December Birthstone: Turquoise, Tanzanite and Zircon

Birthstones are special gemstones that represent each month of the year, and they are often worn as jewelry or kept as treasures. They are believed to bring good luck, health, and happiness to the people born in that month. For December, there are three unique birthstones: Tanzanite, Zircon, and Turquoise. Each of these stones has its own story, meaning, and beauty, making them special choices for those born in December or anyone who loves these stunning gems.

Table of Contents

December Birthstone Turquoise, Tanzanite and Zircon

Birthstone	Key Facts	Details
Tanzanite	Discovery Year	Discovered in 1967 near Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania.
	Color	Blue-violet, shows three colors (blue, violet, burgundy) depending on the angle.
	Rarity	Found only in Tanzania, making it about 1,000 times rarer than diamonds.
	Hardness	6.5 – 7 on the Mohs scale; requires careful handling.
	Symbolism	Represents transformation, intuition, and communication.
	Care Tips	Avoid extreme heat and chemicals; clean with warm, soapy water.
	Fun Fact	Named by Tiffany & Co. and marketed as the “gem of the 20th century.”
Zircon	Age	One of the oldest minerals on Earth, over 4 billion years old.
	Color Variety	Available in blue, clear, green, red, yellow, and brown.
	Resemblance	Often mistaken for diamonds due to its high sparkle.
	Hardness	7.5 on the Mohs scale; durable but can chip or scratch.
	Symbolism	Associated with wisdom, integrity, and restful sleep.
	Care Tips	Clean with mild soap and water; avoid harsh brushing.
	Fun Fact	Used historically for dating ancient rock formations.
Turquoise	History	Mined for over 5,000 years, used by ancient Egyptians and Native Americans.
	Color	Sky-blue to greenish-blue, often with natural matrix lines.
	Cultural Significance	Considered a holy stone in many cultures; used for protection.
	Hardness	5 – 6 on the Mohs scale; softer and more prone to scratches.
	Symbolism	Represents protection, healing, and tranquility.
	Care Tips	Keep away from water, cosmetics, and direct sunlight; clean with a dry cloth.
	Fun Fact	The word “Turquoise” comes from the French “turquois,” meaning “Turkish,” as it was first brought to Europe through Turkey.

What Are the Birthstones for December?

December is unique because it has three birthstones: Tanzanite, Zircon, and Turquoise. This variety gives people born in December plenty of options to choose from, each offering different colors and qualities.

Tanzanite

A beautiful blue-violet gemstone that was discovered in the 1960s.
It is found only in Tanzania, near Mount Kilimanjaro, making it very rare.
Tanzanite changes color depending on the light, showing blue, violet, or burgundy hues.

Zircon

Zircon is known for its sparkle and can come in many colors, including blue, green, red, yellow, and clear.
It is one of the oldest minerals on Earth, over 4 billion years old!
Often mistaken for diamond because of its brilliance, but it’s a unique gem on its own.

Turquoise

A stone with a stunning sky-blue or greenish-blue color.
It has been used for thousands of years, dating back to ancient Egypt and Native American cultures.
Known for its matrix, which are the brown or black lines that run through the stone.

History and Origin of December Birthstones

Understanding where these birthstones come from and their history helps us appreciate their value and beauty even more.

Origins of Tanzanite

Discovered in 1967 by a Maasai tribesman who noticed blue crystals in the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro.
Named after Tanzania, the only place in the world where it can be found.
It’s about 1,000 times rarer than diamonds due to its limited geographic origin.

History of Zircon

Zircon has been used since ancient times and is one of the first gems used in jewelry.
Its name comes from the Arabic words “zar” (gold) and “gun” (color).
Despite its age, Zircon has often been overlooked in favor of diamonds but is making a comeback as a beautiful, natural gem.

Turquoise’s Ancient Roots

Turquoise has been mined for over 5,000 years, making it one of the oldest gemstones known to man.
Ancient Egyptians used it in their jewelry, and it was considered a holy stone in many cultures.
It was believed to protect against evil and bring good fortune, especially by Native Americans.

