December Birthstones: The Stunning Trio of Turquoise, Tanzanite, and Zircon
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- Navajo Sterling Silver Sleeping Beauty Turquoise Pendant Necklace
- Angara Oval Tanzanite Halo Ring with Diamond Accents in 14K White Gold
- Peora 14K White Gold Blue Zircon Stud Earrings 3.00 Carats
- Genuine Kingman Turquoise Cluster Ring in Sterling Silver
- Ross-Simons Tanzanite Drop Earrings with Diamond Accents
- Gem Stone King Blue Zircon Solitaire Pendant in 14K Yellow Gold
- Sterling Silver Natural Turquoise Tennis Bracelet
- FANCIME Three Stone Tanzanite Ring in 14K White Gold
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Tanzanite exists in only one place on Earth—a mining area just four kilometers wide near Mount Kilimanjaro. When that deposit is exhausted, no more will ever be found.
December babies are blessed with three magnificent birthstones, each with extraordinary stories. Turquoise has adorned Egyptian pharaohs and Native American chiefs for over 5,000 years. Tanzanite, discovered in 1967, offers a violet-blue color found nowhere else on Earth—truly a once-in-Earth's-lifetime gem. Zircon, despite its name sounding synthetic, is one of Earth's oldest minerals, with specimens dating back 4.4 billion years. When selecting December birthstone jewelry like a Sleeping Beauty turquoise pendant, a tanzanite halo ring, or brilliant blue zircon studs, you're choosing gems with profound heritage and beauty.
Why are turquoise, tanzanite, and zircon such special December birthstones?
These three gems represent vastly different geological stories united by their blue hues. Turquoise has been cherished for millennia—ancient Egyptian pharaohs adorned themselves with it, Chinese artisans carved it over 3,000 years ago, and Native American tribes revered it as sacred. Its opaque blue-green color, sometimes veined with brown or black matrix, connects wearers to thousands of years of human history. Turquoise is considered the national gem of Tibet and traditionally celebrates the 11th wedding anniversary.
Tanzanite tells a more recent but equally remarkable story. Discovered in 1967 near Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, this violet-blue variety of zoisite exists in only one location worldwide—a mining area just four kilometers wide. Tiffany & Co. recognized its potential, naming and marketing it to the world. Its pleochroism creates an extraordinary effect: the gem displays different colors—blue, violet, and burgundy—depending on viewing angle. Tanzanite celebrates the 24th wedding anniversary.
Zircon, despite its name being similar to synthetic cubic zirconia, is entirely natural and one of Earth's oldest minerals, with specimens dating back over 4 billion years. Blue zircon possesses exceptional fire and brilliance that can rival diamonds, making it a stunning choice for those seeking maximum sparkle. Take our birthstone quiz to discover which December stone matches your personality.
What is the history of December's birthstones?
Turquoise's history spans continents and civilizations. The ancient Egyptians mined turquoise in the Sinai Peninsula as early as 3200 BC. Persian warriors adorned their swords and horses with turquoise, believing it provided protection. Native American tribes throughout the Southwest considered turquoise sacred, using it in ceremonies and as a medium of exchange. The stone's name derives from the French "pierre turquoise," meaning "Turkish stone," referencing the trade routes through Turkey that brought Persian turquoise to Europe.
Tanzanite's discovery reads like adventure fiction. Maasai herders reportedly found the first crystals after a lightning-sparked fire swept across the Tanzanian hills, revealing the blue gems scattered on the ground. Geologist Manuel d'Souza investigated and recognized the significance of this find. Within a year, Tiffany & Co. had secured marketing rights and launched tanzanite to the world. In 2002, the American Gem Trade Association added tanzanite as an official December birthstone alongside turquoise and zircon.
Zircon has been treasured since the Middle Ages, when it was believed to help with sleep, ward off evil spirits, and bring wisdom and prosperity. Victorian-era jewelers particularly favored blue zircon, and it became popular in English estate jewelry during the 1880s. Today, blue zircon remains prized for its exceptional optical properties. Compare December's blue gems with September's sapphire in our complete birthstone guide.
