December Birthstones: All About Turquoise, Tanzanite & Zircon

If you were fortunate enough to be born in December, you have access to one of the most beautiful birthstone selections. In contrast to most months that are associated with a single gem, the December birthstone is available in three brilliant varieties: zircon, tanzanite, and turquoise. Blue topaz is also frequently included as a contemporary favorite. Because every stone has a unique story, meaning, and sparkle, December babies have the opportunity to choose the gem that best suits their character.

These stones all have dazzling blue hues, from the earthy sky tones of turquoise to the captivating violet-blue of tanzanite to the brilliant fire of zircon. Let’s dive into what makes the December birthstone so special, from ancient history to modern jewelry styles.

History of December Birthstones

These stones all have dazzling blue hues, from the earthy sky tones of turquoise to the captivating violet-blue of tanzanite to the brilliant fire of zircon.

History of Turquoise

Turquoise frequently comes to mind when considering a traditional December birthstone. For thousands of years, people have valued this gemstone. According to the GIA, turquoise is a mineral that ranges in color from robin's-egg blue to green and is opaque to semi-translucent. It frequently has a "matrix" of dark veins.

Turquoise has been considered a protective stone for centuries. Pharaohs wore it as a sign of authority in ancient Egypt. Native American cultures also held it in high regard; according to Pueblo stories, turquoise was a gem that fell directly from the sky, and Apache legends stated that you could locate it by following a rainbow. In addition to its striking beauty, turquoise jewelry is still prized today for its associations with safety, good fortune, and health.

Today's turquoise is more readily available than ever before because a large portion of it comes from China's Hubei Province. Whether it's worn as a delicate pendant or a chunky silver ring, turquoise always looks good.

History of Tanzanite

Tanzanite is a recent addition to the list of birthstones, in contrast to turquoise. It was first found in Tanzania's Merelani Hills in 1962, and its vivid blue-violet colors immediately made it famous. All tanzanite originates from this one area, making it an extremely rare gem.

Tanzanite's transformational process is what makes it so intriguing. The crystal is naturally brown, but after being heated, its rich violet-blue hues become visible. This alteration is irreversible and gives tanzanite a contemporary yet enchanted glow.

Tanzanite is associated with spiritual development and metamorphosis. Many people think it promotes inner harmony and clarity, which makes it a significant birthstone for December for people looking to start over or grow personally. (2)

Tanzanite shines best in necklaces or earrings that are less likely to get bumps or scratches because it is slightly softer than other gems (1). Tanzanite is the birthstone for you if you're looking for something unique, modern, and profound.

History of Zircon

Natural zircon is one of the oldest minerals on Earth, having existed for over 4 billion years. It should not be confused with synthetic cubic zirconia. It's also among the best. Indeed, one of zircon's distinguishing characteristics is its fiery sparkle (1).

The majority of blue zircon is initially brown before being heated to reveal its icy hues. Zircon is a show-stopper in rings and statement pieces because, when cut properly, it can rival a diamond in brilliance (2).

Zircon is believed to provide prosperity, clarity, and self-assurance on a spiritual level. According to some customs, it even improves intuition and promotes sound sleep (3). Zircon is the stone that combines timeless mystery with unquestionable sparkle for December birthdays.

December Birthstone Meanings

These jewels have historical, symbolic, and personal significance (1) in addition to their aesthetic value. Wearing your birthstone in December is more than just a fashion statement; it's a way to express who you are.

Turquoise Meaning

Rich in symbolism, turquoise frequently stands for emotional equilibrium, serenity, and protection. Throughout history, turquoise has been used as a talisman to ward off bad luck and bring good fortune. Turquoise has long been revered by Native American cultures as a stone that unites the material and spiritual realms.

These days, wearing turquoise jewelry is believed to improve communication, calm the wearer, and encourage peace of mind. They frequently represent devotion and a genuine bond when given as gifts. (2)

Tanzanite Meaning

Tanzanite jewelries are often seen as symbols of transformation, intuition, and spiritual clarity. With their deep, shifting tones, they represent depth of perception and the journey from thought to action.

