Birthstone nails are trending, and our favorite stars are crushing it with their own interpretations of it! Personally, I’m a fan because my childhood dream job was to be a gemologist — no, I’m not kidding! While it’s the manicure of the season, we couldn’t help but wonder what the deeper meaning of these gem colors represents. Wearing one of these bold hues is a way to manifest our intentions for fall — an Easter egg for what these celebs hope to serve up.
Bri Luna, owner of The Hoodwitch and author of Blood Sex Magic: Everyday Magic for the Modern Mystic, who has a chapter about nail magic in her book, tells Teen Vogue, “Nail polish can be a simple yet powerful way to manifest because color itself carries energy. When you paint your nails with intention, every time you see your hands you’re reminded of your goal, which keeps that energy active. Birthstone shades are especially potent because they connect you to your personal astrology by wearing them; it's like carrying a talisman on your fingertips. For example, garnet reds for January can ignite passion and courage, while sapphire blues for September strengthen intuition and truth. Choosing your birthstone color helps you channel your innate power and reminds you of who you are at your core, making your manifestation even stronger.”
While you can opt for your birthstone to hone in on the energy, you can also pick the one that best applies to your aspirations, as each carries signficance and symbolism. As you use the nail polish, think of a goal on your mind — trust that it will become a reality in time.
Read below to do the birthstone nails trend, based on your desires or birth month:
January
Garnet is historically worn for safe traveling and courage against adversity. In modern times, it is a symbol of bravery, lust, and romance (due to its rich red color) — not just for others but in our relationship with ourselves. The deep hue helps to manifest devotion and self-confidence when worn on your nails.
February
Amethyst is known for its ability to calm our minds and to bring psychic downloads. It’s a source of protection between the spiritual and physical worlds, allowing us to meditate and unwind without any worries. Purple is a healing and clarifying color; we can find peace in and out of our bodies when polishing our nails with this enlightening tone.
March
Aquamarine translates from Latin to English as “sea water.” Like the ocean‘s ever-changing tides, the light blue-green color encourages us to let go of past drama, issues, or expectations and remain present. Whatever the day brings us is more than enough when aquamarine glows on our nails — all the more reason to get a manicure motivated by this birthstone.
April
Traditionally, diamonds symbolized positivity and were used to ward off the evil eye. Nowadays, diamonds represent faithfulness and eternal love. In mani-pedi terms, the sparkly stone brings optimism and enchants our lives with commitment. So, if you want to strengthen a bond with another or call in good vibes, choose diamonds to brighten up your nails and desire to ship.
May
I think emerald is the most bedazzling shade of green (no offense, peridot) with which to set intentions. This color adds prosperity and abundance to our auras, attracting money and wealth. By the way, emerald stones are just as expensive as diamonds, so wear this hue for glamour.
June
There is controversy over whether June’s birthstone is pearl or moonstone. I suggest pearly nail polish because it comes in an array of soft colors other than white. Pearls symbolize purity and beginnings — the look to go for to enhance a vibe check. Wear the polish or actual pearl stones (depending on your aesthetic) to refresh and start anew.
July
Who's the boss? Anyone wearing ruby nail polish is. Regal is a word that comes to mind when speaking of ruby red. The gem itself is known to heighten our heartfelt sentiments and leadership skills. Anyone who paints their claws with this robust color ignites the vitality and exuberance that the color of this infamously beautiful and passionate stone offers.
August
Face the facts, brat green is a playoff of peridot — but the gem has more depth and transcendent energy than 2024’s trendy hue. This birthstone’s qualities include emotional healing and happiness, encouraging us to release fear. Think about what you wish to release and augment with every stroke of nail polish in this color to live your best life.
September
Blue sapphires (yes, this birthstone comes in an assortment of colors ranging from white to red to green) are a sign of self-discipline and excellent communication. Beyond that, they refer to wisdom, since sapphires help us understand matters, others, and ourselves. Use this color to infuse sincerity and truthfulness into your atmosphere. It will definitely rizz up the current mood!
October
Opals are gorgeous due to their iridescence and facets of color that gleam in the sunlight. There are varying kinds of opals from black to blue to pink — however, the OG and popular gem is the best choice for autumn (since it’s the birthstone of October). Opals lift the veil and bring insight to us, as they intensify intuition.
November
The radiating gem citrine is fantastic for breaking down roadblocks and overcoming obstacles. Although there are many variations about how to adorn this nail polish, bright and shiny gold is the way to go since it demands attention and pushes us toward success. Winning first place at anything and everything we do is a must with a citrine-influenced nail style.
December
Turquoise bridges our bodies and minds together. This enlightening stone is said to create balance in our lives, which is why it's so revered by many. Turquoise nails are a nod to unity and community, reminding us that we are all connected — even though we’re on separate journeys.
