What Birthstone Is December? December babies are incredibly fortunate, boasting a selection of stunning gemstones to represent their birth month. WHAT.EDU.VN delves into the captivating world of December birthstones, offering insights into their meanings, properties, and history. Explore blue topaz, zircon, tanzanite, and turquoise, uncovering the perfect gem to celebrate a December birthday. Discover dazzling December gemstone facts and meanings now.
1. What are the December Birthstones? A Sparkling Introduction
December stands out with not one, but four beautiful birthstones, each possessing unique characteristics and symbolism. These include:
- Blue Topaz: Celebrated for its clarity and calming blue hues.
- Blue Zircon: Known for its brilliance and vibrant blue shades.
- Tanzanite: Admired for its unique violet-blue colors, found exclusively in Tanzania.
- Turquoise: Prized for its distinctive blue-green color and ancient history.
These gemstones offer a diverse palette of blues, each with its own special charm and significance.
2. Blue Topaz: The Clarity Stone
Blue topaz is one of the modern December birthstones, bringing with it a sense of calm and clarity.
2.1 What is Blue Topaz?
Blue topaz is a silicate mineral of aluminum and fluorine. It’s known for its vitreous luster and perfect cleavage, making it relatively delicate. The color can range from a light sky blue to a deep London blue.
2.2 Shades of Blue Topaz:
- London Blue Topaz: A deep, inky blue color, the most sought-after shade.
- Swiss Blue Topaz: A vibrant, bright blue, reminiscent of a clear sky.
- Sky Blue Topaz: A light, gentle blue, like the color of the daytime sky.
Alt text: London blue topaz ring with diamonds, set horizontally in an oval shape, showcasing its deep saturation and sparkle.
2.3 The Meaning of Blue Topaz:
Blue Topaz is known as the clarity stone because it symbolizes clear thinking, open communication, and taking action. It’s also associated with honesty, deep feelings, and the pursuit of success. It is believed to channel good energies and relieve stress.
2.4 Origin of Blue Topaz:
The word “topaz” comes from the Sanskrit word for “fire”. Blue topaz was first discovered in Topazios in the Red Sea by the Romans. Today, blue topaz is found in Brazil, Russia, Sri Lanka, Nigeria, China, and the United States.
2.5 Durability of Blue Topaz:
Blue topaz has a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale, making it a relatively hard gemstone. However, it is also brittle and can be scratched or chipped, requiring care in handling and wear.
2.6 Blue Topaz Jewelry:
Blue topaz is a popular choice for jewelry due to its affordability and versatility. It can be found in rings, necklaces, earrings, and bracelets. The cut significantly influences the stone’s value. London blue topaz is the most expensive variety.
Alt text: Crystal clear sky blue topaz ring, custom-made, exhibiting clarity and bright color.
3. Blue Zircon: The Gemstone of Brilliance
Blue zircon, another modern December birthstone, has a brilliance that rivals diamonds.
3.1 What is Blue Zircon?
Blue zircon is a mineral known as zirconium silicate (ZrSiO4). It is not to be confused with cubic zirconia, which is a synthetic diamond simulant. Blue zircon boasts a high refractive index, giving it exceptional brilliance.
3.2 How Blue Zircon Gets Its Color:
Zircons are naturally brown but turn blue after heat treatment. The finest blue zircons have strong green undertones and medium tones. Sometimes they are sold under the names “starlites” or “stremlites.”
3.3 The Meaning of Blue Zircon:
Blue zircons are associated with wisdom, confidence, and prosperity. They ward off evil spirits and aid in meditation. It is said to enhance the wearer’s intuition.
3.4 Astrological Significance:
Blue zircon is beneficial for those with zodiac signs Cancer, Gemini, Virgo, Capricorn, or Aquarius. It is said to boost creative energy for writers, painters, and musicians.
3.5 Where Blue Zircon is Found:
Blue zircons are incredibly rare. Most gem-quality blue zircons get their color from heat treatment. Cambodia and Myanmar are known for producing zircons that turn blue with heat.
Alt text: GIA-certified three-stone ring featuring an oval blue zircon and half-moon diamonds, an alternative to a traditional diamond engagement ring.