Tanzanite: The New Kid on the Block

Topic	Details
Birthstone	Tanzanite is one of the birthstones for December.
Discovery Year	Discovered in 1967 near Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania.
Introduced By	Tiffany & Co., who named it after its country of origin, Tanzania.
Color	Displays a stunning blue-violet color.
Trichroism	Tanzanite is trichroic, showing three colors (blue, violet, and burgundy) depending on the angle.
Hardness	Has a Mohs hardness of 6.5 to 7, making it suitable for jewelry but requiring care to avoid damage.
Symbolism	– Represents transformation and discovering one’s true purpose.
	– Stimulates intuition, perception, and helps in communication.
	– Associated with new beginnings, perfect for those starting new life chapters.
Care Instructions	– Avoid extreme heat, sudden temperature changes, and exposure to harsh chemicals.
	– Clean using warm, soapy water and a soft brush; never use ultrasonic cleaners.
	– Store separately from harder stones to prevent scratching.
Interesting Facts	– Tanzanite is 1,000 times rarer than diamonds as it is only found in a small area near Mount Kilimanjaro.
	– Its unique color comes from trace amounts of vanadium, which is responsible for its iconic blue and violet hues.
	– The stone’s popularity has surged due to its striking color and association with luxury brands like Tiffany & Co.

Tanzanite is the newest of the December birthstones and is highly valued for its striking blue-violet color.

Discovery and Characteristics

Found in 1967 near Mount Kilimanjaro, it was introduced to the world by Tiffany & Co., who named it Tanzanite after its country of origin.
Tanzanite is trichroic, meaning it can show three different colors (blue, violet, and burgundy) depending on how you look at it.
It has a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, which means it is not as hard as diamonds but still suitable for jewelry with some care.

Symbolism and Meaning

Represents transformation, helping people who wear it to discover their true purpose.
Believed to stimulate intuition and perception, making it easier to communicate and express oneself.
Often associated with new beginnings, making it a great stone for those starting a new chapter in life.

How to Care for Tanzanite

Avoid exposure to extreme heat, sudden temperature changes, and harsh chemicals.
Clean with warm, soapy water and a soft brush, but never use ultrasonic cleaners which can damage the stone.
Store separately from harder gemstones to prevent scratches.

Zircon: Not Just a Diamond Substitute

Topic	Details
Common Misconception	Zircon is often mistaken for diamond due to its similar appearance but has distinct qualities that set it apart.
Popular Varieties	– Blue Zircon: The most popular variety, linked with December birthstones.
	– Clear Zircon: Resembles diamonds but has a unique sparkle known as “fire.”
	– Other Colors: Zircon also comes in green, red, yellow, and brown.
Symbolism	– Stone of Wisdom: Brings knowledge and integrity to the wearer.
	– Blue Zircon: Represents calmness, compassion, and helps release worries.
	– Protection: Promotes restful sleep and wards off negative energy.
Durability	– Mohs Hardness: 7.5, making it durable but susceptible to chipping and scratches.
Care Tips	– Clean with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth.
	– Avoid steam or ultrasonic cleaners, which can damage the stone.
	– Store separately from harder gemstones and metals to prevent scratches.
Uses in Jewelry	Commonly used in rings, earrings, and necklaces due to its brilliance and wide range of colors.
Unique Sparkle	Zircon has a unique optical property called “double refraction,” giving it more brilliance and sparkle than some gemstones.

Zircon might look like a diamond, but it has its own unique qualities that make it stand out.

Types of Zircon

Blue Zircon: The most popular variety associated with December.
Clear Zircon: Resembles diamonds but has a different type of sparkle.
Other Colors: Includes green, red, yellow, and brown varieties.

Symbolic Meanings

Zircon is known as a stone of wisdom, bringing knowledge and integrity to the wearer.
Blue Zircon is linked to calmness, compassion, and the ability to let go of worries.
Often used to promote restful sleep and ward off negative energy.

Durability and Care Tips

With a hardness of 7.5 on the Mohs scale, it is durable but can still chip or scratch.
Should be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth; avoid steam cleaners which can harm the stone.
Store it separately from harder gems and metals to prevent surface damage.

