What Months Have Multiple Birthstones? How to Choose Yours?

Have you ever looked up your birthstone and found more than one? If your birthday is in June or December, you might be wondering which stone is truly yours. Are you a classic pearl or a mysterious alexandrite? A serene turquoise or a rare tanzanite?

These multi-stone months offer a world of choices. Having multiple birthstones doesn't mean you have to pick a favorite. It means you have a beautiful opportunity to find a gem that represents not only your birth month but also your unique story.

At Juyoyo, we believe that jewelry is deeply personal. It's a marker of moments, a symbol of identity, and a celebration of you. That’s why we’ve created this ultimate guide. We'll explore which months have these wonderful options and help you discover which stone resonates most with your style, spirit, and story.

Why Do Some Months Have Multiple Birthstones? It’s Not Random!

The concept of a birthstone for each month stems from an ancient tradition. However, the current list was officially standardized in 1912 by the National Association of Jewelers in the United States. This list has been updated for a few key reasons over the decades:

• Discovery of New Gems: Stones like tanzanite, discovered in the 1960s, are too stunning to exclude.
• Rarity and Affordability: Some traditional stones became too rare or expensive for many people. More accessible alternatives were added.
• Evolving Tastes: As styles change, jewelers and associations like the American Gem Trade Association (AGTA) introduce alternatives to reflect contemporary tastes and meanings. For example, August's birthstone is peridot, but jewelers sometimes introduce alternatives like vibrant spinel.
• Cultural Reconciliation: Ancient traditions varied around the world. Modern lists often blend influences, offering various choices. For example, November's birthstones, citrine and topaz, have different historical origins.

Understanding this "why" transforms your birthstone from a default choice to an informed, personal statement.

A Quick Guide to the Multi-Birthstone Months

The Deep Dive: The Months with Two or Three Birthstones

Now, let's explore the unique personality of each gemstone.

March Birthstones: Aquamarine & Bloodstone

March offers a choice between the tranquil sea and the resilient earth.

• Aquamarine: With its pale blue to turquoise hues, aquamarine is named after the Latin term for "sea water." Ancient mariners believed aquamarine protected them on their voyages. With a Mohs hardness of 7.5-8, aquamarine is durable enough for everyday wear. Its serene color makes it a popular choice for those who love a calm, refreshing aesthetic.
• Bloodstone (Heliotrope): It is a deep, earthy green chalcedony. It is flecked with spots of red hematite. The spots resemble drops of blood. Bloodstone was the stone of warriors and was thought to increase their strength and courage in battle. It has a Mohs hardness of 6.5-7, making it suitable for most jewelry, though it benefits from gentle care.

Aquamarine vs. Bloodstone: Which Should You Choose?

Do you prefer ethereal light blue or deep, powerful green? Aquamarine is perfect for lovers of soft, ocean-inspired tones and for those who appreciate a stone connected to travel and tranquility. Bloodstone appeals to those drawn to unique, earthy looks and the stone’s rich historical and symbolic ties to strength.

June Birthstones: Pearl, Alexandrite & Moonstone

June is a magical month, boasting three gems that are each uniquely captivating.

• Pearl: It is the sole gemstone crafted by a living organism, renowned for its timeless brilliance. Pearls have been used since time immemorial to represent purity and intelligence. They're ideal for dainty necklaces or earrings, but be aware of their fragility.
• Alexandrite: An exceptionally rare color-changing gemstone. It shifts from green in daylight to purplish-red under incandescent light. Discovered in Russia in the 1830s, alexandrite was named after the future Czar Alexander II. Over 90% of natural alexandrite historically came from Russia's Ural Mountains.
• Moonstone: Esteemed for its adularescence, a mystical, billowy luminescence that gracefully traverses the stone. Its milky glow pairs beautifully with silver settings. Moonstone is tied to lunar deities and is said to capture moonbeams within it.

Pearl vs. Alexandrite vs. Moonstone: Which to Choose?

The pearl is a perfect match for the timeless, elegant soul. If you are dynamic, adaptable, and a bit magical, the transformative alexandrite is for you. Moonstone is a celestial choice for the intuitive, dreamy spirit connected to feminine energy.

August Birthstones: Peridot, Spinel & Sardonyx

Those born in August can choose from a sun-kissed green, a fiery rainbow, or an ancient warrior’s talisman.

• Peridot: A vibrant lime-green gem that is sometimes called the "evening emerald." It is brought up by volcanic activity or found in meteorites. Ancient Egyptians called it the "gem of the sun" and mined it on Zabargad Island. It was believed to ward off night terrors and bring power. Peridot symbolizes growth, positivity, and durability (7 on the Mohs scale), making it ideal for everyday wear.
• Spinel: Often called the "forgotten gem," spinel comes in rich reds, blues, and purples. For centuries, it was mistaken for a ruby. The "Black Prince's Ruby" in Britain's crown jewels is a spinel! This gem has been prized for a long time in Central and Southeast Asia. Its name derives from the Latin word "spina" (thorn), referencing its sharp crystals. It symbolizes revitalization and hope.
• Sardonyx: A variety of onyx distinguished by its straight, parallel bands of reddish-brown (sard) and white. It was a favorite material for Roman signet rings used to stamp wax seals.

