The folklore surrounding gemstones is far reaching into the basis of many ancient cultures. Without today's scientific education, the ancients used gemstones to explain the world and their place in it; therefore gems hold different powers and symbols across cultures. Blending the astrology and mythology behind gemstones, ancient Romans believed that certain gems held stronger powers during different months of the year when used as talismans to protect the wearer. Most could not afford twelve gems, so they would purchase the gem associated with their birth month and would call them birth stones. This is the basis for today's birthstones, although in some cases there is great debate as to whether the ancients were even referring to the same gems that we know today. For example, the ancient sapphire is likely a translation of "sapur," which is actually lapis lazuli.

Despite these incongruities, there is significant continuity in color, and even specific gems, throughout history. The birthstone of January is typically a Garnet, meaning "pomegranate" in Latin where it was believed to cure blood disorders. Amethyst is favored in February as a stone of wisdom, and is said to prevent the wearer from becoming intoxicated. The ancient birthstone for March was typically Jasper or Bloodstone, but is the Aquamarine today. Aquamarine is said to give protection against the sea in addition to reversing the affects of poisoning and increasing intelligence. April's birthstone is the Diamond today, although historically was often a Sapphire. Many believe the diamond to be the ultimate gemstone because of its strength, thus giving great benefits to those with April birthdays. In history, May's birthstone has been either the Agate or the Emerald, with the latter more prominent today. Cleopatra's gem of choice was the Emerald, possibly because it was known to help predict the future. The Emerald has also historically been the birthstone for June, although today it is the Pearl. Pearls are more common today, but in ancient times, they were worn only by royalty and remain a symbol of wealth and power in Chinese folklore.

The modern birthstone for July is the Ruby, which is said to be the stone of prophecy and therefore loved by gamblers. Augusts’ modern birthstone is the Peridot and is said to keep away night terrors in addition to relieving stress and anxiety. The Sapphire is the gem of purity and is held as today's September birthstone, although many variations existed over time. Historically the Tourmaline or Opal, the latter is today's October birthstone and is valued as a symbol for love and hope. Topaz has been and currently is the stone for November and is often referred to as the Sun Jewel. Turquoise, the modern December birthstone, was highly prized by American Indians for its ability to enhance mental clarity.