Birthstones are precious gemstones or semi-precious gemstones associated with each month. Gem researchers believe that assigning meaning to birthstones began with the Bible's Exodus 28:15-30. This passage describes the Breastplate of Aaron, a ceremonial garment adorned with twelve gemstones representing the twelve tribes of Israel. These birthstones are also aligned with the dozen zodiac signs and calendar months.

People started attributing the qualities of gemstones with the personalities of those born in a specific month or astrological sign. Since birthstone history spans 1,000s of years, it's no surprise that multiple birthstone information guides exist and vary among cultures.

In addition to the monthly birthstones guide and the birthstones of the zodiac, there are also Ayurvedic birthstones hailing from 1500 B.C. India. Another list is mystical birthstones which come from Tibet and date back 1,000 years. Traditional birthstones were chosen in the 1400s and today's modern birthstones were adopted by the American National Association of Jewelers in 1912.

No matter which birthstone you choose, reference our birthstone information guide to learn more about its history rich with mystery, mysticism and tales of magic.