How to select the most stunning December birthstone jewelry?
For Turquoise: The finest turquoise displays an even, intense "robin's egg blue" or "Persian blue" color without visible matrix (the web-like patterns). However, some collectors prize stones with attractive spider-web matrix patterns. Sleeping Beauty turquoise from Arizona is renowned for its pure blue color, while Persian and Chinese varieties are highly valued. Most turquoise is treated to enhance durability—natural, untreated turquoise commands premium prices. With a hardness of only 5-6 on the Mohs scale, turquoise is best suited for earrings, pendants, and brooches rather than rings worn daily.
For Tanzanite: Color is paramount—look for vivid, saturated violet-blue hues. The finest tanzanites display a rich blue with violet flashes, particularly under incandescent lighting. Lighter stones are more affordable but lack the intensity that makes tanzanite special. Eye-clean clarity is expected; avoid stones with visible inclusions. At 6-7 on the Mohs scale, tanzanite works well for earrings and pendants but requires careful consideration for rings. Avoid ultrasonic and steam cleaners, which can damage this sensitive gem.
For Blue Zircon: Seek stones with maximum brilliance and fire—well-cut zircons can display more sparkle than sapphires. Color ranges from pale sky blue to deep sea blue; medium-toned stones with good saturation are most desirable. Zircon's high refractive index creates exceptional light performance. At 6.5-7.5 hardness, zircon is moderately durable but can chip along edges if struck. Avoid wearing during rough activities and clean gently with mild soap and water.
What are key considerations when selecting December birthstone jewelry?
Quality Factors by Stone:
| Stone | Key Quality Factor | Hardness | Best Uses |
|---|---|---|---|
| Turquoise | Even color, minimal matrix | 5-6 | Earrings, pendants, brooches |
| Tanzanite | Vivid violet-blue saturation | 6-7 | Earrings, pendants, special occasion rings |
| Zircon | Brilliance and fire | 6.5-7.5 | All jewelry with care |
Metal Pairings:
- Turquoise: Sterling silver (traditional), yellow gold (warm contrast)
- Tanzanite: White gold or platinum (enhances blue), yellow gold (warmer appearance)
- Zircon: White metals (maximize brilliance), yellow gold (vintage appeal)
Care Instructions: All three December birthstones should be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Never use ultrasonic or steam cleaners. Store each stone separately to prevent scratching. Turquoise is particularly sensitive to chemicals, including perfumes and lotions—apply these before putting on turquoise jewelry. Tanzanite should avoid sudden temperature changes and rough handling. Zircon can abrade over time, so avoid wearing during activities that might cause impact.
Whether you choose turquoise in a genuine Kingman cluster ring or classic turquoise tennis bracelet, tanzanite in elegant drop earrings with diamond accents or a meaningful three-stone trilogy ring, or zircon in a sparkling blue zircon pendant, December's birthstones offer something special for every taste. These blue gems make perfect holiday gifts, celebrating December birthdays while capturing winter's crystalline beauty. Explore elegant pendant necklaces or discover more birthstones in our comprehensive guide.
Navajo Sterling Silver Sleeping Beauty Turquoise Pendant Necklace
Navajo Sterling Silver Necklace
This authentic Navajo pendant features genuine Sleeping Beauty turquoise known for its pure robin's egg blue color.
This authentic Navajo pendant features genuine Sleeping Beauty turquoise known for its pure robin's egg blue color. Handcrafted in sterling silver by Native American artisans. Includes certificate of authenticity and 18-inch sterling chain.
"The turquoise color is stunning and the craftsmanship is exceptional. A true piece of art.
Angara Oval Tanzanite Halo Ring with Diamond Accents in 14K White Gold
Angara Oval with Diamond Accents in 14K White Gold
This elegant ring features a natural oval tanzanite surrounded by a sparkling halo of diamonds.
