Cozy and bright, no matter what you celebrate, December is truly a special time of the year. So it makes sense that the December birthstone would be equally special. But what exactly is turquoise and is it December’s only birthstone? The answer’s might surprise you so read on to find out!

WHAT IS DECEMBER’S BIRTHSTONE?

While turquoise is known best as being December’s birthstone, there’s actually three other stones that claim December as their month: Topaz, tanzanite, and zircon! But why so many? At most, other months have three birthstones max!

WHY DOES DECEMBER HAVE FOUR BIRTHSTONES?

As you might have known, the origin of subscribing a gemstone to each month came first from the biblical image of Aaron’s breastplate. Aaron, the older brother of Moses, was said to wear a breastplate that signified his status as High Priest of the Israelites and that he was able to communicate with God. Representing the twelve tribes of Israel, the breastplate was adorned with twelve glittering gems.

It is these twelve gems, believed to be carnelian, chrysolite, beryl, turquoise, lapis lazuli, emerald, jacinth, agate, amethyst, topaz, onyx, and jasper, that were later posited to represent each month of the year thanks to Biblical scholar, St Jerome.

Fast forward to 1912 and the American National Retail Jewelers Association released a list of modern birthstones. On this list, turquoise was prescribed the birthstone for December. However, it’s also quite fragile thanks to its porosity. That’s why in 1952, the list was updated to include blue zircon. When tanzanite was discovered it quickly became a favorite alternative to both birthstones, resulting in its addition to the list in 2002. Finally, while not officially a birthstone, blue topaz is often assigned to December babies thanks to its sheer popularity.

LET’S TALK TURQUOISE

The OG birthstone, turquoise, is a total standout in the world of gems. Sporting an eye-catching palette that swings from powdery blue to lush green, depending on its copper and iron content, this gem is nothing short of mesmerizing. It's not just the colors that catch the eye; the presence of veins or patches, known as matrix, adds character, making each piece uniquely beautiful.

But turquoise isn't all about looks. It's loaded with spiritual mojo, too. Believed to be a bridge between heaven and earth, this stone is said to offer protection, promote healing, and even bring good fortune. It’s like your spiritual BFF that keeps you grounded and positive, making it a staple in mindfulness practices.

Back in the day, ancient civilizations were all about turquoise. The Egyptians rocked turquoise jewelry, seeing it as a symbol of rebirth, while Indigenous Peoples of the Americas used it in ceremonial garb and as a currency. It was as if they knew that wearing turquoise wasn't just a fashion statement but a way to carry a piece of the earth's magic with them. So, whether you're drawn to its vibrant hues or its deep spiritual significance, turquoise is a gem that carries the weight of history and the promise of positive vibes.

ALL ABOUT TANZANITE

Tanzanite is like the new kid on the block that instantly became prom king. Discovered in the 1960s near the majestic Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, it's got that one-of-a-kind vibe because, well, it literally comes from just that one spot on the planet. Its mesmerizing blues and violets, which shift with the light thanks to its pleochroism, make it a showstopper. Not just any showstopper, but the kind that turns heads with its deep, saturated hues ranging from ultramarine to a light lavender. It's like the gem's got its own mood lighting!

But there's more to tanzanite than its killer looks. This gem is wrapped in spiritual mystique. It's said to boost your intuition, making it the perfect sidekick for those seeking a deeper connection with their inner selves or wanting a dose of psychic insight. Plus, with its serene vibes, tanzanite is like a chill pill in gem form, believed to bring peace and balance to your life.

Historically, despite its newbie status, tanzanite quickly captured hearts and minds. It's not just a stone you wear; it's a piece of Earth's artistry. Given its limited source, it also tells a story of rarity and exquisiteness, making jewelry featuring tanzanite not just an accessory but a conversation starter. So, if you're all about embracing the magic of the new while carrying a piece of Earth's unique beauty, tanzanite is your go-to gem.

WHAT THE HECK IS ZIRCON?

Zircon, not to be confused with that lab-created lookalike cubic zirconia, is the real deal with a history that's as dazzling as its appearance. This gemstone is a chameleon of the gem world, flaunting an array of colors from the deepest blues to earthy greens and fiery reds, though it’s the crystal-clear and the striking blue varieties that often steal the show. Its brilliance and fire are exceptional, thanks to its high refractive index and strong dispersion. This means zircon catches light like a dream, sparkling with a fervor that can rival even a diamond.

But zircon isn’t just a pretty face. It comes with a trunk full of spiritual luggage, believed to bring wisdom, honor, and wealth to the wearer. It's like having a wise old sage and a lucky charm rolled into one dazzling package. Not just a flash in the pan, zircon is said to ground you, promoting not only physical but also emotional balance. It's the kind of gemstone that doesn’t just light up a room but also lights up your spiritual path.

