Discover the December Birthstone: Your Guide to Blue Topaz, Tanzanite, and Turquoise

December is represented by four beautiful birthstones: Blue Topaz, Tanzanite, Turquoise, and Zircon, December's birthstones. In this guide, you’ll discover the unique qualities, histories, and meanings behind each of these gems. Perfect for December birthdays, these stones offer a rich tapestry of colour and tradition. Additionally, Blue Zircon, known for its high refractive index and exceptional brightness, is another gem associated with December, adding even more brilliance to the month’s birthstones. Blue zircon is known by the mineral name zirconium silicate. Zircon comes in a wide array of attractive colors including red, orange, yellow, brown, green, and blue. In the Hindu religion, zircon alternates with hessonite garnet as one of the nine gems of the navaratna, further highlighting its cultural and spiritual significance. In the Middle Ages, zircon was believed to ward off evil spirits, adding to its historical mystique.

The finest blue zircons display vivid blue hues with strong green components, making them a captivating choice for jewellery. Blue zircon can achieve a hardness of up to 7.5 on the Mohs scale, making it a durable option for various jewellery designs. Zircon is commonly heat treated to produce blue and colorless varieties, as well as orange, yellow, and red. Colorless zircon is especially prized for its brilliance and fire, and it was historically mistaken for diamond due to its sparkling appearance. Zircon is also celebrated for its brilliance and flashes of multicolored light, known as fire, which enhances its appeal in fine jewellery. Blue zircon is particularly prized for its exceptional brilliance and fire, often resembling diamonds, making it a standout choice for those seeking a dazzling gemstone. Zircon is generally stable when exposed to chemicals but can change color from heat exposure.

Key Takeaways

• December boasts three birthstones: Blue Topaz, Tanzanite, and Turquoise, each with unique colors, properties, and histories.

• Blue Topaz is affordable and versatile, popular for its varying shades and healing properties related to communication and creativity.

• Tanzanite is rare and highly sought after due to its stunning violet-blue color and pleochroism, while Turquoise carries deep historical significance and protective qualities.

A December Birthstone: A Quartet of Beauty

December birthstones represent an exquisite celebration of nature's artistry and heartfelt variety, lovingly offering something truly special for every cherished taste and personal style. Unlike most months, December is graciously blessed with four distinct and meaningful gemstones: blue topaz, blue zircon, tanzanite, and turquoise. Each of these precious December birthstones brings its own unique and soulful charm to the world of handcrafted jewelry, making them treasured pieces sought after by devoted collectors and those with December birthdays who desire something genuinely meaningful.

Blue topaz is tenderly beloved for its clear, sky blue brilliance and heartfelt versatility, while blue zircon dazzles with its icy sparkle and exceptional fire that brings joy to the beholder. Tanzanite, with its mesmerizing violet-blue tones, stands out for its precious rarity and profound depth of color that touches the soul. Turquoise, with its iconic blue-green hues, carries a rich cultural heritage and timeless appeal that connects us to generations past. Whether you're drawn to the cool elegance of blue zircon, the vibrant energy of blue topaz, the rare beauty of tanzanite, or the earthy charm of turquoise, December's exquisite birthstones offer a stunning array of meaningful choices for creating cherished and beautiful jewelry pieces. From meticulously crafted rings and earrings to heartfelt pendants and bracelets, these precious gemstones ensure that anyone born in December can discover a birthstone that perfectly reflects their unique personality and brings lasting happiness to their personal style.

A December Birthstone: A Trio of Beauty

December is graced with a trio of stunning birthstones: Blue Topaz, Tanzanite, and Turquoise. Each of these stones brings its own unique charm and history, making December birthstone jewellery a delightful and meaningful gift. The allure of these gemstones lies in their vibrant colors and distinct properties, each telling a story of its own. The each birthstone of December adds an extra layer of significance to any piece of jewellery.