Peridot vs. Spinel vs. Sardonyx. Which Should You Choose?

Do you prefer the unique chartreuse of peridot or the ruby-red or sapphire-blue hues of spinel? Sardonyx (6.5) offers a bold, graphic look unlike any other.

Peridot is perfect for vibrant statement pieces and summer jewelry. It represents growth and light. Spinel is a standout for anyone who wants a unique alternative to ruby or sapphire. Sardonyx offers a bold, graphic look unlike any other. It is also good for a stable individual who values courage and clear communication.

October: Opal & Tourmaline

October is a kaleidoscope of color, offering the fiery dance of opal and the rainbow spectrum of tourmaline.

• Opal: Renowned for its "play-of-color," a resplendent display of rainbow hues that metamorphoses with the light. Throughout history, opals were regarded as talismans believed to possess the virtues of all colored gems. They are softer (5.5-5 on the Mohs scale) and are best suited for occasional wear.
• Tourmaline: A chameleon of the gem world, tourmaline comes in every hue, from hot pink to deep green. According to Egyptian legend, it passed through a rainbow, absorbing all colors. It was believed to protect the wearer and inspire creativity. Tourmaline is durable (7-5 Mohs) and great for daily use.

Opal vs. Tourmaline: Which Should You Choose?

For the creative, spontaneous, and emotionally deep individual, the fiery and unpredictable opal is a perfect reflection. Opal is best suited for statement pendants and earrings (which pose less risk of impact damage) and for those seeking unique beauty. Tourmaline, on the other hand, suits the versatile, compassionate, and joyful person who embraces all of life’s colors.

November: Topaz & Citrine

November's birthstones, topaz and citrine, are like captured sunlight, radiating warmth, joy, and abundance.

• Topaz: It comes in many colors. Warm yellow, orange, and sherry-red varieties are associated with November. They are known as Imperial Topaz. Topaz was linked to the Egyptian sun god Ra and was believed to bring strength.
• Citrine: A radiant yellow-to-orange variety of quartz that derives its name from the citron fruit. Known as the "merchant's stone," citrine was thought to attract wealth and success. It symbolizes warmth, energy, and positivity.

Topaz vs. Citrine: Which to Choose?

Both are excellent for jewelry. Topaz (8) is harder, but citrine (7) is also quite durable and often more affordable.

The choice often comes down to the specific hue. Do you prefer the golden-orange glow of citrine or the fiery, sherry-red tones of precious topaz?

Moreover, love, affection, and clarity of mind are associated with Topaz. Citrine is all about joy, optimism, and manifesting your dreams. Pick the kind of energy you want to bring into your life: deep connection (Topaz) or sunny success (Citrine).

December: Turquoise, Tanzanite & Zircon

December is a winter wonderland of cool blues and brilliant fire.

• Turquoise: An ancient, opaque blue-to-green gem, people cherish it for its unique color. It is one of the oldest known gems and was used by Egyptian pharaohs and Native American healers. It is universally seen as a protective talisman and a symbol of wisdom. Due to its porous nature, it requires gentle care and should be kept away from chemicals.
• Tanzanite: A stunning violet-blue stone that only grows in one place on Earth - the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro. Discovered in 1967 and named by Tiffany & Co. after Tanzania. Its deep blue-purple shade became iconic after the film Titanic. Tanzanites are rare and best suited for special occasions.
• Zircon: Often confused with cubic zirconia, a lab-made imitation, natural zircon sparkles in shades of yellow, blue, or clear. Zircon is the oldest mineral on Earth and contains a geological record stretching back billions of years. It is believed to promote wisdom, honor, and prosperity.

Turquoise vs. Tanzanite vs. Zircon. Which Should You Choose?

For a dazzling, diamond-like sparkle, choose zircon. For a rare, captivating violet-blue, choose tanzanite. For an opaque, soulful pop of color, choose turquoise. Turquoise is a stone of wisdom, tranquility, and protection. Tanzanite facilitates spiritual awareness and transformation. Zircon promotes clarity, purity, and honor.

How to Pick Your Birthstone: Beyond Preference

Feeling overwhelmed by the options? Let's simplify the process! Selecting the right gem is about more than just liking a color. Consider these aspects to find your perfect match:

1. Consider Your Lifestyle (Durability)

Your lifestyle should influence your choice. If you're looking for an everyday ring, especially if you work with your hands, a stone's hardness is crucial. The Mohs scale (from 1 to 10) measures a gem's resistance to scratching.

