Birthstones connect each of us to a gem tied to the month we were born — a tradition stretching back centuries. They make deeply personal gifts. Here is the birthstone for every month, with a little of its meaning, plus a closer look at two of our favourites.
Birthstones month by month
- January — Garnet: protection and friendship.
- February — Amethyst: clarity and calm.
- March — Aquamarine: courage and serenity.
- April — Diamond: strength and enduring love.
- May — Emerald: rebirth and new beginnings.
- June — Pearl / Alexandrite: purity and transformation.
- July — Ruby: passion and vitality.
- August — Peridot: strength and good fortune.
- September — Sapphire: wisdom, loyalty and nobility.
- October — Opal: hope, creativity and inspiration.
- November — Topaz / Citrine: warmth and abundance.
- December — Turquoise / Tanzanite / Zircon: success and protection.
September's birthstone: the sapphire
Sapphire has long symbolised wisdom, loyalty and nobility, making it a meaningful gift — and a famously durable one for everyday wear. From luminous Ceylon blues to richly coloured Australian stones, there is a sapphire for everyone born in September. New to sapphires? See our guide on how to choose a sapphire.
October's birthstone: the opal
Opal, October's birthstone, is treasured for its mesmerising play-of-colour and associations with hope and creativity. Explore our opals, and learn how to keep one beautiful in our opal care guide.
Frequently asked questions
What is the birthstone for September?
Sapphire — traditionally blue, but available in many natural colours.
What is the birthstone for October?
Opal, known for its unique play-of-colour (pink tourmaline is also sometimes used).
Do birthstones make good gifts?
Wonderful ones — a birthstone piece is personal and meaningful. Email sales@ministryofgems.com.au for help choosing.
Looking for a birthstone gift? Browse our rings and gemstones, or email sales@ministryofgems.com.au.
Continue your gem education
How to Buy Opals · Black Opal · Caring for Opals · browse all Gem Guides — or explore loose gemstones.
Sources and further reading
- Birthstones by Month — GIA — Gemological Institute of America
- GIA Gem Encyclopedia — Gemological Institute of America
- Gemmological Association of Australia — Gemmological Association of Australia
These are independent gemmological authorities, cited so our statements can be checked against them. Ministry of Gems® is not affiliated with these organisations. Checked August 2026.