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Birthstones
Traditional European
European birthstones often differ slightly from the modern American birthstone list, with influences from traditional, historical, and even biblical sources. The European approach tends to be more varied, especially in older traditions like the Polish, British, and Russian systems.
Here's a general guide to European traditional birthstones by month, based on historical and cultural sources.
Month
January
February
March
April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December
Birthstone
Garnet
Amethyst
Bloodstone, Jasper, Aquamarine
Diamond, Sapphire
Emerald
Pearl, Moonstone, Cat’s Eye
Ruby, Onyx
Sardonyx, Peridot, Carnelian
Sapphire, Lapis Lazuli
Opal, Tourmaline, Aquamarine
Topaz, Citrine
Turquoise, Zircon, Tanzanite
Symbolism:
Protection from evil, safe travel
Sobriety, peace, spiritual clarity
Courage, protection, health
Purity, clarity, strength
Fertility, love, growth
Innocence, purity, intuition
Passion, protection, vitality
Courage, strength, marital happiness
Sapphire, Lapis Lazuli
Hope, creativity, faith
Success, abundance, calmness
Prosperity, protection, serenity
January
Garnet
Protection from evil, safe travel
February
Amethyst
Sobriety, peace, spiritual clarity
March
Bloodstone, Jasper, Aquamarine
Courage, protection, health
April
Diamond, Sapphire
Purity, clarity, strength
May
Emerald
Fertility, love, growth
June
Pearl, Moonstone, Cat’s Eye
Innocence, purity, intuition
July
Ruby, Onyx
Passion, protection, vitality
August
Sardonyx, Peridot, Carnelian
Courage, strength, marital happiness
September
Sapphire, Lapis Lazuli
Sapphire, Lapis Lazuli
October
Opal, Tourmaline, Aquamarine
Hope, creativity, faith
November
Topaz, Citrine
Success, abundance, calmness
December
Turquoise, Zircon, Tanzanite
Prosperity, protection, serenity
Notes:
Bloodstone is more commonly associated with March in European and especially medieval traditions (vs. aquamarine in modern U.S.).
Sardonyx for August is more common in older British and Roman lists.
Lapis Lazuli and Chrysoprase appear more in traditional European lore, especially in Renaissance and Eastern European customs.
Onyx and Cat’s Eye are sometimes used instead of modern options for July and June.
Some months have multiple birthstones to offer options in colour, price, or tradition.
Birthstones are often used in personalised jewellery like rings, pendants, bracelets, and family-themed pieces.
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