This gemstone is commonly associated with emotional balance and self-expression, making tanzanite earrings ideal for those seeking meaningful, calming, and elevated adornment. As a gift, they signify uniqueness, wisdom, and inner truth. (2)

Zircon Meaning

Zircon gemstones carry rich symbolism across many cultures. They are often linked with honesty, integrity, and clarity, given their sparkling appearance and transparent quality. In folklore, zircon has been used as a talisman to promote prosperity, wisdom, and protection. During the Middle Ages, it was believed to help induce peaceful sleep, drive away evil, and encourage honor and virtue. (2)

Where Are Turquoise, Tanzanite, and Zircon Gems Found?

Where is Turquoise Found?

The most well-known deposits of turquoise can be found in areas with a rich cultural past. Turquoise forms in arid climates. Iran has long been known for producing some of the most valuable turquoise, which frequently has a striking sky-blue color and little veining. For centuries, turquoise has been prized in the Nishapur district in particular.

The Southwest region of the United States is particularly rich in turquoise, with Arizona, Nevada, and New Mexico producing fine stones that are used in Native American jewelry. Although it is now closed, Arizona's Sleeping Beauty mine was well-known for its vivid robin's egg-blue stones. These areas' turquoise still have enormous cultural and economic value today. Mexico, China, and Egypt are additional significant suppliers that offer distinctive characteristics to the world market for turquoise. (6)

Where is Tanzanite Found?

Tanzanite's uniqueness is what makes it so uncommon. Tanzanite is only found in the Merelani Hills of northern Tanzania, close to Mount Kilimanjaro. This is in contrast to gems, which are found all over the world. Its value and mystique are enhanced by its distinctive geographic origin.

Its limited origin increases its desirability, similar to that of Colombian emeralds or Burmese rubies, but with the added rarity of being geographically restricted to a single location. Geologists estimate that the supply of tanzanite could be depleted within the next century, making it a true “one-generation gemstone.” (7)

Where is Zircon Found?

There are several places in the world where zircon is mined, and each one has its own special characteristics and hues. Some of the best blue zircon is produced in Cambodia and Myanmar, thanks to meticulous heat treatments that bring out the stone's inherent brilliance. Another significant source is Sri Lanka, which produces a variety of colors, such as reddish, green, and golden tones.

However, Australia is unique in that it is home to some of the oldest zircon crystals in the world, which date back billions of years. In addition to their scientific significance, these ancient zircons are prized for their durability and brilliance in jewelry. Zircon is still available to gem enthusiasts worldwide thanks to additional deposits in Vietnam, Mozambique, and Madagascar. (5)

Interesting Facts About December Birthstones

Interesting Facts About Tanzanite

-Tanzanite was discovered in 1967 and named by Tiffany & Co. after its country of origin.
-It is found only in one place—a 4 km strip in the Merelani Hills of northern Tanzania.
-The gemstone is pleochroic, showing different colors when viewed from different angles.
-Tanzanite is up to 1,000 times rarer than diamonds, with experts predicting limited supply within a few decades.
-It is one of the three modern December birthstones, alongside turquoise and zircon.

Interesting Facts About Zircon

-Zircon was once widely used as a diamond simulant because of its brilliance and fire.
-Zircon has a very wide color palette: red zircons (sometimes called hyacinth), golden, earthy browns, blue, green, and colorless. Some of the more unusual tones are collector’s pieces.
-It is one of the birthstones for December, along with turquoise and tanzanite.
-Some zircons are extremely old—Australian zircon crystals have been dated over 4.4 billion years, making them among the oldest known minerals.
-The name “zircon” is believed to come from Persian or Arabic roots meaning gold-colored, reflecting its historic association with yellow-gold tones.

Interesting Facts About Turquoise

-Turquoise is one of the oldest known gemstones, dating back over 5,000 years.
-The name "turquoise" comes from the French word "turquois", meaning "Turkish," due to trade routes through Turkey.
-Turquoise was revered by Aztecs, Egyptians, and Native Americans for its spiritual significance.
-It is the traditional birthstone for December and the 11th wedding anniversary gem.
-Some turquoise contains a “matrix” or spiderweb pattern that adds uniqueness and character to the stone (1).

December Birthstone All About Turquoise, Tanzanite, Zircon

What Colors Are December Birthstones & Proper Fashion Pairings

These stones all have dazzling blue hues, from the earthy sky tones of turquoise to the captivating violet-blue of tanzanite to the brilliant fire of zircon.

