What Is Your Zodiac Birthstone, and What Does It Reveal About You?
Updated: Apr. 16, 2024
Didn't know there was such a thing as zodiac birthstones? Pay attention, because they just may have the power to transform your life.
The power of zodiac birthstones
Learning about your traditional birthstone can be a fun way to celebrate another trip around the sun, but if you want to unlock your cosmic power, you should learn about your zodiac birthstone too. “Zodiac birthstones provide us with a unique way to discover a person’s inner desires, personality and life path,” says professional astrologer and mystic Charlotte King. “Each stone holds special qualities that give insight into someone’s destiny.”
While these stones reveal something about you, their real power lies in their ability to amplify your aura—enhancing your strengths, soothing your stressors and increasing feelings of self-love and confidence. That makes them a whole lot more than just a pretty piece for you to wear or give as a gift to your astrology-loving friend. So how can wearing your zodiac birthstone change your world? Keep reading to find out.
Why do zodiac signs have birthstones?
It might sound New Agey, but the origins of zodiac birthstones date all the way back to biblical times and the Book of Exodus (600 to 400 BC). The story details a high priest who wore a magnificent breastplate inlaid with 12 precious gemstones. These stones were said to give the wearer divine powers, and it became a tradition for people to wear the stones themselves. But that’s just one origin story. Many other cultures have their own practices and rituals surrounding zodiac birthstones as well. For example, Vedic astrologers in India have used them for thousands of years to align a person’s energy with their astrology birth chart, and ancient Hindu texts link certain stones with specific planets or days of the week.
Eventually, this practice evolved into what we know today as zodiac signs. And with the rise of commercial jewelry sales in the early 1900s, a list of birthstones based on every birth month was created and standardized in the United States by the Jewelers of America.
Why are zodiac birthstones different than traditional birthstones?
Birthstones are associated with your birth month, but because the zodiac signs don’t evenly split into all 12 months of the year, there’s some overlap. For example, while April’s birth stone is a diamond, not everyone born in that month has the same zodiac sign. Zodiac birthstones eliminate this problem by assigning a single gemstone to each zodiac sign. The focus of zodiac birthstones is also different, since these stones are geared toward your inherent astrological traits. Don’t feel connected to your zodiac birthstone? Don’t worry. Astrologers say you can try another that you feel more drawn to.
What is the birthstone for each zodiac?
So, what can your zodiac birthstone reveal about you and do for you? Here’s which stones align with both the rarest zodiac sign and everything in between—and what you need to know.
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Aries (March 21–April 19): Bloodstone
Rams are known for being bold and daring. They’re ruled by Mars, the planet of action and motivation, and when they set their mind to something, there’s nothing that can stop them from making their dreams a reality. They also develop a tough attitude early on, and that, along with a serious dose of resilience, helps them go far in life. Bloodstone is a fitting zodiac birthstone for them, since it represents courage and strength.
“Aries never quit, and bloodstone clearly relates to the Mars-driven energy of this zodiac, as well as its connection to courage and vitality,” says King. “It is fitting for the most determined of the zodiac signs.” Astrologers believe that bloodstone has the power to calm and cleanse a person’s aura energy, so these stones can encourage Aries to block out the negativity and be their boldest, most authentic selves. These inspirational quotes tailor-made for Aries can also help motivate and center this sign.
Taurus (April 20–May 20): Sapphire
Bulls might have a tough attitude on the outside, but don’t let their poker faces fool you. Born under Venus, the planet of romance and beauty, this stubborn earth sign is secretly a huge softie. They love to spoil the people around them with acts of service and take care of them by tending to their needs. While the traditional birthstone for Taurus is an emerald, astrologers say their zodiac birthstone—the blue sapphire—is a perfect match for them.
Sapphires are said to symbolize many things, including sincerity, truth, faithfulness, honor and even the openness of a person’s soul. And the energy found within this zodiac birthstone can help soften the tough exterior Taurus is famous for putting on. Plus, says King, “sapphires are connected with discipline. This complements the grounded nature of the security-focused Bull.” Taurus is a famously stubborn zodiac sign, and when they put their mind to something, nothing can stop them from pursuing it. A sapphire can help them maintain the patience and focus they need to achieve success.
