About My Birthstone
Discover the story behind our passion for birthstones and gemology
Our Story
My Birthstone is a reference site about birthstones, founded in 2024 by GIA Graduate Gemologist Emily Richardson. It covers the stones for all 12 months, the birth flowers and zodiac stones that go with them, and the practical side of buying and caring for gemstone jewelry.
Birthstone information online is scattered and often contradicts itself, with different lists, half-remembered folklore and gem facts copied from site to site. We go back to the sources instead: the 1912 jewelers' list and its later updates for which stone belongs to which month, gem labs such as GIA for the gemology, and historical texts like George Frederick Kunz's The Curious Lore of Precious Stones (1913) for the legends.
Alongside the guides we build free tools: a printable birthstone chart, a ring size calculator, gemstone hardness and price tables, and diamond calculators.
Emily oversees everything we publish, and we correct mistakes when we find them. If you spot one, let us know.
Who Runs My Birthstone
Emily Richardson
Founder & Lead Gemologist
Emily holds a Graduate Gemologist certification from the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) and has over 15 years of experience in the jewelry industry. Her passion for gemstones began during childhood visits to natural history museums, and she has since traveled to mining regions across five continents. Emily oversees all content on My Birthstone, ensuring scientific accuracy while making complex concepts accessible to all readers.
Read Emily's profileOur Mission & Values
At My Birthstone, we're guided by a set of core principles that inform everything we do. Our mission is to educate, inspire, and connect people through the fascinating world of birthstones, combining scientific knowledge with cultural appreciation.
Educational Excellence
We are committed to providing accurate, well-researched information that balances scientific detail with accessibility. We believe knowledge about gemstones should be available to everyone, regardless of their background in gemology or mineralogy.
Cultural Appreciation
We recognize and honor the diverse cultural significance of birthstones across different societies and historical periods. We strive to present a global perspective that respects the varied traditions and beliefs associated with these precious gems.
Industry Integrity
We promote ethical practices in the gemstone industry, including responsible sourcing, fair trade, and transparency. We believe in providing consumers with the information they need to make informed, ethical choices about birthstone purchases.
Community Building
We aim to foster a community of birthstone enthusiasts, from casual admirers to serious collectors and industry professionals. Through our content, we hope to connect people who share an appreciation for the beauty and significance of these natural treasures.
Monthly Birthstone Chart
Looking for a quick reference to all birthstones? Check out our printable birthstone chart featuring all 12 months and their corresponding gemstones.
View Birthstone Chart