Turquoise Gem Colors & Pairings

Turquoise’s vivid blue-green tones pair beautifully with a variety of colors and metals:

Metals: Looks stunning in both silver and yellow gold settings. Silver enhances cool tones, while gold adds warmth and contrast
Neutrals: White, cream, beige, and black make turquoise pop
Earth Tones: Colors like rust, tan, and olive green harmonize with turquoise’s natural feel.
Jewel Tones: Deep navy, burgundy, and amethyst create rich and elegant contrasts.
Pastels: Soft shades like mint, lavender, and blush pink offer a delicate, bohemian look.

Turquoise is a statement gem, so keeping the surrounding colors understated often allows it to shine even more brilliantly.

Tanzanite Colors & Pairings

Tanzanite’s striking blue-violet color offers a versatile and elegant palette for styling:

Metals: White gold and platinum create a cool, modern contrast. Rose gold softens the violet tones. Yellow gold offers a warm, vintage-inspired look.
Clothing Colors: Works beautifully with neutrals like ivory, gray, and navy, as well as rich jewel tones like emerald, plum, and burgundy.
Gemstone Pairings: Complements diamonds, sapphires, and opals in multi-stone designs.

Tanzanite gemstones make a statement, so pairing them with understated tones allows their unique brilliance to stand out.

Zircon Colors & Pairings

Zircon’s versatile range of color allows many stylish combinations:

Metal settings:
-White gold or platinum to enhance cooler tones (blue, white/colorless zircon)
-Yellow gold to complement warm zircons (golden, red, brown)
-Rose gold for romantic contrast, especially with yellow/golden or pinkish hues
Clothing colors: Neutrals (white, cream, beige, charcoal, black) make zircon’s sparkle stand out; jewel tones like royal blue, emerald, deep purple add richness; warm earth tones (rust, mustard, olive) harmonize with golden/earthy zircons.
Accent gemstones: Pair zircon with diamonds or white sapphires for clarity and sparkle; for contrast, small garnets or rubies highlight warm tones, while sapphires bring out cooler blue hues.
Lighting considerations: Because zircon shows its brilliance and fire best under light, styles and settings that catch light (e.g., open mountings, faceted cuts) enhance its visual impact.

December Birthstone Jewelry Care & Maintenance

How to Take Care of Your December Birthstone Jewelry

Gemstones require maintenance to remain radiant, just like people:

- Turquoise: Because it scratches easily, keep it away from chemicals and store it separately.
- Tanzanite: Steer clear of ultrasonic cleaners and wash with warm, soapy water.
- Zircon: Select protective settings because, despite its brilliance, it can chip.

Your December birthstone jewelry will last for generations if it is properly cared for.

Turquoise Jewelry Care & Maintenance

Turquoise is a relatively soft and porous gemstone, so extra care is required to preserve its luster:

- Prepare lukewarm water with mild soap.
- Gently wipe with a soft, damp cloth. Avoid submerging the stone for long periods.
- Do not use ultrasonic or steam cleaners, which can damage or discolor the stone.
- Avoid exposure to perfumes, lotions, and household chemicals.
- Dry thoroughly and store separately to avoid scratching from harder stones.

For long-term care, professional cleanings and inspections are recommended (1).

Tanzanite Jewelry Care & Maintenance

Due to its moderate hardness and sensitivity to heat and chemicals, tanzanite should be cleaned with care:

- Use warm water and mild dish soap in a small bowl.
- Soak the earrings for 15–20 minutes to loosen any dirt.
- Gently scrub with a soft toothbrush, especially around the settings.
- Rinse and dry with a clean, lint-free cloth.
- Avoid steam or ultrasonic cleaners, which can fracture or damage the stone.

Also, avoid exposing tanzanite to harsh cosmetics, cleaning agents, or temperature changes, as it is more fragile than sapphires or diamonds (1).

Zircon Jewelry Care & Maintenance

Zircon requires gentle care to maintain its beauty:

- Clean with warm, soapy water (mild dish soap) and a soft brush.
- Avoid ultrasonic or steam cleaners, especially with heat-treated or fragile stones. Heat and mechanical vibration can damage or alter color or structure.
- Do not expose zircon to severe temperature changes or harsh chemicals. Some zircons may revert in color after prolonged exposure to bright light, especially if they’ve been treated.
- Dry thoroughly and store separately from harder gemstones to avoid scratching.

