Last Updated on August 24, 2023 by Carla Jonas
They shimmer from every angle and provide endless glow – and it was all written in the stars. They are nature’s most beautiful gems, each associated with a specific month, and each brings its own unique range of characteristics, benefits, and charm, complete with legends and mysticism. We’re talking about Birthstones – more precisely, Birthstone Earrings and the plethora of meanings, symbols, and properties correlated with each beautiful gem.
From the radiant June birthstone to the saturated and rich January gem, all birthstones make attractive gift options, as they are personal and symbolic. Plus, they hold a special meaning to the wearer. Traditionally, there are 12 birthstones, with one specific gem corresponding to each month. However, some months have up to three birthstones – one traditional, with additional modern alternatives.
Birthstones adorn all types of jewelry, from necklaces to pendants and from birthstone rings to bracelets and different types of earrings, with the latter being the most popular birthstone jewelry type. Read on to find out the best shopping tips when hunting for birthstone earrings, plus a quick yet comprehensive dive into each and every precious and semi-precious stone, their characteristics, symbolism, color range, and value – topped with surprising fun facts for each.
JEWELRY SPOTLIGHT:
Sometimes, true beauty is found in ‘imperfections’. For truly unique, organic gem shapes, opt for stunning Baroque Pearls. Off-round, teardrop-shaped, or elongated, Baroque Pearls carry the same iridescence as classic pearls, in truly one-of-a-kind shapes that make a visual statement. Shop our collection of June birthstone necklaces, earrings, pendants, and bracelets featuring off-round gems of the seas in a wide range of enticing shades, including black gemstones, pink, golden and ivory jewels.
Birthstones – A Quick History
The Origins
Birthstones can be found in the Bible – more precisely, in the Book of Exodus, where Aaron wore a breastplate decked with 12 different highly powerful stones, each symbolizing one of the 12 tribes of Israel. Half a millennia later, historian Joseph decreed that the 12 stones mentioned in the Book of Exodus actually represented the months of the year and, respectively, the zodiac signs. As a result, a trend emerged: belts and bracelets adorned with these gems, worn primarily by Christians. During the 9th century, many gem lovers had collected all these 12 gems, but wore just one at a time, accordingly to the month they were associated with. It was only during the 16th century in Germany when jewelry lovers started wearing birthstones based on their own birth month.
East Meets West
Later on, Eastern traditions made their way into the Western world and the birthstone tradition we have today is a merger of both. Eastern cultures assign a range of gemstones with birth, but more precisely, these gemstones are associated with celestial bodies. By calculating the wearer’s birth chart, certain gems are recommended to be worn for their beneficial powers, as well as for warding off potential problems. All these are calculated according to the exact place of the celestial forces at the time of birth. Wearing birthstones is believed to help release blockages on different levels: physical, mental, and spiritual.
In Modern Times
In 1912, the National Association of Jewelers decided on the final list of American birthstones, featuring the traditional options for each month of the year. The list was modified in 1952 by the Jewelry Industry Council of America, the institution responsible for adding additional gemstones to 4 months. The newest additions: Citrine to November, pink gemstones of Tourmaline to October, and Zircon to December. Tanzanite and Spinel are recent additions as well, joining the list in the 21st century.
JEWELRY SPOTLIGHT:
Explore the charm of one of the most beautiful gems in the world – the June birthstone – in our vast collection of Pearl Earrings and Pearl Hoop Earrings. For a classic look, choose white pearls. Go for pink pearls for a touch of delicate glow. Select shimmery black pearls, or glamorous golden pearls for glowing elegance. Browse our modern hoops, classic studs, bridal and bridesmaid earrings and twinkling drop styles adorned with clear diamonds – and pick your dream pair!
The 12 Traditional Birthstone Earrings
January: Garnet Earrings
Symbolism: Power, creativity, positivity.
Colors: Typically found in shades of red. Also available in orange, pink, green, black, and hazel brown, depending on its composition.
