12 birthstone-inspired nails for each month of the year

There really is no ceiling when it comes to creative nail art, and birthstone nails are the latest personalised mani to catch our eye. From zodiac nails to initial nail art, we love a design that brings a little personality to our fingertips.

Whether you’re an emerald girlie, partial to a ruby red or blessed with diamond as your birthstone (lucky you), the trend offers a more personal spin on your next mani. And with 12 very different gemstones to inspire your nail art, there’s plenty of room to get creative.

What are birthstone nails?

As the name suggests, birthstone nails take their cue from the gemstone traditionally associated with your birth month. January has garnet, May has emerald, September has sapphire – and each stone brings its own distinctive colour to play with.

You can take the idea as literally or loosely as you like. A wash of jewel-toned polish is an easy nod to your stone, while chrome finishes, cat-eye effects, crystals and intricate nail art can recreate the colour, shimmer and depth of the real thing.

Of course, there’s no rule that says you have to stick to your own birthstone. Whether you want a manicure with a little more meaning or simply fancy borrowing the colour palette of another month, we’ve rounded up our favourite birthstone nail ideas for every month of the year.

January: Garnet

Garnet is a deep red stone that evokes passion, protection, and vitality. Ideal for those who start the year with renewed energy, we love it on almond-shaped short nails as a solid colour or cat-eye finish. For some extra sparkle, add a layer of glitter to highlight its power and magnetism.

Essie Nail Colour 50 Bordeaux Nail Polish

February: Amethyst

With its purple hue, this gemstone represents spirituality, calm, and wisdom. On your nails, play with shades of purple, from lilac to plum. Pearly, marbled, galaxy, and smoky nail art give it a mystical aura.