Traditionally, a birthstone is associated with each month of the year. For example, the birthstone for January is a garnet, while lucky babies born in April get a diamond as their birthstone.
The origin of birthstones is believed to date back to the breastplate of Aaron which contained twelve gemstones representing the twelve tribes of Israel. The current list dates back to 1912 with only one addition since then – the tanzanite was added to December.
There are numerous legends and myths about birthstone healing powers and their therapeutic influence. According to these legends, wearing a gemstone during its assigned month heightened its healing powers. For the full effect, individuals needed to own all twelve and alternate them monthly.
January

Rose Quartz
Febraury
Amethyst
Onyx
March
Aquamarine
Bloodstone
April
Diamond
Quartz
May
Emerald
Chrysoprase
June

Moonstone
July
Ruby
Carnelian
August
Peridot
Sardonyx
September
Sapphire
Lapis
October
Opal
Pink Tourmaline
November
Topaz
Citrine
December
Blue Topaz
Tanzanite
Turquoise
Birthstone images courtesy of GIA http://www.gia.edu/