Did you know December’s birthstones were once only for ancient royalty? Now, tanzanite, zircon, and turquoise are loved by people all over the world. They come in different colors, each with its own story and meaning. This makes them perfect for those born in December.
Zircon looks a lot like diamond but is much cheaper. Tanzanite is often used instead of sapphire. And turquoise has a unique blue color that’s hard to find elsewhere. These gems are becoming more popular, showing off their beauty and unique traits.
Key Takeaways
- December’s birthstones – tanzanite, zircon, and turquoise – offer a diverse range of colors, meanings, and histories.
- These gems were once reserved for ancient royalty but are now beloved by jewelry enthusiasts worldwide.
- Zircon, tanzanite, and turquoise are relatively inexpensive but their beauty rivals even precious gemstones.
- Turquoise has been cherished for millennia and used in jewelry by ancient civilizations.
- Tanzanite was discovered in 1967 and quickly rose in popularity, becoming a December birthstone.
Turquoise: The Captivating Blue-Green Gemstone
Turquoise is a gemstone that shines with its blue to green colors. It often has veins of natural matrix. This turquoise birthstone has been loved for thousands of years. It was on the mask of King Tut and in the jewelry of royalty like Wallis Simpson.
People believed it brought health and luck. It was important in Native American cultures.
Turquoise’s Rich History and Symbolism
In Hinduism, turquoise is seen as a stone of health, luck, and protection. Its history goes back over 1,000 years. The Nishapur district of Iran was a key place for finding “robin’s egg blue,” “sky blue,” and “Persian blue” turquoise.
Where to Find Turquoise
Once, the U.S., especially Arizona and Nevada, was the top producer of turquoise. But now, China leads in producing it, mainly from Hubei Province. Turquoise mining and turquoise production are still exciting for gemstone lovers around the world. This shows how much people love this turquoise birthstone.
“Turquoise has been historically valued for its protective qualities and association with good fortune.”
Tanzanite: The Vibrant Violet-Blue Gem
Tanzanite is a gemstone that caught the world’s attention in the 20th century. It was first known as zoisite in 1962. Just five years later, miners found the main source in Tanzania’s Merelani Hills. Named after its home, tanzanite became a hit after Tiffany & Co. promoted it in 1968.
The Allure of Tanzanite’s Color
Tanzanite is known for its deep, rich color, often called “velvety.” It ranges from a deep blue to a stunning violet. The most valuable is the blue tanzanite, but it also shows purple and reddish-brown. Its vivid colors, high clarity, and large stones make it popular with jewelry lovers and collectors.
“Tanzanite is a thousand times rarer than Diamond.”
Tanzanite is incredibly rare, thought to be a thousand times rarer than diamonds. Its beauty and rarity made it popular fast. It became an official December birthstone in 2002, the first new one since 1912.
Zircon: A Spectrum of Brilliant Colors
Zircon is a December birthstone that is often overlooked but has a stunning range of colors. These colors include vibrant yellows, oranges, deep purples, and blues. It gets its name from the Arabic word “zarkun,” meaning “cinnabar,” or the Persian “zargun,” which means “gold-colored.” Zircon is famous for its fiery flashes of light, known as “fire.”
The Unique Properties of Zircon
Zircon is quite hard, with a Mohs hardness of 6-7.5. This makes it a good choice for jewelry. Its brilliance and luster are so striking that it was often mistaken for diamond in the past. In the Middle Ages, people believed zircon could help you sleep deeply and protect you from evil spirits.
Zircon’s Global Sources
- Sri Lanka’s Elahera region and Australia’s Harts Range are famous for their zircon. You can find it in many colors, like yellow-brown, orangy brown, pink, and purple.
- Zircon often comes from the same places as sapphire. Countries like Myanmar, Vietnam, and Cambodia have both zircon and sapphire.
| Gemstone | Mohs Hardness | Notable Sources |
|---|---|---|
| Zircon | 6-7.5 | Sri Lanka, Australia, Myanmar, Vietnam, Cambodia |
| Turquoise | 5-6 | Iran, United States, China, Mexico |
| Tanzanite | 6.5 | Tanzania |
| Blue Topaz | 8 | Texas, USA, Ural Mountains, Russia, Brazil, Sri Lanka, Nigeria, China |
“Zircon is known for its brilliance and flashes of multicolored light, called fire, which have resulted in centuries of confusion with diamond.”
december birthstone Jewelry: Styles and Designs
Tanzanite, zircon, and turquoise are the stars of December’s jewelry scene. They come in many styles, from simple solitaire pendants to elaborate pieces. Each gemstone is turned into stunning jewelry that catches the eye.
Tanzanite dazzles in elegant necklaces and drop earrings with its deep violet-blue color. Zircon’s bright blue is perfect for stud earrings and stackable rings. Turquoise, with its blue-green sparkle, looks great in station necklaces and cuff bracelets.
