The Ultimate December Birthstone Guide: Discover Blue Topaz, Tanzanite, Turquoise, and More

Introduction to December Birthstones: Overview of December Birthstones

December birthstones are a captivating group of precious gems that include blue topaz, blue zircon, tanzanite, and turquoise. These gemstones are celebrated for their unique blue hues and distinct properties, making them popular choices for December birthstone jewellery. Each stone carries its own symbolism and charm, providing a rich variety of options for those born in December or anyone seeking meaningful gifts. Additionally, while aquamarine and citrine are birthstones for other months like April and November, December's birthstones uniquely offer a stunning range of blue tones that evoke the calm and beauty of the earth and sky.

Among these, blue topaz stands out as a modern and versatile gem, available in several beautiful shades of blue. Alongside blue topaz, the three December birthstones—blue topaz, blue zircon, and tanzanite—are often paired with the traditional turquoise to create stunning jewelry pieces. Turquoise itself symbolizes prosperity, love, and good fortune, adding a layer of meaningful tradition to December’s birthstone collection. These stones, unlike some other birthstones such as ruby or pearl, bring a refreshing coolness and spiritual depth to December birthstone jewellery.

From the delicate robin's egg blue of turquoise to the deep, inky hues of london blue topaz, December birthstones offer something for every taste and style. Whether incorporated into earrings, rings, necklaces, or bracelets, these blue stones are a timeless way to celebrate December birthdays.

Types of December Birthstones

Blue Topaz: Popular and Affordable

The spectrum of December birthstones is rich and diverse. Blue topaz is perhaps the most popular, prized for its wide range of blue hues that include sky blue, swiss blue topaz, and london blue topaz. These stones are not only beautiful but also affordable, making blue topaz a favorite for daily wear. Blue topaz, a silicate mineral composed of aluminum and fluorine, is often irradiated and heat treated to produce its vibrant colors, ensuring a durable gem suitable for everyday jewelry.

Blue Zircon: Brilliance and Tradition

Blue zircon is another dazzling December birthstone, renowned for its brilliance and fire. This gemstone boasts a broad color palette, from blue and green to yellow, red, orange, brown, and beyond. Historically, zircon was believed in the Middle Ages to lull one into deep sleep and ward off evil spirits. In Hindu tradition, zircon alternates with hessonite garnet as one of the nine gems (navaratna), thought to protect the wearer and bring wealth, wisdom, and good health. Natural blue zircons are rare, with most blue stones on the market being heat treated to enhance their color. Colorless zircon is especially notable for its brilliance and multicolored flashes of light, often mistaken for diamond. Because zircon tends to abrade, it is best to avoid wearing it in rough conditions such as gardening or playing sports.

Tanzanite: Rare and Unique

Tanzanite is a rare and precious December birthstone found exclusively in the Merelani Hills of Tanzania. Discovered only in 1967, tanzanite is valued for its unique violet-blue hues and pleochroism, which causes the stone to display different colors when viewed from various angles. This gemstone is highly sought after for its rarity and striking beauty. As a mineral zoisite, tanzanite offers a unique alternative to traditional precious gems like sapphire or ruby.

Turquoise: The Traditional December Birthstone

Turquoise, the traditional December birthstone, is cherished for its intense blue-green color and rich cultural history. Often used in turquoise jewelry, this stone has been treasured for thousands of years across many cultures. Its robin's egg blue shade is particularly prized, and turquoise is commonly set in silver or gold, frequently paired with other December birthstones like blue topaz and blue zircon.

Together, these four December birthstones provide a wide array of choices for anyone looking to celebrate December birthdays with meaningful and beautiful gemstones.

Blue Topaz Varieties: Sky Blue Topaz, London Blue Topaz, and Swiss Blue Topaz

Sky Blue Topaz: Soft and Versatile

Within the blue topaz family, several varieties stand out for their distinct shades and appeal. Sky blue topaz is known for its pale, delicate blue color, making it a versatile option for many types of jewelry. It offers a soft, calming sky blue hue that complements both casual and formal wear.

