December Birthstones: The Cool Brilliance of Turquoise, Tanzanite, and Zircon
December is a month of icy blues and winter wonder, and its birthstones, turquoise, tanzanite, and zircon, capture this seasonal beauty perfectly.
These gems, each unique in colour and history, offer a dazzling variety for those born in the final month of the year. Whether you’re drawn to the ancient charm of turquoise, the deep violet-blue hues of tanzanite, or the brilliance of zircon, December’s birthstones have something for everyone.
The Ancient Allure of Turquoise
Turquoise is one of the world’s oldest known gemstones, treasured for thousands of years by cultures across the globe.
The name "turquoise" comes from the French pierre turquoise, meaning "Turkish stone," as the gem was historically traded through Turkey on its way to Europe.
Ancient Egyptians adorned themselves with turquoise jewellery, believing it had protective and healing properties. The stone was also sacred to Native American tribes, who used it in amulets and ceremonial objects, considering it a bridge between earth and sky. In Persian (modern-day Iranian) culture, turquoise symbolised prosperity and was often set into palace domes to reflect the heavens.
The Symbolism of Turquoise
Turquoise is widely regarded as a stone of protection, wisdom, and good fortune. Many believe it enhances communication, bringing clarity and truth to those who wear it.
The calming blue-green hues of turquoise are also associated with serenity, making it a popular choice for those seeking inner peace.
Beyond its spiritual meanings, turquoise remains a beloved gemstone in jewellery, often set in silver to highlight its striking colour.
The Exotic Beauty of Tanzanite
Tanzanite is a relatively recent discovery, found only in Tanzania in the late 1960s. This stunning gemstone, a variety of the mineral zoisite, quickly gained popularity for its captivating blue-violet colour, which shifts in different lighting conditions.
Tiffany & Co. played a significant role in introducing tanzanite to the world, naming it after its country of origin and marketing it as an exciting alternative to sapphire.
Due to its limited geographic source, tanzanite is considered rarer than diamonds, making it a prized gem for collectors and jewellery enthusiasts alike.
The Symbolism of Tanzanite
Tanzanite is often associated with transformation, intuition, and spiritual enlightenment. Some believe it enhances clarity of thought and helps its wearer connect with higher consciousness.
Its deep, shifting hues are said to represent adaptability and the ability to navigate life’s changes with grace.
As a jewellery stone, tanzanite is prized for its brilliance and depth of colour.
The Fiery Sparkle of Zircon
Zircon is often mistaken for synthetic cubic zirconia, but it is a natural gemstone with a rich history dating back to ancient times. In fact it's the oldest mineral on the planet, dating back as far as 4.4 billion years!
Zircon comes in a wide range of colours, from golden brown and red to bright blue and colourless. The blue variety is the most commonly associated with December.
The Symbolism of Zircon
Zircon is said to promote clarity, self-confidence, and grounding energy. Its brilliant fire and sparkle make it a popular choice for those seeking an affordable yet dazzling alternative to diamonds.
In the Middle Ages, zircon was believed to bring wisdom, honour, and restful sleep to its wearer. Some cultures also associated it with protection from evil spirits and misfortune.
Why These Stones for December?
December’s birthstones share a common theme of cool, wintry tones that reflect the crisp, clear skies of the season. Whether it’s the ancient, earthy beauty of turquoise, the deep, velvety hues of tanzanite, or the radiant brilliance of zircon, these gemstones offer a perfect balance of tradition, rarity, and sparkle.
Embracing December’s Birthstones
With three stunning birthstones to choose from, December babies have a wealth of options when it comes to selecting a meaningful gemstone. Whether drawn to turquoise’s rich history, tanzanite’s modern elegance, or zircon’s fiery brilliance, each of these gems carries a unique charm that makes it a treasured part of December’s birthstone collection.