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Birthstones, Modern and Traditional

Numerous cultures have traditionally associated gems with birth dates, and many people have, and still do, consider it good luck to display their birthstone.

While we recognize today that many gems occur in more than one color, the stones specified as birthstones are traditionally associated with a specific color, for example the January birthstone is red garnet and the September birthstone is blue sapphire. However, you should feel free to wear your birthstone in your favorite color variation.

These traditions are now utilized by the jewelry industry to promote jewelry sales. In 1912 the organization now known as Jewelers of America (JA) adopted a Modern Birthstone List. In the US, this is still the accepted list. Note: Tanzanite was added to this list a few years ago by the American Gem Trade Association (AGTA).

Other groups and publications have tinkered with the JA's Modern Birthstone List and published their own versions. Why? To include or substitute more affordable choices. I call this the Modified Birthstone List. This list offers consumers alternatives, and consumers do want alternatives... even in birthstones.

Appropriately colored natural gems or synthetic stones are often substituted for the gems on the Modern Birthstone list. These jewelry items will, of course, be clearly labeled in accordance with Federal regulations..

In other places around the world, traditional, religious or ethnic lists of birthstones are still in use. These lists may be hundreds, or even thousands of years old.

While the Modern Birthstone List and the Modified Birthstone List were devised by trade groups for purposes of commerce, some of the traditional lists are derived from religious texts and oral traditions.

Here are a few selected birthstone lists as I know them.

We carry natural gem birthstone earrings. Use this link to learn more.

Birthstones are fun, and birthstone jewelry makes a great gift. Some people collect examples of their birthstone in all the popular shapes, or color variations.

Carolyn Doyle