Whether you’re shopping for a birthday gift or graduation present, there’s nothing quite as sentimental as birthstone gifts. Our jewelry specialists believe every special someone in your life should have a birthstone jewelry piece as a precious keepsake.
From a birthstone necklace to a stunning pair of diamond and birthstone earrings, birthstone jewelry tells your loved one you put your heart into selecting their gift. Our knowledgeable jewelry specialists have compiled a complete guide of everything you need to know about birthstone jewelry and shopping for the ideal birthstone gift.
The History of Birthstones
The use of birthstone gems spans over time and various cultures. In fact, these beautiful stones and their perceived powers trace back to the biblical days of Moses and his brother, Aaron. The stones were worn on the ceremonial breastplate of Aaron when he would venture into battle.
It was believed that each gemstone represented one of the 12 tribes of Israel. Since then, there have been various translations regarding each stone's representation and its natural order.
What Was Poland’s Influence on Birthstone Tradition?
Under the zodiac sign, each birthstone represents a specific month of the year. Around the 15th century in Poland, birthstone meaning began to transition from religious ties to a more secular meaning.
The Polish began to wear birthstones to harness the powers each was believed to represent. There was no emphasis on wearing the stone that represented one’s birth month. In fact, it was ideal to wear all 12 stones at once, signifying one’s higher level of standing. The practice soon spread worldwide.
The Creation of the Birthstone List
In 1912, The National Association of Jewelers began to develop a modern-day list of birthstones. This is the birthstone list we most commonly use today. However, three separate lists of birthstones are still recognized.
The 3 birthstone lists include:
- ancient
- traditional
- modern
Comparing the Birthstone Lists
Gemstones on the ancient list are the most widely recognizable, as they have been in use for thousands of years. Gemstones found on the traditional list have been recognized for the last 500 years. Within the last 100 years, the modern list of birthstones has been in use and continues to grow in popularity.
In comparison, you’ll notice that many of these beautiful gemstones grace two or more lists. It is not uncommon for one to adopt their birthstone by preference, as some prefer to select their birthstone by its color rather than the stone itself.
What Have Birthstones Come to Represent?
While birthstones no longer hold their religious significance, they still hold powerful meaning. Many believe the stones hold emotional and physical healing powers and that some bring good fortune while others support superstitions.
For example, opal, the birthstone for October, is believed to have the power to protect you from spiritual decline or breakdown. Amethyst, the birthstone of February, is known for its all-healing powers.
Birthstones are also believed to represent:
- your astrological sign
- the season
- your guardian angels
- the hour of your birth
Whether you believe in a birthstone’s ability to heal or change one’s outlook, one thing is sure – birthstone jewelry will always hold significance to the wearer, making birthstone gifts an ideal choice.
Why Consider Giving a Birthstone Gift?
A birthstone gift makes an ideal present for any gift-giving occasion. From a push present or baby shower to a milestone anniversary celebration, giving a birthstone gift is an item any of your loved ones will cherish forever.
A birthstone gift, whether a dainty birthstone necklace or dazzling pair of birthstone earrings, is a present they can wear on any occasion, dressy or casual. Birthstone jewelry also adds a unique personal touch and makes a timeless keepsake. Whether the birthstone jewelry you select represents their birth month or the month of a loved one, it will create treasured memories.
Is Birthstone Jewelry Only for Birthdays?
Birthstone jewelry pieces make the ideal gifts for an array of occasions. A birthstone offers a way for you to go beyond a traditional jewelry present. By personalizing a meaningful piece with a birthstone, you create a keepsake beyond their expectations.
While birthstone earrings or any piece are perfect for birthdays, we challenge you to think outside the box. We’ve compiled a small list of occasions ideal for giving birthstone gifts.