This elegant ring features a natural oval tanzanite surrounded by a sparkling halo of diamonds. The violet-blue tanzanite displays the gem's characteristic color-change properties. Set in 14K white gold with meticulous craftsmanship.
"The tanzanite shifts between blue and violet beautifully. The diamond halo adds incredible sparkle.
Peora 14K White Gold Blue Zircon Stud Earrings 3.00 Carats
Peora 14K White Gold 3 00 Carats
These brilliant stud earrings feature natural blue zircon totaling 3.
These brilliant stud earrings feature natural blue zircon totaling 3.00 carats. Known for exceptional fire and brilliance rivaling diamonds, blue zircon creates stunning sparkle. Set in solid 14K white gold with secure push-backs.
"The fire and brilliance is incredible - looks like blue diamonds! Outstanding value.
Genuine Kingman Turquoise Cluster Ring in Sterling Silver
Genuine Kingman in Sterling Silver
This stunning cluster ring features multiple genuine Kingman turquoise stones in a traditional southwestern design.
This stunning cluster ring features multiple genuine Kingman turquoise stones in a traditional southwestern design. Each stone displays unique matrix patterns. Handcrafted in sterling silver by skilled artisans.
"Beautiful southwestern style with genuine turquoise. The matrix patterns make each ring unique.
Ross-Simons Tanzanite Drop Earrings with Diamond Accents
Ross Simons with Diamond Accents
These elegant drop earrings feature pear-shaped tanzanites accented with sparkling diamonds.
These elegant drop earrings feature pear-shaped tanzanites accented with sparkling diamonds. The AAA-quality tanzanites display rich violet-blue color. Set in sterling silver with 14K gold posts for sensitive ears.
"The color is mesmerizing and the diamonds add beautiful sparkle. Perfect for special occasions.
Gem Stone King Blue Zircon Solitaire Pendant in 14K Yellow Gold
Gem Stone King Blue Zircon Solitaire Pendant in 14K Yellow Gold
This stunning pendant features a natural blue zircon with exceptional brilliance and fire.
This stunning pendant features a natural blue zircon with exceptional brilliance and fire. The round-cut stone catches light beautifully, creating sparkle that rivals diamonds. Set in 14K yellow gold with 18-inch chain.
"The zircon has incredible fire - more brilliant than I expected. Beautiful everyday piece.
Sterling Silver Natural Turquoise Tennis Bracelet
Sterling Silver Natural
This elegant tennis bracelet features a continuous line of genuine turquoise cabochons set in sterling silver.
This elegant tennis bracelet features a continuous line of genuine turquoise cabochons set in sterling silver. Each stone displays the gem's characteristic blue-green color. Secure fold-over clasp with safety catch.
"Beautiful turquoise color with nice variation between stones. Comfortable for daily wear.
FANCIME Three Stone Tanzanite Ring in 14K White Gold
FANCIME Three Stone Tanzanite Ring in 14K White Gold
This meaningful ring features three natural tanzanites representing past, present, and future.
This meaningful ring features three natural tanzanites representing past, present, and future. The center stone is flanked by two smaller gems, all displaying rich violet-blue color. Set in 14K white gold with diamond accents.
"The three-stone design is meaningful and the tanzanite color is exceptional. Perfect anniversary gift.
Review of Our Favorite 3
Navajo Sterling Silver Necklace
This authentic Navajo pendant features genuine Sleeping Beauty turquoise known for its pure robin's egg blue color.
Angara Oval with Diamond Accents in 14K White Gold
This elegant ring features a natural oval tanzanite surrounded by a sparkling halo of diamonds.
Peora 14K White Gold 3 00 Carats
These brilliant stud earrings feature natural blue zircon totaling 3.
About the Author
Alfreda Borror
Alfreda Borror is an avid admirer of the finer things in life, and has an unending appreciation for luxury. Her considerable skills lie in design and fashion, having spent years working as a costume designer for both theatre and film.
