List of Birthstones
LIST of BIRTHSTONES
MONTH |
MODERN |
ANCIENT |
January | Garnet | Garnet |
February | Amethyst | Amethyst |
March | Aquamarine | Bloodstone |
April | Diamond | Diamond |
May | Emerald | Emerald |
June | Alexandrite | Pearl |
July | Ruby | Ruby |
August | Peridot | Sardonyx |
September | Sapphire | Sapphire |
October | Rose Zircon | Tourmaline or Opal |
November | Citrine | Topaz |
December | Blue Zircon | Turquoise or Lapis |
Early in this century jewelers got together and created a new list of birthstones. In the modern list you will find only transparent gems.
Another interesting point is the addition of alexandrite. This is an incredibly rare gem and not readily available.
The ancient list is still used considerably. Many people mix the two as they feel best. This is acceptable, the modern list has not replaced the ancient one, but supplemented it.