Key TakeawaysDecember Birthstone Meaning & HistoryTurquoise: The Ancient December Birthstone
Tanzanite: The Rare and Mesmerizing Gemstone
Zircon: The Brilliant and Underrated Gemstone
Which of the Three Gemstones is Right for You?
Where to Buy Authentic December Birthstone Jewelry
How to Take Care of Your December Birthstone
Conclusion
FAQs About December Birthstones
Imagine wearing a gemstone that not only dazzles with its beauty but also holds deep personal significance—one that connects to your birth month, carries centuries of history, and symbolizes wisdom, protection, and transformation. If you were born in December, you’re in for a treat because December's birthstones are among the most stunning and meaningful of all.
December is unique because it has three birthstones, unlike most months that have just one. Each one has its own unique charm, from the calming blue-green hues of Turquoise to the mesmerizing violet-blue of Tanzanite and the brilliant sparkle of Zircon. Whether you’re searching for a birthstone for yourself or looking for the perfect gift, understanding these gems will help you choose the one that resonates with you the most.
In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know to choose the birthstone that feels just right for you.
Key Takeaways
Diverse Choices: December offers three birthstones—Turquoise, Tanzanite, and Zircon—each with unique beauty and significance, providing a rich selection of colored stones for personal expression.
Historical Significance: Turquoise is one of the oldest gemstones, cherished by ancient civilizations for its protective and spiritual properties.
Rarity and Beauty: Tanzanite, discovered only in Tanzania, is prized for its rare, color-changing properties and deep blue-violet hues, making it one of the most sought-after colored stones.
Brilliance and Clarity: Blue Zircon is renowned for its exceptional sparkle and is often associated with wisdom, confidence, and success.
Care and Maintenance: Each gemstone requires specific care to maintain its beauty, from avoiding chemicals and harsh light to proper cleaning methods.
December Birthstone Meaning & History
Birthstones have been part of human tradition for centuries, with different cultures choosing special gemstones for each month. The idea is believed to have started with the twelve stones on the breastplate of the High Priest, each representing a different tribe of Israel. Over time, people began associating certain gemstones with birth months, believing they could bring luck, protection, and positive energy.
Birthstone lists have changed over the years, with some gems being added based on their beauty and availability. According to the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), today’s birthstone charts blend history and modern preferences, offering a variety of meaningful options.
If you were born in December, you have three gorgeous birthstones to choose from—Turquoise, Tanzanite, and Zircon. Originally, Turquoise was the only December birthstone, prized by ancient cultures like the Egyptians, Persians, and Native Americans for its stunning blue-green color and spiritual meaning. Later, Tanzanite and Zircon were added, giving you even more options to express your personal style and connection to your birthstone.
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Each of these gems has its own rich history, unique beauty, and special meaning, making them a powerful and personal choice for anyone born in December.
Turquoise: The Ancient December Birthstone
Turquoise is one of the oldest gemstones in history, known for its breathtaking blue-green shades and rich cultural significance. It has been cherished for thousands of years and is often associated with protection, wisdom, and good fortune.
What Makes Turquoise Special?
Turquoise stands out due to its unmistakable color, which ranges from robin's egg blue to greenish-blue. Many pieces also feature beautiful veins or matrix patterns, giving each stone a one-of-a-kind appearance. Unlike faceted gemstones, Turquoise is usually cut into smooth cabochons or beads to highlight its natural beauty.
A Stone with a Long History
Ancient civilizations deeply valued Turquoise. The Egyptians adorned their pharaohs and burial masks with it, believing it had protective powers. Native American tribes also considered it a sacred stone, using it in ceremonies, jewelry, and even in weapons to bring luck and strength. In Persia, warriors wore Turquoise amulets to protect themselves in battle, and it was also used to decorate royal palaces.
Symbolism and Meaning
Throughout history, Turquoise has been a symbol of peace, protection, and good fortune. Many people believe that it has the power to bring balance and shield its wearer from negative energy. Some even claim that Turquoise can change color to warn against illness or danger. Whether you believe in these legends or not, there's no denying the deep cultural significance of this stunning gemstone.
