Blue to green in color, turquoise is a semi-translucent to opaque gem that frequently has matrix veins (remains of the rock it formed in) running through it. For millennia, people have treasured the birthstone for December. It was used to embellish the pharaohs and other ancient Egyptian kings. It was sculpted by Chinese artists more than 3,000 years ago.
The birthstone of turquoise was believed to have numerous positive properties, such as ensuring health and fortune. It was thought, starting in the 13th century, that it would shatter into numerous pieces as tragedy approached and would shield the wearer from falling (particularly off horses). According to Hindu mystics, seeing a turquoise after viewing the new moon guaranteed incredible fortune.
Native Americans also placed a high value on this birthstone of turquoise. The Apache believed that by traveling to the end of a rainbow, one may find turquoise. Additionally, they thought that securing the birthstone for December to a bow or gun improved one’s marksmanship. The Hopi believed that lizards crawling across the earth generated the jewel, whereas the Pueblo insisted that turquoise’s color came from the sky.
In This Article...
What color is the birthstone for December?
Zircon, Tanzanite, and turquoise are the three gemstones that are associated with December birthdays. These gemstones all have distinctive blue tones, making them ideal December birthstones for Minnesota’s chilly winters. Zircon comes in a range of hues, but blue is by far the most popular.
Which three stones are December’s birthstones?
Because of their alluring bluish colour, many individuals adore birthstones for the month of December. Turquoise, blue zircon, and tanzanite are the three gemstones for December, and they all feature lovely blue sparkles instead of the conventional Christmas colors of red and green.
What birthstone for December is most popular?
Zircon is a gorgeous December gemstone that can be used as a substitute to tanzanite. Zircon comes in a variety of hues, but the blue version is frequently used as a supplemental birthstone for December.
Zircon: Symbolism and Meaning
The meanings of the zircon birthstone are knowledge, fortune, and assurance. Zircon represents these qualities and is said to promote restful sleep and ward off evil spirits.
This December birthstone was a treasured gem during the Victorian era and was frequently used to ornament necklaces and other decorative items. Early in the 20th century, heat treatment emerged as a common technique for enhancing the blue hue of zircon for jewelry.
Zircon: Color
Blue is the birthstone for zircon. The gemstones can have green undertones and range in color from pale to vivid blue. Zircon does occur in several hues, but blue is the most typical color for a birthstone for December.
Zircon: Origins
abundant in the crust of the Earth and older than 4 billion years The nesosilicate mineral zircon is abundantly accessible. Cambodia, Tanzania, Thailand, Sri Lanka, the United States, and Canada are among the countries with zircon deposits. Despite the fact that Australia has the greatest deposit (which accounts for 37% of the global supply). It has a Mohs hardness rating of 7.5, making it durable enough for everyday jewelry.
Zircon Birthstone Jewelry
Zircon is less widespread than certain other gems. It can, however, be contrasted to diamonds in many other ways because it is a naturally sparkling gemstone. The most sought-after and most difficult to find color of zircon is green.
Zircon’s dispersion and light performance make the cut of the stone important to take into account when buying. Its appearance and beauty can be maximized and enhanced with the right cut into a dazzling shape, making it look practically identical to diamonds.
Higher levels of clarity are also frequent in zircon, and the few little flaws that are present are typically only noticeable under magnification. Zircon that has undergone heat treatment to increase its overall transparency is also available.
Numerous gorgeous jewelry items, such as rings, necklaces, bracelets, stud earrings, and pendants, can be made using zircon’s brilliant color.
Taking Care of Zircon Birthstone Jewelry
Every few months, wash your zircon jewelry in warm, soapy water. Before storing, dry it with a soft cloth and make sure it is completely dry. Zircon can be damaged by ultrasonic cleaners, so stay away from them. The birthstone for December is far less resilient than diamonds.
To prevent scratches, place your zircon jewelry in a soft fabric bag or container. Avoid wearing zircon or leaving it in the sun for extended periods of time because it is sensitive to UV and sunlight. Remove your zircon jewelry before undertaking any manual labor, such as gardening and housecleaning, to prevent damage.
What birthstone falls on December 1st?
Turquoise, zircon, and tanzanite are the birthstones for December. The fortunate people born in this month have a choice of three exquisite blue hues. All of these stones are frequently used in jewelry.
Is blue topaz a birthstone for December?
The most common color of topaz and the birthstone for December, blue topaz represents sincerity, intense emotional attachment, and emotional clarity. The fourth anniversary present idea is blue topaz, the birthstone for December. Because blue topaz is such a lovely stone, it makes everyone on your list feel radiant, even if you are stuck for a present idea to offer a friend or loved one or simply run out of ideas. We have a wide selection of blue topaz jewelry at Joseph’s Jewelry to suit every taste and price range.
Is topaz pricey?
Like any stone, topaz prices vary according to quality. Nevertheless, a few generalizations are possible. The most popular type of topaz used in jewelry today, blue topaz, has been produced in such large numbers that it is now typically sold for $25 per carat at retail for ring sizes. Larger sizes could cost a little extra. Even though treated blue topaz is widely produced, the price of natural blue topaz has practically decreased to match that of the treated stone.
Blue topaz is created (by irradiation and heat) from colorless topaz, which is offered in sizes up to 100 ct and higher and costs less than $8/ct. The cost of brown topaz is comparable.
Contrarily, valuable topaz, often known as “imperial” topaz, can sell for more than $1000 per carat (ct) in big (10 ct+) proportions. Richly colored topaz with a pink or red hue is the most expensive; its retail price can approach $3500/ct. Over 5 ct. sizes of these are uncommon.
On December 23, what birthstone is that?
Although not the only month with several recognized birthstones, December has the most birthstones overall. Traditional December birthstones included turquoise and lapis lazuli, another well-known blue gemstone. The most popular modern gemstones for December birthdays nowadays are zircon and the more brilliant blue topaz.
Are there two birthstones for each month?
Although each month has a single birthstone traditionally, certain months have numerous birthstones. This fact does cause some confusion, but the variety of possibilities for some months was developed to give customers a choice of less expensive selections in addition to the more typical, pricey stones.