Value: Between $500 to $7,000 per carat.
Alternative Birthstones: None. Garnet is both the traditional and the modern birthstone for the month of January.
What to Look for When Shopping for January Birthstone Earrings
Garnet comes in a variety of interesting shades, which all have their own distinctive look. Unusual colors will be more affordable than the classic and sought-after red. Garnets shine brightly and reflect light – if your jewelry piece of choice does not present high shine, it is probably of lower value. You can find larger January birthstone gems like Demantoid and Tsavorite, which cost significantly more. For a more affordable alternative, opt for the Almandine variety of Garnet.
February: Amethyst Earrings
Symbolism: Peace, calming energy, healing, and cleansing.
Colors: Amethyst is notoriously purple, but different shades exist. Variations include pastel to dark purple, dusty pink, reddish-purple, violet, and indigo.
Value: Between $2 and $10 per carat and above, depending on the vibrancy of its color.
Alternative Birthstones: None. Amethyst is both the traditional and the modern birthstone for the month of February.
What to Look for When Shopping for February Birthstone Earrings
For an affordable option, opt for pale purple earrings. Earrings with darker shades (both purple and reddish) will be more expensive. Visible inclusions in your Amethyst birthstone earrings reduce the value of your jewelry greatly, as does its pale coloring. No standard quality grading scale exists for Amethyst, despite certain products being marked A, AA, or AAA quality. Amethyst earrings are fairly durable, as the February birthstone measures a hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale (where Diamond scores a perfect 10). There are many types of earrings featuring Amethysts on the market, ranging from studs to artsy bohemian designs, due to the versatility and affordability of the gemstone.
Shop the Freshwater Drop Pearl & Amethyst Hailey Tincup Earrings
March: Aquamarine Earrings
Symbolism: Serenity, clarity, and rebirth.
Colors: Various shades of blue and green. These include seafoam, light and medium blue, deep blue, and greenish-blue.
Value: Prices are between $700 and $1,500 per carat.
Alternative Birthstones: Bloodstone, which occurs as Jasper or Calcedony and presents a dark, non-translucent surface with speckles of color.
What to Look for When Shopping for March Birthstone Earrings
Aquamarine and Emerald present some similarities, as they are both varieties of Beryl. But unlike the Gemini birthstone, Aquamarine (March birthstone) should not present any inclusions. Milky varieties, although sought-after, are less valuable. There are many birthstone earrings on the market that claim to feature real Aquamarine in its most vibrant varieties – but prices should be extremely high for such pieces, especially if the gems are large. Cut gems present darker shades, especially if they go beyond 5 carats.
April: Diamond Earrings
Symbolism: Strength, love, health, invincibility.
Colors: Ideally colorless. From transparent and colorless to shades like yellow, gray, white, green, pink, orange, red, and blue.
Value: Averaging between $2,500 and $18,000 per carat and beyond for higher quality, larger gems.
Alternative Birthstones: White Topaz and Quartz, which are more affordable options yet present similarities with Diamonds.
What to Look for When Shopping for April Birthstone Earrings
Understand the 4Cs that establish a Diamond’s quality: color, clarity, cut, and carat. In terms of color, less color means higher value when it comes to Diamonds. Clarity refers to the inclusions and blemishes the gem presents. Cut refers to the workmanship, which results in the gem’s brilliance level. Carat refers to the Diamond’s weight, which is directly proportional to its value. Diamond earrings should come with a grading report – and for a completely safe purchase, also opt for an appraisal and insurance.
May: Emerald Earrings
Symbolism: Fidelity, growth, wisdom, and true love.
Colors: From yellow-green to blue-green, with only the dark specimens being considered true Emeralds.
Value: Emerald presents a wide range in terms of quality. Its prices range from less than $1 a carat to $100,000 a carat.
Alternative Birthstones: Emerald is the typical birthstone for May and it’s considered both the traditional and modern option. However, Agate is sometimes considered the Gemini birthstone and was regarded as the birthstone for May in the past century.
