it the perfect gift for someone you love.
Shopping for Garnet Birthstone Jewelry
We love recommending eye-catching garnet jewelry for anyone, but if you're specifically searching for a January birthstone jewelry gift, may we suggest:
David Yurman Marbella Garnet Ring: with classic yellow gold, a dazzling cut of rhodolite garnet, and a modern twisted band, this David Yurman birthstone ring is sure to impress.
Rose Gold Garnet and Diamond Pendant: featuring a center teardrop garnet cabochon in a diamond halo, our Sabel Collection pendant makes a stunning January birthstone gift.
Yellow Gold Garnet and Diamond Halo Necklace: there's nothing more dazzling for special occasions than a necklace studded with oval cut garnet stones in diamond halos that go all the way around.
Amethyst: Birthstone for February
When shopping for friends and family born in the chilly month of February, look out for pieces that prominently feature amethyst. Known for its bright purple hue, this beloved birthstone is loved by many—even those born in other months! It's also a common option for 6th wedding anniversary gifts, so there are endless styles to choose from.
Amethysts can be found in a wide range of purple shades, from lilac to plum and more, making it a versatile option for silver, gold, and platinum chains. The stones themselves are a type of quartz and can vary in appearance, from transparent to translucent to opaque—all of which can be used in designer jewelry pieces.
What Does Amethyst Symbolize?
Amethyst carries various meanings, including intoxication, healing, wealth, and power. It's been a cherished stone for centuries, being worn for protection by soldiers and donned by royalty to symbolize their status. When someone with a February birthday wears amethyst birthstone jewelry, it's said to help them find personal empowerment and stillness.
Shopping for Amethyst Birthstone Jewelry
If you're looking for guidance for stunning pieces your special someone will wear for years to come, browse our birthstone jewelry collection. Each ring, pendant, necklace, and bracelet is absolutely breathtaking:
White Gold Cushion Cut Amethyst Birthstone Pendant: your special someone will fall in love with the traditional cushion cut amethyst and its pop of bright purple set off by a glittering diamond halo.
Marco Bicego Mini Amethyst Button Earrings: for a subtle yet deeply meaningful gift they can wear every day, consider these charming and understated amethyst stud earrings.
LAGOS Amethyst Caviar Bracelet: with a sterling silver Caviar beaded band, yellow gold accents, and a small, rich amethyst stone in the center, this designer birthstone bracelet can be worn on its own or in a stack.
Aquamarine: Birthstone for March
Those born in March are lucky enough to have aquamarine as their birthstone. Named after the Latin term meaning "water of the sea," this brilliant gemstone is best known for its iconic aqua blue color. If you're searching for elegant and refined March birthstone jewelry, you'll be amazed at the wide variety of timeless and sophisticated styles out there.
Aquamarine is technically a variety of beryl and is famous for being the only blueish-green silicate material found in granite around the world. While it comes in a variety of shades, from deep navy blue to bright sky blue, the most traditional choice for March birthstone jewelry is a light blue-green that matches the color of gentle ocean waters.
What Does Aquamarine Symbolize?
Aquamarine birthstone jewelry is said to protect its wearer from any storm, whether that's literally for sailors on an ocean voyage or spiritually during times of stress.
This almost-magical-looking stone is said to bring the appearance of everlasting youth, serenity, and happiness to its wearer.
Shopping for Aquamarine Birthstone Jewelry
Treat your March birthday loved ones to an aquamarine jewelry gift they'll never want to take off. Consider buying one of these tried-and-true styles:
Rose Gold Round Aquamarine Ring: designed with a simple band, the light blue color of the round cut aquamarine stone is the star of the ring.
White Gold Oval Aquamarine and Diamond Halo Necklace: our dazzling aquamarine pendant is surrounded by a ring of tiny diamonds to turn heads in every room.
White Pearl and Aquamarine Five-Row Beaded Necklace: go for a true seaside aesthetic with our multilayered pearl and aquamarine beaded necklace.
Diamond: Birthstone for April
This rare stone is not just for the ladies in your life. A diamond is everyone's best friend, making the April birthstone a perfect gift for any occasion. From studded bracelets to charming engagement rings and everything in between, there's a diamond design for everyone. Need we say more?
While diamonds can be found in a variety of colors, April birthstone jewelry typically only uses the clear stones. Diamond jewelry is often gifted for 60th and 75th wedding anniversaries—so there are always plenty of styles to choose from. Many April birthstone designs feature white sapphire for that classic diamond look at a more affordable price point.