3.6 Durability of Blue Zircon:
Blue zircon has a hardness of 7.5 on the Mohs scale. This makes it resistant to scratching and suitable for jewelry. However, blue zircon is brittle and can chip from impacts.
3.7 Blue Zircon Jewelry:
Blue zircon is available in brick-and-mortar jewelry stores and online retailers. Prices vary depending on size, hue, and tone. Fine blue zircon gemstones from one to two carats can average $227 per carat retail, making them more expensive than blue topaz.
4. Tanzanite: The Gem of Tanzania
Tanzanite is a relative newcomer to the gemstone world, celebrated for its vibrant blue and violet hues.
4.1 What is Tanzanite?
Tanzanite is a pleochroic gemstone, meaning it shows different colors depending on the angle from which it is viewed. It is a variety of the mineral zoisite and was first discovered in 1967.
4.2 The Colors of Tanzanite:
Tanzanite shows incredibly strong pleochroism with three distinct colors showing from different directions. The gem can appear pure blue, violet, or a combination of both, sometimes with flashes of red.
Alt text: Vintage-inspired pendant featuring GIA-certified velvety tanzanite set in 18K rose gold with diamonds.
4.3 Tanzanite Meaning:
Tanzanite lacks the deep history of other gemstones but holds significant spiritual associations. Some say the gem changed its appearance in response to a lightning strike that sparked a wildfire, which connects it to the power and magic of nature.
4.4 Origin of Tanzanite:
Tanzanite was discovered by Masai tribesman Ali Juuyawatu in 1967 in the Merelani Hills of Tanzania. This area remains the only known source of tanzanite, making it rarer than diamonds, sapphires, and rubies.
4.5 Durability of Tanzanite:
Tanzanite has a hardness of 6 to 7 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it softer than diamonds and sapphires. It can be scratched or chipped if not handled carefully. Protective settings are recommended.
4.6 Tanzanite Jewelry:
Tanzanite is available at a range of price points. Designs featuring the stone can be breathtaking, especially for special occasions. It’s recommended to clean tanzanite jewelry with mild, soapy water and a soft cloth. Avoid ultrasonic machines and steam cleaners.
Alt text: Tanzanite flower pendant featuring a lighter saturation in a 14K white gold setting, surrounded by a diamond halo.
5. Turquoise: The Stone of Protection
Turquoise, the traditional December birthstone, is celebrated for its distinctive blue-green color and rich history.
5.1 What is Turquoise?
Turquoise is an opaque blue-green mineral made up of hydrated copper phosphate and aluminum. It has a tri-clinic structure and can range from waxy to glassy in appearance.
5.2 Color Variations:
Turquoise is best known for its blue hues, which can vary from bright blue-green to green to yellowish-green. The stone may also have brown or black spots or streaks.
Alt text: Three-stone turquoise and diamond ring, suitable as a birthstone ring or as an accessory for various occasions.
5.3 Meaning of Turquoise:
The word “turquoise” comes from the French “pierre tourques” or “Turkish stone.” It symbolizes prosperity, love, and good fortune. Turquoise promotes happiness, honesty, and spirituality.
5.4 Origin of Turquoise:
Turquoise was first found in Egypt around 4000 BC and arrived in Europe from Turkish sources around the thirteenth century. Rich deposits are found in North America, Egypt, Iran, Bulgaria, and China.
5.5 Durability of Turquoise:
Turquoise has a hardness of 5-6 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively soft. Stabilization treatments are available to make the stone more durable for jewelry.
5.6 Turquoise Jewelry:
Turquoise jewelry is available online and in retail stores. Due to its poor wearability, the highest grades of turquoise are reserved for inlay and carving.
6. December Birthstone Color Palette: Understanding the Blues
December’s birthstones showcase a beautiful range of blue hues, each with unique characteristics:
- Blue Topaz: Offers a spectrum from light sky blue to deep London blue.
- Blue Zircon: Displays vibrant blue with hints of green, known for its brilliance.
- Tanzanite: Exhibits a mix of blue and violet, with possible flashes of red.
- Turquoise: Presents a distinctive blue-green, sometimes with brown or black veining.
This diverse palette ensures there’s a blue shade to suit every style and preference.
7. Caring for Your December Birthstones: A Guide to Longevity
To ensure your December birthstones retain their beauty, follow these care tips:
- Blue Topaz: Clean with mild soapy water and a soft cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals and ultrasonic cleaners.
