This year has seen a surge in popularity for birthstones, the gemstones that represent a person’s birth month. It is believed that birthstones originated from the breastplate of Aaron, which contained 12 gemstones that represented the 12 tribes of Israel. In the Book of Exodus in the Bible, the Breastplate of Aaron was a sacred object that was worn by the High Priest of the Israelites and used in order to communicate with God. After reflection on the significance of the number 12, a connection was established between the 12 signs of the Zodiac and the 12 gems on the Breastplate of Aaron. It was after this, during the 18th Century, that the gemstones began to be assigned according to birth month. Although typically gifted for birthdays and anniversaries, gemstones are a beautiful present for any occasion.
According to trend expert, Dayne Isom Johnson from Etsy:
‘there has been an emerging trend in non-diamond engagement rings incorporating birthstones’. Over the last three months, there have been ‘34K searches for “birthstone engagement rings” and I predict the trend will continue to grow’.
January - Garnet provides strength and safety
February - Amethyst protects and purifies
March - Aquamarine calms and cleanses
April - Diamond/White Topaz increases strength and purity. Also associated with love and happiness
May - Emerald/Green Onyx represents health and wisdom. Also, relieves worries, tensions and fears
June - Pearl associated with purity and innocence
July - Ruby/Red Onyx symbolises harmony and protection. It also increases energy and enthusiasm
August - Peridot attracts abundance and good luck
September - Blue Sapphire/Rainbow Moonstone represents purity, wisdom and faith. Also, provides balance and harmony
October - Opal/Pink Tourmaline represents hope and innocence. Cleanses emotional depression and anxieties
November - Citrine/Yellow Topaz raises self-esteem and self-confidence. Promotes good health
December - Turquoise/Blue Topaz brings happiness and good fortune. It also brings eternal friendship and romance
What are the best birthstone jewellery pieces to buy now?
Here are our top picks for the best modern pieces of birthstone jewellery to shop right now.
Pink Tourmaline October Birthstone Collection 18ct Rose Gold Cluster Ring
Citrine November Birthstone Collection 18ct White Gold Cluster Earrings
Emerald and Diamond 18ct White Gold Pear Cluster Necklace
Browse our complete Gemset range
