April Birthstone Characteristics: The beautiful and brilliant diamond
- Birthstone Color: Clear
- Element: Fire
- Planet: Venus
- Chakra: crown chakra
- Origin: South Africa, Canada, USA, Australia, China, Brazil and Russia
Naturally occurring diamonds are formed deep below the earth’s surface by a combination of high temperature and pressure. While most people associate diamonds with crystal clear transparency, they also come in a range of hues, from blue and yellow to pink and brown. Diamonds are often sourced from South Africa, though she says they can also be found in Canada, according to integrative medicine and crystal expert Elizabeth Trattner, AP, DOM, owner of The Helia House spa. According to the Minerals Education Coalition, diamonds can also come from the United States, as well as Australia, China, Brazil and Russia.
Birthstone meaning and symbolism of diamonds
Diamonds are one of the strongest natural materials in the world – and the name says it all. The word “diamond” is derived from the Greek word adamas, which translates to “invincible”. Given its indestructibility, a diamond inspired courage in ancient times, says astrologer Rachel Lang, author of Modern magic. If you want to channel your inner strength and steadfastness, wearing diamonds will help you tap into a “savage indestructibility,” says astrologer and spiritual trainer Tenae Stewart, author of The modern witch’s guide to magical self-care. She adds that it’s especially beneficial for those who feel fragile, disempowered, or struggling with people.
Diamonds are also typically associated with Aries, symbolized by the strong-willed and determined Aries. “This is a groundbreaking sign,” says Lang. “For Aries, courage is inherent, and they often try new things and take risks that their zodiac counterparts wouldn’t dare.” While headstrong drive and determination are among the key personality traits of Aries, the fiery zodiac sign can also be “quite sensitive be,” Michelle Roques-O’Neil, crystal healer and owner of spa Therapy, previously told Well+Good. Therefore, diamonds can also be used as crystals for protection for Aries. “By wearing diamonds, Aries is less able to move through life from the energies of others, which helps them to fulfill their soul’s growth potential and live a more self-determined life,” says Lang. Also, “they help Aries decide on their vision and take bold steps forward in their journey,” says Wintersteen.
Taurus born in April can also benefit from the energetic powers of the April birthstone. “Diamonds help the sun sign Taurus to ground their energy and attune to their infinite abundance,” says Wintersteen. “They also help them step out of their comfort zones with grace and ease.” This is especially important given the characteristics of a Taurus, which can be stubborn at times.
In addition, diamonds are also often associated with the crown chakra Sahasrara. The crown chakra connects you to “your soul, your higher self, your purpose, the universe, your 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, with their seemingly unbreakable quality, also symbolize a lasting bond. While it is commonly associated with conjugal love, it can also very well symbolize self-love.
Alternatives for the April birthstone
While diamonds are considered the official birthstone for the month of April, Aries and Taurus born in April can also benefit from the energetic properties of other gemstones. In addition to diamonds, Aries can also benefit from carnelian, clear quartz and aquamarine, says Wintersteen.
The bright orange carnelian “ignites their inner fire and helps them start fresh,” she says, while “clear quartz brings similar properties to diamond without the high price.” The transparent stone can help focus the mind, clear thoughts and cultivate positive energy. Also, clear quartz is considered one of many crystals used for healing. It is known as the master healer. “It is a highly effective, easily programmable magnifying glass of energy and intent and can help you access and manifest higher states of consciousness,” Mariah K. Lyons, author of Crystal healing for women and founder of Astra, opposite 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 others can understand their message,” says Wintersteen.
Taurus sun signs can also benefit from showy green emeralds, the traditional May birthstone. According to Wintersteen: “Emeralds help this sign keep their peace as they calm the nervous system. It also helps to call out in abundance in all forms and helps Taurus Suns align with their most creative selves.”
What are birthstones?
Birthstones are gemstones that represent a person’s birth month or zodiac sign. Its origins are believed to date back to Biblical times, and the first-century historian Flavius Josephus associated the 12 gems on Aaron’s breastplate in the Book of Exodus with the months of the year and the 12 signs of the zodiac. However, the custom of wearing a single gemstone each month only began around the 15th or 16th century in Germany or Poland.
Birthstones also have their origins in Eastern culture. The Ratna Pariksha, a fifth-century Hindu text, associated specific gems with deities, celestial bodies, and days of the week, while Vedic astrologers recommended specific gems to individuals based on their natal astrological chart.
In 1912, the American Council Association of Jewelers (currently known as 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 birthstone types for specific months of the year.
An overview of birthstones for each month of the year
Would you like to choose a crystal that corresponds to your birth month? Here is a quick overview of the birthstones for each month of the year:
- January Birthstone: garnet
- February Birthstone: amethyst
- March Birthstone: Aquamarine and Bloodstone
- April Birthstone: diamond
- May Birthstone: emerald
- JA 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 Diamond the Only Birthstone for April?
The Jewelers of America, the Jewelry Industry Council of America, and the American Gem Trade Association consider diamonds to be the only birthstone for April.
What is Aries’ birthstone?
Aries are associated with several birthstones. Aries born in March are usually associated with aquamarine and bloodstone, while those celebrating their birthday in April are associated with diamonds.
Our editors independently select these products. By making a purchase through our links, Well+Good may earn a commission.