December is a month filled with celebration, warmth, and a sense of festivity, making it a special time for those born under this month. The birthstones for December—turquoise, tanzanite, and zircon—each carry unique properties, meanings, and histories. For December, the presence of three distinct birthstones allows individuals to choose one that resonates most with them, whether in terms of color, personal significance, or aesthetic appeal.
Turquoise Protected Gemstones
Turquoise is one of the oldest gemstones known to man, with a history dating back thousands of years. Ancient Egyptians, Persians and Native Americans revered the beauty of turquoise and believed it had protective properties. Turquoise was often used to make amulets and jewelry to ward off negative energies and bring good luck. Turquoise ranges in color from light sky blue to dark blue-green, and often bears vein or matrix patterns formed by the presence of copper and iron.
Turquoise is commonly used in all types of jewelry, including necklaces, bracelets, earrings and rings. Its vibrant color makes it a popular choice for bohemian and southwestern styles, often combined with silver or gold settings. Turquoise is also more commonly used in OBY's collections, elevate your style with the striking natural beauty of our Turquoise Hexagon Signet Ring. This captivating accessory seamlessly blends the vibrant, mesmerizing hues of the precious gemstone turquoise with the refined, geometric elegance of a classic signet ring design, creating a truly unique and enchanting piece of jewelry.
Tanzanite: The Rare Beauty
History and Meaning
Discovered in Tanzania in the 1960s, tanzanite is a relative newcomer to birthstones.
Tanzanite exhibits a unique trichroism, meaning it can display different colors depending on the angle of light. It typically ranges from a deep blue to blue-violet, with some stones showing hints of burgundy.
Tanzanite is commonly used in fine jewelry such as rings, pendants and earrings. Its captivating color makes it suitable for both modern and classic designs. Due to its rarity, Tanzanite is often considered a luxury gemstone that appeals to those who seek exclusivity and sophistication, and OBY is in the process of developing and designing Tanzanite related jewelry.
Zircon: The Versatile Gem
Zircon is one of the oldest minerals on Earth, with a history that spans billions of years. It has been used as a gemstone for centuries and is often confused with cubic zirconia, a synthetic stone. Zircon is associated with wisdom, honor, and wealth, making it a meaningful choice for December birthdays.
Zircon comes in a variety of colors and is inexpensive, making it a popular choice for those looking for something unique and vibrant. At OBY, zircon is less commonly used and we usually use high quality moissanite, but we also recommend this necklace, the Heart Gemstone Necklace. The crushed diamonds are embellished on the most heart shaped for a special touch!
Choosing the Right December Birthstone
Consider the following factors when choosing your December birthstone:
Personal Preference: Choose a stone that resonates with you, whether it's the color, the meaning or the overall aesthetic.
Jewelry Style: Consider your personal style and how the stone will fit into your existing jewelry collection. Turquoise may suit a bohemian style, while tanzanite and zircon complement more elegant designs.
Budget: While all three gemstones have different price points, tanzanite is more expensive due to its rarity. Determine your budget before making a decision.
The Healing Properties of December Birthstones
Turquoise: Known for its protective qualities, turquoise is believed to promote tranquility, balance, and emotional healing. It is often associated with communication and self-expression.
Tanzanite: This gemstone is said to enhance spiritual awareness and intuition. It is believed to promote calmness and clarity, making it a popular choice for meditation and mindfulness practices.
Zircon: Known for its grounding properties, zircon is thought to bring wisdom, honor, and wealth. It is often associated with stability and emotional balance.
December offers a unique opportunity to celebrate with three beautiful birthstones: turquoise, tanzanite, and zircon. Each gemstone carries its own history, significance, and charm, making them ideal choices for personal expression, gifts, and special occasions. Whether you choose the protective qualities of turquoise, the rare beauty of tanzanite, or the versatility of zircon, incorporating these stones into your jewelry collection can enhance your style and connection to your birth month.