Turquoise: A Stone of Wisdom and Protection

Topic	Details
Introduction	Turquoise is one of the oldest known gemstones, cherished for its mesmerizing blue-green hues and unique patterns.
Historical Significance	– Valued by ancient civilizations like the Egyptians, Persians, and Native Americans.
	– Often used in amulets, ceremonial jewelry, and royal adornments.
Unique Characteristics	– Color Variations: Ranges from sky blue to greenish-blue, often with intricate veins known as “matrix.”
	– Individual Patterns: Each stone has its own distinctive pattern and shade, enhancing its allure.
Symbolism and Meanings	– Protection: Believed to guard against negative energy and bring good luck.
	– Wisdom and Truth: Symbolizes honesty, clear communication, and self-expression.
	– Peace and Calm: Thought to induce serenity and reduce stress for the wearer.
Healing Properties	– Emotional Balance: Helps in balancing emotions and stabilizing mood swings.
	– Physical Benefits: Traditionally used to alleviate headaches and support immune health.
Care and Maintenance	– Hardness: Rated 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale, making it softer than many gemstones and prone to scratches.
	– Avoid Chemicals: Keep away from cosmetics, oils, and direct sunlight to prevent discoloration.
	– Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth; avoid water or chemical cleaners that can damage the stone.
Usage in Jewelry	– Popular in rings, necklaces, bracelets, and earrings.
	– Often set in silver to enhance its natural beauty.
Cultural Connections	– Native American Jewelry: Integral in Navajo, Zuni, and Hopi craftsmanship.
	– Spiritual Ceremonies: Used in rituals and believed to connect the earth and sky.
Additional Facts	– Birthstone: Recognized as one of the birthstones for December.
	– Anniversary Gem: Traditionally given on the 11th wedding anniversary.
	– Global Sources: Mined in countries like the United States (Arizona and New Mexico), Iran, Egypt, and China.

Turquoise is one of the oldest known gemstones, cherished for its beautiful colors and protective properties.

The Allure of Turquoise

Its blue-green color with unique patterns has made it a favorite for centuries.
Each piece of Turquoise is different, with its own pattern and shade, adding to its appeal.
Highly valued by ancient cultures, it was often worn as amulets or in ceremonial jewelry.

Symbolism and Cultural Significance

Turquoise is known as a stone of protection, used to guard against negative energy and bring good luck.
It symbolizes wisdom, truth, and communication, helping those who wear it to speak their truth.
Believed to bring peace and calm to its wearer, making it a popular stone for stress relief.

How to Maintain Its Beauty

Turquoise is softer than many other gemstones, with a hardness of 5 to 6, so it can scratch easily.
Should be kept away from cosmetics, oils, and direct sunlight to prevent color changes.
Clean with a soft, dry cloth and avoid using water or chemical cleaners which can damage the stone.

December Birthstone Colors and Their Meanings

Topic	Details
Color Spectrum of December Birthstones	– Blue-Violet (Tanzanite): Represents transformation, new beginnings, and communication.
	– Vibrant Blue (Zircon): Symbolizes wisdom, calmness, and integrity.
	– Sky-Blue/Greenish-Blue (Turquoise): Associated with healing, protection, and tranquility.
Meaning of Each Color	– Blue: Calming, signifies trust, stability, and peace.
	– Violet: Represents creativity, spirituality, and intuition.
	– Greenish-Blue: Linked to health, peace, and protection.
Choosing the Right December Birthstone
– Personal Preferences	– Choose a stone that matches your personality and style.
	– Bold and Vibrant: Tanzanite’s blue-violet hues for a striking appearance.
	– Classic and Sparkly: Zircon offers a diamond-like sparkle for traditional tastes.
	– Earthy and Unique: Turquoise’s earthy patterns appeal to natural styles.
Astrological Influences	– December birthstones, especially Turquoise, are believed to enhance Sagittarius traits like adventurousness and optimism.
	– Each stone may resonate differently based on zodiac signs and planetary alignment.
Emotional and Spiritual Connections	– Tanzanite: Symbolizes transformation and spiritual awakening.
	– Zircon: Offers wisdom, protection, and clarity of thought.
	– Turquoise: Brings healing, calmness, and emotional balance.
How to Choose Based on Meaning	– Choose the stone that aligns with your emotional and spiritual needs.
	– If you seek new beginnings, Tanzanite might be perfect.
	– For clarity and wisdom, Zircon offers meaningful protection.
	– If tranquility and healing are what you need, Turquoise is the ideal choice.

December birthstones cover a stunning range of colors, each with special meanings.

The Color Spectrum of December Stones

Blue-Violet (Tanzanite): Represents transformation, new beginnings, and communication.
Vibrant Blue (Zircon): Symbolizes wisdom, calmness, and integrity.
Sky-Blue/Greenish-Blue (Turquoise): Associated with healing, protection, and tranquility.

What Each Color Represents

Blue: Calming, represents trust and stability.
Violet: Symbolizes creativity, spirituality, and intuition.
Greenish-Blue: Linked to health, peace, and protection.

How to Choose the Right December Birthstone

Choosing the right December birthstone depends on personal preferences, astrological influences, and what each stone represents.