Consider giving a birthstone gift for a variety of occasions, including:
- baby shower
- bridal shower
- push present
- new baby
- first or new grandbaby
- Mother’s Day
- graduation
- best friend’s birthday
- anniversary
- Valentine’s Day
- Christmas
- as an engagement ring
- as an anniversary ring
- as a wedding band
How to Identify Their Birthstone
If you’re unsure of which gemstone represents the receiver’s birthstone or that of their child or grandchild it will represent, there's no need to panic. Instead, we asked our knowledgeable team of birthstone jewelry experts to provide a helpful guide to assist in your gift shopping.
Keep in mind there may be between one to three birthstones assigned to each month. Most women tend to wear the gemstone designated on the modern birthstone list. We have included both the modern and traditional lists for you to compare.
As you shop for the ultimate birthday gift for your loved one, use the following lists to guide your birthstone jewelry search.
The Modern Birthstone list:
- January: Garnet
- February: Amethyst
- March: Aquamarine
- April: Diamond
- May: Emerald
- June: Alexandrite
- July: Ruby
- August: Peridot or Spinel
- September: Sapphire
- October: Tourmaline
- November: Golden Topaz or Citrine
- December: Blue Topaz
The Traditional Birthstone list:
- January: Garnet
- February: Amethyst
- March: Bloodstone
- April: Diamond
- May: Emerald
- June: Pearl
- July: Ruby
- August: Sardonyx
- September: Sapphire
- October: Opal
- November: Topaz
- December: Lapis or turquois
What Does Each Birthstone Represent?
So, what is the meaning behind each gorgeous birthstone? Whether you are unaware of your own, prefer to shop by meaning rather than assigned stone, or are just curious what each represents, we have you covered. So, look through each birthstone's representation and peek at a few of our favorite birthstone jewelry pieces recommended by our experts.
Birthstone for January: The Garnet
The garnet species comes in a multitude of colors. However, the traditional January birthstone is the deep red stone.
What is the Meaning Behind the January Birthstone?
The January birthstone comes from the Middle English 14th-century word "garnet." While the word means deep red, it also draws meaning from the rich color of the pomegranate, which was quite popular during this time. It is best known for symbolizing love.
The garnet also represents:
- success
- friendship
- healing between lovers
- safety and protection during your travels
- happiness throughout life
- protection from evil thoughts
Our Favorite Garnet Birthstone Gifts
We love the mesmerizing garnet because of its rich color. It makes a stunning birthstone gift for those born in January or for any special gifting occasion. The garnet gemstone is absolutely breathtaking set in white gold, no matter which birthstone jewelry style you select.
We love offering our recommendations for this gorgeous January birthstone. We have plenty of garnet birthstone gifts to suggest if you need a few helpful ideas.
If you think she’ll love a garnet birthstone necklace, we urge you to peek at our Sabel Collection Round Garnet Pendant Birthstone Necklace. It’s ideal for any neckline as it hangs delicately from an 18-inch 14k white gold chain. The white gold setting is the perfect contrast against the garnet.
We recommend pairing the stunning birthstone necklace with the Garnet and Diamond Halo Birthstone Ring. Or, consider a beautiful pair of birthstone earrings.
Birthstone for February: The Amethyst
The birthstone for February is made up of various quartz. The gorgeous shades of amethyst range from violet to deep purple. Any hue of this gemstone is sure to capture her eye whether you choose a birthstone necklace, ring, or amethyst birthstone earrings.
What Does the February Birthstone Symbolize?
The February birthstone symbolizes positivity while warding off negative thoughts. Amethyst jewelry provides the wearer with a sense of peace and positive vibes while instilling a sense of power.
The amethyst also represents:
- royalty
- courage
- stability
- focus
- affection
- romance
- wealth
- healing
The appeal of the amethyst is said to have started with the Greek gods. They were known to drink from goblets dripping with amethyst. The Greeks believed that using amethyst stones on their goblets held power to prevent drunkenness. In fact, the Greek word Amethystos even translates to “not intoxicated.”
The magnificent gemstones were later worn by medieval soldiers marching into battle. The February birthstone was believed to protect the soldiers and keep them focused and alert.
