More Than a Colour
A birthstone gives jewellery an immediate point of connection.
For some people, that means choosing the stone associated with their own month. For others, it might represent a partner, child, parent or someone else they want to keep close. And sometimes the attraction is simpler - you just happen to love the colour.
That flexibility is part of what makes birthstone jewellery so personal.
A small stone can introduce just a hint of colour into an everyday piece, while a larger or more decorative setting can make the birthstone the feature of the design.
There is no requirement to wear the stone linked to your own birthday. The piece should still feel right for the person wearing it.
Birthstones for Every Month
Traditionally, each month of the year is associated with one or more birthstones.
January - Garnet: Rich red tones.
February - Amethyst: Distinctive purple colouring.
March - Aquamarine: Cool blue and blue-green tones.
April - Diamond or Cubic Zirconia: Clear, brilliant stones with a classic sparkle.
May - Emerald: Rich green colouring.
June - Freshwater Pearl or Alexandrite: Classic pearl lustre or distinctive colour-changing tones.
July - Ruby: Rich red colouring.
August - Peridot: Fresh green tones.
September - Sapphire: Traditionally blue, but also available in colours such as pink.
October - Opal or Tourmaline: A wide variety of colours and finishes.
November - Topaz or Citrine: Warm golden and yellow tones.
December - Tanzanite or London Blue Topaz: Striking blue-toned stones.
Choosing Birthstone Jewellery for Yourself or Someone Else
Start with what you want the stone to represent.
If you are choosing your own birthstone, think about how prominently you want the colour to appear. A small pair of earrings or delicate pendant can be easy to wear regularly, while a ring or larger stone can create a stronger focal point.
When buying for somebody else, their birth month gives you a useful starting point, but their existing jewellery should still guide the final decision.
Someone who usually wears fine, understated pieces may appreciate a smaller stone and simple sterling silver setting. If she tends to choose jewellery with more colour or detail, you can comfortably look for something more expressive.
And if the traditional birthstone colour simply does not suit her style, there is nothing wrong with choosing a different stone altogether.
A Thoughtful Gift with a Personal Detail
Birthstone jewellery works particularly well as a gift because there is already a reason behind the choice.
It can mark a birthday without feeling like something that can only be worn once a year. It can represent a child or partner, celebrate a new arrival, or simply turn a beautiful piece of jewellery into something a little more personal.
Birthstone pieces can make thoughtful gifts for birthdays, Christmas, Mother's Day, anniversaries and other occasions when you want the jewellery to feel considered rather than randomly selected.
For an especially personal gift, look beyond the month itself. The type of jewellery, stone size and overall style should still reflect the person who will actually wear it.
Birthstone Jewellery FAQs
What is birthstone jewellery?
Birthstone jewellery features a stone or colour associated with a particular month of the year.
It can be chosen according to the wearer's own birth month, used to represent someone important to them or simply selected because they love the colour or design.
Do I have to wear the birthstone for my own month?
No. Birthstone traditions can give jewellery extra meaning, but they are not rules. You can choose another month's stone because of its colour, symbolism or connection to someone else.
Is all of your birthstone jewellery made with natural gemstones?
Not necessarily. Different designs may use natural gemstones, created stones, simulated stones or other materials selected to represent a birthstone colour.
The individual product page will state the materials used in that particular piece.
What birthstone jewellery makes a good gift?
Necklaces, earrings and adjustable bracelets can be particularly easy gifts because sizing is usually less complicated.
A birthstone ring can also make a very personal present when you know the recipient's correct ring size.
Can I choose birthstone jewellery to represent someone else?
Yes. Some people wear a partner's, child's or family member's birthstone rather than their own, giving the jewellery a personal connection beyond the wearer's birthday.
How do I choose between different birthstone designs?
Consider how noticeable the recipient normally likes her jewellery to be.
Smaller stones and finer settings tend to feel more understated, while larger stones, stronger colours and decorative designs naturally create more impact.
Is birthstone jewellery suitable for everyday wear?
Many designs can be worn regularly, although the appropriate care depends on the particular stone and setting.
Check the individual product information and avoid assuming that every gemstone should be cleaned or treated in exactly the same way.
How should I care for birthstone jewellery?
Care requirements can vary depending on the stone used.
Keep jewellery away from unnecessary exposure to perfumes, lotions and household chemicals, store it carefully when not being worn, and follow any stone-specific care advice provided with the product.