There are many variations of birthstones dating back to early civilizations. The Modern Birthstone List is the official list from the American National Association of Jewelers, Jewelers of America. These gemstones were officially adopted in 1912 (tanzanite was added in October 2002). In the US, this is the accepted list.

For at least 10,000 years, man has used colored stones as talismans and amulets. He used them to predict the future, to protect him from harm and as healing aids. Religious traditions from early times included gemstones as important elements in their ceremonies and practices. Many people believe that the planets influence different stones and that planetary birthstones transmit powers associated with those planets.

The two birthstone color tables show a range of aqua, black, blue, brown, clear, orange, pink, purple, red, violet, white, and yellow birthstones.

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      Chart I lists birthstones by their colors and includes the month(s) and birthstone chart(s) associated with that stone.

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      Chart II lists the months of the year and includes all the colors of birthstones associated with that month.

Birthstone colors listed below were compiled from a number of lists (sources):

      Birthstones of ancient cultures - Hebrew, Roman, Arabic, Hindu, Polish, Russian, Italian

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      various other charts of birthstones and star/planetary signs.

Some of the stones, like garnet, agate and sapphire are available in a variety of different colors and are listed under several colors and/or months.

See birthstone jewelry for pictures of jewelry made with various birth stones.