December Birthstone: Beyond Blue - Turquoise, Tanzanite, and Blue Topaz for Every Style
December babies, you're fortunate to have not just one, but three stunning birthstone options that span the entire spectrum of blue beauty. Whether you're drawn to the earthy, bohemian charm of turquoise, the rare mystique of what I like to call "lavender denim" tanzanite, or the brilliant versatility of blue topaz, your birth month offers something magical for every aesthetic.
As someone who works extensively with these stones, I can tell you that each brings its own personality and story. Turquoise connects you to ancient civilizations and earth's raw beauty, tanzanite offers you a gemstone so rare it's found in only one place on Earth, and blue topaz provides brilliant options from sky-light delicate to deep London sophistication.
Let me guide you through these three magnificent options so you can find the December birthstone that truly speaks to your soul.
The Traditional Choice: Turquoise
Turquoise is one of humanity's oldest treasured gemstones, with evidence of turquoise jewelry dating back over 7,000 years. Ancient Egyptians buried turquoise with their pharaohs, believing it would guide them safely to the afterlife. Native American cultures considered turquoise a bridge between earth and sky, a stone that connected the physical and spiritual worlds.
What I love most about turquoise is its honest, unpolished beauty. Unlike gemstones that are prized for their perfection, turquoise is celebrated for its natural character - the matrix patterns, the variations in color, the way each stone tells the story of where it formed deep in the earth.
Turquoise characteristics:
- Opaque to semi-translucent
- Blue to green-blue colors with natural variations
- Often contains host rock matrix (veining patterns)
- Hardness: 5-6 on Mohs scale
- Waxy to sub-vitreous luster
- Porous and often stabilized for jewelry use
Why turquoise captivates:
- No two stones are exactly alike
- Rich cultural and spiritual history
- Bohemian, artistic aesthetic
- Pairs beautifully with both silver and gold
- Connects you to ancient traditions
The Geography of Turquoise: Reading the Story in Each Stone
One of the most fascinating aspects of turquoise is that experts can identify the mine of origin just by examining the stone's characteristics! Each deposit produces turquoise with distinctive color, matrix patterns, and hardness that serve as geological fingerprints.
Persian (Iranian) Turquoise:
- Intense, pure blue color often called "robin's egg blue"
- Minimal to no matrix (host rock veining)
- High hardness and density
- Considered the gold standard for turquoise quality
- Often has a porcelain-like appearance when polished
- The term "Persian blue" comes from these legendary mines
Pakistani Turquoise:
- Beautiful blue to blue-green colors
- Often displays attractive spider web matrix patterns
- Good hardness and takes a nice polish
- Can range from sky blue to deeper teal tones
- Matrix patterns create natural artistic designs
- Excellent value for high-quality turquoise
American Southwest Turquoise (for comparison):
- Sleeping Beauty (Arizona): Pure blue, no matrix, similar to Persian
- Royston (Nevada): Green to blue with golden-brown matrix
- Carico Lake (Nevada): Bright lime green to blue-green
- Kingman (Arizona): Blue with black matrix webbing
The beauty of working with different turquoise sources is that each brings its own character to jewelry. Persian turquoise offers that classic, pure blue that's been treasured for millennia, while Pakistani stones provide the natural artistry of matrix patterns that make each piece completely unique.
The Rare Beauty: Tanzanite
Tanzanite is one of the most remarkable gemstone discoveries of the 20th century. Found only in a small area near Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, this stone is literally a thousand times rarer than diamond. When I describe tanzanite to clients, I often call it "lavender denim" because it captures that unique blue-purple color that shifts depending on the light.
The stone was discovered in 1967 by a Maasai tribesman who noticed blue crystals sparkling in the sun after a lightning strike had burned away brush from the hillside. Tiffany & Co. recognized its beauty immediately and named it after its country of origin, launching it into the world of fine jewelry.
Tanzanite characteristics:
- Pleochroic (shows different colors from different angles)
- Blue to violet-blue to bluish-purple
- Excellent clarity and brilliance
- Hardness: 6-7 on Mohs scale
- Heat-treated to enhance blue color
- Found only in Tanzania
The "lavender denim" effect:
- In daylight: More blue, like faded denim
- In incandescent light: More purple, like lavender
- From different angles: Shifts between blue, purple, and burgundy
- This color-changing property makes each piece dynamic and alive
Why tanzanite is special:
- Rarer than diamond - single source location
- Beautiful alternative for those who want blue with purple mystique
- Excellent clarity allows for brilliant cuts
- Modern discovery with romantic origin story
- Investment potential due to finite supply
Understanding Tanzanite Quality
Color saturation: The most valuable tanzanite displays vivid blue with purple flashes. Pale stones are beautiful but less valuable than deeply saturated gems.
Clarity: Tanzanite typically has excellent clarity. Eye-clean stones are the standard, making included stones less desirable.