While Blue Topaz dazzles with its sky-blue hues, Tanzanite captivates with its rare violet-blue shades. Turquoise, on the other hand, has been cherished for its protective qualities and intense blue-green color since ancient times. Together, these stones offer a fascinating glimpse into the world of gemstones, each one a testament to nature’s incredible artistry. Due to its softness, Tanzanite is best set in earrings or pendants to minimize the risk of damage. Tanzanite may not be ideal for rings that are frequently worn, as daily wear can increase the risk of scratching or chipping.

Blue Topaz: The Sky Blue Gemstone

Blue Topaz is a favorite for December birthdays, celebrated for its stunning blue hues that range from pale sky blue to deep London blue. The blue topaz variety known as Swiss Blue features bright and vivid tones. Blue Topaz ranges in color from dark inky blues to cooler light blue shades, offering a spectrum of options for various preferences. This gemstone's popularity is not just about its beauty but also its affordability and widespread availability.

The different types of Blue Topaz, London Blue, Swiss Blue, and Sky Blue, each offer a unique shade, making it a versatile choice for various styles of jewellery. London Blue Topaz is the darkest and most saturated variety available, adding a dramatic and elegant touch to any jewellery piece. Generally speaking, blue zircon is more expensive than blue topaz, adding to the allure of zircon as a premium option. Blue topaz jewelry is widely available from both brick-and-mortar stores and reputable online retailers. Zircon tends to abrade, so it is best to avoid wearing it in rough conditions such as while gardening or playing sports.

Historically, Blue Topaz has been appreciated for over two thousand years, with ancient civilisations like the Egyptians and Greeks creating mesmerizing pieces from this gemstone. Composed primarily of aluminum and fluorine, Blue Topaz's unique properties continue to make it a sought-after gemstone in the world of jewellery. This silicate mineral is chemically composed of aluminum and fluorine, contributing to its stunning clarity and vibrant hues. Blue Topaz ranks 8 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it harder than sapphire and highly resistant to scratches.

Blue Zircon: The Sparkling Ice Gem

Among the treasured blue stones that grace December with their presence, blue zircon has blossomed into a beloved gem, cherished for its mesmerizing brilliance and the ethereal beauty of its icy blue allure. This exquisite December birthstone has captured hearts with its dazzling, almost diamond-like radiance, making it a precious choice for those seeking a gemstone that truly resonates with their soul. Blue zircon's vibrant color palette, which gracefully ranges from delicate sky blue reminiscent of Mediterranean waters to deeper, more profound shades, is lovingly achieved through meticulous heat treatment—a time-honored process that enhances its inherent beauty and brings forth its signature luminous glow.

What makes blue zircon truly extraordinary is its remarkable optical properties, a testament to nature's artistry. Its exceptional refractive index bestows upon it a captivating sparkle that often rivals the brilliance of more renowned gems, creating moments of pure wonder. This makes blue zircon a treasured choice for handcrafted earrings, elegant pendants, and statement rings, where its spirited fire can be fully celebrated and appreciated. Whether thoughtfully paired alongside blue topaz or tanzanite, or showcased as a stunning centerpiece, blue zircon infuses each jewelry collection with sophistication and timeless elegance. Its unique harmony of color and brilliance ensures that blue zircon remains a cherished standout among December's birthstones, perfect for those who desire their jewelry to radiate joy and capture light with every graceful movement.

Tanzanite: The Rare Violet-Blue Gemstone

Tanzanite, discovered in 1967, has quickly risen in popularity due to its striking beauty and rarity. Named by Tiffany & Co. after its country of origin, Tanzania, this gemstone’s violet hues have captivated many. Tiffany & Co. became the main distributor of tanzanite, helping to establish its global reputation. Unlike diamonds, Tanzanite is considered more valuable due to its limited supply and the prediction that its deposits could be depleted within two decades.

It is considered 1,000 times rarer than diamonds, making it a truly unique and precious addition to any collection. It was officially added to the birthstone list in 2002, further cementing its status as a cherished gemstone. Additionally, Tanzanite is also the gem for the 24th wedding anniversary, making it a meaningful choice for celebrating enduring love. Tanzanite has rapidly gained popularity and is considered a rival to sapphire, thanks to its vibrant hues and exclusivity.

