December Birthstones: Blue Topaz, Blue Zircon, Tanzanite and Turquoise

Welcome to the enchanting world of December birthstones, where the cool hues of blue topaz, blue zircon, tanzanite, and turquoise shine brightly! If you're wondering "what is December's birthstone" or seeking the perfect December birthstone jewelry, this article is your ultimate resource. Dive into the fascinating details of these gemstones and uncover their unique stories, properties, and allure.

Here's what you'll learn by reading this guide:

• Discover the origins and meanings behind each december birthstone.
• Explore the durability and care tips for blue topaz, blue zircon, tanzanite, and turquoise.
• Find out where to buy stunning december birthstone jewelry from trusted retailers.

What Are December's Birthstones? Exploring Four Beautiful Blue Gemstone Options

Those born in December are fortunate to have a choice of four gorgeous blue gemstones as their birthstones: Blue Topaz, Blue Zircon, Tanzanite, and Turquoise. Each of these December birthstones offers its own unique characteristics, history, and symbolism.

Blue Topaz: Popular Modern December Birthstone Choice

What Makes Blue Topaz Special Among December Birthstones?

Blue topaz is one of the modern birthstones for the month of December. Blue topaz is a silicate mineral composed of aluminum and fluorine with a glass-like luster and deep cleavage, making it somewhat delicate despite its hardness. Its color range spans from dark inky blues to cooler light blue shades. Depending on the depth of color, blue topaz varieties include:

• London Blue topaz features a deep, inky blue color that many collectors prize. 
• Swiss Blue topaz displays a vibrant, medium light blue that catches the eye immediately. 
• Sky Blue topaz offers a light aqua color reminiscent of clear blue skies. 
• Natural blue topaz is sometimes mistaken for aquamarine due to similar color profiles.

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The name "topaz" derives from the Sanskrit word for "fire." Most commercially available blue topaz is produced by irradiating naturally colorless topaz. Treated blue topaz remains a favorite among jewelers and designers for its versatility, affordability, and availability in numerous shapes and sizes.

Blue topaz has the chemical formula Al2SiO4(F,OH)4, with strong chemical bonding that makes it harder than most silicate minerals.

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What Is London Blue Topaz? The Darkest December Birthstone Variety

London blue topaz boasts a unique, inky medium blue color that distinguishes it from other varieties. It represents the darkest, richest blue topaz color available on today's market. The name "London blue topaz" originated because London houses the largest blue topaz ever discovered—a massive 9,381 carats—displayed in the UK Natural History Museum.

Color is the key differentiating factor between London Blue, Swiss Blue, and Sky Blue varieties:

• London Blue Topaz features a deeper blue hue with darker tone and saturation.
• Swiss Blue Topaz displays a vibrant sky blue with lighter tone and saturation.
• London blue topaz may show a subtle green tinge due to heat treatment processes.

Blue topaz remains among the most affordable topaz varieties on the market. The cut often adds as much value to the stone as the color itself. Of all blue varieties, London blue topaz is most sought after and commands the highest prices, typically retailing between 10-30 US dollars per carat.

What Is the Blue Topaz Meaning?

Known as the "clarity stone," blue topaz is believed to stimulate open communication and encourage positive action. This December birthstone carries several symbolic meanings:

• Blue topaz is the gemstone symbolizing opportunity and possibility.
• It symbolizes deep, honest, and genuine feelings between people.
• The stone has associations with great wisdom and is believed to bring success.
• Many believe blue topaz can redirect positive energies to where they're most needed.

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Some traditional beliefs suggest blue topaz helps relieve stress, ease migraines, soothe sore throats, and alleviate body aches. Associated with the throat chakra, blue topaz worn near the throat is said to provide relief from throat-related ailments.

Where Does Blue Topaz Come From? Origins of This December Birthstone

Blue Topaz was first discovered over two thousand years ago by Romans in the Greek Islands of Topazios in the Red Sea. Today, natural blue topaz sources include:

• Texas in the United States 
• The Ural Mountains in Russia
• Brazil
• Sri Lanka
• Nigeria
• China

Is Blue Topaz Durable? Understanding This December Birthstone's Hardness

Blue topaz registers 8 on the Mohs scale, making it harder than sapphire and substantially tougher than tanzanite. However, blue topaz is somewhat brittle and should be handled with care, especially when set in jewelry that might receive impacts.

London blue topaz exhibits perfect cleavage, which contributes to its brittleness and susceptibility to scratches.