What to Look for When Shopping for May Birthstone Earrings
Naturally, Emeralds and May birthstone earrings come with inclusions. Large gems that appear completely flawless at a great price should be considered suspicious. The Gemini birthstone should only be heat treated, so investigate the type of treatment (if any) before your purchase. Color is the main aspect when determining the value of an Emerald. The most valuable Emeralds are green, with an even color throughout the gem.
GEMINI BIRTHSTONE SPOTLIGHT:
Emerald, Pearl, and Agate are the top mesmerizing Gemini birthstones. For a loved one under this zodiac sign, opt for luster from every angle with our Tahitian Pearls collection. Choose elegant and modern styles featuring the iridescent Gemini birthstone in a plethora of enticing dark colors as the perfect gift for grandma, as gifts for parents, for yourself, or for your special someone.
June: Pearl Earrings
Symbolism: Innocence, beauty, protection, and sincerity.
Colors: Typically white, ivory, pink, peach, golden and dark-almost black (Tahitian Pearls) in shades like copper, peacock, blue-green, and silver.
Value: On average, prices are $300 to $1500 per pearl or more, depending on various factors like their origin, shape, luster, color, and surface.
Alternative Birthstones: June is one of only two months that is associated with three different birthstones, the other two being Alexandrite and Moonstone. Pearls are also considered one of the main Gemini birthstones.
What to Look for When Shopping for June Birthstone Earrings
The value of Pearls, and, respectively, of June birthstone earrings and June birthstone necklaces, is established based on different grading factors: luster, surface quality, size, shape, color, and nacre thickness. In general, Freshwater Pearls are more affordable than saltwater gems like Akoya Pearls, South Sea Pearls, and Tahitian Pearls. Hanadama Pearls are known for the most lustrous surface. June birthstone earrings come in a wide range of colors, including white and off-white, pink, peach, golden and darker shades (black pearls) with different overtones. To keep in mind when shopping for June birthstone earrings: round Pearls are considered more valuable than off-round, Baroque Pearls.
For more information, read our complete guide on buying pearls online!
Shop the South Sea Pearl & Diamond Aurora Leverback Earrings
Shop the 11mm Tahitian South Sea Round Pearl Stud Earrings
GIFT SPOTLIGHT:
June birthstone jewelry pieces make stunning gifts for parents, partners, and friends and perfect presents for occasions like bridesmaid proposals, birthdays, and anniversaries. Timeless appeal. Classic charm. True beauty. Delight your loved ones with the gift of a lifetime, carrying a sentimental, personal touch: a jewelry piece featuring timelessly elegant pearls from our June Birthstone collection.
July: Ruby Earrings
Symbolism: Success, passion, wealth, and energy.
Colors: Typically vibrantly red, with darker shades of red and purplish-red also available.
Value: Rubies are some of the most expensive gems, with some price tags reaching $1,000,000 per carat.
Alternative Birthstones: Onyx and Turquoise, although they are not official birthstones, but associated with the month of July.
What to Look for When Shopping for July Birthstone Earrings
Most birthstone earrings featuring Rubies are under 1 carat because anything above is highly expensive. The source of the Rubies is not important when establishing their value, as even the best mines can produce low-quality gems. The vast majority of Rubies and July birthstone earrings on the market have been treated, so make sure that you inquire about these treatments prior to shopping. Expect some inclusions in your Ruby birthstone earrings as gems without any inclusions are extremely rare.
August: Peridot Earrings
Symbolism: Harmony, peace, compassion, renewal.
Colors: Green, with overtones of yellow and brown also available.
Value: Prices are between $50-$80 per carat on average. Expect to pay far more for premium quality gems.
Alternative Birthstone: Spinel.
