How to Choose Birthstone Jewelry: A Practical Buying Guide

A birthstone is a good place to begin, but the best choice is a piece someone will actually wear. Use the month to narrow the search, then consider color, style and fit. A few checks before ordering can save a beautiful gift from sitting in a drawer.

Start with the month, then choose the stone

Look up the birth month in our birthstone-by-month guide. Some months have more than one associated gem. If there's a choice, use the wearer's favorite color or the piece they already reach for as your guide. You can also choose a stone from another month; the connection you give it matters more than following a rule.

Choose a piece that suits their routine

A ring needs the right size. For a necklace or pendant, check where the chain will sit. A bracelet should fit comfortably without slipping off. If you're buying for someone else and don't know their ring size, a pendant may be easier to choose, provided you check the chain length.

Look at the jewelry they wear most often. A quiet piece that works with their usual clothes may get more use than a dramatic style chosen only for the occasion.

Read the product details

Before checkout, confirm the exact stone, metal, dimensions and any care notes on the individual product page. Gemstones can vary in color and pattern, so the name of the stone alone will not tell you how a particular piece looks. If a detail is missing or unclear, ask us before ordering.

Our size guide helps with fit, and the care guide is useful if the piece will be worn often.

Two quick questions

Does birthstone jewelry have to match the wearer's birth month?

No. A month can make the gift feel personal, but color and style are good reasons to choose another stone.

What if their month has several birthstones?

Pick the gem that suits their taste and your budget, then check the details of the actual piece. Our month guide shows the options side by side.

When you're ready, browse the birthstone jewelry currently in the shop.