Where Can I Buy Blue Topaz Jewelry? Finding Quality December Birthstone Pieces

Blue Topaz jewelry is widely available both in brick-and-mortar stores and from reputable online retailers including James Allen, Blue Nile, CustomMade, Angara or White Flash. These retailers offer various settings and styles to showcase this beautiful December birthstone.

Frequently Asked Questions About Blue Topaz

What makes blue topaz a popular choice for December birthdays?

Blue topaz is prized for its stunning range of blue hues, affordability, and availability. Its vibrant colors—from light Sky Blue to deep London Blue—make it a versatile and attractive gemstone for both casual and formal jewelry.

What is the difference between London Blue, Swiss Blue, and Sky Blue topaz?

The main difference lies in color depth: London Blue is the darkest and most saturated, Swiss Blue is bright and vivid, while Sky Blue is pale and airy. London Blue is also the most valuable and sought after.

Is blue topaz a durable stone for everyday wear?

Yes, blue topaz is known as the "clarity stone." It symbolizes open communication, wisdom, and emotional honesty. Some also believe it helps reduce stress and supports throat health when worn near the neck.

Blue Zircon: Brilliant December Birthstone Option

Blue zircon counts among the modern December birthstones alongside blue topaz and tanzanite, while the more traditional December birthstones include lapis lazuli and turquoise.

Known by the mineral name, zirconium silicate, zircon is not to be confused with cubic zirconia, a synthetic diamond simulant. Zircon has the chemical formula ZrSiO­₄ and boasts a tetragonal crystal structure. Cubic zirconia, by contrast, is made of zirconium oxide and has a cubic crystal structure.

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Zircon possesses a high refractive index, making well-cut specimens exceptionally bright. In fact, zircon ranks among the gemstones most resembling diamonds. Its fire and luster can approximate diamond's brilliance and exceed those of sapphire, ruby, and tanzanite.

What Color Is Blue Zircon? Understanding December Birthstone Hues

Zircons often form naturally with a brown color, which transforms to blue after heat treatment. These treated stones can exhibit stable and vivid blue to sky blue colors. The finest blue zircons display hues with strong green components and medium tones. Some trade names for blue zircons include "starlites" or "stremlites."

Heat treatments can also produce other colors in zircon:

• Green zircons with varying saturation levels 
• Red zircons prized for their rarity
• Colorless zircons that maximize brilliance
• Honey gold zircons with warm amber tones

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Blue Zircon Meaning

Traditionally, blue zircons are associated with wisdom, confidence, and prosperity. When worn as jewelry, they are believed to:

• Ward off negative energies and evil spirits.
• Aid in achieving restful sleep and dream clarity.
• Enhance the wearer's intuition and perception.
• Create a protective aura around the wearer.

Blue zircon is also believed to assist with meditation practices and help improve organizational abilities.

Astrological Connections to Blue Zircon

According to Western astrology, those with zodiac signs including Cancer, Gemini, Virgo, Capricorn, or Aquarius may particularly benefit from blue zircon. In Indian astrological traditions, Libra and Taurus signs are also considered compatible with this gemstone.

Blue zircon is especially recommended for creative professionals, as it's believed to:

• Enhance creative energy for writers seeking inspiration.
• Boost artistic vision for painters and visual artists.
• Improve musical creativity and expression for musicians.

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Where Is Blue Zircon Found? Sources of This Brilliant Gemstone

Natural blue zircons occur extremely rarely. Virtually all gem-quality blue zircons on the market receive their color through heat treatment. The best zircons for blue heat treatment come from:

• Cambodia, which produces exceptional rough material.
• Myanmar, yielding zircons well-suited for heat treatment.
• Malawi has emerged as a promising new source, with the Gemological Institute of America publishing an article on beautiful heat-treated blue zircons reportedly from Maripa, Malawi.

Is Blue Zircon Durable? Hardness and Care for This December Birthstone

Zircons can achieve a hardness of up to 7.5 on the Mohs scale, making them highly resistant to scratching and suitable for jewelry. However, all zircons are very brittle, making them vulnerable to chipping and breaking from impacts. Protective settings that shield edges and facets are strongly recommended, especially for ring settings where the stone may receive more impact.

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Where to Buy Blue Zircon Jewelry: Finding Your Perfect Piece

Blue zircon jewelry can be difficult to find in physical jewelry stores but is available from select online retailers including James Allen, Blue Nile, and Angara. Prices vary based on size, hue, and tone quality.

Fine blue zircon gemstones typically range in price:

• One to two carat stones average around $227 per carat retail 
• Two to five carat stones average approximately $337 per carat retail

For complete pricing information on zircons of various sizes and colors, consult the comprehensive zircon price guide.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Blue Zircon

Which is more expensive: blue zircon or blue topaz?

