Alternative Birthstones

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by Dr. Gerald L. Wykoff, GG, CSM

Wearing your birthstone supposedly brings you luck. But what if you don’t particularly like the gemstone associated with your birth month? For those looking for alternative birthstones, options exist beyond the modern and traditional lists of gems. Choose stones associated with zodiacal signs or months symbolic of angels. You can even forgo your birth month and pick a gem associated with the day of the week or hour of your birth.

Alternative Birthstones Based on the Signs of the Zodiac

In the 19th century, the term “chrysolite” referred to yellow-green chrysoberyl as well as peridot gems. However, that name is no longer used. (Chrysoberyl and peridot are distinct gem species).

Alternative Birthstones Associated with Guardian Angels

The ancient term carbuncle refers to any red gem. Historically, stones referred to as carbuncles were likely red garnets. Jacinth is a transparent, reddish brown zircon.

Alternative Birthstones Based on the Names of the Apostles

If you share a name with one of the twelve apostles, this list may interest you. During the Middle Ages, many scholars associated each apostle with a gemstone. (Judas was replaced by Paul, who wasn’t one of the original twelve). Not surprisingly, different writers made different connections. Below, you’ll find one such list. Note, these choices have no connection to time of birth.

Sardonyx is a variety of chalcedony with red and white layers.

Alternative Birthstones Based on the Hour of Birth

Alternative Birthstones Based on the Day of the Week of Birth

In this system, each day of the week offers at least two choices.

Rock crystal is colorless quartz.

Alternative Birthstones Based on the Season of Birth

Perfect for those who really want to pick from the “Big Four” gemstones.

Birthstone Advice

Feeling overwhelmed by the options? Maybe this makes it easier to understand why superstitious attachments to gems gave way to a more scientific approach. You could just appreciate gemstones for their physical and optical properties or simply their beauty. (Try this birthstone gemology quiz). However, many people still feel a strong mystical connection to gems. If you do, surely in the lists above you can find a birthstone that corresponds to you and feels right. You and your choice will likely withstand this happy little arena of birthstone madness.