There are FOUR different birthstones for the month of December: Tanzanite, Zircon, Blue Topaz, and Turquoise. All of these December birthstones possess their own unique qualities and charm. They do have one thing in common, however – a stunning blue color. If you are lucky enough to be born in December, you’ll have great options to choose from for spectacular birthstone jewelry and gifts.
Learn more about each of these stones and pick the perfect December birthstone for you or a loved one.
Blue Topaz
Blue topaz is the more prominently known birthstone for December and displays a lovely light blue shade. Topaz becomes blue when it is heated, either naturally or artificially, and can vary in intensity. The deepest shade, London Blue Topaz, almost never occurs in nature and is only produced by geological processes.
Blue Topaz is said to represent love and loyalty, which makes it a great romantic gift as well as the perfect present for a close friend, especially those born in December.
Tanzanite
The second of the December birthstones was discovered in Tanzania in the late 1960s. Tanzanite ranges in color from deep blue to burgundy to purple. This variation in colors—called trichroism—is one of the unique qualities of this stone. When mined, Tanzanite is usually a deep red, but once it is heated it turns a rich violet-blue. (Tanzanites that are violet-blue are the most treasured and valued.)
Tanzanite has long been associated with the virtues of contentment and understanding, making a piece of Tanzanite jewelry a great gift for anyone or any occasion. Beautiful!!
$15,000. Tanzanite & Bezel set diamond bracelet. Total weight 10.32 carat. 14K white gold. Gittelson Jewelers. Tanzanite Pear-shaped necklace. $1,500
Turquoise
Turquoise is the third of the December birthstones and is one of the oldest stones to be used in jewelry. Although it is commonly associated with Native American culture, turquoise was imported to medieval Europe through Turkey and Turkish traders (which is how it got its name) and was considered sacred by many ancient civilizations. Many believed that the opaque gemstone’s color-changing properties could monitor the health of its wear and protect him or her from unhealthy forces.
Turquoise is sensitive to direct sunlight and solvents like makeup, perfume, and natural oils. The hardest turquoise only measures 6 on the Mohs scale, which made this soft stone popular in carved talismans throughout history. From ancient Egyptians to Persians, Aztecs and Native Americans, kings and warriors alike admired turquoise for thousands of years. It adorned everything from jewelry to ceremonial masks to weapons and bridles – granting power and protection, particularly against falls.
Highly esteemed for its striking namesake color and its ancient history, turquoise remains popular through time and is one of our favorite December birthstones. Turquoise’s naturally mottled appearance and lovely textures make it a great gift for anyone who prefers an earthy, natural look.
Contact Gittelson Jewelers
Thinking about December Birthstones? Contact Gittelson Jewelers for you all of your Tanzanite, Topaz, Turquoise, and holiday gift-giving needs. Check out our birthstone jewelry guide, for more information. Or book your appointment below!