Discover the Radiant Birthstone of December: Your Guide to Blue Topaz, Tanzanite, and Turquoise
December is represented by three beautiful birthstones: Blue Topaz, Tanzanite, and Turquoise, the birthstone of December. 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. 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.
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 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.
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. 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. Generally speaking, blue zircon is more expensive than blue topaz, adding to the allure of zircon as a premium option.
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.
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. 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. 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.
Turquoise: The Ancient Protector
Turquoise, one of the oldest gemstones known to humanity, has been mined and cherished for thousands of years. The value of Turquoise is driven by color saturation and evenness, with bright blue stones being the most valuable. 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.
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. 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.
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 in volcanic rocks and 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
Modern advancements in extraction and processing techniques have significantly increased its availability in significant quantities, making it 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.
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.
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. 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.
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.
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.
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 soaps, which adds 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. 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.
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 December 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.
Is Turquoise the birthstone of December?
There are three primary stone of the December birthstone are Blue Topaz, Tanzanite, and Turquoise, each offering stunning colors and unique traits. Choosing any of these gems will surely add a special touch to December celebrations!
How should I care for my Blue Topaz jewellery?
To keep your Blue Topaz jewellery looking its best, clean it with mild soap and water, store it away from harder gemstones, and avoid extreme temperatures. This simple care routine will help maintain its beauty!
What makes Tanzanite different from other gemstones?
Tanzanite, another December birthstone, stands out because of its captivating pleochroism, showing different colors depending on the angle you view it from, and it’s found only in the Merelani Hills of Tanzania. This combination makes it truly special among gemstones!
What are the healing properties of Turquoise?
Turquoise is known for its healing properties, including promoting overall health, easing respiratory issues, and boosting the immune system. Plus, it’s thought to offer protection while traveling.
Where can I buy genuine December birthstone jewellery?
You can buy genuine December birthstone jewellery from trusted online retailers like Blue Nile and Angara, or explore custom jewellery designers for personalized options.
How should I care for my Blue Topaz jewellery?
To keep your Blue Topaz jewellery looking its best, clean it with mild soap and water, store it away from harder gemstones, and avoid extreme temperatures. This simple care routine will help maintain its beauty!
What makes Tanzanite different from other gemstones?
Tanzanite, another December birthstone, stands out because of its captivating pleochroism, showing different colors depending on the angle you view it from, and it’s found only in the Merelani Hills of Tanzania. This combination makes it truly special among gemstones!
What are the healing properties of Turquoise?
Turquoise is known for its healing properties, including promoting overall health, easing respiratory issues, and boosting the immune system. Plus, it’s thought to offer protection while traveling.
Where can I buy genuine December birthstone jewellery?
You can buy genuine December birthstone jewellery from trusted online retailers like Blue Nile and Angara, or explore custom jewellery designers for personalized options.
What makes Tanzanite different from other gemstones?
Tanzanite, another December birthstone, stands out because of its captivating pleochroism, showing different colors depending on the angle you view it from, and it’s found only in the Merelani Hills of Tanzania. This combination makes it truly special among gemstones!
What are the healing properties of Turquoise?
Turquoise is known for its healing properties, including promoting overall health, easing respiratory issues, and boosting the immune system. Plus, it’s thought to offer protection while traveling.
Where can I buy genuine December birthstone jewellery?
You can buy genuine December birthstone jewellery from trusted online retailers like Blue Nile and Angara, or explore custom jewellery designers for personalized options.
What are the healing properties of Turquoise?
Turquoise is known for its healing properties, including promoting overall health, easing respiratory issues, and boosting the immune system. Plus, it’s thought to offer protection while traveling.
Where can I buy genuine December birthstone jewellery?
You can buy genuine December birthstone jewellery from trusted online retailers like Blue Nile and Angara, or explore custom jewellery designers for personalized options.
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