This gemstone’s unique color variations and pleochroism, displaying different colors depending on the angle, add to its allure. The deeper and richer the color of Tanzanite, the more sought after it is, while paler shades are generally less expensive. Tanzanite rings and other jewellery pieces are prized for their vibrant colors, often enhanced through specific heat treatments to bring out the best of its violet-blue hues. Some believe tanzanite's unique color was revealed after a lightning strike naturally heated the mineral zoisite in the earth.

Turquoise: The Ancient Protector

Turquoise, one of the oldest gemstones known to humanity, has been mined and cherished for thousands of years. The word 'turquoise' is derived from the French term 'pierre tourques,' meaning 'Turkish stone.' The value of Turquoise is driven by color saturation and evenness, with bright blue stones being the most valuable. High-quality turquoise is most valued for its bright blue color that lacks spots or streaks.

Its distinctive blue-green hues and waxy luster, which may appear semi-translucent in thin sections, have made it a symbol of good fortune and protection across various cultures, much like sapphire and aquamarine. Treasured as an ornamental stone for millennia, Turquoise holds a special place in the history of jewelry and cultural artifacts, such as the Copper Turquoise Necklace. Turquoise is an opaque blue-green mineral composed of hydrated copper phosphate and aluminum, which contributes to its unique appearance and texture.

Additionally, Turquoise has been cherished for millennia across various cultures, including by ancient Egyptian pharaohs. Traditionally considered the December birthstone, Turquoise is attributed with the power to bring peace, further enhancing its significance. Turquoise is softer than many other gemstones, registering 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale, which necessitates careful handling to preserve its beauty.

This ancient diamond gemstone is reminiscent of a timeless favorite, adding a touch of historical elegance to any piece of pearl jewellery.

Blue Topaz: December's Versatile Gem

Blue Topaz is celebrated not only for its breathtaking beauty but also for its versatility and affordability. This gemstone is available in numerous shapes and sizes, making it a popular choice among jewelers and jewellery enthusiasts alike. Blue Topaz is a silicate mineral composed of aluminum and fluorine with a glass-like luster. Most commercially available Blue Topaz is produced by irradiating naturally colorless topaz, a process that enhances its vibrant blue color.

Similarly, natural blue zircon occurs extremely rarely and is often heat-treated to achieve its striking blue color, adding to its allure as a December birthstone. Blue zircon possesses a high refractive index, making well-cut specimens exceptionally bright and visually stunning. Blue zircon is generally more expensive than blue topaz due to its rarity and brilliance, making it a premium choice for those seeking a unique and luxurious gemstone. Zircon is not to be confused with cubic zirconia, which is a synthetic diamond simulant, as the two are entirely different in origin and properties.

Whether set in rings, earrings, or pendants, Blue Topaz adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to any piece of December birthstone jewellery.

Origins and Sources of Blue Topaz

Blue Topaz has a rich history that dates back to ancient times. This valuable gemstone has been mentioned in historical texts and was used in jewellery by civilizations such as the Egyptians and Greeks. Geologically, Blue Topaz is formed deep within the earth, where unique geological conditions in volcanic rocks give rise to its stunning colors. It is primarily found in Brazil, Nigeria, and Pakistan. Its chemical formula, Al2SiO4(F,OH)4, contributes to its stunning clarity and vibrant hues. The mining process is intricate and often done by hand to ensure the stones retain their clarity and quality.

Today, Blue Topaz is mined in various countries, including:

• Pakistan

• Afghanistan

• Japan

• Mexico

• The USA

These mines are renowned for producing high-quality gemstones that are sought after worldwide.

Modern advancements in extraction and processing techniques have significantly increased its availability in significant quantities, making products such as the Radiant Ruby Ring a staple in the ruby gemstone market.

