The power of your birthstone, part 2
If you were born in the second half of the year, your gemstones are just as powerful and beautiful. Each carries its own story, color, and kind of magic: The kind that can lift your mood, bring confidence, or simply make you feel like the best version of yourself.
I’ve always found it fascinating how certain people are drawn to particular stones, even before realizing that it’s their birthstone. Maybe it’s instinct. Maybe it’s energy. There’s something about how a gem’s color, brilliance, and personality connect with yours. A confident woman might gravitate toward rubies or sapphires, while someone who seeks calm might find comfort in turquoise or pearls.
As a jeweler, I often see that moment when someone tries on a piece and suddenly lights up, as if the stone found its way home. It’s that quiet click of connection that no amount of marketing or explanation can create. It’s just felt.
The beautiful thing about birthstones is that they don’t only symbolize your birth month. They also represent emotions, traits, and energies that help guide you through life. Whether you believe in their metaphysical powers or simply love their beauty, wearing one is a deeply personal way of expressing who you are.
So, if you were born between July and December, here’s your guide to the stones that might already be calling your name.
July: Ruby
I am July-born, and I happen to love rubies. This gem is the ultimate symbol of passion and vitality. Known as the king of gems, it was once believed to protect warriors in battle and bring success in love. Its deep red color mirrors the heart’s strongest emotions, such as energy, courage, and desire. When you wear ruby, you wear fire.
Rubies can sometimes be even more expensive than diamonds because fine, natural red rubies, especially those with that coveted pigeon blood hue, are extremely rare and difficult to find. The richer and more vivid the color, the higher its value. Owning one is like owning a piece of the Earth’s purest fire.
Alternative: Carnelian, which has a warm orange tone that inspires creativity and motivation. It’s a stone for doers, dreamers, and those who want to get things done with enthusiasm.
August: Peridot
Peridot shines in a cheerful green hue that instantly lifts the spirit. It’s often associated with renewal, prosperity, and positive transformation. Ancient Egyptians called it the gem of the sun and believed that it brought protection against nightmares.
Alternative: Spinel, which comes in an array of colors and is often mistaken for ruby or sapphire. It promotes rejuvenation and inspiration, making it ideal for those who feel emotionally drained.
September: Sapphire
Sapphire is the stone of wisdom and peace. Traditionally worn by royalty, it was believed to protect the wearer from envy and harm. The deep blue variety is most famous, but sapphire also comes in pink, yellow, and green. It helps with focus, clarity, and staying calm under pressure, making it a perfect gem for those who value grace under fire.
Alternative: Lapis lazuli, which is a mesmerizing blue stone flecked with gold. It’s known to enhance truth, creativity, and self-expression.
October: Opal
Opal is a gem that holds an entire rainbow within it. Every movement reveals a different play of color, symbolizing creativity and transformation. It’s believed to enhance imagination and emotional awareness, perfect for artists and anyone embracing change.
Alternative: Tourmaline, which comes in nearly every color imaginable. It’s said to cleanse emotional energy and help balance one’s mood and aura.
November: Topaz
Topaz comes in golden yellow, light pink, and icy blue tones, all carrying the same uplifting energy. It symbolizes abundance, clarity, and confidence. People who wear topaz are believed to attract prosperity and happiness, making it a beautiful reminder to stay optimistic.
Alternative: Citrine, which radiates warmth and positivity. Known as the merchant’s stone, it is often associated with success and good fortune.
December: Turquoise
Turquoise brings with it protection and peace. Ancient travelers wore it for safety on long journeys. Its soothing blue-green color evokes calm seas and open skies, helping wash away negativity. It’s also a stone of friendship and emotional balance, a lovely way to end the year.
Alternative: Tanzanite and blue zircon are both known for their brilliance and ability to symbolize new beginnings. Tanzanite, in particular, is said to awaken intuition and inspire transformation.
Meant to be worn
Wearing your birthstone isn’t just about beauty or luck. It’s about connection. Each gem tells a story, and sometimes that story begins long before you existed. Many of us inherit jewelry from our mothers, grandmothers, or aunts, pieces that hold deep sentimental value, even if they don’t quite match our personal style today.
If you’ve inherited your birthstone or any precious gemstone that feels outdated or simply not you, don’t keep it hidden away in a drawer. Your trusted jeweler can always reset it into a new design that reflects who you are now. With the right craftsmanship, old pieces can become modern, wearable, and even more meaningful, a perfect blend of legacy and individuality.
It’s also important to know that there are a lot of synthetic or man-made stones in the market today. While some gems do not necessarily need certification, it’s always better to have one, especially for valuable or investment pieces. For diamonds, a Gemological Institute of America certificate is the most trusted, while for colored precious gems, GemResearch Swisslab is among the most reputable institutions to authenticate and certify your stones. These documents not only guarantee quality but also protect your investment for generations to come.
After all, jewelry is meant to be worn, loved, and lived in. And when it’s genuine and made with intention, it becomes part of your story forever.
