Birthstones Make the Perfect Gift!

Garnet, Amythest, Aquamarine, and Diamond. These precious stones make up the first four in the chronological list of birthstones categorized by month, January to December. In addition to the tangible value each gem permits, every one carries centuries of curated symbolisms and meanings which represent thousands of years of human intuition and ambition. Consequently, birthstones are perhaps the most perfect gift in the greatest number of situations, as their historical traditions in combination with their physical appeal make it impossible for the beauty in each gemstone to be lost on any recipient.

Denver Is the Best Place to Find Birthstone Jewelry.

It is no surprise, then, that Colorado has a penchant for custom jewelry. From the sparkling aquamarine foothills of Mt. Antero to the topaz peaks of the Tarryall Mountains, the state is home to many places overflowing with gems. As a result, the capital city of Denver, Colorado, contains a perpetually booming economy centered around the refinement of precious stones and the artisan crafting of custom birthstone jewelry. Whether you’re looking for the perfect piece with a distinctive style, a timeless gift or a modern design for your birthstone the guide below from the Jewelry experts at David Ellis will be your guide stone.

What are Birthstones?

Birthstones, as a concept, are the culmination of thousands of years of intense anthropological development passionately hammered out by civilizations long since lost to the annals of history and the sands of time. Their traditional meanings, however, ensure that a part of each human who contributed to their legacies will live on as reminders of the peace that came before us, and the tranquility that will subsist in our wake.

Is it better to Buy Traditional or Modern Birthstones?

The birthstone exists in two categorizations, the modern and the traditional. Where the traditional is comprised of historical and religious tradition, the modern represents commercial viability, appeal, and ease of procurement and suitability for the broadest amount of people. Whether or not to choose from the traditional or the modern is simply a matter of taste for most, so all options are equal by the nature of the niche values and beliefs each gem brings to the table. In this regard, two tables are provided with the necessary information about each birthstone, separated between the modern and the traditional for convenience.

What are The Birthstones for Each Month?

The Traditional

The Modern

What is The Meaning Behind Each Birthstone? 

Garnet – January
Garnet, as a birthstone, is typically associated with red, though it appears in other colors. The gem lacks cleavage and possesses a hardness between the range of 6.5 and 7.5 on the Mohs Hardness Scale, meaning it is relatively durable and is not likely to fall victim to wear and tear over the years.

The Garnet is an incredibly storied gemstone, with traditions surrounding it dating back to the time of the Ancient Egyptians, gaining notoriety throughout the ages of the Roman and the Victorian English. Today, it can be found inlayed in tiaras, pendants, and rings. It’s meaning is usually associated with protection, friendship, trust, commitment and love.

Amethyst – February

Amethyst is usually found in deep shades of purple, with to purest violet being the most expensive. It exhibits a Mohs hardness of 7, meaning it is a very durable gem in comparison to others. However, amethysts can fade or change color when exposed to prolonged heat or light, so conscious maintenance is a requirement.

The word ‘amethyst’ is derived from methustos, meaning intoxicated in Greek. The gem was promised to belay the effects of alcohol for the wearer, signifying the gem’s association with the high in status and the socially adept. Ancient ‘party life,’ as it were.

Bloodstone – March 

Bloodstone is characterized by red and orange spots resembling splotches of blood, thus the namesake. It is considered a form of Jasper, and likewise possesses its characteristic durability at a Mohs hardness of 6.5 to 7. It also has no planes of cleavage, adding to its ability to weather years of usage.

The stone was used in ancient times as a boon to the circulatory system, most likely because of its association with blood. Today, it stands as a signifier of good health and steady fortune.

Aquamarine – March

Aquamarine is a gem that provides a window, however brief, into the vast expanse of the sea. The birthstone is known for its clarity, and so the most expensive are typically the most transparent in homage to the clear waters they represent. It possesses a hardness of 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs hardness scale and has no cleavage, making it an exceptionally durable gemstone.

The name ‘aquamarine’ was bestowed upon the gem as a result of the infinite blue contained within, coming from Latin as a combination of the words aqua, water, and marina, sea.

Diamond – April 

Throughout the ages, diamond alone has stood above all other precious stones as the most venerated and most prized on Earth. It is the hardest gemstone in all existence, coming in at a perfect ten out of 10 on the Mohs Hardness Scale.