Symbolism and Healing Properties

Blue Topaz is more than just a pretty gem; it is imbued with deep symbolism and healing properties, including:

• Association with the throat chakra, enhancing communication and self-expression

• Helping those who seek to improve their public speaking skills or creative expression

• Being known as the ‘writer's stone,' which helps improve focus and encourages creativity

• Benefiting writers and artists alike

Additionally, Blue Topaz is believed to cleanse negative energy and enhance communication, further solidifying its reputation as a stone of clarity and expression.

• Association with the throat chakra, enhancing communication and self-expression

• Helping those who seek to improve their public speaking skills or creative expression

• Being known as the ‘writer's stone,' which helps improve focus and encourages creativity

• Benefiting writers and artists alike

In many cultures, Blue Topaz symbolizes wisdom, emotional honesty, and prosperity. Its healing properties are diverse, helping to relieve stress, ease migraines, soothe sore throats, and alleviate body aches. For those who practice feng shui, Blue Topaz is used to promote harmony, balance, and positive energy within environments. Similarly, Turquoise is believed to cleanse negative energy and enhance communication, further solidifying its reputation as a stone of protection and clarity. For those interested in learning more about crystals for trust, there are several stones known to promote emotional healing and honest communication.

The gemstone also fosters relaxation and tranquility, making it useful in meditation and stress relief. Blue Topaz promotes inner peace and calmness by eliminating emotional blockages and anger, enhancing overall well-being. Its spiritual benefits are vast, making it a cherished stone for both its aesthetic and metaphysical properties.

Durability and Care Tips

Blue Topaz is a durable gemstone, ranking 8 on the Mohs hardness scale, which makes it resistant to scratches from most everyday objects. However, despite its hardness, Blue Topaz can be somewhat fragile and should be handled with care to prevent chipping or breaking. Zircon, another December birthstone, ranges from 6 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale, making it slightly less hard but still suitable for jewellery when treated with care. All zircons are very brittle, making them vulnerable to chipping and breaking from impacts.

To maintain its rich color and clarity, it’s best to clean Blue Topaz with a mild soap-water solution and a soft cloth. Avoid exposing Blue Topaz to extreme temperatures, as this can cause fractures or alter its color. Tanzanite is particularly sensitive to high temperatures, which can cause it to crack or become damaged, so it should never be exposed to sudden or intense heat. Turquoise, on the other hand, is softer for jewelry purposes, ranking 5-6 on the Mohs scale, and requires extra care to prevent scratches and damage.

Turquoise jewelry should be cleaned with warm, soapy water and should never be subjected to ultrasonic cleaners or steam cleaning. Additionally, prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can cause turquoise to fade or change color over time, so it is advisable to store it in a cool, shaded place when not in use. Zircon can be cleaned using a soft brush and mild soap in warm water, but ultrasonic and steam cleaners are not recommended.

It’s also advisable to store Blue Topaz jewellery separately from harder gemstones like diamonds and sapphires to prevent scratches. These care tips will help keep your Blue Topaz jewellery looking as beautiful and vibrant as the day you first wore it.

Blue Zircon: December’s Dazzling Secret

While blue zircon may not command the widespread recognition of certain other December birthstones, this exquisite gem holds a truly distinctive place within the world of precious stones, cherished for its extraordinary brilliance and captivating heritage. Unlike cubic zirconia—a synthetic creation often employed as a diamond alternative—blue zircon represents authentic natural beauty, known within gemological circles as zirconium silicate. Its unique tetragonal crystal formation and remarkable refractive properties bestow upon blue zircon a mesmerizing, almost electric luminescence that sets this remarkable stone apart from other blue treasures of the earth.