What Do Diamonds Symbolize?
Diamonds are the most popular choice for an engagement ring for a reason—above all else, diamonds symbolize love, commitment, and eternal dedication. If the love of your life was born in April, prove your faithfulness with a meaningful birthstone gift.
Shopping for Diamond Birthstone Jewelry
Give your friends and family something to remind them of your love with a dazzling April birthstone piece like these:
Breitling Super Chronomat Diamond Watch: perfect for the style-conscious men in your life, this sleek, diamond-encrusted designer watch is the perfect accessory for any occasion.
Yellow Gold Diamond Station Necklace: with nine small diamonds evenly spread out on a thin gold chain, this dainty design is perfect for layering.
White Gold Diamond Hoop Earrings: these glamorous diamond-studded hoop earrings feature diamonds on the inside and the outside, so she’ll sparkle from every angle.
Emerald: Birthstone for May
Brilliantly green and aptly named, emeralds make a stunning choice for traditional May birthstone jewelry. Formed in beryl when chromium, vanadium, and iron are present, glittering emeralds are found around the world in places such as Zambia, Brazil, Colombia, and Afghanistan. Some of these beauties undergo heat treatments to enrich the deep color, making any emerald birthstone jewelry piece magnificent.
What Do Emeralds Symbolize?
If you wear an emerald birthstone design, you can expect to experience more loyalty and unconditional love from the relationships in your life. Many couples exchange emerald jewelry on their 55th wedding anniversary as a symbol of peace, security, and romance.
Shopping for Emerald Birthstone Jewelry
When selecting a birthday present for May-born loved ones, consider one of these stylish, high-end emerald birthstone pieces:
White Gold Diamond and Emerald Ring: make sure your special someone is the center of attention in every room with this emerald and diamond band with milgrain details.
Emerald and Diamond Triangle Pendant: with three round emeralds in the shape of a triangle and small diamond embellishments, this pendant makes an unforgettable gift.
Modern Renaissance Emerald Bangle Bracelet: with a clean, contemporary silhouette and delicate emerald and diamond details, this bracelet is a must for all fashion-lovers.
Pearl and Moonstone: Birthstones for June
When it comes to shopping for June birthday gifts, you will never go wrong with pearl birthstone jewelry. These precious gemstones are formed in the sea, and each one offers a lustrous shine. From rings to flapper-style necklaces and more, there’s a pearl jewelry design for everyone.
June technically has two birthstones—so don't forget to check out the selection of moonstone pieces! Known for its otherworldly opalescent shimmer, moonstone comes in a variety of colors, though the white variants are most often used for June birthstone jewelry, as they mimic the look of a pearl.
What Do Pearls Symbolize?
Pearls represent loyalty, purity, and wisdom. This timeless birthstone for June offers protection and good fortune to all who wear them, so any pearl necklace, earrings, or birthstone rings for women are sure to delight.
What Does Moonstone Symbolize?
Femininity, balance, and intuition are just some of the meanings associated with wearing moonstone jewelry. If you're looking for a gift for a special lady in your life who loves to feel at peace with her highest self, consider shopping for June birthstone pieces with moonstone.
Shopping for June Birthstone Jewelry
Whether they prefer the timeless elegance of pearl strands or whimsical moonstone rings, you’ll find something lovely among these June birthstone jewelry options:
Mikimoto Black South Sea Pearl Stud Earrings: these designer studs feature black pearls with diamond accents that make them perfect for any occasion.
John Hardy Mini Pull-Through Moonstone Bracelet: subtle, elegant, and oh-so-meaningful, this adjustable bracelet features a row of moonstone gems in sterling silver for a pop of shine.
IPPOLITA Tear Drop Pearl Ring: slightly oversized and set in a yellow gold band, this mother-of-pearl teardrop is designed to shine.
Ruby: Birthstone for July
Red ruby slippers aren't the only sought-after accessory! Ruby gemstone jewelry is the traditional birthstone choice for those with July birthdays. Known for their gorgeous deep red coloring that comes from chromium mineral traces, rubies make eternally beautiful jewelry designs, from rings to earrings and more. When your special someone puts on her July birthstone jewelry, she's sure to have all eyes on her.
What Does Ruby Symbolize?
