December Birthstones: Tanzanite, Zircon, and Turquoise—A Trio of Colour and History

December is a magical month, filled with the chill of winter and the warmth of festive celebrations. If you were born in this frosty month, you’re lucky enough to have three vibrant birthstones: Tanzanite, Zircon, and Turquoise. Each of these gems brings its own unique charm and history, making them the perfect gift for December birthdays or simply a beautiful addition to your jewellery collection.

Let’s explore the origins, meanings, and care tips for these captivating December birthstones.

The Origins of Tanzanite, Zircon, and Turquoise

Tanzanite is a relatively new gemstone, discovered in 1967 in the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. This striking gem was named after its country of origin and quickly became one of the most sought-after stones in the world. Its deep blue and violet hues are what make Tanzanite so special, often compared to sapphires for their rich, intense colour.

Zircon, on the other hand, has a much longer history. It has been used for over 4,000 years, with early deposits found in Australia, Sri Lanka, and Thailand. Zircon comes in a variety of colours, including blue, green, red, and yellow, but blue zircon is particularly favoured for December birthstone jewellery.

Turquoise is one of the oldest known gemstones, dating back more than 5,000 years. Ancient Egyptians, Persians, and Native Americans all prized turquoise for its striking blue-green colour and protective powers. Turquoise deposits are found in places like Iran, Egypt, Mexico, and the southwestern United States, making it a stone with deep cultural significance.

Durability: How These Stones Stack Up on the Mohs Scale

When choosing birthstone jewellery, it’s important to know how durable the stones are for everyday wear. Here’s where December’s gems fall on the Mohs scale:

• Tanzanite ranks at 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale, making it a softer gemstone that requires some care. While beautiful, it’s best suited for earrings or pendants where there’s less risk of impact or scratching.
• Zircon has a hardness of 7.5, making it more durable than tanzanite but still requiring care to avoid chips or scratches. It’s a good choice for rings, but avoid heavy wear.
• Turquoise ranks at 5 to 6, making it the softest of the three. Due to its lower hardness, turquoise jewellery is best worn in protective settings, such as necklaces or earrings, to prevent damage.
  
  
  

Historical Significance and Symbolism

Each of December’s birthstones carries its own fascinating history and symbolism.

• Tanzanite is a relatively new stone but has quickly become associated with transformation and self-awareness. Its deep blue hue is believed to stimulate the third-eye chakra, enhancing intuition and spiritual growth.

• Zircon has long been connected with protection and healing. Ancient travellers wore it as a talisman for safe journeys, and it was believed to ward off evil spirits. Blue zircon, in particular, is said to bring peace, wisdom, and prosperity to its wearer.

• Turquoise has been revered for thousands of years across multiple cultures. In ancient Persia, turquoise was thought to protect against the evil eye, while Native American tribes believed the stone could connect the physical world to the spiritual realm. Turquoise is often seen as a stone of protection, good fortune, and healing.
  
  
  

The Meaning Behind These Gems

• Tanzanite is often seen as a stone of transformation, symbolizing new beginnings and spiritual insight. Its vibrant colour is thought to connect wearers to their intuition and higher consciousness, making it a popular choice for those on a personal journey of growth and self-discovery.

• Zircon symbolises purity, protection, and clarity. It is often associated with wisdom and emotional balance, helping its wearer find peace in turbulent times. Blue zircon, in particular, is thought to bring tranquillity and inspire compassion.

• Turquoise symbolises protection, healing, and luck. Its calming blue-green colour is said to bring serenity and good fortune, making it a meaningful stone for anyone seeking balance and peace in their life.
  
  

How to Clean and Care for Tanzanite, Zircon, and Turquoise

To ensure that your December birthstone jewellery remains as radiant as the day you got it, proper care is essential. Each stone has its own cleaning needs:

• Cleaning Tanzanite: Tanzanite is sensitive to sudden temperature changes and chemicals. Use warm, soapy water and a soft cloth to clean your tanzanite jewellery. Avoid steam and ultrasonic cleaners, as they may cause damage.

• Cleaning Zircon: Zircon is a durable stone but can be brittle, so handle it with care. Clean with mild soap and warm water, using a soft brush to gently remove any dirt. Ultrasonic cleaners are safe for zircon, but avoid steam cleaning.

• Cleaning Turquoise: Turquoise is a porous stone, so it should not be exposed to chemicals, oils, or excessive moisture. Simply wipe your turquoise jewellery with a soft, damp cloth after wearing, and avoid ultrasonic or steam cleaners. To preserve its colour, store turquoise away from direct sunlight.

Tanzanite, zircon, and turquoise offer a trio of stunning colours and rich history, making them perfect birthstones for December. Whether you’re drawn to the vibrant blue of tanzanite, the wisdom of zircon, or the protective energy of turquoise, each stone offers something special.

Whether you're buying a gift or treating yourself, December's birthstones bring beauty, history, and meaning into every piece of jewellery.

Interested in exploring these beautiful gems? CLICK HERE to browse our December birthstone jewellery collection and find the perfect piece to celebrate your unique connection to these stones!