Birthstones carry rich cultural and historical significance and are celebrated for their beauty, symbolism, and associations with months and zodiac signs. Knowing the essential terms related to birthstones helps enthusiasts understand their meanings, applications in jewellery, and the unique characteristics of each gemstone. This glossary offers clear, concise definitions that guide both beginners and experienced jewellery lovers in appreciating these treasured stones.
Amethyst (February)
A purple quartz that symbolises luck, wit, and health. Associated with calming properties and often linked to February birthdays and the Aquarius sign.
Aquamarine (March)
A blue or turquoise variety of beryl, representing happiness and understanding. Known for its serene, sea-like colour, aquamarine is popular for March birthdays and Pisces.
Black Onyx (February)
A semi-precious stone with a deep black hue. Associated with protection and focus, often regarded as an alternative to amethyst for February.
Blue Topaz (November)
A blue variant of topaz that symbolises wisdom, courage, and sincerity. Ideal for November birthdays and is believed to promote communication.
Carnelian (July)
A reddish-brown chalcedony is known for symbolising love, enthusiasm, and strength. Also serves as an alternative stone for Taurus and Virgo signs.
Citrine (November)
A yellow to brownish quartz linked to prosperity, energy, and success. Often used as an affordable alternative to blue topaz.
Diamond (April)
The hardest known natural material, symbolises eternity, courage, and health. The traditional birthstone for April and associated with Aries.
Emerald (May)
A precious green gemstone representing fidelity, goodness, and love. Widely celebrated as the birthstone for May and linked to Taurus.
Garnet (January)
A deep red gemstone symbolising faith, eternity, and truth. Known as the birthstone for January and is linked with the Capricorn sign.
Green Aventurine (August)
A semi-precious stone associated with peace, luck, and success. Sometimes used as an alternative birthstone for August.
Jasper (March)
A variety of chalcedony that is often red, yellow, or brown. Symbolises strength and balance, and serves as an alternative to aquamarine.
Lapis Lazuli (September)
A deep blue metamorphic rock associated with serenity and truth. Used as an alternative stone for September and is linked with the Virgo sign.
Moonstone (June)
A feldspar mineral with an opalescent sheen, symbolising peace, nobility, and beauty. The birthstone for June and associated with Gemini and Cancer signs.
Opal (October)
A gemstone with a play of colour that symbolises purity, hope, and health. October’s birthstone and known for its unique colour patterns.
Pearl (June)
An organic gem created by mollusks, symbolising purity and nobility. One of the traditional birthstones for June, linked to Cancer.
Peridot (August)
A light green gemstone representing success and peace. The primary birthstone for August is associated with the Leo sign.
Rose Quartz (January)
A pink variety of quartz is associated with love and healing. Used as an alternative birthstone for January and Taurus.
Ruby (July)
A precious red gemstone that symbolises love, passion, and strength. The birthstone for July and linked with the Cancer sign.
Sapphire (September)
A precious blue gemstone is known for serenity and wisdom. The birthstone for September, is associated with Virgo and Libra signs.
Tanzanite (December)
A blue-to-violet gemstone, discovered in Tanzania, symbolising love and happiness. An alternative birthstone for December alongside turquoise.
Tiger’s Eye (November)
A brownish gemstone with a chatoyant effect, symbolising protection and grounding. Sometimes used as an alternative to blue topaz for November.
Topaz (November)
A versatile gemstone available in various colours but commonly yellow or blue. Symbolises wisdom and courage, and is the traditional birthstone for November.
Tourmaline (October)
A multi-coloured gemstone representing hope and healing. An alternative birthstone for October, associated with the Libra sign.
Turquoise (December)
A blue-green stone symbolising love, happiness, and luck. The birthstone for December and linked with Sagittarius and Capricorn.
