January – garnet
Garnets are best known for their deep red glow, but they come in a range of colours, from fiery orange to rich green. Traditionally, they’ve symbolised love, loyalty and protection. In the Middle Ages, garnets were worn by travellers who believed they offered safety on long journeys and even warded off accidents.
Because of their bold colour, garnets are often linked with strength and passion. They’re said to bring energy and vitality, making them a fitting choice to kick off the year!
February – amethyst
Amethyst is a type of quartz with stunning violet and purple hues. The ancient Greeks believed it could prevent drunkenness! The name itself comes from the Greek word ‘amethystos’ meaning ‘not intoxicated’. For centuries, amethyst was worn to promote clarity, calmness and a balanced mind.
It’s also a stone associated with spiritual awareness, meditation and inner peace. Amethyst’s soothing qualities make it a wonderful birthstone for a month often associated with reflection and stillness.
March – aquamarine
With colours ranging from pale sky blue to deep sea green, aquamarine has long been connected to the ocean. Sailors carried it as a protective talisman, believing it could calm rough waters and bring them home safely. Its name comes from the Latin “aqua marina,” meaning “water of the sea.”
Aquamarine is said to inspire courage and clear communication and its serene colour brings a sense of peace.
April – diamond
Diamonds are the hardest natural substance on Earth and are celebrated for their brilliance and durability. They’ve been a symbol of strength, purity and eternal love for centuries, which is why they’re so often chosen for engagement rings.
Historically, diamonds were thought to be fragments of stars or tears of the gods. In many cultures, they were carried into battle for protection. Today, diamonds are still prized for their sparkle and their ability to reflect light like no other stone.
May – emerald
Emeralds, with their lush green colour, are symbols of rebirth, love and growth. They were particularly beloved by Cleopatra, who had mines dedicated to their collection. Ancient Romans associated emeralds with Venus, the goddess of love, further cementing their connection to romance and beauty.
These gems are also linked to wisdom and foresight. Their vibrant green has made them a symbol of spring and fresh starts.
June – pearl
Known for their soft lustre and elegance, pearls symbolise purity, wisdom and serenity and no two pearls are ever exactly alike. For centuries, they’ve been worn as protective charms against misfortune and are still considered timeless treasures.
Pearls are often associated with honesty and loyalty, making them a thoughtful birthstone for June.
July – ruby
Rubies are bold, fiery and full of energy. Their rich red colour has been linked to passion, courage and vitality since ancient times. Some cultures believed rubies contained the very essence of life, giving them protective and healing powers.
Even today, they’re considered one of the most powerful gemstones, symbolising love, vitality and determination.
August – peridot
Peridot is a vibrant green gemstone formed deep within the Earth’s mantle – sometimes even brought to the surface by volcanic activity. In ancient times, it was believed to ward off evil spirits and bring happiness to its wearer.
Known as the “gem of the sun,” peridot has been associated with warmth, positivity and renewal.
September – sapphire
Sapphires are most famous in shades of blue, but they come in many colours, including pink, yellow and green. They’ve been treasured for centuries as symbols of wisdom, loyalty and protection. Medieval kings wore sapphires as a way of warding off harm and envy.
They’re also tied to truth and sincerity, which is why sapphires are often chosen for engagement rings. Their depth and durability have made them one of the most enduringly loved gems.
October – opal
Opals are unique for their “play of colour” – the way they flash with shifting rainbows when moved in the light. Because of this, they’ve long been associated with imagination, creativity and inspiration. Some cultures even believed opals held the powers of all gemstones because of their varied colours.
Opals are said to spark originality, making them a favourite for artists and dreamers.
November – topaz
Topaz comes in a range of colours, from golden yellow to blue and pink. It’s a stone of warmth and joy, historically linked to the sun and believed to bring energy and abundance. Ancient healers also thought topaz could calm tempers and strengthen the body.
Golden topaz is associated with prosperity and optimism. It’s a cheerful stone for November, often symbolising friendship and generosity.
December – turquoise
Turquoise has been prized for thousands of years, often carved into amulets or set into jewellery as a protective stone. Ancient Persians believed it could guard against misfortune, while Native American cultures valued it as a sacred stone of healing and connection.
Its blue-green shades make it a calming and uplifting gemstone, symbolising peace, balance and good fortune.