Generally speaking, blue zircon is more expensive than blue topaz. Topaz is a naturally occurring mineral that comes in a variety of colors, but it doesn't come as close as zircon to mimicking the luster and fire of a diamond.

How rare is blue zircon?

Blue zircon is rarer than diamond, though it is less valuable because of the perception that zircon is the same as cubic zirconia. In fact, zircon and cubic zirconia are completely different!

What makes blue zircon unique among December birthstones?

Blue zircon is prized for its exceptional brilliance and fire, often resembling diamonds. It's a natural gemstone (not to be confused with cubic zirconia) and offers a vivid, bright alternative to other December stones like blue topaz or tanzanite.

Is blue zircon durable enough for everyday wear?

Blue zircon ranks up to 7.5 on the Mohs scale, making it fairly hard. However, it is brittle and can chip easily, so it's best used in protective settings — especially for rings or frequently worn pieces.

Tanzanite: Rare Violet-Blue December Birthstone

Another modern birthstone representing December is tanzanite, a richly colored pleochroic gemstone displaying blue and violet hues, often with purple highlights, that shift depending on viewing angle. Tanzanite entered the gemstone market relatively recently, first discovered in 1967. Initially mistaken for sapphire, tanzanite's unique multidimensional appearance suggested something entirely new. Gemologists soon identified it as a previously unknown variety of the mineral zoisite.

Tiffany & Co. named tanzanite after recognizing its market potential immediately following discovery. To promote consumer recognition of this unfamiliar stone, they named it after its country of origin, Tanzania. Due to its popularity, tanzanite officially joined the December birthstone lineup (alongside turquoise and zircon) in 2002. Tanzanite also commemorates 24th wedding anniversaries.

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What Color Is Tanzanite? The Unique Pleochroism of This December Birthstone

Tanzanite's color question has a more complex answer than most birthstones. Tanzanite refers to transparent zoisite with a body color combining blue and violet hues. What makes tanzanite extraordinary is its pleochroism—the ability to show multiple colors simultaneously depending on viewing direction.

Tanzanite exhibits strong pleochroism with three distinct colors from three different angles:

• From one direction, it appears predominantly blue with violet undertones.
• From another angle, it shows more violet aspects, often modified with purple.
• A third perspective may reveal blue combined with purple.

This creates a mesmerizing, multidimensional effect that continually changes as you move the stone, further affected by ambient lighting. Every viewing of tanzanite jewelry reveals something new and dynamic.

The finest tanzanite stones may resemble sapphires with predominantly blue color from certain angles. Thanks to pleochroism, exceptional tanzanite may show isolated flashes of red. Gems with significant purple tend to cost less but remain popular and beautiful.

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Because of tanzanite's color variability, quality and value depend largely on color saturation rather than specific hue. Unfortunately, paler crystals occur more commonly than deeply colored specimens, making richly saturated examples quite rare.

Gemstone size also affects color saturation. In most cases:

• Smaller stones typically show less saturation than larger ones.
• Experts suggest gems must weigh at least five carats to achieve the finest color saturation.
• Larger crystals command higher price-per-carat costs due to their rarity and enhanced color.

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Cutting Choices and Color Trade-Offs in Tanzanite

Gem cutters face important decisions when faceting tanzanite rough because their orientation choice determines which pleochroic colors dominate from the face-up position. Cutters must decide on taking one of two approaches given below:

• Maximizing size by aligning the face-up position with the violet direction
• Emphasizing blue coloration (potentially more valuable) by sacrificing carat weight

Since larger tanzanites command higher prices, cutters typically prioritize size, explaining why most tanzanite jewelry emphasizes violet to purple colors.

Tanzanite typically exhibits perfect, eye-clean clarity, meaning no inclusions are visible without magnification. Given the abundance of eye-clean stones, those with visible inclusions have lower value.

Interestingly, newly mined tanzanite usually displays brown or yellow-green coloration. Heat treatment removes these unwanted hues and enhances the signature blue and violet colors. Unlike some gemstones whose value decreases with treatment, heated tanzanite maintains its value because:

• The treatment dramatically improves appearance.
• The crystal readily accepts heating with stable results.
• Treatment results are permanent and stable.
• The process often impossible to detect.

Tanzanite Meaning: Symbolism of This Modern December Birthstone

Being relatively new, tanzanite lacks the extensive historical lore of other birthstones. However, this hasn't diminished its popularity, with demand sometimes rivaling the "Big 3" gemstones: diamond, sapphire, and ruby.