London Blue Topaz: Deep and Sophisticated

London blue topaz, by contrast, is recognized for its deep, rich blue color. This variety is the most valuable among blue topaz types, prized for its inky medium blue shade that adds a touch of sophistication to any jewelry piece. London blue topaz is also the darkest variety of blue topaz, often seen in high-end rings, pendants, and earrings.

Swiss Blue Topaz: Vibrant and Bright

Swiss blue topaz is a vibrant and bright blue variety, celebrated for its intense color and brilliance. It strikes a balance between the lightness of sky blue topaz and the depth of london blue topaz, making it a favorite for those who want a vivid yet elegant blue stone.

Durability and Treatment of Blue Topaz

Most blue topaz stones on the market are heat treated to enhance their color, resulting in a stunning range of blue hues from pale to deep. On the Mohs scale of hardness, blue topaz ranks an impressive 8, making it more durable than sapphire and suitable for daily wear jewelry.

Turquoise Jewelry: Traditional December Birthstone Jewelry

Cultural Significance of Turquoise

Turquoise holds a special place in the world of December birthstones due to its intense blue-green color and long-standing cultural significance. This traditional December birthstone is often fashioned into turquoise jewelry, frequently set in silver or gold and sometimes combined with other blue stones like blue topaz and blue zircon.

Historical and Symbolic Importance

Historically, turquoise has been treasured as an ornamental stone for thousands of years across many cultures. For example, in Tibet, turquoise is considered a national treasure believed to grant health, good fortune, and protection from evil. The most valuable turquoise stones are bright blue with no spots or streaks, often described as robin's egg blue, which enhances their desirability.

Physical Characteristics and Care

Turquoise is a semi-translucent to opaque gem that ranges from blue to green and often has veins of matrix running through it. Its robin's egg blue shade is particularly prized, and turquoise is commonly set in silver or gold, frequently paired with other December birthstones like blue topaz and blue zircon.

Popularity in Jewelry Styles

This gemstone is especially popular in southwestern-style jewelry, where its distinctive blue-green color and matrix patterns are showcased. Turquoise remains a meaningful and popular choice for December birthstone jewellery, offering both beauty and symbolism.

Care and Cleaning of December Birthstones: Maintaining Blue Topaz, Blue Zircon, Tanzanite, and Turquoise

Caring for Blue Topaz

Proper care is essential to maintain the beauty and longevity of December birthstones, each of which has specific requirements. Blue topaz is a durable gemstone that rates 8 on the Mohs scale, but it still benefits from careful cleaning and storage. To preserve its brilliance, blue topaz should be cleaned with mild soap and soapy water, avoiding harsh chemicals and prolonged exposure to high temperatures. Steam cleaners and ultrasonic cleaners are not recommended as they could potentially damage the stone.

Caring for Blue Zircon

Blue zircon, which ranges from 6 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale, is relatively durable but prone to abrasion. It should be cleaned gently with a soft brush and mild soap in warm water. Heat-treated zircon stones may lose their enhanced color if exposed to bright light for prolonged periods, so it’s best to avoid such exposure. Like blue topaz, zircon should not be cleaned with steam or ultrasonic cleaners. Because zircon tends to abrade, it is best to avoid wearing it in rough conditions such as gardening or playing sports. Zircon's hardness makes it suitable for many types of jewelry, though care should be taken to avoid rough conditions such as gardening or playing sports.

Caring for Tanzanite

Tanzanite, with a hardness of 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale, is softer and more delicate. It requires careful handling and should only be cleaned using mild, soapy water. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners are not suitable for tanzanite, as they can cause damage. Tanzanite is often heat treated to enhance its violet-blue hues, and this treatment is considered permanent. Due to its relative softness, tanzanite is best suited for earrings and pendants rather than rings or bracelets subjected to daily wear. Its ranking on the Mohs scale places it softer than diamonds but harder than some opals, making it a unique choice for jewelry.

Caring for Turquoise

Turquoise is the softest among these December birthstones, rating 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale. It requires particularly gentle care, being sensitive to acids, chemicals, and oils. Cleaning turquoise with mild soap and soapy water is recommended, while steam and ultrasonic cleaners should be avoided. Its porous nature means it can discolor over time, so protective settings and mindful wear are essential. Additionally, turquoise can be damaged by acids and discolored by certain chemicals, cosmetics, and skin oils or perspiration. Turquoise jewelry should never be cleaned with steam or ultrasonic cleaners to prevent damage.

