Many believe that the Breastplate of Aaron is the basis for the origin of birthstones (also known as natal stones). The instructions for fabricating the Breastplate are in Exodus 28: 15-30, and call for the twelve stones of the Twelve Tribes of Israel (shown with this page's title) to be set in four rows. These gemstones corresponded to the zodiac signs of the time. Our present calendar month system was not known at the time of Exodus and today birthstones have come to be more commonly associated with the calendar month of birth although many people prefer using stones from astrological charts to represent their birth or natal stone.

Myths and superstitions gradually grew up regarding the stones, and symbolic meanings or virtues were ascribed to them. Different nations around the world have developed different charts for birthstones. Today, five months of the year have alternate birthstones.