Tanzanite's discovery has its own lore. A Masai tribesman found unusually colored crystals that shouldn't have been visible in their natural state. Some believe a lightning strike caused a wildfire that naturally heat-treated the gems, revealing their vibrant colors. This origin connects tanzanite to the wild power and magic of nature.

The colors tanzanite displays carry their own symbolic meanings:

• Blue represents spirituality, connecting to both heavens and life-giving water.
• Blue stones generally provide physical and emotional vitality.
• Purple signifies nobility and strength, historically associated with royalty. 
• Purple and violet connect to the Crown Chakra, representing wisdom and intuition.

With potential to display all three colors simultaneously, tanzanite offers special spiritual significance.

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Where Does Tanzanite Come From? The Single Source of This December Birthstone

Masai tribesman Ali Juuyawatu discovered tanzanite while traveling in Tanzania in 1967. He found beautiful gem clusters in the Merelani Hills region of the Lelatema Mountains. After contacting local prospector Manuel d'Souza, mining began before the gems were even identified. This small area near Mount Kilimanjaro remains the only known tanzanite source globally.

While the Merelani Hills have yielded enough tanzanite to establish global popularity, supply remains limited, making tanzanite rarer than diamond, sapphire, or ruby. Experts advise treasuring tanzanite jewelry because:

• All gem deposits eventually become exhausted.
• Availability will decrease over time.
• Some estimate supplies may deplete within a generation without finding the new deposits.

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Is Tanzanite Durable? Care Requirements

Tanzanite ranks 6 to 7 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it softer than diamond and sapphire but harder than some opal varieties. Tanzanite surfaces can scratch if rubbed against other objects and may chip from impacts. Protective settings help shield stones during wear, but it's advisable to remove tanzanite rings and bracelets during physical activities.

Tanzanite jewelry requires gentle cleaning:

• Use mild, soapy water with a soft cloth to prevent scratching.
• Avoid ultrasonic machines and steam cleaners due to tanzanite's temperature sensitivity. 
• Store separately from harder gemstones to prevent damage.

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Be sure to be gentle with your tanzanite jewelry during cleaning. It is best to use mild, soapy water with a soft cloth to avoid scratching the surface of the gem. Because tanzanite is sensitive to high temperatures, avoid ultrasonic machines and steam cleaners.

Tanzanite Rings and Jewelry: Selecting Quality Pieces

While daily wear of tanzanite rings and bracelets requires caution, tanzanite jewelry designs can be breathtaking. The rich color and excellent clarity create stunning pieces perfect for special occasions. Earrings and pendants face minimal damage risk and can be worn with confidence. Fortunately, tanzanite is available across price ranges, accommodating various budgets.

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Unlike diamonds, tanzanite lacks standardized grading, so laboratory reports will describe color, clarity, and cut quality rather than formal grades. If sellers use systems like A-AAAA, request specific explanations about what these designations mean for your stone.

Common tanzanite shapes include:

• Oval cuts that maximize color and carat weight. 
• Cushion cuts that balance brilliance and color saturation. 
• Emerald cuts with large table facets showcasing the gem's interior.

Cut quality is crucial for enhancing tanzanite's multidimensional color, so choose stones faceted with precision and care.

Industry professionals consider heat treatment acceptable for tanzanite, with approximately 95% of market stones heat-treated. Lower-quality tanzanites might be coated with compounds containing cobalt or titanium to enhance color and luster. These coated stones make poor jewelry choices because:

• Coatings conceal the stone's true appearance. 
• Surface treatments can scratch, discolor, or peel over time. 
• Reputable dealers always disclose coating treatments.

Frequently Asked Questions about Tanzanite

What makes tanzanite different from other December birthstones?

Tanzanite is unique for its rich blue-violet color and pleochroism—the ability to show different hues from different angles. First discovered in 1967, it's rarer than diamonds and only found in one place on Earth: Tanzania.

What color is tanzanite, and why does it appear to change?

Tanzanite displays a mix of blue, violet, and sometimes purple or red depending on lighting and viewing angle. This shifting effect is due to pleochroism, which gives the stone its dynamic and mesmerizing color play.

Is tanzanite a durable gem for everyday wear?

Tanzanite ranks 6-7 on the Mohs scale, so it's softer than many gems and can scratch or chip. Protective settings and gentle cleaning methods are the most secure—especially for rings and bracelets worn daily.

What does tanzanite symbolize?

Tanzanite represents spiritual growth, emotional vitality, and intuitive wisdom. Its mix of blue and violet connects to the Crown Chakra and symbolizes both serenity and strength.

