Guide to birthstones
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Birthstone of the month, wedding anniversary stones and keywords to help you find your way: the history of these lists, how they vary from country to country, and how to use them when giving a gift.
BirthJanuaryGarnet is the birthstone for January in every common list. Its origins, varieties, symbolism, gift ideas and care tips.BirthFebruaryAmethyst is the birthstone for February. An overview of old and modern lists, symbolism, common treatments and care.BirthMarchIn March, two stones share the spotlight: aquamarine and bloodstone. The history of the choice, symbolism, gift ideas, care and imitations.BirthAprilDiamond is the birthstone for April. What the lists say, what to know about natural, laboratory-grown and imitation diamonds, and which alternatives exist.BirthMayEmerald is the birthstone for May. Old and modern lists, history, symbolism, oil treatments, imitations, green alternatives and delicate care.BirthJuneJune has three birthstones: pearl, moonstone and alexandrite. The history of this choice, symbolism, gift ideas, care and the imitations to know about.BirthJulyRuby is the birthstone for July. Old and modern lists, history, symbolism, common treatments, synthetic rubies, red alternatives and care.BirthAugustThree stones for August: peridot, spinel (added in 2016) and sardonyx. The history of the choice, symbolism, gift ideas, care and imitations.BirthSeptemberSapphire is the September birthstone. Older and modern lists, the history of the words sapphire and lapis, symbolism, common treatments and blue alternatives.BirthOctoberOctober has two birthstones: opal and pink tourmaline. The history of the lists, the legend of the “unlucky” opal, care and treatments.BirthNovemberNovember has two birthstones: topaz and citrine. Lists, the history of the name topaz, treated blue topaz, often heated citrine, and care.BirthDecemberDecember has several birthstones: turquoise, zircon and tanzanite. The history of the lists, symbolism, treatments, imitations and care.
The meanings mentioned belong to tradition and symbolism. They are neither promises of results nor medical advice.