What to Look for When Shopping for August Birthstone Earrings
Birthstone earrings featuring Peridot that displays yellowish and brown undertones are less valuable than clear green gems. Small gems are affordable, but even August birthstone designs featuring gems of more than 50 carats are available. If you are looking for a green gem, shades like olive green are more affordable than saturated green jewels. No standard quality grading scale exists for Peridot, despite certain products being marked A, AA, or AAA quality.
September: Sapphire Earrings
Symbolism: Truth, holiness, virtue, and wisdom.
Colors: The full rainbow spectrum of colors is available, with the most sought-after shade being blue. Orange-pink is the rarest color of Sapphire.
Value: Widely ranging. Anywhere from $25 per carat to over $11,000 per carat.
Alternative Birthstones: None. Sapphire is the traditional and modern birthstone for September.
What to Look for When Shopping for September Birthstone Earrings
The color vibrance of the Sapphire gems will directly affect the value of these birthstone earrings. For more affordable September birthstone earrings, opt for gems that come in dark or green-blue hues. While some Sapphires may appear highly vibrant, many gems have been treated with lattice diffusion. Opt for birthstone earrings featuring Sapphires that haven’t been treated or that have been treated with heat only. There are certain varieties of Sapphire that present asterism, which means the formation of a star with multiple rays on their surface (Star Sapphire).
October: Opal Earrings
Symbolism: Royalty, good luck, confidence, faithfulness.
Colors: Opals can come in all the colors of the rainbow, displaying in an iridescent, twinkling pattern. Body colors are typically white, gray, or blue, with green, blue, yellow, purple, or pink speckles. Black Opal is the most valuable.
Value: The price can be anywhere from $10 to $6,000 per carat.
Alternative Birthstones: Tourmaline.
What to Look for When Shopping for October Birthstone Earrings
Make sure you do not leave your Opal birthstone earrings in very dry or hot conditions for too long, as this gem has high water content. Earrings featuring Opal come with different patterns, some more subtle, others bolder. The most affordable option is white and light-colored Opal and the gems that present a play of colors are more sought-after. Most commonly, earrings featuring Opal feature cabochon gems.
JEWELRY SPOTLIGHT:
The beauty of nature is endless. For a look inspired by the magic of the oceans, opt for stunning Mother of Pearl jewelry. As one of nature’s most iridescent creations, Mother of Pearl is in its own league. It carries a unique appeal and timeless charm, high luster, and unmatched glow, ideal as gifts, bridal earrings, and day-to-night jewelry. Shop our collection of earrings, pendants, rings, and more featuring shimmery nacre in a plethora of shades.
November: Topaz Earrings
Symbolism: Trust and self-trust, harmony, communication, and wisdom.
Colors: Topaz presents a vast color range, with the colorless variety being the most abundant. The transparent variety is often treated to look blue. Yellow and beige shades are also popular and the rarest shade of Topaz is pink (Imperial Topaz).
Value: High-quality and vibrantly colored Topaz gemstones can be found from $1000 – $3500 per carat. More affordable gems with lower price tags are available as well.
Alternative Birthstone: Citrine, which resembles Golden Topaz in terms of color.
What to Look for When Shopping for November Birthstone Earrings
For an affordable birthstone earrings option, opt for colorless or blue Topaz, which are both abundant. For a more valuable investment, choose November birthstone pieces that feature rare colors like orange, red, and pink. Despite the fact that Topaz presents a hardness of 8, it is not a tough gem, which means that high-friction jewelry pieces like rings aren’t recommended. Many Topaz gems are treated, so avoiding prolonged exposure to natural light and heat can make the gem’s color fade.
December: Tanzanite Earrings
Symbolism: Positive energy, intellect, intuition, and purity.
Colors: Tanzanite can be either blue dominant or violet dominant, with various intensities and brightness.
Value: Prices range from $600 to $1,500 per carat.
Alternative Birthstone: Many blue gemstones are associated with the month of December: Turquoise, Lapis Lazuli, Blue Topaz, and even Blue Zircon.