Cut: Proper cutting maximizes tanzanite's pleochroism and brilliance. The stone should be oriented to show the best blue face-up.
Size: Larger tanzanites (over 5 carats) show color saturation better than smaller stones and are particularly prized.
The Versatile Option: Blue Topaz
Blue topaz offers December babies the widest range of blue options in the gemstone world. While topaz occurs naturally in many colors, most blue topaz is created through treatment of colorless topaz, resulting in stable, beautiful blues that range from pale sky to deep London tones.
What makes blue topaz exceptional is its combination of beauty, durability, and affordability. With excellent hardness (8 on Mohs scale) and brilliant clarity, blue topaz provides luxury gemstone qualities at accessible prices.
Blue topaz characteristics:
- Excellent clarity and brilliance
- Hardness: 8 on Mohs scale (very durable)
- Stable color that won't fade
- Available in multiple blue shades
- Good size availability
- Excellent value for quality
The Blue Topaz Color Spectrum
Sky Blue Topaz:
- Pale, delicate blue reminiscent of clear skies
- Perfect for everyday wear and professional settings
- Pairs beautifully with both silver and gold
- Ideal for those who prefer subtle, elegant color
- Excellent for layering with other blues
Swiss Blue Topaz:
- Medium blue with excellent saturation
- Vibrant without being overwhelming
- Perfect balance between sky and London blue
- Versatile for both casual and formal wear
- Popular choice for statement pieces
London Blue Topaz:
- Deep, rich blue with slight gray undertones
- Sophisticated and dramatic
- Perfect for evening wear and special occasions
- Pairs exceptionally well with white metals
- Makes a strong style statement
Why choose blue topaz:
- Exceptional durability for daily wear
- Wide range of blue options to match personal style
- Excellent clarity and brilliance
- Affordable luxury
- No special care requirements
Historical Significance and Cultural Connections
Turquoise Through the Ages
Turquoise has been treasured across cultures for millennia. Ancient Egyptians used turquoise in jewelry for pharaohs and in decorative inlays. The name comes from "pierre turquoise," meaning "Turkish stone," because trade routes brought Persian turquoise to Europe through Turkey.
Native American traditions hold turquoise as sacred, believing it connects earth and sky. Many tribes consider turquoise a protective stone that brings good fortune and health. In Persian culture, turquoise was believed to change color to warn of danger or illness.
Tanzanite's Modern Romance
Despite being recently discovered, tanzanite has quickly developed its own lore. In Maasai tradition, blue stones are associated with new life and birth. The discovery story of tanzanite - found after lightning cleared the ground - adds to its mystical appeal.
Tiffany & Co.'s marketing positioned tanzanite as "more rare than diamond," which is factually true. The finite nature of the deposits (estimated to be depleted within decades) adds urgency and value to tanzanite ownership.
Topaz Throughout History
Topaz has been valued since ancient times, though blue topaz is a modern development. The ancient Greeks believed topaz could increase strength and make the wearer invisible in emergencies. Romans associated topaz with Jupiter, king of the gods.
The name "topaz" may come from Sanskrit "tapas," meaning fire, or from the Greek island of Topazios (now Zabargad) in the Red Sea, though that island actually produced peridot, not topaz.
Caring for Your December Birthstone
Turquoise Care (High Maintenance)
Turquoise requires careful handling due to its porous nature and relative softness:
Daily care:
- Remove before swimming, showering, or exercising
- Avoid contact with oils, perfumes, and cosmetics
- Clean gently with dry or barely damp soft cloth
- Never use soap, chemicals, or ultrasonic cleaners
- Store separately to prevent scratching
Long-term care:
- Have stabilized turquoise checked periodically
- Avoid prolonged sunlight exposure
- Professional cleaning should be rare and gentle
- Re-stabilization may be needed over decades
Signs your turquoise needs attention:
- Color appearing to fade or change
- Surface becoming chalky or rough
- Matrix areas showing wear or separation
Tanzanite Care (Moderate to High Maintenance)
Tanzanite's beauty requires careful protection:
Daily care:
- Remove before physical activities or manual work
- Clean with warm soapy water and soft brush
- Avoid sudden temperature changes
- Never use ultrasonic or steam cleaners
- Store separately from harder gemstones
Storage and handling:
- Wrap in soft cloth or keep in padded compartments
- Avoid impacts or pressure
- Check settings regularly for security
- Professional cleaning annually recommended
Tanzanite vulnerabilities:
- Can chip or crack if hit hard
- Sensitive to heat (already heat-treated)
- Perfect cleavage means it can split along crystal planes
Blue Topaz Care (Low Maintenance)
Blue topaz is one of the most durable gemstones:
Daily care:
- Clean with warm soapy water and soft brush
- Ultrasonic cleaning is generally safe
- Steam cleaning usually acceptable (check with jeweler)
- Durable enough for everyday wear