- Blue Zircon: Protect from sharp blows and scratches. Clean gently with a soft brush and soapy water.
- Tanzanite: Clean with mild soapy water and a soft cloth. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners and steam cleaners.
- Turquoise: Avoid exposure to chemicals, cosmetics, and heat. Clean with a soft, dry cloth.
8. Which December Birthstone is Right for You? A Personal Choice
Choosing a December birthstone is a matter of personal taste and preference. Consider the following:
- Style: Do you prefer the classic clarity of blue topaz, the brilliance of blue zircon, the unique color of tanzanite, or the traditional charm of turquoise?
- Meaning: Which gemstone resonates most with you and your personal values?
- Durability: Consider the hardness of the gemstone and how it fits with your lifestyle.
- Budget: Each gemstone varies in price, so consider your budget when making your choice.
9. December Birthstone Jewelry Ideas: Celebrating in Style
Here are some jewelry ideas to showcase your December birthstone:
- Rings: Choose a statement ring with a large gemstone or a delicate band with smaller stones.
- Necklaces: Opt for a pendant necklace that highlights the gemstone’s unique color and brilliance.
- Earrings: Select stud earrings for everyday wear or drop earrings for special occasions.
- Bracelets: Consider a charm bracelet with December birthstone charms or a delicate chain bracelet with gemstone accents.
10. Frequently Asked Questions about December Birthstones
Let’s address some common queries about December birthstones:
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Are December birthstones always blue? | While the most common December birthstones are blue (blue topaz, blue zircon, tanzanite, and turquoise), turquoise can also come in shades of green. |
| Which December birthstone is the most expensive? | Tanzanite is generally the most expensive December birthstone due to its rarity and unique color. |
| Can December babies wear all of their birthstones? | Yes, December babies can wear all of their birthstones. It is a matter of personal preference which stone they choose to wear. |
| Which December birthstone is best for everyday wear? | Blue Topaz is a good choice for everyday wear. It is relatively hard and durable, making it less prone to scratching and chipping. |
| Where can I buy authentic December birthstone jewelry? | Authentic December birthstone jewelry can be purchased from reputable jewelry stores and online retailers. Be sure to check for certification and guarantees of authenticity. |
| Are there any alternative birthstones for December? | Lapis lazuli is considered an alternative birthstone for December. |
| How do I clean my December birthstone jewelry? | Follow the specific cleaning instructions for each gemstone, as listed above in the “Caring for Your December Birthstones” section. |
| What are the healing properties of December birthstones? | Each December birthstone is associated with different healing properties. For example, blue topaz is said to promote communication, while turquoise is believed to bring good fortune. |
| What is the symbolism of December birthstones? | Each December birthstone has a unique symbolism. Blue Topaz symbolizes clarity and honesty, Blue Zircon represents wisdom and prosperity, Tanzanite signifies uniqueness and spiritual insight, while Turquoise symbolizes good fortune and protection. |
| How has the December birthstone list changed over time? | The December birthstone list has evolved over time. Turquoise has been the traditional birthstone for centuries, while blue topaz, blue zircon, and tanzanite are modern additions. |
11. Embrace the Beauty of December Birthstones with WHAT.EDU.VN
December babies are blessed with a beautiful array of gemstones to choose from. Whether you’re drawn to the classic clarity of blue topaz, the dazzling brilliance of blue zircon, the unique violet-blue hues of tanzanite, or the ancient charm of turquoise, there’s a December birthstone to suit every taste and style.
Remember, finding reliable and trustworthy information can be challenging. If you have more questions about December birthstones or anything else, don’t hesitate to ask! At WHAT.EDU.VN, we’re dedicated to providing you with fast, accurate, and free answers to all your questions.
Do you have a burning question? Visit what.edu.vn today and experience the convenience of our free question-and-answer service. Our team of experts is ready to provide the information you need quickly and easily. You can reach us at 888 Question City Plaza, Seattle, WA 98101, United States. For immediate assistance, contact us on WhatsApp at +1 (206) 555-7890. Your curiosity is our priority!
Alt text: Blue zircon and diamond drop earrings set in 18k white gold, with heat-treated cushion-cut zircons.