Blue zircon's spectacular dance of light, meticulously crafted by nature through what connoisseurs call dispersion, creates breathtaking flashes of rainbow brilliance that are genuinely enchanting. This magnificent quality makes it a beloved choice among discerning gem enthusiasts and master jewelry artisans who deeply appreciate its ability to capture the eye and infuse any creation with an touch of refined glamour. As a genuine gemstone steeped in natural heritage, blue zircon offers an unparalleled level of authenticity and inherent beauty that synthetic alternatives like cubic zirconia simply cannot replicate. For those seeking a December birthstone that harmoniously blends rarity, rich history, and show-stopping radiance, blue zircon remains an exquisite treasure waiting to be discovered and cherished.

History and Origins of Blue Zircon

The enchanting journey of blue zircon unfolds like a treasured tale that has captivated hearts and minds across thousands of years, weaving its way through diverse continents and vibrant cultures with remarkable grace. Within the sacred traditions of ancient Hindu heritage, this magnificent gemstone found its place among the revered navaratna—the nine precious gems—where it was cherished and celebrated for its extraordinary ability to bestow profound wisdom, abundant prosperity, and boundless good fortune upon those blessed to wear it. This deep-rooted reverence for zircon has gracefully transcended through countless generations, blossoming beautifully during the Victorian era when blue zircon experienced a renaissance of popularity, finding itself lovingly paired with other precious companions like sparkling diamonds, rich rubies, and majestic sapphires in the most intricate and breathtaking estate pieces that told stories of their own.

In our contemporary world, the mesmerizing blue zircon continues its remarkable journey, being carefully extracted in significant quantities from the earth's treasures in enchanting regions such as Sri Lanka, Australia, and Cambodia. Each of these distinctive locations nurtures and produces blue zircon with its own unique personality and captivating hue, adding layers of depth to the gemstone's natural allure and passionate collectability among connoisseurs. Whether it finds its home nestled within the elegant embrace of antique jewelry or graces the innovative designs of modern artisans, blue zircon's profound history and diverse global origins transform it into an absolutely extraordinary and cherished addition to any collection of precious gems, carrying with it the whispered stories of ancient civilizations and the promise of timeless beauty.

Symbolism and Modern Appeal

Blue zircon represents far more than exquisite beauty—it embodies a treasured legacy of wisdom, confidence, and prosperity that has been lovingly passed down through generations of artisans and cherished by families worldwide. Born from the earth's ancient embrace and nurtured by time itself, this magnificent December birthstone carries within its vibrant azure depths the very essence of the Mediterranean's mesmerizing hues, much like the inspirational waters that have guided countless craftspeople in their pursuit of creating something truly meaningful. Each handcrafted piece featuring blue zircon becomes a personal journey, meticulously designed to capture those precious moments of joy and celebration, whether adorning elegant necklaces that grace special occasions, delicate earrings that whisper stories of love, or pendants that hold close to the heart the memories we treasure most.

For those seeking to create lasting connections through the gift of exceptional craftsmanship, blue zircon offers an authentic pathway to express the deepest emotions—whether celebrating a unique engagement that marks the beginning of a shared journey, honoring a memorable birthday milestone with family and friends, or embracing a personal talisman that reflects one's individual story and aspirations. This remarkable gemstone's rich heritage and contemporary appeal continue to flourish within our evolving collection, ensuring that each piece infused with blue zircon's radiant spirit becomes a cherished heirloom that brings smiles to faces and warmth to hearts. Through its storied past rooted in ancient traditions and its dazzling presence in modern settings, blue zircon remains a testament to the enduring power of authentic beauty and meaningful connections that inspire and enchant jewelry lovers across communities and generations worldwide.

Tanzanite: From Mount Kilimanjaro to Your Jewelry Box

Tanzanite's journey from the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro to your jewellery box is nothing short of extraordinary. Discovered in 1967 in the Merelani Hills of Tanzania, this gemstone's vibrant violet-blue hues have made it one of the most sought-after gemstones in the world. Warm, soapy water is the best way to clean tanzanite jewelry, ensuring its brilliance and longevity.

Its rarity and the unique conditions required for its formation make Tanzanite a prized addition to any December birthstone jewellery collection.