Considering Personal Style

Bold and Vibrant: If you like bold colors, Tanzanite’s blue-violet hue might appeal to you.
Classic and Sparkly: Zircon offers a sparkling choice similar to diamonds, perfect for classic tastes.
Earthy and Unique: Turquoise’s distinctive color and patterns are ideal for those who love natural, earthy styles.

Astrological Influences

Some believe that certain birthstones align better with specific zodiac signs.
December stones, especially Turquoise, are thought to enhance Sagittarius traits like adventurousness and optimism.

Emotional and Spiritual Connections

Choose based on the stone’s meanings and how they resonate with you.
Tanzanite can symbolize transformation; Zircon can offer protection and clarity; Turquoise brings healing and calm.

Buying Guide for December Birthstones

Buying a birthstone can be an exciting experience, but it’s important to know what to look for to ensure you get a quality gem.

Tips for Purchasing Genuine Stones

Check Certification: Ensure the gem comes with a certificate of authenticity, especially for rare stones like Tanzanite.
Examine the Color: The most valuable stones have deep, vibrant colors without dull spots.
Inspect the Clarity: Quality stones should be clear with minimal inclusions (flaws or cracks inside the stone).

Things to Look Out for in Quality

Tanzanite: Look for a rich blue-violet color; lighter shades are less valuable.
Zircon: The stone should have a bright sparkle, and the color should be even.
Turquoise: The best Turquoise has a clear, intense color and minimal matrix lines.

Price Ranges and Budgeting Tips

Tanzanite: Can be expensive due to its rarity, with prices varying based on color intensity and clarity.
Zircon: Generally more affordable, with blue Zircon being the most popular and slightly pricier due to its demand.
Turquoise: Prices can vary widely depending on the quality and origin; high-quality pieces with a vivid color and minimal matrix tend to be more expensive.

Caring for Your December Birthstone Jewelry

Proper care is crucial to maintaining the beauty and longevity of your December birthstone jewelry. Each stone requires specific care due to its unique properties.

General Care Tips

Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Keep your stones away from household cleaners, perfumes, and cosmetics which can damage them.
Store Separately: To prevent scratches, store your jewelry pieces separately in soft pouches or lined boxes.
Regular Cleaning: Use mild soap and warm water for most stones, but always check specific care instructions for each type.

Specific Care for Each Stone

Tanzanite: Clean with warm soapy water and a soft cloth. Avoid ultrasonic and steam cleaners.
Zircon: Clean with mild soap and water. Avoid harsh brushing, which can scratch the surface.
Turquoise: Wipe with a dry or slightly damp cloth. Avoid submerging in water, as Turquoise can absorb liquids and become discolored.

Different Ways to Wear December Birthstones

There are many creative ways to incorporate December birthstones into your daily wear. From rings to pendants, the versatility of these stones allows for numerous styles.

Jewelry Options

Rings: December birthstones make beautiful center stones in rings, especially for statement pieces.
Necklaces: A pendant with a December birthstone is a timeless way to showcase the gem’s beauty.
Earrings: Simple studs or elegant drop earrings with Tanzanite, Zircon, or Turquoise can add a pop of color to any outfit.

Other Creative Uses

Bracelets: Incorporate birthstones into charm bracelets for a personalized touch.
Brooches and Pins: Add a vintage flair with brooches or pins featuring December stones.
Men’s Accessories: Cufflinks, tie pins, and lapel pins can also be adorned with birthstones for a subtle yet stylish look.

December Birthstones in Astrology and Healing

Topic	Details
Astrological Significance
Sagittarius (Nov 22 – Dec 21)	– Turquoise enhances Sagittarius traits like adventurousness, honesty, and optimism.
	– Zircon can help Sagittarians by calming anxiety and promoting clear thinking.
Capricorn (Dec 22 – Jan 19)	– Tanzanite supports Capricorns in embracing change, new beginnings, and adapting to transformations.
	– Zircon can aid Capricorns by helping them focus on goals with clarity and reducing mental stress.
Overall Astrological Influence	– Zircon is beneficial for both Sagittarius and Capricorn, offering mental clarity and calming energy.
Healing Properties
Tanzanite	– Believed to aid in detoxification and boost the immune system.
	– Can stimulate energy centers, encouraging self-healing.
Zircon	– Known for promoting restful sleep and alleviating insomnia.
	– Helps ease allergies, respiratory issues, and strengthens the lungs.
Turquoise	– Thought to relieve headaches, reduce inflammation, and support overall physical well-being.
	– Brings emotional healing, promoting peace and calm to both the body and mind.
Emotional and Spiritual Healing	– Tanzanite: Enhances spiritual awareness and facilitates emotional healing.
	– Zircon: Provides protection from negative energy and promotes emotional stability.
	– Turquoise: Offers grounding energy, helping individuals stay balanced in stressful situations.

