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World Class Gems

8 birthstones

Yellow gemstones

8 of the 21 modern birthstones come in yellow, according to the American Gem Society. Here they are from hardest to softest, with what makes each one different.

How to tell yellow gems apart

Color alone rarely identifies a gem: the same shade can come from several minerals, and some stones are treated to change their color. A gemologist uses tests such as refractive index and specific gravity. For a valuable stone, ask for a report from an independent lab.

Other colors: Red · Pink · Orange · Green · Blue · Purple · Brown · Black · White and colorless

Colors: AGS birthstone guides. Hardness: GIA care guides. Checked October 16, 2026.

Birthstone of the month

A birthstone a month, by email

On the first of each month: that month's birthstone, what it means and how to care for it.

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