The symbolism and significance of gemstones

Gemstones have captivated humanity for centuries, not just for their dazzling beauty but also for the symbolism and meaning attributed to each precious stone. Birthstones, in particular, hold a special significance as they are often associated with the month of one’s birth. Interestingly, some months have more than one birthstone – some are traditional (or ancient) birthstones, and some are more modern birthstones. Here is a guide to understanding their symbolism and significance.

What are the birthstones by month?

January: Garnet 

Colour: Although garnet is commonly associated with the colour red, depending on the type of garnet, you can choose from red, purple, green, yellow, and orange options.

Symbolism: Some believe that garnets are a protective stone, shielding the wearer from injury. This made them particularly popular amongst warriors and royalty. Occasionally associated with life-giving blood, red-variety garnets are also connected to vitality, love, and light.

February: Amethyst

Colour: Amethysts can range from pale lilac to deep reddish hues.

Symbolism: As the colour purple has long been connected with royalty, amethysts were favoured by the ruling class. Over time, amethysts have also come to be associated with spirituality, mental clarity, and healing.

 March: Aquamarine, Bloodstone

Colour: These stones can be found in both blue and blue/green hues.

Symbolism: The name “aquamarine” comes from the Latin for “seawater”, and the stones were thought to protect seafarers. Some associate aquamarines with marital happiness and superior intellect.

April: Diamond

Colour: While the vast majority of diamonds are colourless, they do come in a full rainbow of colours – from rare reds to deep blues to warm yellows.

Symbolism: Due to their extreme hardness, overall durability, and undeniable beauty, diamonds are associated with strength and eternal love – making them the ideal choice for engagement and wedding ring designs.

May: Emerald

Colour: The best emeralds express an even, deep green. Some may have blue undertones.

Symbolism: Legend has it that wearing emeralds will instil the wearer with heightened intelligence and allow them to think objectively. Others use the stone to promote healing. 

June: Pearl, Alexandrite

Colour: While most people still think of pearls as white, they are now available in a range of colours including black, green, gold, silver, and various pastels depending on where they were farmed.

Symbolism: The finest pearls display unblemished surfaces with even colouring. Therefore, there is a natural association with qualities like honesty, purity, and wisdom. Some cultures associate pearls with the divine, believing that pearls were tears shed from heaven, while others placed pearls in the graves of their loved ones. Ancient Chinese lore claims that pearls were carried by dragons and represent wisdom and power.

July: Ruby

Colour: Rubies are a radiant red gemstone. However, you can find rubies with orange or pink undertones.

Symbolism: Rubies have long been connected with physicality and strength. Favoured by warriors, rubies were thought to be intimately connected with the human body. They were credited with increasing the strength and stamina of the wearer. Rubies were also thought to calm anger and help the wearer navigate passionate social situations.

August: Peridot, Spindel, Sardonyx

Colour: The green hue of some peridots may overlap with the green colour displayed by emeralds. However, peridot often features a unique yellowish overtone not observed in emeralds. Some stones have a brownish appearance.

Symbolism: Peridots have been credited with protecting their wearer during the night. This is due to the fact that the lively appearance of peridot fostered ancient associations between the gemstone and the sun. It was thought that keeping the stone close during dark hours repelled nighttime evil spirits.

September: Sapphire

Colour: Sapphires have a pure blue colour – however, not all sapphires are blue. They can come in a full rainbow variety of colours, except red.

Symbolism: Sapphires are considered a protective gemstone. They may shield the wearer from physical harm as well as bad intentions and envy. It was also thought that sapphires had medicinal properties. Blue sapphires are considered a highly spiritual stone worn by priests.

October: Opal, Tourmaline

Colour: As Opal gemstones diffract light, they can show off a multitude of beautiful colours – often changing colour in different light, as the stone is turned. Opals are the only gems that can show this effect, but not all opals do.

Symbolism: Perhaps due to their dynamic appearance, opals are associated with light and magic. As such, some credit opals with healing properties, especially for the eyes. While some cling to negative superstitions about opals, others wear them for good luck.

November: Citrine, Golden Topaz, Topaz 

Colour: Citrine is famous for its warm orange and yellow hues – sometimes with hints of brown.

Symbolism: Citrine is predominantly associated with healing and happiness. Whether you have a stomach ache, suffer from insomnia, or just feel stressed, Citrine is thought to bring relief.

December: Blue Topaz, Tanzanite, Blue Zircon, Turquoise, Lapis Lazuli

Colour: Blue topaz comes in a variety of hues: pale blue, dark steel blue, greyish blue or greenish blue.

Symbolism: Known as the clarity stone, it is believed that blue topaz stimulates open communication and action.  It is said that blue topaz is the gemstone of opportunity and a symbol of deep, honest and genuine feelings. This stone has also been associated with great wisdom and is believed to bring the wearer success in their endeavours. 

At Cash Converters, we have a range of beautiful, refurbished jewellery. This includes 9ct white gold, yellow gold, diamond and silver to jewellery with beautiful gemstones. Choose from necklaces, bracelets, earrings, pendants, chains, engagement and wedding rings, and more.

To browse some of our jewellery online, click here.