By following these care guidelines, you can ensure that your December birthstone jewellery remains vibrant and beautiful for years to come.

Sources of December Birthstones: Where Blue Topaz, Blue Zircon, Tanzanite, and Turquoise Are Mined

Blue Topaz Origins

The origins of December birthstones are as diverse as their colors and characteristics. Blue topaz is mined in several locations worldwide, including Brazil and Sri Lanka. Most commercially available blue topaz is created by irradiating naturally colorless topaz, enhancing its vivid blue hues. This silicate mineral consists of aluminum and fluorine and is abundant enough to provide beautiful stones at affordable prices.

Blue Zircon Sources

Blue zircon is sourced from countries such as Sri Lanka and Australia. While natural blue zircon is rare, these regions produce many gem-quality zircons in various colors, including blue, green, and yellow. Fine blue zircon gemstones are typically rarer than diamonds, though they may be perceived as less valuable due to confusion with cubic zirconia.

Tanzanite's Exclusive Source

Tanzanite is uniquely sourced from the Merelani Hills of Tanzania, the only known commercial source of this rare and precious gemstone. This exclusivity adds to tanzanite’s allure and value, making it rarer than many other precious gems, including diamonds.

Turquoise Mining Regions

Turquoise is mined in several parts of the world, including the United States, Iran, and China. The robin’s egg blue variety of turquoise is especially prized, often linked to specific mining regions known for producing high-quality stones. Turquoise mining has a rich history, with the mineral being extracted and valued for thousands of years.

Importance of Knowing Sources

Understanding the sources of December birthstones can help buyers appreciate their rarity, value, and the unique qualities that each gemstone brings to jewelry.

Buying December Birthstone Jewellery: Tips for Choosing Quality December Birthstone Jewellery

Certification and Authenticity

When purchasing December birthstone jewellery, it is important to consider several factors to ensure quality and authenticity. First, always look for gemstones certified by reputable organizations such as the Gemological Institute of America (GIA). Certification guarantees that the stone’s quality, treatment, and origin have been verified.

Durability and Style Considerations

Consider the durability and care requirements of the gemstone you choose. For example, while blue topaz is suitable for daily wear due to its hardness, turquoise requires more delicate handling. The style and design of the jewellery should also match the wearer’s lifestyle and preferences, whether that means sleek modern pieces or traditional vintage designs.

Where to Buy December Birthstone Jewellery

Many online retailers, including James Allen and Blue Nile, offer a wide range of December birthstone jewellery. These platforms provide detailed images and information, making it easier to find the perfect piece that fits your budget and style. Blue topaz jewelry is offered by many reputable online retailers, ensuring accessibility and variety for buyers.

Choosing the Right Piece

Whether you are buying a ring, pendant, bracelet, or earrings, focusing on the quality of the stone and the craftsmanship of the setting will ensure your December birthstone jewellery remains cherished for years.

Astrological Connections of December's Birthstones

Blue Topaz and the Throat Chakra

December’s birthstones are not only beautiful but also rich in astrological symbolism, each linked to specific chakras and believed to promote various positive qualities. Blue topaz is associated with the throat chakra and is often called the "clarity stone." It is believed to encourage open communication, clear thought, and stress reduction. Wearing blue topaz near the neck, such as in a pendant or ring, is said to support throat health and promote positive action.

Blue Zircon and the Crown Chakra

Blue zircon corresponds to the crown chakra and is thought to enhance meditation, mental organization, and spiritual insight. Its brilliance and fire symbolize clarity and enlightenment.

Tanzanite and the Third Eye Chakra

Tanzanite is linked to the third eye chakra and represents spiritual growth, emotional vitality, and intuitive wisdom. Its violet-blue hues make it a meaningful gemstone for those seeking deeper spiritual connections and insight.

Turquoise and the Heart Chakra

Turquoise is connected to the heart chakra and is believed to offer protection, calmness, and good fortune. In European tradition, gifting a turquoise ring carries the message "forget me not," symbolizing enduring love and remembrance.