How to Take Care of Turquoise
Turquoise is a relatively soft gemstone, ranking 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale. Because of this, it requires extra care to keep it looking beautiful. It’s sensitive to chemicals, perfumes, and direct sunlight, which can fade its color over time. To clean it, use a soft cloth and lukewarm water, and always store it separately from harder gemstones to avoid scratches.
Tanzanite: The Rare and Mesmerizing Gemstone
Tanzanite is a relatively new discovery, found in 1967 near Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. Most tanzanites begin as brownish zoisite before being heat-treated to achieve their desirable blue to violet hues. Despite its short history, it has quickly become one of the most sought-after gemstones due to its breathtaking blue-violet hue and unique properties.
The Unique Beauty of Tanzanite
One of the most striking features of Tanzanite is its pleochroism, meaning it can display different colors depending on the angle you view it from. Under different lighting, you might see shades of deep blue, pure rich blue, violet, or bluish purple. This makes Tanzanite an incredibly dynamic and mesmerizing gemstone.
A Rare Discovery
The story of Tanzanite’s discovery as the tanzanite birthstone is as fascinating as the gem itself. Maasai herders in Tanzania first found the stone, mistaking it for sapphire. Soon after, geologists identified it as a new variety of the mineral zoisite. Because Tanzanite is found only in one location on Earth, it is considered rarer than diamonds, making it highly valuable.
Meaning and Symbolism
Tanzanite is often linked to transformation, intuition, and spiritual enlightenment. Many believe it helps bring clarity and calmness, making it an ideal gemstone for those experiencing major life changes. It is also said to encourage emotional healing, making it a popular choice for people seeking peace and balance.
How to Care for Tanzanite
Tanzanite is softer than many gemstones, ranking 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale. Because of this, it can be scratched easily, so it’s best to store it separately from harder stones like diamonds or sapphires. When cleaning Tanzanite, use warm soapy water and a soft brush, but avoid ultrasonic cleaners, as they can damage the stone.
Zircon: The Brilliant and Underrated Gemstone
Zircon is often misunderstood due to its name’s similarity to cubic zirconia, but it is a completely natural gemstone with incredible brilliance. Colorless zircon is an attractive and more affordable alternative to diamonds. It comes in a variety of colors, but blue Zircon is the most commonly associated with December.
Why Zircon Stands Out
Zircon is one of the most brilliant gemstones in the world, with a sparkle that rivals diamonds. It has exceptional fire and brilliance, which means it reflects light beautifully, making it an eye-catching choice for jewelry. While it comes in many colors, blue Zircon is the most popular for December birthstones, offering a dazzling alternative to other blue stones like tanzanite, turquoise, and zircon.
A Gemstone with Deep History
Zircon has been used in jewelry for centuries. In the Middle Ages, it was believed to ward off evil spirits and promote wisdom. Unlike synthetic cubic zirconia, which is lab-created, Zircon is a naturally occurring mineral that has been treasured for its beauty and durability for thousands of years.
Symbolic Meaning of Zircon
Zircon is associated with prosperity, wisdom, and confidence. Many believe wearing Zircon enhances mental clarity and helps bring success in both personal and professional life. It is also thought to bring peace and happiness, making it a meaningful gemstone for those looking for balance and positivity.
How to Maintain Zircon’s Sparkle
Zircon ranks 6 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale, making it more durable than Turquoise but still requiring care. Store it separately from harder gemstones to prevent scratches. To clean Zircon, use mild soapy water and a soft brush to keep it looking brilliant for years to come.
Which of the Three Gemstones is Right for You?
Choosing a December birthstone isn’t just about picking a beautiful gem—it’s about finding one that fits your personality, style, and energy. December is unique because it offers three different birthstones, each with its own distinct look, meaning, and charm.
Here’s a breakdown to help you decide which one is the best match for you.
Turquoise – The Ancient Protector
If you love gemstones with a rich history and a calming, natural color, Turquoise is an excellent choice.
Timeless Beauty – Known for its striking blue-green shades, Turquoise has been treasured for thousands of years.
Symbolic Meaning – Believed to bring protection, wisdom, and good luck to those who wear it.
Perfect for Your Style – Ideal for those who love earthy, bohemian, or vintage-inspired jewelry.
Tanzanite – The Rare and Elegant Gem
For those who are drawn to exclusivity and sophistication, Tanzanite is the ultimate pick.