Gemini (May 21–June 20): Agate
Geminis are famous for their love of variety and their tendency to change their minds rapidly. Since this sign is ruled by Mercury, the planet of intellect and communication, Geminis have sharp observation skills and an incredible ability to adapt—two things that make them excellent at navigating the world around them. However, they also tend to overthink things, and this can cause serious burnout if they’re not careful. Luckily, this sign’s zodiac birthstone is known to alleviate these problems and can help them de-stress.
“Agate works to manifest balance for Gemini,” King says. “The dual-natured sign of the twins always represents two sides of something, and this stone is seen as being helpful in maintaining stability.” Agate comes in many forms and brings a calm and centered energy to any space. It can help attune your energy to the world around you, which can allow you to connect with your inner wisdom and strength.
Cancer (June 21–July 22): Emerald
While Cancers tend to be emotional and sensitive, they’re also incredibly driven and ambitious people who value loyalty, compassion and kindness. They go out of their way to take care of others, which is why it’s important for them to engage in regular self-care. Every decision they make is made from the heart, and wearing their zodiac birthstone can help them feel more confident in themselves as they deal with the challenges around them.
“Emerald is connected with the heart chakra and is aligned well with this home- and comfort-focused sign,” King says. “Its properties include encouraging unconditional love and sharing laughs with loved ones.” Emerald is also a great choice for anyone looking to tap into their sensitive side or open themselves up to their feelings, which makes it particularly good for sentimental Cancer.
Leo (July 23–Aug. 22): Onyx
People born under this sign have big ambitions and even bigger personalities. Ruled by the sun, which governs ego energy and heart desires, Leos can’t help but shine brightly wherever they go, as well as make people laugh with their hilarious sense of humor. These feisty fire signs are able to illuminate the world around them and help show others how to embrace their inner radiance.
Leos need a zodiac birthstone that can handle their power, and onyx purportedly has otherworldly healing and restorative powers. This stone also supports creativity and regeneration while managing desire, King says, and it is believed that anyone who wears it will align to their higher calling in life, making it a good tool for manifesting abundance and new opportunities. Leos will never be stuck in a creative rut or seeking a source of inspiration with this gem by their side. Next, learn what your sun, moon and rising sign mean for you together.
Virgo (Aug. 23–Sept. 22): Carnelian
There’s nothing wrong with being a perfectionist—just ask a Virgo! From their meticulous planning skills to their expert communication style, nothing gets past this observant earth sign. But spending so much time fussing over the smallest details can leave them feeling stressed and overwhelmed. That’s why it’s important for Virgos to choose a stone that promotes courage and confidence, and their zodiac birthstone, carnelian, does just that.
Carnelian can help motivate its wearer to step out into the world fearlessly, without getting overwhelmed or burned out. “Virgo is perfectly complemented by the grounding and stabilizing energy of carnelian,” King says. “Symbolizing endurance and physical wellness, this stone aligns with Virgo’s focused and goal-oriented nature.” Because Virgo can be a bit self-critical at times, a confidence-boosting stone like carnelian will also help them embrace self-love and take a chance on themselves. Here’s how Virgo’s zodiac power color can enhance their best qualities too.
Libra (Sept. 23–Oct. 22): Peridot
Libras tend to have a serious case of FOMO. They want to experience it all, and they’re afraid to miss out on any of life’s little pleasures. Ruled by Venus, the planet of manifestation and possibilities, Libra is always on the go and looking for the next opportunity. There’s a feeling of natural luck and abundance about the way this sign moves through the world, but this can lead to overindulgence and excess.
The key for Libra is to embrace balance and harmony in all aspects of life. Peridot is a great stone for amplifying their good fortune, luck and prosperity, as well as for boosting their intuition and judgment when facing tough decisions. It also enhances the wearer’s charisma and charm, making it the perfect choice for ambitious Libras, says King. Wear it the next time you’re out networking, angling for that promotion or meeting new people!
Scorpio (Oct. 23–Nov. 21): Aquamarine
Famous for their passion and intensity, Scorpios will tirelessly pursue their dreams until they have nothing left to give. The downside? This can lead to frequent feelings of stress and imbalance. It’s a good idea for people born under this sign to embrace their more emotional and sensitive sides, and that’s where aquamarine comes in.
