Looking to celebrate a loved one’s birth month with a gem that doesn’t empty your wallet? Whether diamonds are a bit too dazzling for April or you just want something a little more unexpected, there are beautiful and meaningful alternatives for every birthstone month.
Below, we break down budget-friendly (and unique!) options that still bring the shine—without the sticker shock.
January
Classic: Garnet
Alternative: Rose Quartz or Red Spinel
Rose Quartz is known as the stone of unconditional love, making it a perfect gift alternative.
Rose quartz brings a gentle, romantic feel, while red spinel gives you fire and flash. Both add warmth and heart to a winter birthday.
February
Classic: Amethyst
Alternative: Jasper
Pictured on the left is a willow creek jasper, in the center is a blue fancy jasper variety, and on the right a beautiful red jasper.
Jasper comes in a variety of earthy colors and patterns, and its grounded energy is perfect for those born under February’s dreamy skies.
March
Classic: Aquamarine
Alternative: Blue Topaz or Larimar
Larimar is recognized for it's gorgeous circular wave-like blue & white patterns.
Larimar offers beachy vibes and calming energy—yes, please! It's a tropical treat with a serene twist.
April
Classic: Diamond
Alternative: White Topaz, Quartz, or Herkimer Diamond
For an edgier style, rough herkimer diamonds can compliment any look, while Quartz can be an alternative for a more traditional faceted diamond.
Herkimer diamonds & quartz have the brilliance without the bankroll. These clear alternatives shine just as bright, minus the high-maintenance price tag.
May
Classic: Emerald
Alternative: Agate or Chrome Diopside
Chrome Diopside is a bolder, more vivid green that will compliment anyone who enjoys stylish jewelry. Agate comes in various earth yellows, greens, greys, blue, and even red.
Chrome diopside gives you lush emerald color without the hefty cost, while Agate comes in a variety of colors and opens up a whole new world of options.
June
Classic: Alexandrite
Alternative: Pearl or Moonstone or White Opal
June is one of the few months with three birthstones—pearl, moonstone, and white opal—each with its own charm. Moonstone wins bonus points for magic.
July
Classic: Ruby
Alternative: Carnelian
While traditionally reddish-orange, some carnelian pieces have gorgeous white and various colors of banding.
Carnelian has a rich, reddish-orange glow and fiery energy. It’s bold and passionate.
August
Classic: Peridot
Alternative: Prehnite or Black Spinel
Prehnite often contains inclusion of white, yellows, and blacks. Black spinel is one of the purest black colors available in the gemstone world.
Prehnite brings softness and subtlety, while black spinel adds sleek contrast. Both are unexpected choices with strong visual appeal.
September
Classic: Sapphire
Alternative: Iolite or Lapis Lazuli
Lapis Lazuli is known as the stone of royalty.
Iolite shifts between blues and purples, while lapis offers a dark blue. Either is a rich way to say “you’re priceless.”
October
Classic: Opal
Alternative: Tourmaline or Fire Agate
Tourmaline comes in a rainbow of colors, including pink, green, yellow, blue, and black.
Tourmaline adds even more variety to the mix, while fire agate’s iridescent play of color mirrors opal’s flash but in a more earthy, mysterious package.
November
Classic: Citrine
Alternative: Yellow Topaz or Ametrine
Ametrine is the unexpected hybrid child of citrine and amethyst—a perfect pick for indecisive gem lovers.
December
Classic: Turquoise
Alternative: Tanzanite or Amazonite
Tanzanite brings a burst of deep winter twilight, while amazonite adds soothing color and boho appeal to December birthdays.
Wrap-Up: Pick What Shines for You
Tradition is great, but personality is better. Whether you’re gifting or self-celebrating, these alternatives bring all the birthstone meaning with a little extra originality—and sometimes, a lot less cost. Gems are meant to be fun, after all—so pick what makes your inner sparkle nerd smile.
