What's the Birthstone for December?

Written By Allie Perry December 5, 2024

We all know December can be a tough month to have a birthday…the day that should your own personal holiday gets lumped in with all of the seasonal holidays and doesn’t get the fanfare a birthday deserves.

But if you’re a December baby, you might feel better knowing you have some of the coolest options for your birthstone! 

December’s birthstones offer a stunning variety of colors, origins, and symbolism, perfect for winter birthdays. Unlike other months that have a single designated birthstone, December has three: turquoise, tanzanite, and zircon. Each gem has its own unique qualities, colors, and historical significance.

What are the Varieties and Colors of December’s Birthstones?

1. Turquoise

Turquoise is perhaps the most well-known of December’s birthstones. Its striking blue-green color has made it a cherished stone for centuries across cultures.

• Color: Ranges from sky blue to greenish-blue, with a matrix of darker veins from the surrounding rock. The purest, robin’s egg blue turquoise is highly prized, particularly from mines in the American Southwest and Iran.
• Varieties: Turquoise comes in different shades depending on the mineral content. Some stones have a web-like matrix of black, brown, or gold, adding a unique texture to the gem.

2. Tanzanite

Discovered only in the 1960s in Tanzania, tanzanite is a relatively recent addition to the world of gemstones, but it quickly became a favorite for its vivid color and rarity. It’s personally one of my favorite colored stones!

• Color: Tanzanite is best known for its rich, deep blue-violet hue. It can also shift colors, appearing more blue under fluorescent light and more violet under incandescent lighting.
• Varieties: Tanzanite is usually heat-treated to enhance its color, but high-quality untreated stones are rare and highly valued.

3. Zircon

Not to be confused with cubic zirconia, zircon is a naturally occurring gemstone with a rich history dating back to ancient times.

• Color: Zircon comes in a range of colors, but blue zircon is the most popular for December. Blue zircons can range from light pastel to deeper sky blue. Zircon also occurs in clear, green, yellow, brown, and even red shades.
• Varieties: Blue zircon is often heat-treated to bring out its brilliant color, while other varieties are valued for their natural hues.

What Do December Birthstones Symbolize?

1. Turquoise

• Protection and Healing: For centuries, turquoise has been seen as a protective stone, warding off negative energy and bringing good fortune. In Native American cultures, it was often used in amulets.
• Friendship and Luck: Turquoise is also said to promote friendship, balance emotions, and bring luck to the wearer. Its cool blue tones evoke a sense of calm and serenity.

2. Tanzanite

• Transformation and Spirituality: Tanzanite is often associated with spiritual growth and transformation. Its blue-violet color is thought to enhance communication and understanding, promoting harmony and inner peace.
• Rarity: Because tanzanite is mined in only one location in the world, it carries a sense of exclusivity and rarity, making it a prized gift.

3. Zircon

• Wisdom and Prosperity: Zircon is believed to bring wisdom, honor, and wealth to its wearer. Its dazzling brilliance has earned it a reputation for promoting clarity and self-confidence.
• Energy and Vitality: Known for its sparkle, zircon is also thought to bring energy and vitality, making it a perfect stone for renewal and new beginnings.

How Do I Care for December Birthstones?

1. Turquoise Care

• Cleaning: Turquoise is a relatively soft gemstone (5-6 on the Mohs scale) and can be porous. Avoid exposure to oils, perfumes, and harsh chemicals. Clean it with a soft cloth and mild soapy water, but don’t soak it for too long.
• Storage: Store turquoise in a cool, dry place, away from harder gemstones that may scratch it. Wrapping it in a soft cloth or placing it in a separate compartment is ideal.

2. Tanzanite Care

• Cleaning: Tanzanite has a hardness of 6-7 on the Mohs scale, so while it’s durable, it should still be treated with care. Clean tanzanite with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners or steamers, as they can damage the stone.
• Storage: Tanzanite should be stored separately from other stones to prevent scratching. A soft pouch or jewelry box works well for this gem.

3. Zircon Care

• Cleaning: Zircon is relatively durable (6-7.5 on the Mohs scale) but can be brittle. Clean with warm, soapy water and avoid ultrasonic cleaners, which may cause cracking.
• Storage: Store zircon jewelry away from harder gemstones to prevent chips and scratches. Wrapping it in a soft cloth or placing it in a separate jewelry compartment is recommended.

So whether you want the timeless look of turquoise, or you want the sparkle and brilliance of Tanzanite or Zircon, December’s birthstones offer a beautiful and varied selection, perfect for anyone born in the final month of the year.

And I certainly won’t judge you if you decide to celebrate with all three!