The historical value of the diamond cannot be understated, as its reputation with humanity remains unchanged as the pinnacle of precious stones. Diamonds are often associated with strong ties and lifelong commitment, and as such are common in engagement rings.

Emerald – May 

The emerald is synonymous with green in all aspects related to gems. They possess a rich, vitreous luster and a hardness of 7.5 five to 8 on the Mohs Hardness Scale. Emeralds often have inclusions, natural imperfections within the body of the gem which serve to enhance the beauty of each stone.

Perhaps the most historically significant role the emerald played in history is that of Egyptian Pharoh Cleopatra’s most prized gem, having claimed ownership of every emerald mine in Egypt during her reign as a bid to acquire more of these precious stones.

Pearl – June

 Pearls are the products of an organic reaction that takes place in mollusk shells. They were historically prized for their rarity and beauty, though natural pearls are generally much less uniformly spherical in shape. The possess a hardness of 2.5 to 4.5 five on the Mohs hardness scale, making them quite delicate and susceptible to damage.

Because of the rarity of the pearl, civilizations from the Egyptian to the Greek to the Byzantine venerated their beauty and worth as unparalleled. By the turn of the twentieth century, however, commercial culturing of the saltwater pearl became economically viable, making pearls both stunningly beautiful and surprisingly affordable.

Moonstone – June 

Within the moonstone there is a unique milky glow unseen in other gems of the same caliber, making it a top competitor in beauty and luster. It possesses a hardness of 6 to 6.5 on the Mohs Hardness Scale, but is easily fractured due to the existence of cleavage lines.

The moonstone has long been associated with the lunar, tracing back to the times of Roman and the Greek. Both of these ancient civilizations associated this gemstone with their respective lunar deities.

Alexandrite – June

 Natural alexandrite is unparalleled in rarity. Because of its extreme rarity, the gemstone was discovered relatively late in human history during the nineteenth century. It often fetches a price rivaling natural diamond. It possesses a hardness of 8.5 on the Mohs Hardness Scale, making it extraordinarily tough as compared to other gems.

Alexandrite was named after Emperor Alexander II of Russia as its discovery is said to have aligned with his birthday. Due to the unique color-changing properties of the gem, specimens often shifted between red and green hues, matching the colors of the Russian military at the time.

Ruby – July

The luster of a polished ruby can rival that of even the diamond, though rubies are Often also gifted with the presence of silk-like inclusions among their interiors. They are famed for their hardness, possessing a Mohs hardness of 9.

The ruby is a variety of corundum differentiated from the other flavors of that mineral by its deep shade of red. The color is the only difference between this gemstone and the sapphire, though both were historically recognized as completely separate gems due to the lack of modern classification standards and relevant technologies.

Spinel – August

 Spinel possesses many of the characteristics that ruby does, having a Mohs hardness of 8, similar to that of ruby’s nine. The red spinel’s rich color makes it easy to mistake for ruby, and indeed many historically prized rubies were revealed to be spinel.

The spinel has often been overshadowed by gemstones like ruby and sapphire, though it remains just as gorgeous and more affordable than any gem from the corundum family.

Peridot – August

The peridot comes in shades of vibrant green, though freshly distinct from the rich, full-bodied depth of the emerald. It possesses a Mohs hardness of 6.5 to 7.

Approximately eighty-five to ninety-five percent of the world’s supply of peridot comes from a deposit on the San Carlos Apache Indian Reservation located in Arizona. The peridot is a relatively common gemstone, so popular demand it easily met.

Sardonyx – August

Sardonyx has long been believed to carry positive energy and ward away negativity. It was popular on signet rings during the age of the Roman Empire. In modern times, it is famed for its unparalleled beauty at an affordable price. It possesses a Mohs hardness of 6.5 to 7.

Sapphire – September

The Sapphire stands in opposition to the color of the ruby, though it belongs to the corundum family of gemstones like ruby does. It is often depicted in shades of blue, although it comes in virtually every color except red, which falls under the jurisdiction of the ruby.

It possesses a hardness of 9 on the Mohs Hardness Scale, matching that of ruby and submitting only to moissanite and diamond.

Opal – October

Opal is renowned for its amazing play-of-color, a phenomenon where flashes of light dance across the surface of the stone. Due to its high-water content and changing patterns, it ranks at 5.5 – 6.5 on the Mohs Hardness Scale. This makes it more delicate than many other gemstones and susceptible to cracking if improperly stored.