• For daily wear (rings, bracelets): Choose harder stones (7.5 and above), such as alexandrite, topaz, spinel, aquamarine, and zircon.
• For occasional wear (or pendants/earrings): Pearl, opal, moonstone, and turquoise are examples of softer, more delicate stones that are perfectly safe in settings that protect them from impact.

2. Align with Your Personality (Symbolism)

Every gemstone carries centuries of stories and symbolic energy. Which story resonates with you? Read through the meanings associated with each of your birthstones.

• Do you see yourself as a courageous leader? Bloodstone or spinel might be your ally.
• Are you a creative dreamer? Opal or moonstone could inspire you.
• Do you value peace and clarity? Aquamarine or zircon may speak to you.

3. Match Your Aesthetic (Color & Style)

This is where your personal taste shines. Beyond their symbolic meaning, which stones do you love looking at?

• Color: Do you prefer the warm, sunny glow of citrine or the cool, tranquil blue of turquoise? The fiery red of a spinel or the ethereal pastel of an aquamarine?
• Finish: Would you prefer the brilliant, fiery sparkle of a faceted gem, such as zircon, or the earthy, opaque depth of turquoise or bloodstone?

4. Budget

• Affordable picks: Zircon (December) and Peridot (August).
• Splurge on these: Alexandrite (June) and tanzanite (December).

5. Ethics & Sustainability

Today, more shoppers care about where their gems come from:

• Pearls: Choose cultured pearls over wild ones. They're eco-friendly and don't harm oyster populations.
• Tourmaline and spinel: Look for stones from "conflict-free" mines.
• Tanzanite: Make sure it’s mined responsibly in Tanzania. Some brands support local communities by paying fair wages.

6. Trust Your Intuition

Sometimes, the right stone will simply call to you. After considering the practical aspects and meanings, take a moment to see which stone you're most drawn to. Often, the stone you can't stop thinking about is the one meant for you.

Want a Ring with Multiple Birthstones? Create Your Own at Juyoyo!

Your story isn't one-dimensional - why should your jewelry be? Celebrate life's layers with a custom birthstone ring that blends them all.

• Family milestones (parent and child birthstones)
• Personal growth (your birthstone + a gem representing reinvention)
• Cultural fusion (stones honoring mixed heritage).

💍 Customize Your Birthstone Ring!

Caring for Your Birthstone Jewelry

Cleaning Protocols:

• Soft stones (pearl, opal, and turquoise): Wipe with a damp cloth. Avoid steam or ultrasonic cleaners.
• Medium-hard stones (moonstone, tourmaline, bloodstone, zircon): clean with mild soap and warm water.
• Hard stones (aquamarine, alexandrite, spinel, topaz, tanzanite): safe in ultrasonic or steam cleaners.

Storage Dos and Don'ts:

• Store softer stones separately in fabric-lined compartments to prevent scratches.
• Avoid exposure to harsh chemicals and extreme temperatures.
• Keep gems away from direct sunlight to preserve their color.

Quick Reference Chart:

• Low-care stones: aquamarine, alexandrite, spinel, and topaz.
• Gentle care: moonstone, tourmaline, bloodstone, and zircon.
• Extra-care stones: pearl, opal, and turquoise.

A Deeper Connection: Birth Month, Zodiac Sign & Birthstone Meanings

Your birth month connects you not only to a stone, but also to the cosmos. Linking your birthstone to your zodiac sign can reveal a new layer of personal significance.

Conclusion & Next Steps

Months with multiple birthstones allow for creativity, personalization, and symbolism. Whether you prefer the calming blue of aquamarine, the protective energy of bloodstone, or the color-shifting magic of alexandrite, Juyoyo will guide you to the perfect gem.

Ready to discover the birthstone that truly speaks to you? Explore our curated birthstone collections!

💍 Shop Birthstone Rings!

Birthstone FAQs

Which Months Have More Than One Birthstone?

March, June, August, October, November, and December each have more than one official birthstone.

What is the Rarest Birthstone?

Alexandrite is exceptionally rare due to its color-changing properties and limited sources. High-quality tanzanite is also considered rare because it is found in only one location.

Which Birthstones are Best for an Everyday Ring?

For daily wear, durability is key. Look for gems that are 7.5 or higher on the Mohs scale, such as aquamarine, spinel, topaz, alexandrite, and zircon.

Can I Wear a Birthstone from a Different Month?

Absolutely! Many people choose birthstones based on their favorite color, the stone's meaning, or its connection to a loved one. The best jewelry is meaningful to you.

Can I Mix Birthstones in One Piece of Jewelry?

Yes, you can. Mixing stones allows you to create a more meaningful piece - combine your birthstone with a partner’s or child’s to make a personalized keepsake.

What if I Prefer a Non-Traditional Birthstone?

We celebrate personal style. Choose any stone that speaks to you, and our gemologists will create a custom piece just for you.