Properties of the April Birthstone: The Beautiful and Brilliant Diamond
- Birthstone color: Clear
- Element: Fire
- Planet: Venus
- Chakra: Crown chakra
- Origin: South Africa, Canada, United States, Australia, China, Brazil, and Russia
Naturally-occurring diamonds are formed deep within the earth’s surface through a combination of high temperature and pressure. While most people might associate diamonds with crystal-clear transparency, they also come in a range of hues, from blue and yellow to pink and even brown. According to integrative medicine and crystal expert Elizabeth Trattner, AP, DOM, the owner of wellness center The Helia House, diamonds are commonly sourced in South Africa, though she says that they can be found in Canada, too. According to the Minerals Education Coalition, diamonds can also come from the United States, as well as Australia, China, Brazil, and Russia.
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Birthstone Meaning and Symbolism of Diamonds
Diamonds are one of the strongest natural materials in the world—and its name implies as much. The word “diamond” is derived from the Greek word adamas, which translates to “invincible.” Given its indestructible nature, a diamond evoked courage in ancient times, says astrologist Rachel Lang, author of Modern Day Magic. If you want to channel your inner strength and fortitude, wearing diamonds will help you tap into a “fierce indestructibility,” says astrologer and spiritual coach Tenae Stewart, author of The Modern Witch’s Guide to Magickal Self-Care. She adds that it is especially beneficial for those who feel fragile, disempowered, or struggle with people-pleasing.
Diamonds are also typically connected with Aries, which is symbolized by the strong-willed and determined ram. “It’s a pioneering sign,” says Lang. “For Aries, courage is inherent, and they often try new things and take risks that their fixed-sign counterparts wouldn’t dare.” While headstrong drive and determination are among the main Aries personality traits, the fiery sign can also be “quite sensitive,” Michelle Roques-O’Neil, crystal healer and owner of wellness center Therapie, previously told Well+Good. As such, diamonds can also be used as crystals for protection for Aries. “Wearing diamonds, Aries can move through life with less of a pull from others’ energies, which helps them fulfill their soul’s growth potential of living a more self-directed life,” says Lang. What’s more, “they help Aries decide on their vision and take bold steps forward on their path,” says Wintersteen.
April-born Taurus can benefit from the energetic powers of the April birthstone, too. “Diamonds help Taurus sun signs ground their energy and tune into their infinite abundance,” Wintersteen says. “They also help them leave their comfort zones with grace and ease.” This is especially important given the characteristics of a Taurus, who at times can be stubborn.
In addition, diamonds are also commonly associated with the crown chakra or Sahasrara. The crown chakra connects you to “your soul, higher self, purpose, the universe, source, and the divine,” Reiki practitioner Serena Poon, CN, told Well+Good. The gem can help strengthen a wearer’s crown chakra, and in turn, help them access their inner wisdom and a higher level of consciousness.
And, of course, diamonds also symbolize long-lasting union with its seemingly unbreakable quality. While commonly associated with marital love, it can very well symbolize self-love, too.
Alternatives for the April Birthstone
While diamonds are regarded as the official April birthstone, April-born Aries and Taurus can benefit from the energetic properties of other gemstones, too. Along with diamonds, Aries can also benefit from carnelian, clear quartz, and aquamarine, says Wintersteen.
The bright orange carnelian “ignites their internal fire and helps motivate them to begin anew,” she says, while “clear quartz brings in similar properties to diamonds without the high price tag.” The transparent stone can help focus the mind, clarify thoughts, and cultivate positive energy. Plus, clear quartz are considered among one of many crystals for healing. It’s known as the master healer. “It’s a highly potent, easily programmable magnifier of energy and intentions and can help you to access and manifest higher states of consciousness,” Mariah K. Lyons, author of Crystal Healing for Women and founder of Astra, told Well+Good.
Aries suns can also benefit from the energetic properties of aquamarine, one of the two March birthstones. “Aquamarine helps Aries suns communicate their many thoughts and ground their fire so that others can understand their message,” says Wintersteen.
As for Taurus sun signs, they can likewise benefit from striking green emeralds, the traditional May birthstone. According to Wintersteen: “Emeralds help this sign protect their peace as it calms the nervous system. It also helps to call in abundance in all forms, helping Taurus suns align with their most creative self.”
What Are Birthstones?
Birthstones are gemstones that represent a person’s birth month or zodiac sign. Their origins are believed to trace back to biblical times, and the first-century historian Flavius Josephus associated the 12 gemstones on Aaron’s breastplate in the Book of Exodus with the months of the year and the 12 zodiac signs. However, the custom of wearing an individual gem per month didn’t begin until around the 15th or 16th century in Germany or Poland.
Birthstones are also found to have origins in Eastern Culture. The Ratna Pariksha, a fifth-century Hindu text, linked specific gems to deities, celestial bodies, and days of the week, while Vedic astrologers recommend certain gems to individuals based on their astrological birth chart.
In 1912, the American Council Association of Jewelers (which is currently known as the Jewelers of America) created a standardized list of birthstones in the United States. This list was updated by the Jewelry Industry Council of America and later by The American Gem Trade Association to include new types of birthstones for certain months of the year.
An Overview of the Birthstones for Every Month of the Year
Want to pick a crystal that corresponds to your birth month? Here’s a quick overview of the birthstones for every month of the year:
- January Birthstone: Garnet
- February Birthstone: Amethyst
- March Birthstone: Aquamarine and Bloodstone
- April Birthstone: Diamond
- May Birthstone: Emerald
- June Birthstone: Pearl, Alexandrite, and Moonstone
- July Birthstone: Ruby
- August Birthstone: Peridot, Spinel, and Sardonyx
- September Birthstone: Sapphire
- October Birthstone: Opal and Tourmaline
- November Birthstone: Topaz and Citrine
- December Birthstone: Tanzanite, Turquoise, and Zircon
Frequently Asked Questions About the April Birthstone
Is the diamond the only birthstone for April?
The Jewelers of America, the Jewelry Industry Council of America, and The American Gem Trade Association regard diamonds as the only birthstone for April.
What is Aries’ birthstone?
Aries are associated with several birthstones. Aries born in March are typically connected with aquamarine and bloodstone, while those who celebrate their birthdays in April are linked with diamonds.
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