These are all the birthstones by month—and their unique meanings

Everything from necklaces to bracelets and earrings to rings can be made extra special with birthstones. They make wonderful birthday gifts because they celebrate the birth of that special someone. Not to mention, the different monthly birthstones and birthstones meanings can all make for beautiful gemstone-inspired baby names. Take a look at this list of birthstones by month meanings for sparkling inspiration.

January birthstone: garnet

This birthstone got its special name from the latin, “granatus,” which means seed-like. That’s because the glittering red jewel resembles pomegranate seeds. It was also a popular stone for travelers and explorers because it’s believed to provide safety and protection.

February birthstone: amethyst

Amethysts belong in the quartz family. Their lovely violet color has long been the choice of gemstone for royalty. Even though it is said to strengthen relationships and give courage, its meaning is associated with wisdom.

March birthstone: aquamarine

The light blue color of aquamarines has inspired depictions of the sea and the sky for years, which makes sense since the stone means serenity. It’s said to bring harmony to marriages which means it’s an old favorite to gift to new brides and moms. Sailors used to carry it because it was thought to cure disease.

April birthstone: quartz and diamond

Quartz is associated with strength because it has a unique ability to resist damage and scratches. These stones can be found in every rock formation in the world! But, their popularity also comes from the fact that they can be found inside geodes—a special glittering gemstone hiding inside something ordinary.

The diamond is a classic symbol of everlasting love and courage.

May birthstone: emerald

Emeralds were Cleopatra’s favorite gem. They are associated with fertility and love, as well as rebirth because the green color is connected to springtime and hope. They are also a symbol for growth and patience.

June birthstone: pearl

Long ago, the ancient Greeks believed that pearls were the hardened tears of joy of the goddess of love, Aphrodite. Pearls are a symbol of purity.

July birthstone: ruby

The ruby’s fiery color symbolizes passion and love. Their color also associates them with vitality and life which is why they were a popular gemstone to be set in drinking cups, since people drink to each other’s health.

August birthstone: peridot

The light green glow of peridot stones is the same in any kind of light which makes it distinctly different from other gems. They were once believed to be the tears of the volcanic goddess, Pele. They are associated with strength and beauty.

September birthstone: sapphire

Sapphire is said to be a symbol of purity and wisdom. It has long been a favored gem stone for kings and priests because it is thought to safeguard the wearer from evil thoughts. Although it comes in different colors, the blue sapphire is the most popular.

October birthstone: tourmaline and opal

Tourmaline is a particularly special gem because it comes in almost every single color. Alchemists once believed they were related to the philosopher’s stone. Legend states that this stone helps relieve sad feelings. It represents healing.

Opal is also a stone that comes in various colors but the difference is that this gem diffracts light so it has the rare power of simultaneously glowing with all of the rainbow’s colors. It symbolizes confidence and faithfulness.

November birthstone: citrine

Citrine gets its name from the citrus fruit who shares its color. Ancient Egyptians and Romans used to wear a lot of this gemstone in their jewelry. It is said to help calm the mind and promote wellness. It means joy.

December birthstone: turquoise

The blue-green color of the turquoise gem can be spotted a mile away. The stone is believed to be a symbol for success and good fortune. Some also believe that it wards off evil spirits.