Traditionally worn as a talisman, ruby jewelry is said to have mystical properties that manifest as personal protection and courage boosts. Wearing this bright red gemstone can help welcome passion and vitality into your life—and who wouldn't want that?
Shopping for Ruby Birthstone Jewelry
The romantic scarlet hue of ruby jewelry is the perfect way to symbolize your unconditional love for your significant other. Consider any of these timeless ruby accessories as you shop for July birthstone gifts:
White Gold Pear Shape Ruby and Diamond Ring: with alternating ruby and diamond pear shaped stones wrapping around the entire band, this ring makes a statement.
Yellow Gold Ruby Pendant: hanging from a classic gold chain, our pendant features an emerald cut ruby in a diamond halo that will elevate any look.
Roberto Coin Tiny Yellow Gold Reversible Ruby Heart Pendant: prove your love with this charming red ruby and diamond open heart pendant necklace.
Peridot: Birthstone for August
Your jewelry gift options for peridot, the birthstone for August, are endless. This vibrant green gem practically glows and holds an intriguing backstory. Hawaiian folklore tells us this birthstone of August represents tears from Pele, the volcano goddess. Whether it’s set in rings, pendants, or earrings, peridot makes quite the conversation piece.
What Does Peridot Symbolize?
Often referred to as "The Gem of Strength," peridot birthstones are believed to bring overall harmony to the mind, body, and soul. The August birthstone also symbolizes true love, making it a romantic gift option for someone near and dear to your heart.
Shopping for Peridot Birthstone Jewelry
Whether as a push present for a mom with an August baby or as a birthday gift, you can show her how much you care with fine peridot jewelry:
Peridot and Diamond Earrings: with the bright green birthstone as the centerpiece, this diamond-embellished oval stud earring is sure to be their next everyday staple.
John Hardy Reversible Chain Bracelet with Peridot: this John Hardy classic chain bracelet features a peridot clasp that will make anyone with an August birthday smile.
David Yurman Peridot Cable Ring: with the classic David Yurman Cable design and a round peridot stone, this mixed-metal ring adds a lovely pop of color to a ring stack.
Sapphire: Birthstone for September
The stunning sapphire provides deep blue tones and makes a divine birthstone jewelry gift in any setting you choose. Sapphires rate a nine on the Mohs Hardness Scale, offering a lifetime of durability, much like the diamond. These vibrant blue gems get their dark color from titanium and iron and add a striking hint of color to any look.
What Does Sapphire Symbolize?
Sapphire has long been famous for being a stone of wisdom, prophecy, and divine judgment. Those born in September should consider wearing sapphire rings and necklaces to find their inner strength.
Shopping for Sapphire Birthstone Jewelry
Some of our favorite September birthstone jewelry gift options include:
Sapphire Flower Necklace: this floral necklace features four sapphire petals with diamonds. Your September birthday girl will love the whimsy it brings with every wear.
John Hardy Naga Coil Ring: buy a bold statement dragon ring with a glittering sapphire eye for those in your life who love to rock a daring accessory.
Sapphire Halo Stud Earrings: with rich blue oval sapphires in the middle of shining diamond halos, these gemstone stud earrings never go out of style.
Opal and Tourmaline: Birthstones for October
Amaze your friends and family who were born in October with breathtaking opal birthstone jewelry. Opals derive their beautiful coloring from water that picks up silica dioxide and then deposits it and other trace impurities into the open cavities. Australia's rainfall is perfect for producing these beautiful October birthstones, making excellent options for opal pendants, birthstones, rings, and more.
When you shop for October birthstone jewelry, remember that this month has two beauties to call its own! Tourmaline, the Sinhalese word for mixed-colored stones, comes from a variety of minerals of varying colors and chemical makeup. Although it can be found in a variety of colors, pink is the preferred choice for birthstone designs.
What Does Opal Symbolize?
Opal has had many different meanings over the years, but the ones that have rung true for those with October birthdays are good luck, purity, and fidelity, making them a popular choice for celebrating any special occasion. Consider gifting a pair of opal earrings or cufflinks for your 14th wedding anniversary!
What Does Tourmaline Symbolize?
The second October birthstone is believed to increase creativity and insight. If your fall-born family members are artists, you should consider buying them a beautiful tourmaline accessory to help them with their passions.
