Is There Truth to the Idea of Bad Luck from Wearing the “Wrong Birthstone”?

While the practice of assigning gemstones to specific birth months has ancient origins, birthstone traditions as we know them today are relatively modern constructs. The concept of “traditional” birthstones, dating back to the 16th-18th centuries, and “modern” birthstones, established in the United States in 1912, are examples of this evolution.

Over time, a belief has emerged that wearing a birthstone not aligned with one’s birth month could invite bad luck. For instance, pearls (associated with June) and opals (linked to October) are thought to bring misfortune if worn by individuals born outside of these months.

However, it’s essential to recognize that birthstone customs have undergone significant changes throughout history. Contemporary jewellers have even introduced spinel, citrine, and tanzanite as modern alternative birthstones for August, November, and December, respectively. Furthermore, birthstone lists can vary widely by country and cultural traditions, with some incorporating factors like astrological signs, birth hours, or even days of the week.

If you’re drawn to gemstones for their purported health benefits, fretting over whether a particular stone matches your birth month may be unnecessary. Birthstone traditions are fluid and adaptable, and personal comfort should take precedence over adherence to rigid guidelines.

Ultimately, wear what resonates with you and makes you feel at ease, regardless of birthstone conventions, as these lists are far from immutable.