Your Alternative BirthStone

Birth stones have been used for centuries to celebrate the month of a person's birth bringing luck, health and wealth! These "birthstones" are precious or semi-precious gemstones that are associated with particular months of the year. They are considered lucky for those who believe in such things and they present healing powers which are heightened during their associated months.

The modern list of birthstones contains the official birthstones from the American National Association of Jewelers. These gemstones were officially adopted in 1912. It must be noted however that there are different birthstones adopted by the Hindus and so why not change your birthstone to a Hindu one if you don't like the traditional stone associated with your birth month!

The list below includes both the modern and traditional birthstones with the Hindu birthstone added as an alternative:
January Birthstone Garnet or Rose Quartz Hindu birthstone: Ruby

February Birthstone Amethyst or Onyx Hindu birthstone: Topaz

March Birthstone Aquamarine or Bloodstone Hindu birthstone: Opal

April Birthstone Diamond or Rock Crystal Hindu birthstone: Diamond

May Birthstone Emerald or Chrysoprase Hindu birthstone: Emerald

June Birthstone Alexandrite or Moonstone or Pearl Hindu birthstone: Pearl

July Birthstone Ruby or Carnelion Hindu birthstone: Sapphire

August Birthstone Peridot or Sardonyx Hindu birthstone: Ruby

September Birthstone Sapphire or Lapis Hindu birthstone: Zircon

October Birthstone Opal or Tourmaline Hindu birthstone: Coral

November Birthstone Topaz or Citrine Hindu birthstone: Cats Eye

December Birthstone Tanzanite, Zircon or Turquoise Hindu birthstone: Topaz

Tanzanite became an official 'December' birthstone in October 2002, in the first revision of birthstones since 1912, and was added to the birthstone list maintained by the American Gem Trade Association (AGTA).

Be sure to see our next article entitled "Gemstone Therapy" where we provide detailed information on the mystical healing properties of certain gemstones.

As a small family run business Paul Wright Jewelery has exhibited its handcrafted silver and gold jewelery throughout the United Kingdom since 1995 at important international events such as the Badminton and Burghley Horse Trials, the Royal Show, the Royal Highland Show and other large country events.

By Paul G Wright