What to Look for When Shopping for December Birthstone Earrings
The December birthstone Tanzanite measures between 6 and 7 on the Mohs scale, which is moderately strong. Tanzanite gems need to be on the larger side to reach a deep shade of blue. For earrings, lighter-colored gems that are smaller in size are generally used. When shopping for birthstone earrings, make sure the Tanzanite stone reflects light from every angle. Only well-cut gems have this ability. Find a reputable jeweler that is experienced with this stone, as Tanzanite is an unusual gem and not all jewelers have the required gemological knowledge.
Why Choose Birthstone Earrings
Shop the June Birthstone Tahitian South Sea Drop Pearl Dangling Tincup Earrings
Shop the June Birthstone 9mm Golden South Sea Round Pearl Stud Earrings
Birthstone earrings are gaining more and more popularity, with countless testimonials that all claim seeing an actual change in energy levels, mindset, and positivity after prolonged wear. Here are a few reasons why you should consider shopping for birthstone earrings, either as gifts or for yourself:
- The wearing of birthstones is believed to bring good luck, health, and protection to the wearer since the oldest civilizations.
- Birthstone earrings make excellent gifts, as they are highly personal pieces of jewelry that carry a strong message and intention behind the present.
- Birthstones are an excellent way to create a signature look – a look that is highly personal and unique to the wearer.
- Since the oldest times, it has been believed that birthstones are well connected to the wearer and help align energies by inducing the perfect wavelength to the one wearing the jewelry piece.
- As opposed to other pieces of jewelry that are placed in areas more prone to scratching (such as rings), earrings featuring precious stones are much more durable.
- Birthstone earrings make a timeless fashion statement, being the perfect merger between classic, unique and personal.
- Birthstones are precious and semi-precious gems, which means that they are all valuable and carry timeless appeal.
- Birthstone earrings do not lose their value, nor their significance over time, which makes them perfect heirloom pieces.
Shopping Tips on Buying Birthstone Earrings
- Shop only from reputable jewelers when buying precious and semi-precious gemstones and jewelry gifts.
- Opt for birthstone earrings that set the stones in precious metals. Semiprecious and precious gemstones should always be paired with precious metals, such as sterling silver, gold and platinum. 18K to 22K gold and silver are great options because they are hypoallergenic.
- Choose your metal of choice carefully and with versatility in mind. Think of the other pieces of jewelry you love and wear constantly and opt for a matching precious metal.
- It is always advisable to shop for birthstone earrings from jewelers who are specialized in the gems you are looking for. Shop from reputable pearl retailers if on the lookout for June birthstone earrings. Look for retailers that can give you all the information you need before your purchase.
- For unique gemstones that are less known (such as Tanzanite), make sure you choose specialized retailers that can prove extensive gemological knowledge, so do your research before the purchase.
- If it’s too good to be true, it probably is. Large gemstones in vibrant colors do not come at a low price, so be aware that there are many faux alternatives on the market.
- Birthstone earrings featuring precious metals and stones should always have secure closure types. The safest closures are: screw backs, push back posts, lever backs, latch backs, hoop wire closures. Fish hooks without any backing (such as rubber backings) are not recommended for valuable earrings.
Final Thoughts
Birthstone earrings are truly special pieces of jewelry. Unique, personal, and timeless, set in gold, platinum or silver, they are the kind of accessory that never fades or loses their appeal. From the twinkling Emeralds to flawless Diamonds and radiant Pearls, each and every birthstone out there carries its own magic, story, and appeal. Which one is your favorite birthstone? Let us know in the comment section below!
JEWELRY SPOTLIGHT:
Pair your June birthstone earrings with a matching June birthstone necklace for timeless elegance from every angle. Opt for delicate pendants, classic strand necklaces, or baroque Pearls for a cohesive look full of glow. Classic. Refined. Sophisticated. Pearls simply have it all. Explore all designs from our collection, featuring dainty gems, statement or off-round Pearls in modern and classic styles.
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