“Scorpio is one of the water signs and is therefore connected with intuition and the realm of all energy unseen,” says King. “The stone connected with this spiritually sharp sign is aquamarine, known for promoting a stronger connection to mystical and faith-based matters.” Wearing aquamarine will help enhance Scorpio’s natural focus, determination, creativity and confidence while simultaneously encouraging them to embrace a more manageable and balanced approach to life. This is key for building a sustainable lifestyle that won’t fizzle out over time because it will give them the strength they need to face challenges head on. Here’s how else this sign can be happier.
Sagittarius (Nov. 22–Dec. 21): Blue turquoise
Sagittarius likes to live life in the fast lane. One of the most outgoing zodiac signs of the bunch, they’d never let the world see them sweat, but it’s easy for this fire sign to burn too hot and too bright. It’s crucial for them to slow down every now and then to recharge their batteries. That’s why they’d benefit from wearing their zodiac birthstone, which encourages them to press pause on their hectic schedule from time to time.
Turquoise has a calming effect on people, which will help Sagittarius avoid feeling overwhelmed. It’s also a great tool for aiding in breath work, meditation and positive affirmations. “Turquoise is sought after for its properties of relaxation and joy,” says King. “This is one of the stones aligned with the sign of Sagittarius, and rightly so, helping the hasty sign of the centaur to slow down and smell the roses.”
And in case you were wondering, blue turquoise is the way to go here. This stone also comes in green and a rare yellow.
Capricorn (Dec. 22–Jan. 19): Ruby
Success is written in the stars for Capricorn. It doesn’t matter if the odds are stacked against them—this hardworking earth sign will bet on themselves every single time. Ruled by Saturn, the planet of commitment and hard work, Capricorns always seem to end up on top. That’s why they need a birthstone that can help them tackle everything on their to-do list.
Ruby is known as the stone of vitality and dedication, which is beneficial for fostering dreams. It helps the wearer manifest their goals by connecting them to their heart’s desires. “Capricorn is known for putting a high volume of effort toward their goals, and that is complemented by this stone of passion and ambition,” King explains. Since Capricorns can get lost in the slog of mundane tasks, though, rubies can reconnect them with the things that bring them joy.
Aquarius (Jan. 20–Feb. 18): Garnet
Aquarius is the free-spirited rebel child of the zodiac and one of the most intelligent signs of the group. Ruled by Saturn, the planet of structure and discipline, as well as Uranus, the planet of confusion and chaos, people born under this sign like to challenge themselves and forge their own paths. And while they certainly get a thrill out of surprising everyone with what they can accomplish, taking the road less traveled can get lonely. Wearing a stone that balances their physical, emotional, mental and spiritual energy can help, though.
Garnet encourages consistency and dedication to a cause, and it not only blocks out negative energy but also transforms that energy into a protective aura. “Garnet can alchemize and amplify a person’s energy,” says King. “Aquarius is known for its highly unique and sometimes eccentric ways, and they could benefit from a stone that promotes tenacity.” This calming stone is also a perfect choice to help Aquarius quiet their self-doubt and move forward confidently.
Pisces (Feb. 19–March 20): Amethyst
The psychics of the zodiac, Pisces often dream about things before they happen and see the truth behind facades. They’re creative and carefree, and they like to float through life and see where the world takes them. But while they’re busy being one with everything around them, they can get lost in the waves. Luckily, amethyst can help them tap into their deep subconscious and balance the moody waters of Pisces’s zodiac element.
Amethyst is famous for its ability to draw out a person’s psychic abilities and intuitive gifts, making it particularly perfect for amplifying Pisces’s natural talents. “It is also connected with all things peace, calm and serene,” says King. “Pisces and amethyst not only share a spiritual connection but also carry cleansing qualities.” Because Pisces are naturally drawn to amethyst, it could benefit them to use this stone in daily meditation practices or even as home decor to help balance their energy.
About the expert
- Charlotte King is a professional astrologer and mystic and the host of The Horoscope Vault podcast.
Originally Published: August 01, 2023
