Modern and Traditional Birthstones

The official birthstone list from the American National Association of Jewelers, Jewelers of America. These gemstones were officially adopted in 1912. In the US, this is the accepted list. Tanzanite was added as an additional modern birthstone for December by the American Gem Trade Association in October 2002.

This list of the older, more traditional birthstones reflects various societal customs and traditions from as far back as the 15th century. These stones are sometimes combined with the modern birthstone list.

 

Month Modern Birthstone Traditional Birthstone
January Garnet Garnet Garnet Garnet
February Amethyst Amethyst Amethyst Amethyst
March Aquamarine,

Bloodstone
Aquamarine
Bloodstone
Bloodstone Bloodstone
April Diamond Diamond Diamond Diamond
May Emerald Emerald Emerald Emerald
June Pearl,

Moonstone
Pearl
Moonstone
Alexandrite Alexandrite
July Ruby Ruby Ruby Ruby
August Peridot Peridot Sardonyx Sardonyx
September Sapphire Sapphire Sapphire Sapphire
October Opal,

Tourmaline
Opal
Tourmaline
Tourmaline Tourmaline
November Yellow Topaz,

Citrine
Yellow Topaz
Citrine
Citrine Citrine
December Turquoise,

Blue Topaz,

Tanzanite
Turquoise
Blue Topaz
Tanzanite
Blue Zircon,

Lapis Lazuli
Blue Zircon
Lapis Lazuli


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© Smithsonian Institute©1998-2005 Bernardine Fine Art Jewelry.©1999-2004 Jewelry Central, JC Store.
© 2004 Amethyst Galleries, Inc.©1995-2005 Loretta Elaine's Gems for Friends.