These December stones are set in metals like 14k gold, sterling silver, and platinum. They often have diamonds or pearls for extra luxury. Whether you want a classic look or something bold, december birthstone jewelry has it all.
| Jewelry Style | Tanzanite | Zircon | Turquoise |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pendants | Solitaire, Halo | Solitaire | Station Necklaces |
| Earrings | Drop, Stud | Stud | Studs, Hoops |
| Rings | Solitaire, Halo | Solitaire, Stacking | Cocktail Rings |
| Bracelets | Tennis, Charm | Tennis | Cuff, Station |
Looking for a special gift for a December birthday or want to add December’s charm to your jewelry? The december birthstone jewelry options are perfect for you.
Caring for Your december birthstone Gems
Cleaning and Maintaining Turquoise
Turquoise has a unique blue-green color that needs special care. It’s a soft gemstone with a Mohs hardness of 5 to 6. This makes it prone to discoloration and damage if not handled right. Many turquoise stones are treated to last longer and look better, so knowing how to clean and care for them is key.
To clean turquoise, gently brush it with a soft brush and mild soap in warm water. Stay away from harsh chemicals, steam, or ultrasonic cleaners, as they can harm the stone. Also, keep your turquoise away from skin oils, sweat, and makeup, as these can change its look over time.
Caring for Tanzanite and Zircon
Tanzanite and zircon, December’s other birthstones, also need gentle care. Tanzanite is tough with a Mohs hardness of 6 to 7, but it can crack if exposed to extreme heat or sudden temperature changes. Zircon is also stable under normal light but some treated stones might change color if exposed to bright light for a long time.
When cleaning tanzanite and zircon, use a soft brush and mild soap in warm water. Avoid ultrasonic or steam cleaners to keep their colors bright and prevent damage.
By following these easy care tips, you can keep your turquoise, tanzanite, and zircon jewelry looking great for many years.
The Mystical Meanings of December Birthstones
December’s birthstones – turquoise, tanzanite, and zircon – have deep spiritual meanings. Each gem is seen as having special powers. These powers have caught the interest of people all over the world.
Turquoise was thought to bring health and luck. It was also seen as a protector against falls and danger. This blue gemstone is important in Persian and Native American cultures. It connects to the energies of the Earth and Sky.
Zircon was said to help you sleep well and keep away evil spirits. It is one of the nine gems in the Hindu navaratna. These gems are thought to protect the wearer and bring wealth, wisdom, and health.
Tanzanite is a newer gemstone with not as many old stories. But its bright colors and rarity make it popular. Its unique colors have won the hearts of many.
“The beauty of a gemstone lies not only in its physical attributes but also in the stories and meanings it carries throughout history.”
Whether you like the calm of turquoise, the protection of zircon, or the beauty of tanzanite, December’s birthstones are full of deep meanings. They continue to amaze and inspire people.
Birthstone Jewelry: A Timeless Gift
Tanzanite, zircon, and turquoise are December’s special birthstones. They shine in many jewelry designs. You can find them in 14k gold, sterling silver, or other metals. Some pieces even have diamonds or pearls for extra beauty.
Birthstone jewelry is a thoughtful gift. It reminds the wearer of their birth month. Prices range from $38.00 to $340.00, fitting different budgets.
There’s more to birthstone jewelry than the traditional stones. Now, we also have lab-created gems like Aqua Spinel and White Sapphire. Whether you want something simple or fancy, there’s a birthstone jewelry piece for you.
| Birthstone | Price Range | Jewelry Types | Metals |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tanzanite | $100 – $340 | Pendants, Earrings, Rings | 14k Gold, Sterling Silver |
| Zircon | $60 – $200 | Stud Earrings, Bracelets, Necklaces | 14k Gold, Sterling Silver |
| Turquoise | $38 – $150 | Rings, Pendants, Station Necklaces | Sterling Silver, 14k Gold |
Birthstone jewelry is more than a gift for the month. It’s a lasting symbol of love and memory. Whether it’s for a birthday, anniversary, or just because, it’s a gift that will be remembered.
december birthstone Alternatives and Substitutes
Tanzanite, zircon, and turquoise are the official December birthstones. But, there are many other gemstones that can be used to celebrate this month. December birthstone alternatives like lapis lazuli and sodalite offer beautiful blue-green colors. Birthstone substitutes such as blue topaz and iolite also provide a range of options for those looking for something unique or more affordable.
Lapis lazuli is a popular December birthstone alternative with a deep blue color. It has been valued for centuries for its beauty and is linked with wisdom, truth, and creativity. Sodalite, with its vibrant blue-green color and unique patterns, is another great birthstone substitute.
If you prefer something icy and sparkly, alternative gemstones like blue topaz and iolite are great choices. Blue topaz is affordable and shines brightly, making it a good substitute for pricier stones. Iolite has a special violet-blue color and is known as “the Viking’s Compass” for its ability to show the sun’s direction. It’s a fascinating and meaningful birthstone substitute.