Discovery and Single Source

The discovery of Tanzanite is a fascinating tale. In 1967, a Maasai tribesman stumbled upon vibrant blue crystals in the Merelani Hills near Mount Kilimanjaro. Initially mistaken for sapphires, these stones were later identified as a variant of the mineral Zoisite by the Gemological Institute of America. This gemstone, named Tanzanite by Tiffany & Co., is exclusively sourced from a limited area in Tanzania, making it incredibly rare and valuable.

Prospector Manuel D'Souza played a crucial role in bringing Tanzanite to the world's attention. Upon hearing of the discovery, he filed multiple mining claims, believing the stones were blue sapphires. Today, Tanzanite is about 1000 times rarer than diamonds, with experts predicting that the current deposits could be exhausted within a decade or two.

Tanzanite's geological formation dates back approximately 585 million years, attributed to significant tectonic activity and heat during the mid-Ediacaran Period. Tanzanite ranges from 6 to 7 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it softer than diamonds and sapphires. This gemstone's rich blue-violet color and unique pleochroism, displaying different hues from various angles, add to its allure. The finest Tanzanite stones may even resemble sapphires, showcasing predominantly blue colors from certain angles, which enhances their desirability among collectors and jewelry enthusiasts.

Pleochroism and Color Variations

One of the most captivating features of Tanzanite is its pleochroism, allowing it to display different colors when viewed from different angles. This gemstone can show vibrant blue, violet, and purple hues, creating a visually dynamic effect that is highly prized in the gemstone world. In its natural state, Tanzanite exhibits brown, blue, and violet hues simultaneously, but heating it enhances the blue-purple tones by eliminating the yellow hue.

The heating process also transforms Tanzanite from trichroic to dichroic, resulting in a more vivid and desirable color. This unique coloration, primarily due to trace amounts of Vanadium in its crystal structure, makes Tanzanite a standout choice for jewellery.

Choosing Quality Tanzanite Jewelry

Selecting high-quality Tanzanite jewellery involves considering several critical factors. Color saturation is paramount; the most valuable Tanzanite pieces exhibit a deep, velvety blue with flashes of violet, typically rated as AAA. The cut quality is also essential, as precision faceting enhances the gemstone's brilliance and color display by optimizing its pleochroism.

When purchasing Tanzanite, consider the following:

• Inquire about the gemstone's grading.

• Ask whether it has been heat-treated to enhance its color.

• For added durability, choose jewellery with a bezel setting, which protects the Tanzanite from damage.

Given Tanzanite's rarity, it is about 1000 times rarer than diamonds, ensuring you buy from a reputable source is crucial to obtaining a genuine and high-quality piece.

Turquoise: The Timeless Gemstone

Turquoise, with its distinctive blue-green hues, has been prized for thousands of years. This ancient gemstone is celebrated not only for its beauty but also for its deep historical and cultural significance. Over time, Turquoise can change color due to its porous nature, absorbing oils and cosmetics that may darken or tint it, adding to its unique character and history.

From ancient Egyptians to Native American tribes, cultures have believed in the protective powers of the Evil Eye Turquoise has been used in jewellery and as a protective talisman, symbolizing good fortune and spiritual insight.

Historical Significance Across Cultures

Turquoise's history spans over five millennia, making it one of the oldest gemstones known to man. Ancient Egyptians carved Turquoise into protective amulets and used it in intricate jewellery pieces as early as 3000 BCE. The gemstone, referred to as ‘mefkat' by the Egyptians, symbolized joy and delight. Evidence of Turquoise mining in the Sinai dates back to around 5000 B.C., highlighting its long-standing value.

In Persian culture, Turquoise was highly prized and often used in crowns and religious architecture, symbolizing victory and protection. Native American tribes, such as the Navajo and Apache, also held Turquoise in high regard, using it in rituals and as a symbol of health and protection. Many cultures believed turquoise offered protection; the Apache thought it could enhance aim when attached to weapons. The Aztecs and Mayans considered Turquoise more valuable than gold, incorporating it into ceremonial and royal artifacts.

