Birthstones
A tradition older than most calendars: one gemstone for each month, worn as jewellery, carried as a talisman, or just a lovely bit of trivia about the month you were born in.
January
Garnet
Deep red and said to keep the wearer safe on long journeys, historically astrology's stone of protection.
February
Amethyst
A purple quartz once thought to ward off intoxication, later taken up as a stone of clarity and calm.
March
Aquamarine
Named for seawater, and traditionally carried by sailors hoping for a safe, calm crossing.
April
Diamond
The hardest natural material on Earth, long tied to strength, clarity, and bonds that last.
May
Emerald
A vivid green stone linked since antiquity to rebirth, fertility, and fresh starts.
June
Pearl
The only birthstone formed inside a living creature rather than the ground, a symbol of purity across cultures.
July
Ruby
A deep-red corundum long associated with passion, courage, and protection in battle.
August
Peridot
A pale-green stone some ancient cultures believed could ward off nightmares when set in gold.
September
Sapphire
Prized by royalty for centuries and tied to wisdom, loyalty, and plain straight-dealing.
October
Opal
Known for its shifting play of colour, traditionally linked to hope, creativity, and innocence.
November
Topaz
Ancient Egyptians linked its golden glow to the sun god Ra, a stone of warmth and strength.
December
Turquoise
One of the oldest stones used in jewellery, worn across cultures as protection for those on the road.