There are many December birthstone alternatives and birthstone substitutes to choose from. You can pick the traditional tanzanite, zircon, or turquoise or go for something different. Either way, you can create a special piece of December birthstone jewelry that’s all your own.
The Ethical Sourcing of december birthstone Gems
The demand for December birthstones is rising. It’s important to think about how we get these gems. We need to focus on mining in a responsible way, treat workers fairly, and protect the environment. This ensures these gems stay available and keeps them pure.
When buying jewelry, look for brands that care about ethical sourcing. They should be open about where they get their gems from. Choosing jewelry made from ethically-sourced December birthstones helps protect these gems and the people and places that make them.
| Gemstone | Mohs Hardness | Major Sources | Ethical Sourcing Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Blue Zircon | 6.5 – 7.5 | Sri Lanka, Australia | Responsible mining practices, fair labor, environmental protection |
| Tanzanite | 6 – 7 | Tanzania | Equitable distribution of economic benefits, local community support |
| Turquoise | 5 – 6 | China, United States | Sustainable resource management, Indigenous rights and traditions |
Supporting gemstone sourcing that is ethical, responsible mining, and clear gemstone supply chains lets you enjoy December birthstones. It also helps make the industry and its communities better for the future.
“Ethical and responsible sourcing of gemstones is not just a trend, but a fundamental responsibility we all share to protect our planet and its people.”
december birthstone Trends and Popularity
As the year ends, December’s birthstones like tanzanite, zircon, and turquoise are still drawing in jewelry fans. These gems have grown more popular, each with its own special charm that fits today’s style.
Tanzanite, found in 1967, is now a top choice instead of blue sapphire. It shines with deep violet-blue colors. Being 6-7 on the Mohs scale, it’s tough and fits many jewelry styles.
Zircon is the oldest December birthstone making a big comeback. It comes in many colors like blue, green, yellow, and red. Its sparkle comes from its high refractive index and strong dispersion. Blue zircon from Cambodia and Burma is especially popular.
Turquoise, the second-oldest birthstone, is gaining fans again. It has a unique blue-green look and is 5-6 on the Mohs scale. This makes it great for both old and new jewelry styles, reflecting its deep history.
People now care more about the stories and origins of their jewelry. December’s birthstones are loved for their rich histories and meanings. Designers and brands keep finding new ways to use these gems, keeping them popular among jewelry enthusiasts.
Conclusion
As we wrap up our look at December’s birthstones – tanzanite, zircon, and turquoise – it’s clear they’re special. Each gem brings its own unique colors, meanings, and stories. Tanzanite shines with deep blue-violet hues, zircon flashes brightly, and turquoise shows off its blue-green beauty.
These gems are not just pretty; they’re also useful. They’re found in tech, medicine, art, fashion, and jewelry. Their lasting beauty and the desire for meaningful jewelry keep them popular. So, December’s birthstones will always be a great choice for celebrating the year’s end.
December’s birthstones have something for everyone. You might love the rare and intense tanzanite, the rich history of zircon, or the wisdom of turquoise. No matter your choice, these gems show the amazing variety and beauty of nature. They’re a perfect way to mark the end of another year.
FAQ
What are the December birthstones?
The December birthstones are tanzanite, zircon, and turquoise.
What are the unique properties and features of each December birthstone?
Turquoise is semi-translucent to opaque, showing colors from blue to green. It often has veins of matrix. Tanzanite has deep blue to violet colors. Zircon is known for its brilliance and flashes of multicolored light, called “fire”.
Where are these December birthstones found?
Turquoise comes from Iran, the United States, and China. Tanzanite is found only in Tanzania’s Merelani Hills. Zircon is mined in Sri Lanka, Australia, and Southeast Asia.
How are December birthstones used in jewelry?
These stones are used in many jewelry styles, like solitaire pendants and stud earrings. They also appear in tanzanite halo necklaces and turquoise station necklaces. They’re set in 14k gold, sterling silver, or other metals, sometimes with diamonds or pearls.
How should December birthstones be cared for and maintained?
Clean turquoise with warm, soapy water and avoid steam or ultrasonic cleaners. For tanzanite and zircon, use a soft brush and mild soap in warm water. Never use ultrasonic or steam cleaners on them.
What are the mystical and spiritual meanings associated with December birthstones?
Turquoise was seen to bring health and fortune, and protect the wearer. Zircon was thought to induce deep sleep and ward off evil spirits. Tanzanite, being newer, doesn’t have as many mystical beliefs.
Are there any alternative or substitute gemstones for December birthdays?
Yes, besides tanzanite, zircon, and turquoise, other options include blue topaz, lapis lazuli, sodalite, and iolite.
What should consumers consider when purchasing December birthstone jewelry?
Look for jewelry from brands that focus on ethical sourcing and transparency. Support communities and ecosystems where these stones are found.