- Remove during heavy physical activities
Storage:
- Store separately to prevent scratching softer stones
- Regular jewelry box storage is fine
- Check settings periodically for security
Blue topaz advantages:
- Stable color that won't fade or change
- Hard enough to resist scratching in normal wear
- No special storage or handling requirements
- Can handle most standard jewelry cleaning methods
Choosing Your Perfect December Birthstone
Lifestyle Considerations
Choose turquoise if:
- You love bohemian, artistic aesthetics
- You appreciate natural, earthy beauty
- You enjoy stones with cultural and spiritual significance
- You prefer opaque stones with character and variation
- You're drawn to southwestern or vintage styling
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Choose tanzanite if:
- You want something rare and exclusive
- You love color-changing, dynamic gemstones
- You prefer purple mystique over straight blue
- You want a modern gemstone with romantic discovery story
- You appreciate investment potential in your jewelry
- Shop Tanzanite >>
Choose blue topaz if:
- You want maximum durability for daily wear
- You prefer brilliant, clear gemstones
- You like having multiple shade options within one stone type
- You want luxury appearance at accessible prices
- You need a low-maintenance gemstone option
- Shop Topaz >>
Style and Metal Pairing
Turquoise styling:
- With silver: Classic southwestern, bohemian elegance
- With gold: Warm, vintage-inspired looks
- With rose gold: Artisan, handcrafted aesthetic
- Best settings: Bezels, southwestern designs, statement pieces
Tanzanite styling:
- With white gold/platinum: Enhances cool blue tones
- With yellow gold: Warms the purple undertones
- With rose gold: Creates romantic, feminine appeal
- Best settings: Classic solitaires, vintage-inspired, elegant designs, statement pieces
Blue topaz styling:
- Sky blue: Any metal, perfect for layering
- Swiss blue: Especially beautiful in white metals
- London blue: Stunning in white gold or platinum
- Best settings: Any style works, from casual to formal
Investment and Rarity Considerations
Turquoise Value Factors
- Source matters: Persian and high-grade American turquoise hold value best
- Natural vs. stabilized: Natural stones command higher prices
- Matrix patterns: Attractive webbing can increase value
- Size and quality: Large, high-grade pieces are increasingly rare
Tanzanite Investment Potential
- Single source: Only one mine in the world
- Finite supply: Estimated depletion within decades
- Size significance: Larger stones (5+ carats) have better investment potential
- Quality factors: Vivid color and excellent clarity essential for value
Blue Topaz Market Position
- Treated stones: Most blue topaz is treated, which is standard and accepted
- Stable market: Consistent demand and supply
- Affordable luxury: Excellent value for size and quality
- London blue premium: Deeper blues typically command higher prices
Custom Design Ideas for December Birthstones
Turquoise Custom Pieces
- Southwestern statement rings featuring large turquoise cabochons
- Layering necklaces with natural turquoise beads
- Bohemian earrings showcasing matrix patterns
- Mixed-metal cuffs combining turquoise with silver and gold accents
Tanzanite Custom Pieces
- Elegant solitaire rings that showcase color-changing properties
- Vintage-inspired pendants with diamond accents
- Modern geometric earrings in white gold settings
- Three-stone designs featuring tanzanite as the center stone
Blue Topaz Custom Pieces
- Cocktail rings in bold London blue
- Tennis bracelets featuring graduated blue topaz
- Layered necklaces mixing different blue topaz shades
- Modern stud earrings in Swiss or sky blue
The Seasonal Connection: December's Cool Beauty
December birthstones perfectly capture the essence of winter - the cool blues of ice and sky, the mystical purples of twilight, and the earthy beauty of winter landscapes. Each stone offers a different interpretation of December's character:
Turquoise connects you to winter's grounding energy, the way snow reveals the earth's natural contours and brings attention to the lasting beauty beneath seasonal changes.
Tanzanite captures winter twilight - those magical moments when daylight fades to purple and the sky seems to hold all colors at once.
Blue topaz reflects winter's brilliant clarity - the way cold air makes everything sharp and clear, from pale morning sky to deep evening blue.
Modern December Birthstone Philosophy
Your December birthstone should reflect not just your birth month, but your personal relationship with winter's beauty. Are you drawn to the earthy mysticism of turquoise, with its ancient wisdom and natural imperfections? Do you prefer the rare luxury of tanzanite, with its "lavender denim" mystique that shifts like winter light? Or does the brilliant clarity and versatility of blue topaz speak to your practical side while still honoring December's cool palette?
The beauty of having three distinct options is that you can choose based on your lifestyle, aesthetic preferences, and personal story. Some December babies collect all three, wearing turquoise for creative expression, tanzanite for special occasions, and blue topaz for everyday elegance.