Birthstones are not just beautiful; they are also believed to have astrological and healing properties.

Astrological Significance

Sagittarius (Nov 22 – Dec 21): Turquoise is thought to enhance Sagittarius traits like adventure and honesty.
Capricorn (Dec 22 – Jan 19): Tanzanite can aid Capricorns in embracing change and new beginnings.
Zircon: Known to calm anxiety and promote clear thinking, which can be beneficial for both Sagittarius and Capricorn.

Healing Properties of December Stones

Tanzanite: Believed to help with detoxification and boost the immune system.
Zircon: Known for aiding in restful sleep and easing allergies and respiratory issues.
Turquoise: Thought to help with physical ailments like headaches and inflammation, and to bring peace to the mind and body.

Choosing Between Tanzanite, Zircon, and Turquoise

Criteria	Tanzanite	Zircon	Turquoise
Color Preference	– Vibrant Blue-Violet: Eye-catching and luxurious.	– Sparkling Variety: Available in blue, clear, red, green, yellow, and brown.	– Earthy Blue-Green: Soothing and calm with natural patterns.
Rarity and Uniqueness	– Most Rare: Discovered only in Tanzania, making it a special choice.	– Unique Sparkle: Common but has exceptional brilliance due to its double refraction.	– Ancient Appeal: Widely available but treasured for its historical significance.
Affordability	– High Price: Due to rarity, Tanzanite is more expensive.	– Moderate: Offers a balance of beauty and affordability.	– Budget-Friendly: Generally more affordable and accessible.
Personality Match	– Sophisticated and Refined: Ideal for those with luxurious tastes.	– Traditional and Classic: Perfect for those who appreciate timeless beauty.	– Adventurous and Free-Spirited: Suits individuals who love travel and exploration.
Cultural Significance	– Limited in cultural history due to its recent discovery in 1967.	– Known in many ancient cultures for wisdom and protection.	– Revered by Native American, Persian, and Egyptian civilizations.
Healing Properties	– Supports detoxification and boosts immunity.	– Eases allergies and respiratory issues, promotes restful sleep.	– Relieves headaches, reduces inflammation, and brings emotional calm.
Astrological Match	– Great for Capricorns seeking transformation and growth.	– Supports both Sagittarius and Capricorn by promoting clear thinking and reducing anxiety.	– Enhances Sagittarius traits of adventure and optimism, provides grounding energy.
Best for Jewelry Types	– Elegant Pieces: Suited for high-end rings, necklaces, and earrings.	– Sparkling Jewelry: Perfect for rings, necklaces, and bracelets.	– Boho and Earthy Styles: Often set in silver for rings, necklaces, and bracelets.
Spiritual Connection	– Represents transformation, spiritual growth, and new beginnings.	– Symbolizes wisdom, protection, and clarity.	– Offers healing energy, protection from negative influences, and emotional balance.

With three beautiful stones to choose from, deciding on the right December birthstone can be tricky. Here’s a guide to help you make the best choice.

Comparing the Stones

Color Preference: If you prefer vibrant blue-violet, go for Tanzanite. For sparkle and variety, Zircon is your best bet. If earthy, calm tones are your style, Turquoise is perfect.
Rarity and Uniqueness: Tanzanite is the rarest, making it a special choice. Zircon is more commonly available but still unique in its own right. Turquoise is accessible and treasured for its ancient roots.
Budget Considerations: Turquoise generally offers more affordable options, while Tanzanite can be pricier due to its rarity. Zircon sits in the middle, offering a good balance of beauty and affordability.

Matching with Personal Traits

Adventurous: Turquoise suits those with a free-spirited nature and love for travel.
Sophisticated: Tanzanite’s luxurious look is perfect for those with refined tastes.
Traditional: Zircon’s timeless appeal makes it a classic choice for anyone who loves traditional beauty.