The name “opal” comes from the Latin word opelus, meaning “precious stone,” and the gem has long been considered a symbol of creativity and mystery. Its Beloved by both royalty and artists and was once thought to embody the virtues of every gem whose colors it reflected.

Topaz – NovemberThe topaz appears in a dazzling array of colors, but it most often appears in gold as a birthstone. It carries a respectable hardness of 8 on the Mohs Hardness Scale, making it a durable and versatile gem. Topaz also has a perfect basal cleavage, meaning it must be cut and worn with care to avoid splitting.

Historically, topaz was believed to possess protective powers, especially against envy and illness. Ancient civilizations including the Greeks and Egyptians viewed it as a symbol of strength and healing.

Turquoise – DecemberThe turquoise is easily recognized by its tranquil shades of robin’s egg blue and green, often with matrix veining running through it. It ranks at 5 to 6 on the Mohs Hardness Scale, so it is softer than most gemstones and can scratch easily with prolonged wear.

Regarded as a sacred stone in many cultures from Persia to the American Southwest, turquoise has long been considered a protective talisman. It remains a staple in Native American jewelry and a timeless symbol of sky and water.

Lapis Lazuli – Alternate December
Lapis lazuli is not a crystal but a rock composed of lazurite and flecks of pyrite, giving it its trademark deep blue body and golden sparkle. With a Mohs hardness of 5 to 5.5, it is soft and best suited for low-impact jewelry pieces.

A favorite of ancient royalty, from Mesopotamian kings to Egyptian pharaohs, lapis lazuli was ground into pigment for paints and cosmetics. The stone was prized not just for beauty but for the celestial significance it carried—seen as a mirror to the heavens.

Tourmaline – October

Tourmaline is known as the chameleon of the gemstone world as it appears in virtually every color imaginable. It exhibits a Mohs hardness of 7 to 7.5, which makes it fairly durable and suitable for most types of jewelry.

Its name comes from the Sinhalese word “Toramalli”, meaning “mixed gems,” due to its naturally colorful nature. Tourmaline has been revered for its supposed ability to calm emotions and inspire artistic expression.

Golden Topaz – November (Modern Association) 

Golden topaz, distinct from its blue counterpart, is known for its rich amber shade and brilliant fire. It shares the general topaz’s hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale, making sure it will hold up well over time.

This gemstone was thought to attract wealth and increase confidence, both qualities that made it especially popular among nobility. In modern metaphysical traditions, golden topaz symbolizes generosity and abundance.

Citrine – November (Modern)

Citrine, with its warm tones of yellow and orange, brings to mind sunlight and energy. It has a Mohs hardness of 7, making it fairly sturdy, though extended exposure to heat can change its color.

Historically citrine has been confused with topaz. Citrine became wildly popular in the Art Deco era and it remains a favorite in vintage style jewelry. It is said to attract prosperity and is often referred to as the “Merchant’s Stone.”

Zircon – December

Zircon often appears as blue for birthstone purposes, though it naturally forms in a rainbow of colors. It registers a Mohs hardness of 6 to 7.5, depending on the variety, and features brilliant reflections of light that rivals even the diamond.

Zircon has been treasured since antiquity, with records of its use dating back to ancient Hindu texts. Blue zircon, in particular, was a Victorian favorite, often set into ornate brooches and pendants.

Tanzanite – December (Modern)

Tanzanite is known for its vivid violet blue shades and its powerful ability to show different colors depending on the angle of view. It possesses a Mohs hardness of 6 to 7, so while it sparkles, it should be worn with care.

Discovered only in 1967 near Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, it quickly became one of the most sought-after gems of the twentieth century. Tanzanite’s limited geographic source makes it all the rarer and more cherished.

Colorado’s proud history of creating refined gemstones is far more than just a simple jewelry purchase. Birthstones created in Colorado not only tell a story, they encompass personal meaning and connect us to the natural beauty of our amazing state. Each stone, whether the crimson color of a Colorado sunset or the clarity of a diamond star in the night sky, reflects its unique identity and history to Colorado. David Ellis Jewelers continues to honor this legacy blending our local craftmanship with timeless tradition. So, whether you’re looking for the perfect birthstone for a loved one’s birthday, seeking a meaningful gift, or a personal treasure with lasting significance let the expert team at David Ellis help you find the perfect stone and setting to commemorate your special occasion.