Regional and Cultural Considerations
Turquoise Around the World
Different cultures have developed unique relationships with turquoise:
- Persian traditions: Turquoise set in gold was believed to protect against the evil eye
- Native American cultures: Each tribe has specific traditions around turquoise use and meaning
- Tibetan practices: Turquoise is considered one of the most sacred stones
- Modern Southwest: Turquoise represents artistic heritage and natural beauty
Tanzanite's Global Appeal
Despite its recent discovery, tanzanite has quickly gained international recognition:
- Tiffany marketing: Positioned as "more rare than diamond"
- Investment collecting: Growing appreciation for finite gemstones
- Modern luxury: Appeals to those seeking unique, contemporary options
- Color psychology: Blue-purple combination appeals across cultures
Blue Topaz Worldwide
Blue topaz has found acceptance globally due to its:
- Consistent availability: Reliable supply and quality
- Cultural neutrality: No specific cultural associations to navigate
- Versatile appeal: Works across different style preferences
- Accessibility: Available at various price points
Collecting December Birthstones
Building a December Collection
Start with your heart: Choose the stone that immediately speaks to you
Add for versatility: Consider how different stones serve different occasions
Think long-term: Build a collection that grows with your style evolution
Suggested progression:
- First piece: Choose your favorite stone in your preferred setting style
- Second piece: Add a different December stone for variety
- Third piece: Complete the trio or add a special version of your favorite
- Beyond: Explore different cuts, settings, or qualities within your preferred stones
Mixing December Birthstones
Complementary combinations:
- Turquoise and blue topaz: Earthy meets brilliant
- Tanzanite and blue topaz: Mystical meets classic
- All three together: Complete December representation
Styling tips for mixing:
- Keep metals consistent within one look if that's your style
- Vary the intensities (pale sky blue with deep London blue)
- Use different textures (matte turquoise with brilliant topaz)
- Consider proportion and scale when layering
December Birthstone Gifting Guide
For the Bohemian Spirit
Turquoise gifts:
- Handcrafted statement rings with Persian turquoise
- Layering necklaces featuring Pakistani matrix patterns
- Southwestern-inspired cuff bracelets
- Artistic earrings showcasing natural variations
For the Luxury Lover
Tanzanite gifts:
- Classic solitaire pendants that showcase color-change
- Elegant drop earrings in white gold
- Sophisticated cocktail rings
- Vintage-inspired designs with diamond accents
For the Practical Enthusiast
Blue topaz gifts:
- Durable rings for daily wear
- Simple stud earrings
- Versatile pendant necklaces
- Modern geometric designs
Seasonal Styling with December Birthstones
Winter Styling
Embrace the season:
- Layer turquoise with winter whites and creams
- Let tanzanite complement deep purples and grays
- Use blue topaz to echo winter skies and ice
Holiday Celebrations
Festive approaches:
- Turquoise with warm golds for bohemian holiday style
- Tanzanite with silver and white for elegant celebrations
- Blue topaz with crystals and diamonds for sparkling festivities
Year-Round Wearing
Seasonal transitions:
- Spring: Turquoise with fresh greens and whites
- Summer: Blue topaz with whites and light metals
- Fall: Tanzanite with rich purples and warm metals
- Winter: All three stones celebrate the season of your birth
Conclusion: Celebrating December's Diverse Beauty
Being a December baby means you have access to three distinctly different but equally beautiful birthstone options. Whether you're drawn to turquoise's ancient wisdom and earthy beauty, tanzanite's rare "lavender denim" mystique, or blue topaz's brilliant versatility, your birth month offers something truly special.
The key is understanding that your birthstone choice should reflect your personal story, not just calendar tradition. Turquoise connects you to thousands of years of human artistry and spiritual practice. Tanzanite makes you part of a modern gemstone discovery story that's still being written. Blue topaz offers you brilliant beauty that adapts to every aspect of your life.
Some December babies find their perfect stone immediately, while others enjoy exploring all three options over time. There's no wrong choice - only the opportunity to find the stone that makes you feel most like yourself.
Your December birthstone should capture the magic of your birth month while celebrating your individual journey. Whether that's turquoise's bohemian spirit, tanzanite's rare elegance, or blue topaz's brilliant practicality, you're choosing a stone that will carry both the beauty of December and the story of who you are.
As winter's shortest days remind us to appreciate light and beauty wherever we find it, your December birthstone becomes a daily reminder of that same appreciation - a piece of captured winter sky that you can carry with you throughout all seasons.
Ready to discover your perfect December birthstone? I work with high-quality Persian and Pakistani turquoise, rare tanzanite, and brilliant blue topaz in all shades from sky to London blue. Whether you're drawn to one stone or want to explore all three options, let's create a piece that celebrates your December birth month in exactly the way that speaks to your heart. Browse my December birthstone collection or contact me to discuss custom options that capture your unique style.