It was also quite common to witness European royalty draped in robes of various purple shades and decorated with beautiful amethyst stones. For example, the Queen of England still wears a brooch from the beautiful amethyst jewelry Kent collection.
Our Favorite Amethyst Birthstone Gifts
Our stunning birthstone jewelry collection is a sight to see at Fink's. But, no matter who you're shopping for, they'll be in awe of our 14K White Gold Cushion Cut Amethyst Pendant Birthstone Necklace. Who can resist a stunning amethyst surrounded by white round diamonds?
You may also wish to consider the Marco Moore 14K Yellow Gold Amethyst Bezel Birthstone Necklace. This beauty boasts 6.25 cttw bezel-set amethysts and would be the perfect birthstone gift to place around her neck.
Either necklace would pair beautifully with a pair of our birthstone earrings.
Birthstone for March: The Aquamarine
The aquamarine gemstone consists of a rare, silicate material, often found in granite. The aquamarine species can be found in various hues, ranging from light sea blue to deep blues. However, the traditional March birthstone is a light blue-green, perfectly mimicking clear ocean waters.
What Does the Aquamarine Birthstone Symbolize?
The name of the beautiful March birthstone comes from its piercing yet calming color. Its dynamic color even means beautiful blue water.
The name is also fitting because the gemstone was believed to hold power to provide protection and safe travels to sailors at sea. In addition, the March birthstone was said to instill a sense of calm in the waters while also calming the wearer by providing peaceful energy.
There are even rumors of a legend telling of mermaids with tails made of aquamarine. The mermaids were believed to guide the men at sea and protect them as they navigated the treacherous waters.
The aquamarine also symbolizes:
- everlasting youth
- rekindling of love
- friendship
- tranquility
- peace
- clarity
Our Favorite Aquamarine Birthstone Gifts
We invite you to admire the icy blue Round Aquamarine and Diamond Halo Ring. It’s a birthstone gift she’s sure to fall in love with. The stunning statement ring is perfect for anyone who adores the piercing hues of this gemstone.
If you’re searching for aquamarine birthstone earrings to grace her lobes, we have a collection you won't want to miss. With various metal settings and styles, we know you'll find a birthstone earring gift to suit her taste.
Birthstone for April: The Diamond
The diamond species may be found in various colors, but the traditional April birthstone will always be a brilliant white diamond.
What Does the Diamond Birthstone Symbolize?
April’s birthstone symbolizes strength and eternal love. The word diamond comes from the Greek word Adamas, meaning invincible. Diamonds have always been regarded as rare beauties, making your April lady extra special.
The diamond was once believed to possess the power to cure crippling brain illnesses. In fact, during the Middle Ages, healers would heat the powerful stone and place it in the bed of the sick to draw impurities and toxins out of their bodies.
The diamond birthstone also represents:
- inner strength
- strong relationships
- energy
- abundance
- balance
- clarity
Our Favorite Diamond Birthstone Gifts
Watch her eyes light up when you present her with a pair of April halo birthstone earrings. The sparkle from the pair of studs is perfect for everyday wear or those special occasions. She’ll love how they are nestled in a beautifully crafted white gold setting and have subtle hints of vintage style.
If she deserves a beautiful diamond around her neckline, we have a fantastic gift for her. Take a look at our Sabel Collection Round Diamond Birthstone Pendant Necklace. This dainty pendant will hang delicately from an 18-inch 14k white gold chain. The white gold setting gives the illusion of a larger center stone she's sure to appreciate.
We do want to note that providing high-quality April birthstone jewelry that is affordable to all our clients is important to us. In doing so, you may find that certain April birthstone jewelry pieces are made with exquisite white sapphires rather than diamonds, as noted in their descriptions.
Birthstone for May: The Emerald
Emeralds are always head-turners. Rich in color, emerald means green. These May birthstone beauties are formed when vanadium, chromium, and iron are present in the mineral beryl. An emerald’s range of hues comes from the varying presence of the three elements.
