December, a month filled with joyous celebrations and reflections, is uniquely represented by not one. But three captivating birthstones: turquoise, tanzanite, and zircon. Each of these gemstones carries distinct colors and historical significances that make them special gifts for those born in the final month of the year. This blog post dives into the fascinating world of December’s birthstones, exploring their characteristics, origins, and why they hold such appeal.
Turquoise, known for its striking blue-green hue, is perhaps the most historically significant December birthstone. This gemstone has been treasured by numerous civilizations, from ancient Egyptians to Native Americans, who valued it for its supposed protective and healing properties. Turquoise is often associated with good fortune, peace, and protection, making it a popular choice in jewelry for its beauty as well as its symbolic meanings.
The process of jewelry filling is intricate and requires precise control. It begins with the preparation of the base metal, which is thoroughly cleaned to ensure that the bonding will be flawless. A sheet of precious metal, like gold or silver, is then wrapped around this base metal. The composite is then heated to a high temperature, which causes the metals to fuse together under intense pressure. The result is a billet or sandwich of metals, with the precious metal forming a thick layer on the outside.
Discovered in the late 1960s near Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, tanzanite is a relatively new addition to the gemstone market but has quickly risen in popularity. It’s known for its vibrant blue color, often with a purple tinge that adds depth and intrigue. The exclusivity of its geographic origin makes tanzanite a particularly prized December birthstone.
Tanzanite’s rarity is a key part of its appeal, as it is found in only one location worldwide. This rarity, coupled with its stunning color and crystal clarity, makes tanzanite a sought-after gem for high-end jewelry. It symbolizes uniqueness and is often given as a gemstone that marks special occasions beyond just birthdays, such as anniversaries.
Zircon is the most diverse of the Dec birthstones. It can be found in a range of colors, from clear to green, but the most favored shade for December is the vibrant blue. Zircon is highly reflective and rivals diamonds in terms of brilliance and fire, making it an attractive, less expensive alternative for those seeking a bit of sparkle.
Historically, zircon has been used in a variety of decorative and protective artifacts. It is believed to aid in resting, bring prosperity and promote honor and wisdom in its wearer. This makes blue zircon not only a beautiful choice for jewelry but also a meaningful gift imbued with positive qualities.
The December birthstones—turquoise, tanzanite, and zircon—offer a range of options that reflect the month’s festive spirit and the winter season’s serene beauty. Each stone brings its own unique story and set of characteristics that can be personalized for anyone celebrating a December birthday. Whether chosen for their historical significance, stunning colors, or reflective qualities, these gemstones provide a special way to end the year with a gift of lasting beauty.
