Birthstones are often presented as a simple one-month, one-gemstone gift. But that isn’t entirely true. Over time, gemstone traditions have evolved, and today some months have more than one birthstone.
This raises the question: “Does each month have two birthstones?” “Why does October have two birthstones?” and “What two months have three birthstones?” in the individual’s mind. That’s why it’s important to understand and attract the universe's healing energy through your ideal birthstone.
In this guide, we’ll clearly explain which months truly have multiple birthstones, why those additions were made, and how to choose the right birthstone when your month offers more than one option.
Evolution of Birthstones: From Ancient to Modern Era
Birthstones are not new; they existed dates back thousands of years. Birthstones are rooted in ancient beliefs that considered gemstones protectors and held divine symbolic power linked to a person's birth and the time of year. For centuries, each month has been associated with an ideal month stone that reflects its rarity and hidden spiritual meaning.
However, as gemstone mining expanded and jewelry became part of everyday life, limitations surfaced. Some stones were too rare, some too fragile for daily wear, and others simply inaccessible to many people.
As a result, jewelers introduced alternatives in the market. These alternatives are considered traditional stones that help to expand their choices. This shift gave rise to the modern birthstone chart, where a few months now offer multiple birthstones instead of just one.
Months with Multiple Birthstones
Despite common belief, not every month has more than one birthstone. In fact, only four months do. Two of them have two birthstones, and two have three.
Let’s explore each of them clearly.
August Birthstones: Peridot, Spinel, and Sardonyx
People often ask, what are the two birthstones for August?
The answer is more interesting — August has three birthstones.
- Peridot is known for its fresh green tone and symbolism of renewal and positivity.
- Spinel, available in a wide range of colors, represents vitality and strength.
- Sardonyx is a banded gemstone look elegant. It is often associated with courage and the protection of the individual.
August-born, you are lucky, it has not only two birthstones but three birthstones. When combined, they offer flexibility in meaning and style when choosing a gemstone for the month.
October Birthstones: Opal and Tourmaline
Why does October have two birthstones?
October’s original birthstone, opal, is admired for its shifting play of color. However, opals are delicate and require careful handling. To provide a durable and more accessible option, tourmaline was added later.
- Opal symbolizes creativity, emotion, and imagination.
- Tourmaline appears in many birthstone colors, from pinks to greens, making it extremely versatile.
October’s dual stones make it a favorite month for modern designs, such as a two-birthstone necklace, a two-stone birthstone ring, or a two-birthstone bracelet.
Read more: October Birthstones: Gems of Transformation
November Birthstones: Topaz and Citrine
Why does November have two birthstones?
Historically, topaz was often confused with other yellow gemstones. Citrine was introduced later as a brighter, more affordable alternative.
- Topaz represents wisdom, confidence, and success.
- Citrine is associated with warmth, optimism, and abundance.
Together, they offer November-born individuals a balance of tradition and practicality, especially in birthstone ring jewelry.
Read more: November Birthstones: Topaz and Citrine
December Birthstones: Turquoise, Tanzanite, and Zircon
Thinking - What two months have three birthstones?
Here is your answer: December is the second month that will take away all the confusion from your heart and mind.
- Turquoise is one of the oldest known gemstones. It is valued for its protective and healing properties.
- Tanzanite is a rare and modern gemstone. Often associated with transformation and future insight into an individual’s life.
- Zircon stone is brilliant and carries grounding energy. Many people often mistake it for a diamond because of its appearance.
December’s birthstone, with a wide range of hues, makes it one of the most diverse months on the birthstones chart.
Read more: The Magic of December Birthstones
Birthstone Chart: Birthstones by Month at a Glance
To bring clarity, here’s a simplified overview of birthstones by month:
January birthstone: Garnet birthstone
February birthstone: Amethyst (February birthstone / Feb birthstone)
April birthstone: Diamond birthstone
May birthstone: Emerald (May birthstone color: green)
June birthstone: Pearl birthstone
July birthstone: Ruby birthstone
August birthstones: Peridot, Spinel, Sardonyx
September birthstone: Sapphire (Sept birthstone)
October birthstones: Opal, Tourmaline
November birthstones: Topaz, Citrine
December birthstones: Turquoise, Tanzanite, Zircon
This chart answers most questions about birthstones, the stone for each month, and the gemstone for each month at a glance.
Birthstone Jewelry and the Rise of Multiple-Stone Designs
As acceptance of multiple birthstone months grew, jewelry design evolved with it.
Nowadays, young people often choose these because they look aesthetic and elegant.
- Two birthstone rings represent the symbol of partners or balance in life
- Two-stone birthstone rings can be a perfect gift option on anniversaries or milestones
- Necklaces with three birthstones to symbolize love towards your children or family
- Layered birthstone jewelry that reflects personal stories and the growth of the individual
Whether you believe in strict rules or not, these gemstones will always win your heart with meaning, appearance, and healing energy.
Read more: Birthstones by Month- A complete Guide
How to Choose When Your Month Has More Than One Birthstone
If your birth month offers two or three options, the best choice is personal.
Consider:
- Which stone’s symbolism resonates the most with you
- Your preference for subtle or bold birthstone colours
- Whether you are choosing this piece for daily wear or special occasions
- Whether you prefer a single stone or two or three birthstone designs
There’s no hierarchy among birthstones. The right one is the stone that feels most aligned with you.
On a Final Note
Birthstones were never meant to limit expression — they were meant to reflect it. Whether your month has one stone or several, each birthstone offers a different way to connect with meaning, memory, and identity.
In the end, the most meaningful birthstone isn’t the rarest or the most traditional.
It’s the one you choose and wear with intention.
About The Author
Ms Shelly Singh, with over four years of professional writing experience, has contributed impactful content to leading newspaper publications. She has authored 50+ press releases and contributed to three anthologies.
Her career spans journalism, digital marketing, the education industry, and the gemstone and jewellery industry, where she has been shaping brand narratives for the past year. Skilled in content writing, content strategy, social media marketing, and influencer collaborations, she brings depth, creativity, and strategic insight to every project she undertakes.
