Birthstone Chart by Month and Zodiac Sign

Origins of Birthstones | A Comprehensive Guide

In the first century AD a Roman born Jewish historian called Josephus (Yosef Ben Matityahu) wrote that each of the twelve gemstones in the high priest breastplate mentioned in the book of Exodus represented the months of the year and the twelve signs of the zodiac.  It's generally believed this was the origin of the tradition of birthstones.

There is a great deal of debate over the exact gemstones that were used in the breastplate not only because of inaccurate translations but also because names have changed over the years.  For this reason birthstone charts now feature many different gemstones.  Josephus himself is believed to have given two different lists and scholars ever since have continued to debate on this matter.  As an example the gemstone sapphirus was once believed to be sapphire but it's now known it was actually lapis lazuli.  Garnet belonged to a group of stones known as carbuncle whilst peridot is believed to have been known as topazios.  

Most birthstone charts feature several different lists, those seen most often include traditional, modern, ayurvedic and mystical birthstones.  Mystical birthstones are believed to have originated in Tibet whilst the list known as ayurvedic has its roots in Indian medicine and Vedic astrology.  There are however many older birthstone charts in circulation.  The modern day list is considered to be the most recent although changes are still being as different gemstones grow in popularity.  Some argue that the correct way to assign a birthstone is according to the astrological sign and not month of birth.

Wearing or carrying your birthstone is widely believed to bring luck and/or good health but at the same time many superstitions and supernatural powers have also been attributed to them for hundreds and possibly even thousands of years.

Zodiac Birthstone Chart | Birthstones by Star Sign

Month Birthstone Chart | The Essential Guide