One-of-a-Kind – Found only in Tanzania, this gem is rarer than diamonds.
Color-Changing Magic – Shifts between deep blue and violet, depending on the light.
Spiritual Connection – Linked to transformation, intuition, and emotional clarity, making it perfect for those who seek personal growth.
Elegant Jewelry Choice – Oval tanzanite, especially when paired with a diamond halo in rings, showcases vibrant colors and is a significant birthstone for December.
Blue Zircon – The Brilliant Sparkler
If you love classic beauty and eye-catching brilliance, blue Zircon is the perfect choice.
Incredible Sparkle – Often mistaken for diamonds due to its high brilliance and fire, with a rich blue color that enhances its visual appeal.
Symbol of Success – Associated with wisdom, confidence, and prosperity.
Great for Everyday Wear – A durable gemstone that shines beautifully in rings, earrings, and pendants.
Making Your Decision
Still unsure? Here’s a quick way to decide:
Love history and natural beauty? Go for Turquoise.
Want a rare, color-shifting gemstone? Tanzanite is your best bet.
Prefer something brilliant and timeless? Blue Zircon is for you.
No matter which one you choose, your December birthstone should feel personal and meaningful. Whether you’re buying it for yourself or as a gift, each of these gemstones holds beauty, history, and symbolism—so you really can’t go wrong.
Where to Buy Authentic December Birthstone Jewelry
Finding a genuine December birthstone starts with choosing a trusted source. With imitations on the market, authenticity is key to getting a valuable, high-quality gem. Another beautiful option for December birthstones is london blue topaz, known for its deep, rich blue color and associations with elegance, calmness, and clarity.
At Deluxe Gemstone Shop, we offer certified, ethically sourced December birthstones, perfect for custom jewelry. Whether you love the sparkle of Blue Zircon, the timeless beauty of Turquoise, or the rarity of Tanzanite, you’ll find the perfect match for your style.
Beware of deals that seem too good to be true, especially for rare stones like Tanzanite. Always check for certification before purchasing. Explore our collection today and find a gemstone that adds meaning and elegance to your jewelry.
How to Take Care of Your December Birthstone
No matter which December birthstone you choose, proper care is important to keep it looking beautiful. Each stone has different needs, but here’s how you can keep them in great condition:
Turquoise is soft and can fade or get damaged easily. Keep it away from perfume, lotions, and sunlight. Clean it with a dry, soft cloth—avoid water and chemicals.
Tanzanite is delicate and can get scratched easily. Store it separately from harder stones like diamonds. Clean it with warm, soapy water and a soft brush, but avoid steam or ultrasonic cleaners.
Zircon is more durable but still needs care. Keep it away from harsh chemicals and clean it with mild soap and water to maintain its sparkle.
Taking good care of your birthstone ensures it stays as beautiful and meaningful as the day you got it. Whether it’s a ring, necklace, or bracelet, your December birthstone will always be a special piece in your collection.
Conclusion
Choosing a birthstone is more than just a matter of preference—it can also be a reflection of your unique energy and astrological profile. At Deluxe Astrology, our innovative gemstone suggestion tool helps you find the December birthstone that aligns perfectly with your birth chart.
Use our birth chart calculator to find the December birthstone that aligns with your astrological profile. Enter your birth details, and the tool will suggest the perfect gem—whether it's the wisdom of Blue Zircon, the protection of Turquoise, the transformation of Tanzanite, or the versatility of Blue Topaz. Your ideal gemstone awaits.
FAQs About December Birthstones
What is the real birthstone for December?
December has three official birthstones: Turquoise, Tanzanite, and Blue Zircon, each offering unique beauty and symbolism.
Why does December have three birthstones?
December's three birthstones provide diverse options, catering to different tastes and making it easier to find a gem that resonates personally.
What is the official color of December's birthstones?
The official colors are rich blue, sky blue, and violet hues, seen in Turquoise, Tanzanite, and Blue Zircon respectively.
Which December birthstone is considered the most valuable?
Tanzanite is often considered the most valuable due to its rarity and the unique color-changing properties.
How should I care for my December birthstone jewelry?
Each stone requires specific care: avoid chemicals and sunlight for Turquoise, use warm soapy water for Tanzanite, and mild soap for Zircon to maintain their beauty.