Symbolism and Meanings of December Birthstones

Birthstone	Symbolism	Meaning
Tanzanite	– Transformation: Represents change and new beginnings.	– Encourages wearers to embrace personal growth and self-discovery.
	– Spiritual Awakening: Stimulates a deeper connection to one’s inner self.	– Ideal for those on a journey of spiritual enlightenment.
	– Self-Discovery: Helps in uncovering one’s true purpose and path.	– Supports personal evolution and understanding of one’s deeper desires.
Zircon	– Stone of Virtue: Symbolizes honesty, integrity, and purity.	– Enhances wisdom and clear thinking, providing mental clarity.
	– Clarity of Thought: Known to clear the mind of confusion and enhance focus.	– Promotes intellectual growth and decision-making based on wisdom and truth.
	– Wisdom and Knowledge: Often linked to gaining knowledge and deep understanding.	– Boosts the wearer’s ability to absorb and process information, offering clarity in challenging situations.
Turquoise	– Protection: A powerful symbol of safeguarding against negative energies.	– Brings good fortune and acts as a protective amulet for travelers and adventurers.
	– Healing and Tranquility: Known for its calming and healing properties, both physically and emotionally.	– Promotes mental peace, emotional balance, and healing, making it ideal for stress relief.
	– Good Fortune and Happiness: Associated with bringing happiness, joy, and positivity into the life of the wearer.	– Attracts positive energy and helps create a sense of well-being and harmony in life.

Each December birthstone carries its own special symbolism, making them not just beautiful, but also meaningful.

Tanzanite’s Symbolism

Represents transformation, helping wearers to embrace change.
Encourages spiritual growth and self-discovery.

Zircon’s Symbolism

Known as the “stone of virtue,” Zircon is associated with honesty and integrity.
Brings clarity of thought and enhances wisdom.

Turquoise’s Symbolism

A symbol of protection and healing.
Associated with good fortune, happiness, and a sense of peace.

Fun Facts About December Birthstones

Learning some fun and interesting facts can make these stones even more enjoyable to wear.

Tanzanite Fun Facts

Tiffany & Co. introduced Tanzanite to the world in 1968, and it was initially marketed as the “gem of the 20th century.”
Tanzanite’s color is often enhanced through heat treatment to bring out its vibrant hues.

Zircon Fun Facts

Zircon has a unique sparkle due to its high refractive index, which is why it’s often mistaken for diamond.
It was used by early humans as a tool for dating ancient rock formations, thanks to its durability.

Turquoise Fun Facts

Turquoise was one of the first gemstones ever mined, with ancient mines dating back thousands of years in Egypt’s Sinai Peninsula.
Its name comes from the French word “turquois,” meaning “Turkish,” because the stone was first brought to Europe through Turkey.

Conclusion

December’s birthstones—Tanzanite, Zircon, and Turquoise—offer a rich tapestry of colors, meanings, and histories. Whether you’re drawn to the modern vibrancy of Tanzanite, the timeless sparkle of Zircon, or the ancient allure of Turquoise, there’s a December birthstone that speaks to every style and personality. Embrace the unique beauty of December’s gems and let them add a touch of magic to your jewelry collection.

FAQs

What is the rarest December birthstone?
Tanzanite is considered the rarest of December’s birthstones due to its limited availability and single source in Tanzania.
Can anyone wear December birthstones, or are they just for December birthdays?
Anyone can wear December birthstones; they’re not limited to people born in December. They make beautiful, meaningful gifts for anyone who loves their colors and symbolism.
How do I clean my December birthstone jewelry?
Generally, you should use warm, soapy water and a soft cloth. However, avoid ultrasonic cleaners for Tanzanite and Turquoise, as they can be too harsh.
Which December birthstone is the most durable?
Zircon is the most durable with a hardness of 7.5 on the Mohs scale. Tanzanite and Turquoise are softer and require more care to prevent scratching.
Are December birthstones expensive?
The cost varies: Tanzanite can be expensive due to its rarity, Zircon is moderately priced, and Turquoise is usually more affordable, though high-quality pieces can be pricey.
Can December birthstones be used in engagement rings?
Yes, especially Tanzanite and Zircon. However, due to Tanzanite’s relative softness, it should be set in protective settings.
Do December birthstones have healing properties?
Yes, many believe that Tanzanite aids in transformation, Zircon helps with wisdom and sleep, and Turquoise provides protection and promotes tranquility.
What colors do December birthstones come in?
Tanzanite is blue-violet, Zircon can be blue, clear, green, or red, and Turquoise is typically sky-blue or greenish-blue with natural patterns.
Where is the best place to buy December birthstones?
It’s best to buy from reputable jewelers who provide authenticity certifications, particularly for Tanzanite, which is often imitated.
Can December birthstones fade or change color?
Turquoise can change color if exposed to oils or chemicals, and Tanzanite can fade with prolonged exposure to sunlight. Zircon generally retains its color well.