December Birthstones: Unique Qualities of Tanzanite, Turquoise & Zircon

Uzair Salman
Uzair Salman
Last Updated    EST 
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With its rusty cold breeze and Christmas, December has much more to offer than other months. It is bestowed with multiple birthstones, all of which are exotic hues of blue, ranging from deep shades of Tanzanite to the more greenish color of Turquoise and Zircon.

Some also add Topaz to the list of December birthstones. However, based on consensus, we have listed the main three in this article.

Since ancient times, turquoise, a blue-green gemstone, has been used in jewelry for its association with luck, safety, and equilibrium. Recently, the bright blue or violet gemstone tanzanite was discovered in Tanzania. It is prized for its rich color and is thought to encourage spiritual development and change.

The gemstone zircon is available in several hues, such as blue, yellow, and brown. December birthdays are frequently linked to blue zircon, which is believed to improve physical and spiritual well-being.

Blue Topaz Hexagon Ring [Watch in HD].

Relatedly, explore birthstones by month.

December brings a cool, festive atmosphere and a trio of blue-toned birthstones: Tanzanite, Turquoise, and Zircon. Each stone embodies unique qualities and history:

  • Tanzanite: Recently discovered in Tanzania, this vibrant blue-violet gem symbolizes transformation, spiritual growth, and protection.
  • Turquoise: With roots in ancient cultures, this blue-green stone symbolizes luck, protection, and balance.
  • Zircon: Known for its brilliant blue hue, Zircon is linked to clarity, prosperity, and emotional calm.

These gemstones are believed to enhance well-being, personal growth, and resilience, making them treasured choices for December birthdays.

Watch and explore December birthstones at Blue Nile.

Tanzanite

Tanzanite carries tremendous historical value due to its recent discovery and distinct geographic provenance. Its significance in history is also associated with its scarcity; the gemstone is relatively uncommon and only discovered in a limited mining region in northern Tanzania. Its rarity enhances its value and appeal.

Tanzanite Stud Earrings [Watch in HD].

Tanzanite is often regarded as a stone of transformation and spiritual growth. It is believed to aid in inner exploration, leading to a deeper understanding of oneself and facilitating personal evolution. Its stunning blue-violet color represents the journey of transformation and the expansion of consciousness.

This December birthstone is associated with the throat chakra, which governs communication and self-expression. It can augment clarity of thought, facilitate effective communication, and promote honesty and authenticity in expressing one's thoughts and emotions.

Tanzanite's energy is also thought to enable individuals to connect with higher realms of consciousness, access spiritual wisdom, and develop their intuitive gifts. It also supposedly amplifies psychic abilities and intuition, opens channels of insight, and improves spiritual perception.

Moreover, the birthstone is believed to offer protection and spiritual guidance. It creates a shield of energy that repels negative influences and strengthens the aura. Tanzanite's energy also supports you during spiritual practices, meditation, and astral travel, ensuring a safe and guided experience.

Relatedly, explore all natural gemstones.

Turquoise

Turquoise holds a unique and significant historical place, spanning various cultures and times. The history of this December birthstone is extensive and goes back thousands of years.

Turquise Earrings

Turquoise Huggie Hoop Earrings [Watch in HD].

Ancient cultures, such as the Egyptians, Persians, Native Americans, and Aztecs, valued turquoise immensely. They revered the stone as sacred due to its alleged ability to represent spiritual connection, wisdom, and protection.

Throughout history, turquoise has been revered as a talisman of protection. It was said to protect the wearer from harm, ward off evil spirits, and bestow luck upon them. Ancient warriors and riders frequently used turquoise amulets and charms for their safety.

Turquoise is culturally essential for many indigenous groups, particularly in Native American culture. It has been linked with spiritual and metaphysical properties and is widely used by people to boost intuition, promote communication, and aid in spiritual attunement. The stone is also alleged to align the chakras and facilitate spiritual growth and self-realization.

Zircon

Blue zircon is widely liked for its mesmerizing color and association with ancient civilizations. In Hindu mythology, zircon was considered a sacred stone, representing the planet Saturn, and considered the ideal source for wisdom, clarity, and spiritual growth.

Zircon Necklace

Zircon Diamond Cluster Necklace [Watch in HD].

In ancient times, people used this stone to attract wealth and success to its wearer. They opined that the vibrant blue color of zircon symbolized the sky and water, representing the life-giving forces that brought nourishment and prosperity.

This birthstone is also known to have a calming effect on emotions and a positive impact on mental well-being. Its soothing energy can help alleviate stress and anxiety and promote emotional balance.

Furthermore, blue zircon has been regarded as a stone of communication and harmonious relationships because of its unique capacity to ensure eloquence and clarity in expression and promote understanding. Therefore, if you feel hesitant while communicating with an audience, this stone can help you feel more confident.

December Birthstones Origin

Tanzanite

The name "tanzanite" comes from its country of origin, Tanzania. A renowned jewelry company named the gemstone shortly after its discovery in the late 1960s, highlighting its connection to the location where it was found. 

Tanzanite, hence the name, was first discovered in Tanzania in the late 1960s in the Merelani Hills near Arusha. The gemstone gained popularity due to its unique and captivating vibrant blue and violet hues.

Turquoise

It has been proposed that the word "turquoise" came from the French phrase "pierre turquoise," which means "Turkish stone." The name recalls the earliest notion that the stone originated in Turkey. 

Historically, turquoise is linked to numerous places, including Persia (modern-day Iran) and Egypt; its vivid blue color made it a highly sought-after commodity there.

Zircon

Zircon is found in many locations worldwide, including Sri Lanka, Myanmar (Burma), Cambodia, and Australia. "Zircon" is derived from the Persian word "zargun," meaning "gold-colored." This name refers to the wide range of colors that zircon can exhibit, including blue, although the stone can come in various colors.

Taking Care of December’s Birthstones

Avoid using household cleaners, cosmetics, or fragrances near your birthstone jewelry since they may harm or discolor it. Moreover, we advise you to take off your birthstone jewelry before indulging in activities requiring harsh chemicals.

Birthstones can vary in hardness, but it is always a good idea to try to safeguard them from scratches and impacts.

Please store each birthstone jewelry separately in a soft cloth bag or jewelry box to prevent it from contacting harder gemstones or materials.

To keep your birthstone jewelry sparkling, give it a gentle clean from time to time. Use a delicate brush or soft cloth and warm, soapy water for turquoise. Tanzanite and zircon can be cleaned using warm, soapy water and a soft brush. We recommend not using cleaning agents or ultrasonic cleaners, especially for more delicate or porous birthstones.