December Birthstone FAQ

We get a lot of questions about Turquoise, Tanzanite, and Zircon, so here are anumber of our most frequently asked questions and answers about the brilliant December birthstone.

Tanzanite FAQ

What Types of Tanzanite Exist?

While tanzanite is one mineral variety, it can vary significantly in terms of:

- Color Intensity: Deeper blue and violet hues are more valuable, while lighter shades are more common.
- Pleochroism: Tanzanite shows different colors—blue, violet, and sometimes burgundy—depending on the viewing angle.
- Size and Shape: Tanzanite is cut into various shapes (oval, cushion, trillion) to enhance its natural brilliance.
- Treatment: Nearly all tanzanite is heat-treated to enhance its blue-violet color, a standard and accepted practice.

Tanzanite is classified primarily by color saturation and clarity, with richer colors and fewer inclusions commanding higher value (1).

What Zodiac Sign(s) Are Asssociated With Tanzanite?

Tanzanite is the modern birthstone for December, making it especially meaningful for those born under the sign of Sagittarius (Nov 22 – Dec 21). It is believed to enhance Sagittarians' natural qualities of insight, communication, and optimism.

Some spiritual traditions also associate tanzanite with Capricorn, linking it to discipline and mental clarity. It is occasionally recommended for Pisces and Gemini for its soothing and communicative energy. (3)

What Properties or Benefits Is Tanzanite Known For?

Tanzanite is known not only for its beauty but also for its metaphysical and emotional properties.

These include:

- Emotional Healing: Believed to reduce stress, anxiety, and promote calm.
- Enhanced Communication: Said to support the throat chakra, encouraging clear expression.
- Spiritual Growth: Often used in meditation for intuitive insight and connection to higher consciousness.
- Transformation: Linked with life changes and transitions, helping to align heart and mind.

Though these beliefs are spiritual in nature, they contribute to the stone’s symbolic depth in jewelry design. (4)

Is it possible to wear Tanzanite every day?

Tanzanite requires extra care, but it can be worn every day. It has a Mohs hardness of 6 to 7, which makes it softer than sapphires or diamonds. If it is subjected to harsh knocks, it may chip or scratch. While rings should ideally be set in protective designs, pendants and earrings are safer options for daily wear. Tanzanite jewelry can last for many years if it is handled carefully (7).

Can engagement rings be made with Tanzanite?

Yes, because of its rareness and alluring violet-blue color, tanzanite is becoming a more and more popular option for engagement rings. It represents metamorphosis and profound connection, providing a striking substitute for more conventional stones. However, tanzanite engagement rings should be set in designs that protect the stone because they are more delicate than harder gems (8).

Is the only birthstone for December Tanzanite?

No. In fact, tanzanite, zircon, and turquoise are the three official birthstones for December. The most recent of the three, tanzanite was found in the late 1960s and has since gained popularity due to its unique color and scarcity. Being unique among December's birthstones, it can only be found in Tanzania (8).

Zircon FAQ

What Types of Zircon Gemstones Exist?

Zircon gemstones differ primarily by color, clarity, and structural condition. Key types include:

Color varieties: Zircon comes naturally in colors including blue, green, yellow, orange, red, brown, and colorless. Blue zircons are often created or enhanced by heat treatment.

High-, intermediate-, and low zircon: These categories reflect the degree of structural damage from internal radiation over time. High zircon has little damage, preserving sharp optical properties; low zircon shows more “metamictization” (crystal structure breakdown) which affects performance.

Treatment status: Many zircons are heat-treated (for color enhancement, especially to blue or colorless hues). Untreated zircons with strong color and clarity are rarer.

What Zodiac Sign(s) Are Zircon Gemstones Associated With?

Zircon is traditionally one of the birthstones for December, along with turquoise and tanzanite, making it especially meaningful for those born in that month. Many astrology enthusiasts associate zircon with zodiac signs like Sagittarius, who value truth seeking, adventure, and honesty. Because of its qualities of clarity and grounding, zircon may also resonate with Gemini (for communication), Virgo (for clarity and detail), and others who feel drawn to its sparkle and depth. (2)

What Properties or Benefits Is Zircon Known For?

Beyond its physical beauty, zircon is admired for several properties and perceived benefits:

Optical brilliance & fire: Because of its high refractive index and dispersion, zircon can produce strong sparkle and lively color flashes.