Turquoise's significance transcends various cultures, each attributing unique meanings and uses to this gem. Among the Navajo, it is believed to connect the wearer to the spirit world, offering protection and health benefits. The stone's color evolves with wear, becoming darker and greener, which adds to its unique characteristics and value.

Healing Properties and Symbolism

Turquoise is revered for its healing properties and symbolic meanings across different cultures. Often seen as a protective talisman, Turquoise is believed to:

• Promote health and well-being by warding off ailments

• Be associated with the throat chakra, supporting healing for ailments related to the throat, ears, and respiratory system

• Ease respiratory problems

• Enhance immune functionality

• Reduce inflammation

In addition to its physical benefits, Turquoise promotes emotional healing by encouraging self-acceptance and alleviating stress. It symbolizes prosperity, love, and good fortune, making it a cherished stone for those seeking balance and positivity in their lives. The stone's anti-inflammatory and detoxifying properties further contribute to its reputation as a powerful healing gem.

Caring for Turquoise Jewelry

Proper care is essential to maintain the beauty and longevity of Turquoise jewellery. Due to its lower hardness level, Turquoise is vulnerable to scratches and surface damage, necessitating careful handling. To care for Turquoise jewellery: * Use mild soap and water to clean it. * Always dry it with a soft cloth. * Avoid exposing it to harsh chemicals, cosmetics, oils, and acids, as these can cause discoloration and damage. Turquoise jewelry should never be subjected to ultrasonic cleaners or steam cleaning, as these methods can harm its delicate structure. Turquoise jewelry is widely available in various retail stores, making it accessible for those who wish to own this timeless gemstone.

• Use mild soap and water to clean it.

• Always dry it with a soft cloth.

• Avoid exposing it to harsh chemicals, cosmetics, oils, and acids, as these can cause discoloration and damage.

To prevent damage to Turquoise jewellery:

• Store it in a soft pouch or a jewellery box.

• Keep it away from other gemstones that could scratch its surface.

• Remove the jewellery before washing hands, exercising, showering, or swimming to protect it from moisture and potential damage.

These care tips will help maintain the beauty and longevity of your Turquoise jewellery.

Where to Buy December Birthstone Jewelry

Finding the perfect piece of birthstone jewellery requires choosing a reputable retailer. Quality jewellery featuring Blue Topaz, Tanzanite, and Turquoise can often be found through specialized retailers and online platforms. If you are looking for other birthstone jewellery, such as the February Birthstone: Amethyst Gemstone, ensure you also purchase from trusted sources to guarantee the authenticity and quality of the gemstones. Ensuring you buy from trusted sources helps guarantee the authenticity and quality of the gemstones, making your purchase a meaningful and valuable investment.

Online Retailers and Stores

Several online platforms offer a wide range of December birthstone jewellery, including options for both Tanzanite and Turquoise. Reputable retailers like Blue Nile and Angara provide extensive collections, often with free delivery on orders above a specified amount, enhancing the overall shopping experience. Popular jewellery brands such as Pandora and Nomination also feature collections specifically for each birthstone of December, making it easier for customers to find the perfect piece.

In addition to online platforms, many physical stores specialize in gemstones and offer a variety of December birthstone jewellery. These stores often categorize their products by birthstones, allowing customers to easily browse and select items that suit their preferences. Some retailers also offer custom jewellery designs, enabling customers to create unique pieces that incorporate birthstones. Blue zircon jewelry can be difficult to find in physical jewelry stores but is available online, and those interested in September birthstone: sapphire gemstones can also find these conveniently online, providing a convenient option for those seeking this brilliant gemstone.

Custom Designs and Unique Pieces

Many jewellers offer bespoke services, allowing customers to create custom jewellery featuring specific a December birthstone for a more personalized touch. These personalized options let you choose the type of metal and setting for your December birthstone, resulting in a meaningful piece that reflects your individual style.