What Does the Emerald Birthstone Symbolize?
The emerald is known for its power to gift its wearer with undeniable foresight and good fortune. Emeralds are also known to symbolize rebirth.
The Mogul emperors of India cherished emeralds. They believed the gemstones were talismans, offering them the gods' protection.
In mythology, the emerald is known as the stone of the goddess Venus, leading to their strong association with romance. The stunning stones are also said to bring passion and unconditional love.
Legends say wearing emeralds can gift the wearer the ability to foresee the future and truth. It is also believed that the emerald has the power to cure disease and protect the wearer against all evil.
The emerald birthstone also represents:
- fidelity
- true love
- bliss
- truth
- eloquence
- wit
Our Favorite Emerald Birthstone Gifts
When selecting a March birthstone gift, consider our Emerald and Diamond Bracelet. Its beauty is sure to turn heads wherever she chooses to wear it. The vivid gem is stunning in this 14K white gold setting and can easily be worn for casual days and evenings out.
If she loves a bit of sparkle on her lobes, the White Gold Diamond and Emerald Huggies are a must! The May birthstone earrings make an exceptional choice whether they will represent her birthday or a child’s.
Birthstone for June: The Pearl
Searching for the ideal pearl birthstone jewelry? These precious gemstones are unique beauties and can come from the tiniest grain of sand within a mollusk. Over time, and through an incredible process inside each mollusk, a beautiful gem is formed. The pearl June birthstone is a classic choice for jewelry.
What Does the Pearl Birthstone Symbolize?
Pearls have been known to symbolize loyalty and purity. They also represent wisdom and good fortune to all who wear them.
The pearl birthstone also represents:
- good fortune
- wealth
- balance
- calm
- good karma
Our Favorite Pearl Birthstone Gifts
In keeping with true ocean beauty, we invite you to look at the beauty of freshwater pearls paired with intricate aquamarine beads. Our Sabel Pearl White Coin Five Row Birthstone Necklace makes a beautiful statement piece, showing off sophistication with a twist of tropical beauty. The rare birthstone necklace will make a cherished keepsake for any occasion.
You will never disappoint your special lady when you gift her a delicate strand of pearls. If you plan to give a traditional pearl piece, consider the Black South Sea Pearl Birthstone Bracelet. The small diamond accents are just the right amount of sparkle paired with these stunning cultured pearls.
If she already owns a strand of pearls, complete her collection with a pair of Pearl Stud Birthstone Earrings. We adore the timeless pearl birthstone earrings, which can be paired with any jewelry style or metal she currently has in her collection.
Birthstone for July: The Ruby
The gorgeous deep red color of the July birthstone, ruby, is enhanced through traces of chloronium. The most sought-after ruby will have a rich, blood-red tone and comes from Mogok Valley, Burma.
What Does the Ruby Birthstone Symbolize?
Many crowns have been adorned with rubies, representing good fortune and courage. The ruby birthstone instills great courage in those who wear them while representing blood and life.
The ruby birthstone also represents:
- raw emotion
- passion
- love
- prosperity
- nobility
- wealth
Our Favorite Ruby Birthstone Gifts
We have many favorite ruby birthstone jewelry pieces ranging from birthstone necklaces to accent rings. For example, our Sabel Collection White Gold Ruby and Diamond Bar Necklace offers brilliant sparkling diamonds, stunning rubies, and an 18K white gold setting she will love draped around her neck.
If you believe she would prefer a ruby bracelet upon her wrist, consider gifting our delicate Diamond and Ruby Birthstone Bracelet. It’s an ideal piece with over half a carat of diamonds and stunning ruby gemstones. It will take her breath away.
Birthstone for August: The Peridot
The August birthstone, peridot, is a vibrant gemstone. Peridot is quite a conversation piece, no matter what beautiful birthstone gift style you select. Hawaiian folklore even shares a story of this birthstone representing the tears from Pele, the volcano goddess.
