birthstone guide
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What's Your Birthstone? A Month-by-Month Birthstone Guide

A birthstone is the gemstone associated with your birth month. This birthstone guide covers all twelve months and follows the standard U.S. list from 1912. It was last updated in 2016 when spinel joined in August. We are a Las Vegas jeweler, family-owned since 1962, so we also share tips on wearing each stone.

Birthstone Guide Chart: Your Month at a Glance

  • January: Garnet
  • February: Amethyst
  • March: Aquamarine
  • April: Diamond
  • May: Emerald
  • June: Pearl, Alexandrite
  • July: Ruby
  • August: Peridot, Spinel
  • September: Sapphire
  • October: Tourmaline, Opal
  • November: Citrine, Topaz
  • December: Zircon, Tanzanite, Turquoise

Birthstone Guide for Each Month

January: Garnet

Garnet is known for its deep red color. It also comes in orange and green. Red pyrope garnet stands for friendship and trust. We often suggest garnet to people who want rich color for daily wear. The Garden of Stephen Faceted Garnet Open and Close Bangle in Sterling Silver is a good example.

February: Amethyst

Purple quartz is called amethyst. The shades are deep violet to fine lilac. It looks lovely in both yellow and white metals. The Signature Citrine, Amethyst, and Diamond Pendant Necklace shows this well.

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Signature Citrine, Amethyst, and Diamond Pendant Necklace

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March: Aquamarine

Aquamarine looks like soft seawater. It can also be a deeper ocean blue. It stands for hope, youth, and health. The stone looks crisp in white metal. See the Aquamarine Halo Ring in Platinum with Diamonds. The Signature Aquamarine and Diamond Pendant Necklace is another good choice.

April: Diamond

Most diamonds are white. Some are yellow, blue or pink. Many people think a diamond means an engagement ring. We think a bracelet is a gift that gets worn more often. The Mirage Diamond Tennis Bracelet is one example.

May: Emerald

Emeralds are rare green stones. Only a few countries mine them. They stand for rebirth, love, and hope. Most emeralds have tiny natural marks inside. The 14k Yellow Gold and Emerald Bomb Ring is a one-of-a-kind piece with a secure shape.

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14k Yellow Gold and Emerald Bomb Ring - One of a Kind

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June: Pearl and Alexandrite

Pearl is the classic June stone. Alexandrite is rare and changes color in different light. Pearls are soft. Put them on last, after perfume and hairspray. You can browse our Pearls and mixed gemstone collections.

July: Ruby

Rubies are called the “King of Gems.” Their red color is vivid and bold. They stand for good luck, fortune, and passionate love. Rubies look striking next to white diamonds. The Sunray Ruby and Diamond Necklace in 18K Gold is a bold gift for a milestone birthday.

August: Peridot and Spinel

Peridot is yellow-green. People call it the “gem of the sun.” Spinel comes in many colors. Fiery red is the most prized. Peridot looks fresh next to purple stones. The Signature Amethyst, Peridot, and Pavé Diamond Pendant Necklace shows this pairing.

September: Sapphire

Sapphire is best known in deep blue. It also comes in other colors. It stands for protection and prosperity. Greeks and priests wore it long ago. The 14K Gold Gwyneth Link Diamond and Sapphire Toggle Bracelet is one option for everyday wear.

BG001040

14K Gold Gwyneth Link Diamond and Sapphire Toggle Bracelet BG001040

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October: Tourmaline and Opal

Tourmaline comes in every color. Opal flashes rainbow colors. Opal is delicate and a smart choice for earrings. They stay away from daily bumps. The Signature Opal Earrings with Rhodolite Garnet and Diamonds are a good fit. For tourmaline, see the 14k Pink Tourmaline & Diamond Cross Pendant. It is one of a kind.

November: Citrine and Topaz

November stones feel like autumn. Citrine is called the “gift of the sun.” Imperial Topaz is a vibrant orange. It is the most popular topaz. The Signature Imperial Topaz, Rhodolite Garnet, and Diamond Pendant Necklace sports a glow.

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Signature Imperial Topaz, Rhodolite Garnet, and Diamond Pendant Necklace

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December: Zircon, Tanzanite, and Turquoise

December gives you cool blues. Zircon is a natural gemstone that comes in blue. Not the same as lab-made cubic zirconia. It's something most shoppers don't think about. Tanzanite comes in blue-purple variations. Turquoise comes in colors ranging from green to blue. It often has dark veins. Try the 14k Blue Zircon Cushion Bombe Ring. The Signature Tanzanite and Diamond Pendant Necklace is another good pick.

Gemstone Guide: What Should You Check Before You Buy?

Here are three quick checks. They help you avoid regret.

Ask about treatments. Heat treatment is common for rubies and sapphires. Emeralds are often oiled. These steps are standard. The seller should still tell you about them.

See the color in person. Two stones with the same name can look very different. Garnet runs from deep red to bright green. Look at the stone in normal light.

Match the setting to the stone. Soft stones need a protective setting. A good setting matters as much as the gem.

Why Choose Us?

Our family has run this store since 1962. Founder Mickey Kulwin opened it in the legendary Thunderbird Hotel in Las Vegas. His son, Darryl Kulwin, has led the business since 1995. We stay true to quality, value, and exceptional service. At T-Bird Jewels, you can shop online. You can also visit us at 1013 South Rampart Blvd, Las Vegas. Our services include appraisals, custom jewelry design, and watch and jewelry repair. We have a team with more than 60 years of repair training and experience.

Conclusion

Choose your stone for the month, your style and your lifestyle. Use this birthstone guide for colors, meanings and care. Some months offer two or three stones. Select one you'll use frequently. Desire to see the stones in person? There is also a custom design option. Make an appointment at the store.

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