December’s birthstones offer a trio of dazzling gems with a beautiful blue hue: tanzanite, zircon, and turquoise. Each gem boasts a unique charm and history, making them perfect for those celebrating their birthday in the last month of the year—or anyone looking to add a touch of vibrant blue to their collection.
Tanzanite: A Rare and Exotic Beauty
Tanzanite, the rare blue-purple variety of zoisite, is found exclusively in Tanzania near Mount Kilimanjaro. Discovered in 1967, its striking color, caused by trace amounts of vanadium and extreme heat, ranges from pale blue to deep ultramarine with violet undertones. Due to its strong pleochroism, tanzanite can appear to be different colors when viewed from various angles, and the finest versions can show flashes of red. Most gems undergo heat treatment to enhance their vibrant blue hues.
Measuring 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, tanzanite is softer than sapphire, making it better suited for earrings and pendants. Its rarity and rich color make it highly prized beyond its December birthstone status.
Zircon: Bright and Brilliant
Zircon may not be as well-known as some other gems, but it shines just as brightly. Known for its exceptional brilliance and fire, zircon comes in many colors, but blue is by far the most popular for December babies. It’s often confused with synthetic cubic zirconia, but make no mistake—zircon is a natural gemstone that has been cherished for centuries.
Zircon is brittle, so it is best protected in earrings and pendants like tanzanite. Zircon’s fire exceeds that of diamonds, making it a wonderful option for those who love a vibrant, sparkling look.
Turquoise: Timeless and Tranquil
Turquoise has been adored for millennia, used in ancient jewelry by Egyptians, Persians, and Native Americans alike. Its sky-blue to greenish-blue shades evoke feelings of calm and protection. Turquoise is often seen in bohemian or southwestern styles, but it is versatile enough to feature in sleek fine jewelry designs as well.
A Celebration of Blue
Whether it’s the deep violet-blue of tanzanite, the bright fire of zircon, or the tranquil, earthy shades of turquoise, December’s birthstones offer a spectrum of blues to suit every taste. Each gem is a testament to the cool beauty of winter and the magic of this time of year.
Celebrate December with these stunning gems, perfect for December birthdays, holiday gifts, or adding a pop of blue brilliance to your jewelry wardrobe. Get started by finding an AGS jeweler near you!