What Does the Peridot Birthstone Symbolize?
The peridot's color represents the beauty of nature. In addition, it symbolizes good health and restful sleep.
The peridot birthstone also represents:
- harmony
- peacefulness
- calm
- compassion
- renewal
- protection
Our Favorite Peridot Birthstone Gifts
This uniquely colored gemstone makes for beautiful August birthstone jewelry. One of our favorites is the Peridot and Diamond Pendant, featuring the beautiful birthstone as its centerpiece. Whether it's a Mother's Day gift representing a grandchild or an anniversary surprise, she'll be in awe of this beautiful birthstone necklace.
We also carry something special for the charm bracelet enthusiast. Consider surprising her with a Heather B. Moore 14k Yellow Gold Peridot Faceted Ball Birthstone Charm to add to her collection. The meaningful birthstone bracelet addition will hold sentimental value forever upon her wrist.
Birthstone for September: The Sapphire
While the sapphire is offered in various colors, the September birthstone boasts deep blue tones. As a result, the stones make ideal birthstone gifts in any setting you select.
Almost as durable as the diamond, sapphires rate a nine on the Mohs Hardness Scale. The vibrant blue gemstones get their deep coloring from iron and titanium.
What Does the Sapphire Birthstone Symbolize?
While sapphires are often associated with royalty, they also represent blessings and gifts. They are often worn to protect against negative energies and invite spiritual clarity.
The sapphire birthstone also represents:
- abundance
- calm
- strength
- intuition
- devotion
- romantic love
Our Favorite Sapphire Birthstone Gifts
One of our most loved birthstone jewelry options is our 18K White Gold Sapphire and Diamond Drop Necklace. The necklace offers a gorgeous bezel-set sapphire stone, with a bezel-set diamond adding to its appeal. It makes an ideal birthstone gift as she can wear it with everyday attire or dress it up for a night on the town.
Or you may want to consider a unique birthstone jewelry option from the John Hardy Collection. This bold Legends Naga Ring is a unique statement piece, complete with sapphires.
Birthstone for October: Tourmaline
The birthstone for October is commonly considered to be opal, but this month is also represented by the striking pink tourmaline. Tourmaline, the Sinhalese word for mixed colored stones, comes from a mixture of minerals of various colors and chemical makeup.
What Does the Tourmaline Birthstone Symbolize?
Tourmaline is known as the stone of reconciliation because it brings calm and compassion to its wearer. In addition, the gemstone is said to heal relationships and reaffirm one’s roots with the earth.
The tourmaline birthstone also represents:
- grounding
- wealth
- stability
- joy
- generosity
Our Favorite Tourmaline Birthstone Gifts
One of our favorite tourmaline jewelry pieces is the IPPOLITA Lollipop Gemstone Station Necklace. This beauty is a multi-birthstone necklace featuring:
- pink tourmaline
- blue topaz
- turquoise
- London blue topaz
- amethyst
- white mother-of-pearl
- green gold citrine
- peridot
- prasiolite
This October birthstone necklace makes an ideal gift as it can be easily paired with her current wardrobe or jewelry collection. In addition, the multi-gem necklace leaves plenty of room to add on as she desires.
Birthstones for November: Topaz or Citrine
You'll have two beautiful birthstones to choose from for November, and both make wonderful birthstone jewelry gifts!
You can find a variety of radiant yellow topaz hues despite being colorless in pure form. Impurities give the topaz its colors and variations, including blue, orange, and pink. The November birthstone topaz is a beautiful yellow ray of light.
The citrine gemstone mimics the warmth of sunshine, blending hues of yellow and orange.
What Does the Topaz Birthstone Symbolize?
The topaz is known for representing strength and honor. It brings a sense of calm and balance to the wearer. It is also known to provide wisdom and rejuvenation.
What Does the Citrine Birthstone Symbolize?