Shopping for October Birthstone Jewelry
Celebrate your friends and family with a few of our favorite timeless October birthstone jewelry:
Rose Gold Opal Birthstone Ring: with an oval opal center stone in a diamond halo, this rose gold October birthstone ring is an instant classic.
John Hardy Beaded Bracelet with Opals: this simple multi-colored opal beaded bracelet is the perfect gift for those who love a subdued, masculine accessory.
IPPOLITA Lollipop Gemstone Necklace: this multi-birthstone rainbow necklace features a variety of gems, including tourmaline, and is easy to style on its own or with the rest of its matching collection.
Topaz and Citrine: Birthstones for November
When you search for November birthstone jewelry gifts, you'll find both glittering yellow topaz and bright orange citrine. In its pure form, topaz is actually colorless—until the impurities start transforming the hue into the classic yellow-orange it's known for in birthstone jewelry. Citrine is prized for being durable and scratch-resistant, making it perfect for pieces that will last a lifetime.
What Does Topaz Symbolize?
Topaz is worn to bring strength and honor upon the wear. With an exciting range of colors, any topaz accessory will help those with November birthdays feel like their best selves.
What Does Citrine Symbolize?
Citrine is thought to have healing properties, being used to release negative energy and soothe worries and fears. If you friend was born in November, gifting them citrine will help them continue through life with a calm and fearless approach.
Shopping for November Birthstone Jewelry
With two striking gemstones to choose from, there's sure to be a November birthstone jewelry gift for every style. Consider a few of our favorites for the lucky people in your life:
William Henry Citrine Pocket Knife: as beautiful as it is practical, this citrine-accented knife is the perfect men's birthstone gift.
IPPOLITA Long Multi-Colored Earrings: featuring bright blue topaz at the top along with a variety of complementary gemstones, this pair of colorful dangle earrings matches any outfit.
John Hardy Pink Tourmaline Bracelet: with a strong sterling silver chain and a bright pink tourmaline gemstone detail on the clasp, anyone can rock this stylish bracelet.
Tanzanite, Zircon, or Turquoise: Birthstones for December
Just because it's almost Christmas doesn't mean you can cut corners on December birthdays. But you will have your choice of three dazzling blue birthstones for December. Turquoise, zircon, and Tanzanite are all classified as December birthstones.
With a vibrant color and interesting history, turquoise is typically the most common choice for December birthstone jewelry. This stone was one of the first gemstones to be mined, and each piece offers a unique look. The gem ranges from opaque to semi-translucent and is quite delicate, rating a six on the Mohs Scale of Hardness. Turquoise has become rarer in its purest form, but its vein-like marbling makes each stone a breathtaking work of nature’s art.
The other two, while still popular choices for December birthstone jewelry, are less common. Blue zircon offers beauty as well as protection from illness and wounds and wards off evil spirits. Although not as popular in jewelry these days, zircon's beauty still makes this a wonderful birthstone jewelry gem. Tanzanite, a more recently discovered gem, offers deep tones of blue from vanadium traces and can be found occasionally in fine jewelry designs.
What Does Turquoise Symbolize?
As the most popular choice for December birthstone jewelry, turquoise has the most symbolism attached. Many people across different cultures believe it to have the strongest protection properties of all the birthstones. It's also thought to bring luck and abundance to the wearer.
Shopping for December Birthstone Jewelry
Browse through all of our December stones and decide which birthstone jewelry pieces make the best gift for your loved one, from birthstone rings for women to turquoise earrings she'll love. You're sure to find an amazing birthstone gift, like:
John Hardy Classic Chain Rata Birthstone Bracelet: with a beautiful, woven sterling silver bracelet and turquoise rectangles, this is a magnificent gift for any December-born friend.
IPPOLITA Turquoise Teardrop Birthstone Earrings: the yellow gold lining truly makes this the perfect birthstone gift, as they can wear these turquoise teardrops with casual or dressy attire.
Three-Stone Tanzanite Birthstone Ring: with vibrant blue Tanzanite stones, each brilliantly accented with sparkling round diamonds, this is a statement piece she's sure to cherish for years to come.
It's easy to see why birthstone jewelry pieces make a fabulous gift for any occasion, isn't it? They offer a way for you to personalize a gift, adding a sentimental touch. We invite you to stop by a Fink's Jewelers location or browse our online selection of fantastic birthstone designs. Our dedicated team of jewelry experts is here to answer all your birthstone gifting questions.
