Among the changes were the addition of alexandrite to the month of June, citrine to November, pink tourmaline for October (pink was key), replacing alternate lapis with zircon in December, and switching around March’s primary and alternate gemstones of aquamarine and bloodstone. In 1912, the National Association of Jewelers standardized the list, which was updated in 1952 by the Jewelry Industry Council of America. Throughout history, accepted birthstones rotated in and out, with style and availability sometimes determining which stones would reign. And while more modern accounts, including folklore, do not identify the breastplate or religious connections, some claim wearing one during its assigned month enhances its therapeutic properties. Eighth and 9th Century religious treaties were written associating particular stones with apostles. While some sources such as 1st Century Roman-Jewish historian Josephus tell us birthstones originated on the breastplate of Aaron, with each representing the 12 months of the year and accruing 12 signs of the zodiac, others say the breastplate’s stones signified each of the 12 tribes of Israel. The blue zircon features green pleochroism that may lead to some amazing teal-like colors. And the most popular variety is the blue zircon. It white or colorless variations are the least valuable. Did you know that in addition to looking sparkly and elegant in a ring, necklace, or earrings, your birthstone actually has a history? And in some cases, birthstones are thought to be imbued with specific healing and protective qualities! The Origin of Birthstones Among the three birthstones for December, Zircon has the most diverse range of colors.

Birthstone colors