The citrine symbolizes a healthy body and mind. It radiates happiness and represents success.
Our Favorite November Birthstone Gifts
We can’t get enough of our Citrine Stud Birthstone Earrings. The dainty studs are full of radiance packaged in vintage-like details. The pair are perfectly set in white gold settings.
If your special lady prefers yellow gold, we suggest the Marco Moore Citrine Bezel Necklace. The beautifully designed birthstone necklaces measure 36 inches, leaving plenty of length to double for a layered look.
Birthstone for December: Blue Topaz
The beautiful pale blue topaz is most widely used to represent December birthdays. The gorgeous color of the December birthstone comes from heating the stone at various temperature intensities, and the versatility of the blue hue makes it a great December birthstone jewelry gift.
What Does the Blue Topaz Birthstone Symbolize?
The blue topaz symbolizes loyalty and is often associated with great love.
The blue topaz birthstone also represents:
- communication
- trust
- healthy relationships
- honesty
- clarity
Our Favorite Blue Topaz Birthstone Gifts
We think she’ll love our Sabel Collection Blue Topaz Hall Birthstone Ring as much as we do. The topaz is exquisitely surrounded by a halo of white diamonds in a white gold setting. Then, as if it didn't get any better, she’ll have a beautiful white diamond-encrusted setting to melt over too.
Or, consider the December birthstone in our Sabel Collection Pendant Birthstone Necklace Collection. It’s the perfect piece to add to any jewelry collection for day and evening use.
Why Consider a Custom Birthstone Gift?
While any jewelry gift will be loved and hold sentimental value, imagine gifting your loved one a custom-designed birthstone jewelry piece. There’s nothing quite as unique as creating a one-of-a-kind birthstone jewelry gift from start to finish.
While you know your loved one best, you’ll be able to design a piece that fits her style and desires with the addition of a sentimental birthstone. So, whether they are tough to shop for, seem to have everything, or you’ve envisioned the ideal piece but can’t seem to find it, your custom creation will be the one piece they will cherish forever.
A custom birthstone jewelry gift offers you the complete creative freedom to create an original piece as unique as she is. While it may seem overwhelming, trust us; our incredible team of custom jewelry designers will assist you throughout the entire customization process. In addition, they will work with you to bring your birthstone gift ideas to reality.
We're here for all your fine jewelry desires, from your vision to jewelry upkeep. Our team can even help you design an original piece with portions of a family heirloom. Or, consider recreating a jewelry piece she admires, then add in her birthstone. Your possibilities are endless when you choose custom jewelry design.
Our Favorite Birthstone Jewelry Gifts for Men
At Fink’s, we strive to offer an array of birthstone jewelry choices for all your gifting needs. We even make sure to have a fine selection for the men in your life! From new dads to grandpas, the remarkable men in your life deserve stunning birthstone gifts too! We’ve compiled a list of some of our best-selling birthstone gift options to help you as your shop.
Whether you’re gifting a sapphire to the man in your life to celebrate his birth month or that of a loved one, we have a unique option to consider. The John Hardy Legends Sterling Silver Bracelet with Blue Sapphire Naga Head Station is a stunning piece he’s sure to love. The brilliant silver is woven together and decorated with blue sapphires. If your man is into cuffs, he’ll cherish this unique design.
Is the man you’re celebrating a pocketknife collector or enthusiast? We have quite a selection of sapphire-designed knives to choose from. He’ll love the meaningful gesture and treasure this keepsake forever.
One of our favorites is the William Henry Monarch “Titan” Pocket Knife. Its aerospace-grade titanium makes it lightweight yet durable. The sleek design and sapphire décor will make an amazing birthstone gift.
If the special man in your life is an avid watch collector born in April, why not gift him a TAG Heuer Watch with Diamond Bezel? We know he’ll cherish the modern design and subtle diamond birthstone accents upon his wrist.
Our dedicated team of birthstone jewelry experts is here to help you select the ideal gift for your loved one.
