Birthstone Jewellery: A Month-by-Month Guide

Birthstone jewellery is personal in the gentlest way. There are no names or messages on show — just a stone that quietly says "this was made for you". That's why a birthstone necklace, bracelet or ring makes such a thoughtful birthday or milestone gift, and why it's just as lovely to choose a stone for each person you love.

Here's a month-by-month guide to the birthstones and their meanings, plus how to turn them into a piece worth keeping. Browse our birthstone and name necklaces any time.

Birthstones by month

• January — Garnet: deep red, linked to protection and loyalty.
• February — Amethyst: purple, associated with calm and clarity.
• March — Aquamarine: pale blue, a symbol of courage.
• April — Diamond (clear): strength and enduring love.
• May — Emerald: green, a sign of renewal and growth.
• June — Pearl / Alexandrite: soft and luminous, tied to purity.
• July — Ruby: rich red, a stone of passion and energy.
• August — Peridot: light green, linked to warmth and good fortune.
• September — Sapphire: blue, associated with wisdom and trust.
• October — Opal / Tourmaline: shimmering and varied, a symbol of hope.
• November — Topaz / Citrine: golden, tied to joy and confidence.
• December — Turquoise / Tanzanite: blue, a stone of good luck.

How to pair a birthstone with a name

A birthstone is lovely on its own, but pairing it with a name or initial makes it unmistakably theirs. A necklace with a child's name and birthstone, a bracelet with a stone for each grandchild, or a simple initial-and-stone pendant all turn a pretty piece into a personal one.

Choosing the right birthstone piece

• Necklaces — the most versatile; a single stone reads as everyday jewellery, while several tell a family story.
• Bracelets — great for stacking stones side by side.
• Rings — a bolder, more statement way to wear a birthstone. 

Birthstones as a family keepsake

One of the nicest things about birthstone jewellery is that it grows. Start with a single stone and add one for each new arrival — a piece that quietly charts your family over the years. It's a gift that keeps meaning more, not less, with time.

Frequently asked questions

What if someone doesn't like their birth month's stone?

Several months have more than one stone, and many people simply choose a colour they love or a stone tied to someone special instead — there are no rules.

Can I include more than one birthstone in a piece?

Yes. Multi-stone necklaces and bracelets are popular for representing a whole family — see our birthstone and name necklaces.

Are birthstones suitable for everyday wear?

Most are, with a little care. Keep pieces away from knocks and harsh chemicals, and give them an occasional gentle clean.

Find the right stone for someone special in our birthstone necklaces.