Having been around for billions of years, some zircons are practically walking history books. These stones have been adorning jewelry and artifacts since ancient times, appreciated for their beauty and the sense of luxury they bring. So, whether you’re into it for its aesthetic, its energy, or its rich backstory, zircon is a gemstone that’s as multifaceted as it is timeless. In a world of gems vying for attention, zircon stands out as a testament to the fact that true beauty and depth never go out of style.

TITTILATING BLUE TOPAZ

Blue topaz, the cool cousin in the gemstone family, has a vibe that's all about chilling under a clear blue sky. This gemstone is like a slice of summer that you can carry around with you all year long. With shades that whisper tales of the deep ocean to the crisp, serene blue of a winter morning sky, blue topaz has that uncanny ability to capture the essence of tranquility in a myriad of blue hues. It’s as if each stone is a different verse of a poem dedicated to the color blue.

Not just another pretty stone, blue topaz comes packed with a suitcase of meanings and symbolism. It's renowned for its calming energies, offering a peaceful respite to those who wear it. Thinking of embarking on a journey of self-discovery or in need of a boost in communication skills? Blue topaz is your go-to accessory, believed to clear the mind and help articulate thoughts and emotions more clearly. It's like having a wise advisor by your side, but in gem form.

Historically, topaz has been around the block for centuries, flaunting its beauty across various cultures and epochs. The Ancient Greeks believed it gave them strength, while in the Renaissance, people thought it could break magic spells. Fast forward to today, and it's the darling of the jewelry world, cherished not only for its beauty but for its durability too. Perfect for everyday wear, blue topaz makes it easy to add a dash of elegance and sophistication to any outfit without breaking the bank.

So, whether you're drawn to its calming blue hues, enchanted by its rich lore, or simply in love with how it looks when the sunlight hits it just right, blue topaz is more than a gemstone. It's a mood, a vibe, a piece of the sky that you can carry in your pocket.

WHY ARE ALL OF DECEMBER’S BIRTHSTONES BLUE?

Great question! December's birthstones are like nature’s ode to winter’s palette, echoing the cool, tranquil vibes of the season. Each stone, with its own shade of blue, mirrors the frosty scenes and icy beauty that December brings. From the deep, velvety blue of tanzanite and the sparkling frost-like shimmers of zircon to the clear, calm skies represented by topaz, these gems collectively celebrate the serene and thoughtful mood of winter, making them the perfect symbolic match for those born in the chilled embrace of December.

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WHICH DECEMBER BIRTHSTONE IS RIGHT FOR ME?

Selecting the perfect December birthstone for yourself intertwines personal style, practical considerations, and the emotional or spiritual attributes you seek in a gemstone. Here’s a practical approach to finding that gem which truly resonates with you:

TANZANITE:

Ideal for those who love to stand out, tanzanite’s luxurious blue and violet hues complement a wide range of colors in your wardrobe, especially deep and rich tones. This exotic gem, exclusive to Tanzania, suits the unique and insightful, offering a touch of rare beauty said to stimulate intuition.

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ZIRCON:

For lovers of history and versatility, zircon is a gem. Often confused with cubic zirconia, the natural zircon is a treasure, particularly in its blue form, which dazzles with its brilliant reflections. Its durability makes it suitable for everyday wear, appealing to those who lead an active lifestyle but still wish for a sparkle reminiscent of the stars.

BLUE TOPAZ:

If serenity and clear communication are qualities you cherish, blue topaz will reflect these in its tranquil shades of blue. This gemstone is adaptable, fitting perfectly into both high and casual fashion, and is available at various price points, making it accessible and practical for everyday wear.

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TURQUOISE:

A stone with a history as rich as civilization itself, turquoise is for the soul that connects with the earth and its storytelling. With its distinctive blue-green hues, turquoise is not just visually striking but is also revered for bringing luck and protection. It's particularly fitting for those who appreciate a bohemian or more natural aesthetic. Additionally, its relative softness demands careful handling, resonating well with individuals who value mindfulness and preservation.

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FIND YOUR DECEMBER BIRTHSTONE AT OLIVIA EWING JEWELRY

Whether you’re looking to dazzle in turquoise, topaz, tanzanite, or zircon, Olivia Ewing Jewelry is here for you. We offer a wide range of stunning styles and scintillating stones. Perfect for any occasion and hand-crafted for you. Ready to find your dream ring? Browse our engagement rings now or reach out to customize a practically perfect ring that’s perfectly suited to you.

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Meet the Author: Olivia Ewing