Turquoise: Traditional December Birthstone With Ancient Heritage

Turquoise is the traditional December birthstone. This opaque blue-green mineral consists of hydrated copper phosphate and aluminum with a distinct tri-clinic structure. Turquoise can have a waxy touch or glassy to dull appearance.

Turquoise has been treasured as an ornamental stone for thousands of years across many cultures. Due to its relatively poor wearability, the highest grades are typically reserved for inlay work and carving. However, beautiful cabochon turquoise stones are available for jewelry including rings, necklaces, earrings, and bracelets. For jewelry applications, a strong setting like a bezel is recommended to protect this softer gemstone.

What Is the December Birthstone Color? Turquoise's Distinctive Blue-Green Hues

Turquoise is most famous for its signature blue hues, but these can vary considerably across specimens. Most popular options include:

• Bright blue-green represents the classic turquoise color most people recognize.
• Green to yellowish-green variations occur depending on mineral composition.
• Brown or black spots and streaks (matrix) often run through the stone, creating distinctive patterns.
• The matrix pattern is considered part of turquoise's unique character and appeal.

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What is the Turquoise Meaning?

The word "turquoise" derives from the French term "pierre tourques" or "Turkish stone," likely referring to the stone's Turkish trading origins. Turquoise has one of the longest histories among gemstones:

• First found in Egypt around 4000 BC, making it among the oldest known gemstones.
• Reached Europe through Turkish sources in the thirteenth century.
• Valued across numerous ancient civilizations including Egyptian, Persian, and Native American.

Turquoise symbolizes prosperity, love, and good fortune. Those interested in gemstone healing properties wear turquoise to:

• Boost positive energy in their surroundings.
• Promote feelings of happiness and contentment.
• Encourage honesty in relationships and communication.
• Enhance spiritual awareness and connection.

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Where Does Turquoise Come From?

Rich turquoise deposits occur in several regions worldwide:

• North America, particularly Nevada and Arizona, produces significant quantities.
• Egypt continues its ancient tradition of turquoise mining.
• Iran (historically Persia) yields some of the finest quality material.
• Bulgaria has notable deposits of varying quality.
• China produces substantial amounts for global markets.

Is Turquoise D urable?

Turquoise stone registers 5-6 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively soft for jewelry purposes. This softness presents several considerations:

• The stone can scratch and wear down over time with regular use.
• Porous varieties may absorb oils and change color with wear.
• Stabilizing treatments can improve durability for jewelry applications.
• Protective settings help shield the stone from damage.

Where Can You Buy Turquoise Jewelry? Finding Quality Pieces

Turquoise jewelry is widely available in various retail stores and can be conveniently purchased online from reputable sellers including Blue Nile and Angara. For those seeking a unique design, CustomMade offers bespoke turquoise jewelry created to your specifications.

When shopping for turquoise, consider:

• Color preferences from blue to green varieties.
• Whether you prefer clear stones or those with matrix patterns.
• Setting styles that will protect this softer gemstone.
• Treatment status, as many turquoise pieces undergo stabilization or enhancement.

Frequently Asked Questions About Turquoise

How much is Turquoise Worth?

The most valuable turquoise stones are bright blue with no spots or streaks; in other words, the color saturation and evenness drive the stone's value. However, some stones have patterns that are attractive and desirable to some consumers. Turquoise that appears green (from impurities) is less valuable but retains some popularity due to its unique color. Stones with a yellow tone (from iron) are the least valuable. Turquoise prices vary depending on the quality of the stone.Is turquoise a valuable gemstone? While not as expensive as diamonds or precious gems, high-quality natural turquoise can be quite valuable, especially pieces with vivid blue color, minimal matrix, and good hardness. Persian turquoise is particularly valuable.

How can I tell if turquoise is real?

Real turquoise has a specific gravity between 2.6-2.9 and registers 5-6 on the Mohs scale. It shouldn't feel like plastic, shouldn't smell of plastic when heated with a pin, and shouldn't dissolve in acetone. Professional gemological testing provides the most reliable authentication.

Does turquoise change color over time?

Yes, turquoise can change color over time due to its porous nature. It may absorb oils, soaps, and cosmetics, potentially darkening or developing a greenish tint. This process of "greening" is most common in untreated stones.

How should I care for my turquoise jewelry?

Clean turquoise gently with mild soap and water using a soft cloth. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners, harsh chemicals, and prolonged sun exposure. Store separately from harder gemstones to prevent scratching, and remove before swimming or using household cleaners.

Does turquoise fade in sunlight?

Yes, prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can cause turquoise to fade or change color over time, particularly lighter blue varieties. It's advisable to store turquoise jewelry away from direct sunlight when not being worn.

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