Custom jewellery designers can also craft unique pieces that incorporate one or multiple December birthstone, providing a one-of-a-kind design that holds personal significance. Whether you're looking to celebrate a special occasion or simply want a unique expression of your style, custom-designed jewellery featuring any birthstone of December offers endless possibilities for creativity and personalization.

Summary

In summary, any December birthstone whether Blue Topaz, Tanzanite, and Turquoise, each offer a unique blend of beauty, history, and symbolism. Blue Topaz dazzles with its versatile sky-blue hues and significant healing properties, making it a beloved choice for jewellery. Tanzanite's rare and captivating violet-blue hues, along with its pleochroism, make it a prized and valuable gemstone. Turquoise, with its rich historical significance and protective qualities, remains a timeless gem cherished across cultures.

Whether you're looking to add to your jewellery collection or find the perfect gift, any December birthstone provides a wealth of options. Their vibrant colors, unique properties, and rich histories make them more than just beautiful adornments, they are pieces of art that carry deep meaning and cultural significance. Embrace the beauty and legacy of any December birthstone, and let them bring a touch of elegance and history into your life.

Frequently Asked Questions About December Birthstones

What are the traditional and modern birthstones for December?

December has four main birthstones: the traditional turquoise and the modern additions of blue topaz, tanzanite, and blue zircon. Turquoise has been cherished for millennia, while tanzanite was discovered only in 1967. Blue topaz and blue zircon are also popular modern choices, each offering unique colors and properties.

What makes tanzanite unique among December birthstones?

Tanzanite is notable for its rare violet-blue hues and its pleochroism, meaning it displays different colors when viewed from different angles. It is also exclusively mined in the Merelani Hills near Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania, making it exceptionally rare and prized.

How should I care for turquoise jewelry?

Turquoise is relatively soft, with a Mohs hardness of 5 to 6, so it requires gentle care. Clean turquoise jewelry with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth. Avoid exposure to acids, chemicals, cosmetics, and prolonged sunlight, which can cause discoloration or fading. Never use ultrasonic or steam cleaners on turquoise.

Is blue topaz suitable for everyday wear?

Yes, blue topaz ranks 8 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it quite durable for daily wear. However, it can be brittle due to perfect cleavage, so care should be taken to avoid hard impacts. Clean blue topaz with mild soap and water, and avoid harsh chemicals and extreme temperature changes.

How can I tell if my turquoise is real?

Real turquoise has a specific gravity between 2.6 and 2.9 and a hardness of 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale. It should not feel like plastic or dissolve in acetone. Professional gemological testing is the most reliable way to confirm authenticity.

Why is blue zircon often confused with cubic zirconia?

Although their names are similar, blue zircon is a natural gemstone composed of zirconium silicate, known for its brilliance and fire. Cubic zirconia is a synthetic diamond simulant made of zirconium oxide and has a different crystal structure and properties.

What are the best jewelry settings for tanzanite?

Due to its relative softness (Mohs hardness 6-7), tanzanite is best set in protective settings such as bezel or halo styles, especially for rings and bracelets. Earrings and pendants are ideal for showcasing tanzanite while minimizing the risk of damage.

Where can I buy quality December birthstone jewelry?

Quality December birthstone jewelry can be found at reputable jewelers both online and in-store. Trusted retailers include Blue Nile, James Allen, and Angara. Custom jewelry designers also offer personalized pieces featuring December birthstones.

Can turquoise change color over time?

Yes, turquoise is porous and can absorb oils, cosmetics, and other substances, leading to a darkening or greenish tint over time. Proper care and storage can help preserve its original color.

What is the significance of the nine gems in relation to zircon?

In Hindu tradition, zircon is one of the nine gems (navaratna) believed to bring wisdom, prosperity, and protection to the wearer. Zircon alternates with hessonite garnet in this revered group of gemstones.

How rare is tanzanite compared to diamonds?

Tanzanite is approximately 1,000 times rarer than diamonds as it is mined from a very limited area in Tanzania. This rarity contributes to its high value and desirability among collectors and jewelry enthusiasts.