Spiritual Significance of December Birthstones

These astrological connections enrich the significance of December birthstones, making them not only beautiful adornments but also meaningful talismans.

Cutting and Setting of December Birthstones: Enhancing Blue Topaz, Blue Zircon, Tanzanite, and Turquoise

Cutting Styles for Blue Topaz

The cutting and setting of December birthstones are crucial in enhancing their natural beauty and unique qualities. Blue topaz is commonly cut into shapes such as round, oval, and emerald cuts, which highlight its stunning blue hues and clarity. This versatility allows it to be used in a wide range of jewelry designs.

Cutting Styles for Blue Zircon

Blue zircon is often fashioned into round, oval, and cushion cuts to maximize its brilliance and fire, bringing out the gemstone’s characteristic sparkle and vibrancy.

Cutting Styles for Tanzanite

Tanzanite is typically cut into oval, cushion, and emerald shapes to showcase its distinctive violet-blue color and pleochroism. These cuts enhance the stone’s depth and color shifts, making each piece uniquely captivating.

Cutting Styles for Turquoise

Turquoise is usually cut into round, oval, and freeform shapes that emphasize its blue-green color and matrix patterns. Because turquoise is softer than the other December birthstones, it is often set in protective settings that shield the stone from damage while highlighting its natural beauty.

Importance of Cutting and Setting

From simple to intricate designs, the cutting and setting of these gemstones play a vital role in creating exquisite December birthstone jewellery that can be treasured for a lifetime.

In conclusion, December birthstones offer a rich palette of colors, histories, and meanings. Whether you prefer the versatile and durable blue topaz, the brilliant fire of blue zircon, the rare violet hues of tanzanite, or the traditional robin's egg blue of turquoise, there is a perfect December birthstone to suit every style and occasion. With proper care and thoughtful selection, December birthstone jewellery can be a lasting symbol of good fortune, love, and beauty.

Frequently Asked Questions About December Birthstones

What Are the Official December Birthstones?

The official December birthstones include blue topaz, tanzanite, turquoise, and blue zircon. Each gemstone offers unique colors and characteristics, making December birthstone jewellery diverse and appealing. Blue topaz is known for its sky blue, swiss blue, and london blue topaz varieties, while tanzanite is prized for its rare violet hues and pleochroism. Turquoise is the traditional birthstone with a rich cultural history, and blue zircon is celebrated for its brilliance and fire.

Why Is Tanzanite Considered a Rare December Birthstone?

Tanzanite is considered rare because it is mined exclusively in the Merelani Hills near Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. Discovered only in 1967, this mineral zoisite variety displays unique violet and blue hues that change with the viewing angle. Its limited supply and striking beauty make tanzanite a prized and valuable December birthstone.

How Do I Care for My December Birthstone Jewelry?

Care varies depending on the gemstone. Blue topaz, ranking 8 on the Mohs scale, is durable but should be cleaned with mild soap and soapy water, avoiding steam and ultrasonic cleaners. Tanzanite, softer at 6 to 7, requires gentle cleaning with mild soap and should not be exposed to high temperatures. Turquoise is the softest and most porous, sensitive to acids and oils, needing careful cleaning with mild soap and avoiding harsh chemicals. Blue zircon should be cleaned gently and protected from abrasion.

Can December Birthstones Be Worn Every Day?

Blue topaz and blue zircon are suitable for daily wear due to their hardness and durability. Tanzanite and turquoise are softer and more delicate, making them better suited for occasional wear or jewelry like earrings and pendants rather than rings or bracelets worn daily.

What Is the Meaning Behind Turquoise as a December Birthstone?

Turquoise symbolizes prosperity, love, and good fortune. It has been treasured for thousands of years and is considered a protective stone that wards off evil spirits. In Tibetan culture, turquoise is a national treasure believed to grant health and good fortune. Gifting turquoise jewelry often carries the message "forget me not," symbolizing enduring love and remembrance.

How Do Blue Topaz Varieties Differ?

