Older traditions vs. the modern list
Birthstone traditions existed long before 1912, with different lists circulating across cultures and even tied to different sources, such as European calendar-based traditions or the twelve stones described in the biblical breastplate of Aaron. The "modern" list is simply the version that most US jewelers and retailers standardized on and that is most commonly cited today.
A cultural tradition, not a scientific one
Birthstones carry symbolic and personal meaning for many people, similar to a lucky number or a favorite color, but there is no scientific basis connecting a birth month to any property of a particular gemstone.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there only one "correct" birthstone for each month?
No. Lists vary by country, era, and source, and several months have more than one commonly accepted stone. This guide reflects the modern list most widely used in the United States.
Do birthstones have any real connection to a person's birth month?
No β it is a cultural and commercial tradition rather than a scientific one. The stones themselves have the same physical properties regardless of anyone's birthday.