Blue topaz comes in several varieties, including sky blue topaz, swiss blue topaz, and london blue topaz. Sky blue topaz offers a soft, pale blue hue, swiss blue topaz is vibrant and bright, while london blue topaz is the darkest and most valuable variety with a deep, inky blue color. All varieties are heat treated to enhance their color and are popular choices for december birthstone jewellery.

Where Are December Birthstones Mined?

Blue topaz is mined in locations such as Brazil and Sri Lanka, often irradiated to produce its vivid blue color. Tanzanite is exclusively mined in the Merelani Hills of Tanzania near Mount Kilimanjaro. Turquoise mining occurs in the United States, Iran, and China, with prized robin's egg blue stones coming from specific regions. Blue zircon is sourced from Sri Lanka and Australia, with most blue stones heat treated to enhance color.

What Astrological Benefits Are Associated with December Birthstones?

Blue topaz is linked to the throat chakra, promoting clear communication and stress relief. Blue zircon corresponds to the crown chakra, enhancing spiritual insight and mental clarity. Tanzanite connects with the third eye chakra, symbolizing spiritual growth and intuition. Turquoise is associated with the heart chakra, offering protection, calmness, and good fortune.

How Does the Pleochroism of Tanzanite Affect Its Appearance?

Tanzanite’s pleochroism means it displays different colors—typically blue, violet, and sometimes purple or red—depending on the viewing angle. This unique characteristic adds depth and dynamic beauty to tanzanite jewelry, making each piece uniquely captivating.

Are December Birthstones Suitable for Engagement Rings?

While blue topaz and blue zircon are durable enough for engagement rings, tanzanite and turquoise are softer stones that require protective settings and careful wear. Tanzanite’s rarity and striking violet hues make it a special choice for unique engagement rings, but it is best set in designs that minimize daily wear damage. Turquoise is less commonly used for engagement rings due to its softness.

How Can I Ensure the Authenticity of My December Birthstone Jewelry?

To ensure authenticity, purchase December birthstone jewellery from reputable retailers who provide certification from recognized gemological institutes such as GIA. Certification verifies the gemstone’s quality, origin, and any treatments like heat treatment. Always request detailed information about the stone’s characteristics and care instructions.

What Are the Popular Cuts for December Birthstones?

Popular cuts for blue topaz and blue zircon include round, oval, and cushion cuts, which highlight their brilliance and color. Tanzanite is often cut into oval, cushion, and emerald shapes to showcase its pleochroism and violet hues. Turquoise is typically cut into round, oval, or freeform shapes, often set in protective bezel settings due to its softness.

Can December Birthstones Fade or Change Color Over Time?

Turquoise, being porous, can change color over time due to exposure to oils, cosmetics, and sunlight, sometimes developing a greenish tint. Blue topaz, blue zircon, and tanzanite are generally stable in color, especially when heat treated. However, prolonged exposure to bright light or high temperatures can affect some stones, so proper care is essential.

What Is the Significance of the Nine Gems (Navaratna) in Relation to Zircon?

In Hindu tradition, zircon is one of the nine gems, or navaratna, believed to bring protection, wealth, wisdom, and good health to the wearer. Zircon alternates with hessonite garnet in this sacred set, highlighting its cultural and spiritual importance as a December birthstone.

How Does Heat Treatment Affect December Birthstones?

Heat treatment is commonly used to enhance the color of blue topaz, tanzanite, and blue zircon. This process is considered permanent and improves the stones’ appeal without compromising durability. It is important to buy stones with disclosed treatments to understand their care requirements fully.

Where Can I Buy Quality December Birthstone Jewellery?

Quality December birthstone jewellery is available from reputable online retailers such as James Allen, Blue Nile, and Angara. These platforms offer certified gemstones, a variety of jewelry styles, and detailed product information to help buyers make informed decisions. Local jewelers with certification are also reliable sources.

Are There Any Famous Pieces Featuring December Birthstones?

Yes, turquoise adorned the funerary mask of King Tutankhamun, highlighting its ancient significance. Tiffany & Co. popularized tanzanite shortly after its discovery, naming it after Tanzania and promoting it as a unique gemstone. London blue topaz is named after the largest blue topaz specimen displayed in London’s Natural History Museum.