Historical value and age: Some zircons are among the oldest minerals known; they offer insight into Earth’s early geology.

Symbolic attributes: Clarity of thought, honesty, mental balance, peace and emotional well-being. As a gemstone worn close to the skin or in jewelry, these qualities are often highlighted in spiritual or holistic belief systems.

Collectible diversity: Because of its range of colors, zircons appeal to collectors as well as to those seeking jewelry with vibrancy and uniqueness.

Is it possible to wear a Zircon every day?

Zircon can be worn every day, but it needs to be taken care of. Zircon can be brittle, making it more likely to chip than harder stones, even though it has a Mohs hardness rating of 6 to 7.5. The longevity of zircon jewelry is greatly increased by careful handling and protective settings in rings. Since zircon pendants and earrings are less likely to be knocked off, many people prefer to wear them every day.

Can engagement rings be made with Zircon?

Of course! Zircon is a stunning and unique option for engagement rings because of its fiery brilliance and variety of colors, particularly the electric blue varieties. If set securely, zircon can still look stunning in engagement jewelry, even though sapphires and diamonds are more difficult to work with. Zircon is a striking center stone that is frequently chosen by couples seeking a colorful, reasonably priced, and significant substitute (8).

Is the only birthstone for December Zircon?

No. In fact, zircon, tanzanite, and turquoise are the three official birthstones for December. With a history spanning billions of years, zircon is the most ancient of these, making it significant from a scientific and symbolic standpoint. Its variety of hues, particularly its brilliant blue, guarantee that it will always be one of the most cherished birthstones for December (8).

Turquoise FAQ

What Types of Turquoise Exist?

There are several varieties of turquoise, primarily categorized by their origin, color, and presence of matrix:

Persian (Iranian) Turquoise – Known for its intense, uniform sky-blue color with minimal matrix.
Sleeping Beauty Turquoise (Arizona, USA) – Celebrated for its robin’s egg blue and minimal veining.
Kingman Turquoise (Arizona, USA) – Often features a rich blue with a bold black or brown matrix.
Chinese Turquoise – Exhibits a wide range of green to blue hues and matrix patterns.

Most turquoise on the market is stabilized, a treatment that improves its durability and color retention. Untreated, high-quality turquoise is rare and highly valued. (4)

What Zodiac Sign(s) Are Turquoise Associated With?

Turquoise is a popular choice for people born in December because it is traditionally associated with the zodiac sign of Sagittarius (November 22–December 21). According to astrology, turquoise is thought to go well with Sagittarius's spirit of adventure and passion for knowledge and truth.

Because of its ability to promote spiritual awareness and emotional healing, some traditions also link turquoise to Pisces and Scorpio. (3)

What Properties or Benefits Is Turquoise Known For?

Turquoise is celebrated not only for its beauty but also for its spiritual and metaphysical properties. Commonly believed benefits include:

Protection – Worn historically as an amulet to ward off negativity and danger.
Emotional Healing – Said to calm anxiety, reduce stress, and foster emotional clarity.
Communication – Thought to stimulate the throat chakra, aiding in self-expression and truth.
Spiritual Connection – Revered for its ability to connect the wearer with the spirit world or higher consciousness.

While these beliefs are rooted in tradition and spirituality, they continue to influence the popularity of turquoise in modern holistic practices. (5)

Is it possible to wear Turquoise every day?

Yes, you can wear turquoise every day as long as you take care of it. Compared to many other gemstones, turquoise is softer because its Mohs hardness ranges from 5 to 6. This implies that if not handled correctly, it may scratch or absorb chemicals and oils. Pendants and earrings are safer options for daily wear, but rings and bracelets may show wear more quickly. The color and polish of turquoise can be maintained by storing it separately and avoiding harsh cleaners.

Can engagement rings be made with Turquoise?

Indeed, engagement rings in turquoise make a striking and significant statement. Compared to conventional diamond rings, it has a distinct charm due to its sky-blue to green hues. However, turquoise works best in protective environments or as part of designs that reduce direct impact because it is softer and more porous. Turquoise can make a gorgeous centerpiece for couples seeking something symbolic and unconventional (8).

Is the only birthstone for December Turquoise?

No. The official birthstones for December are tanzanite, zircon, and turquoise. The oldest and most culturally rich of the three, turquoise has been prized by Native American tribes and civilizations ranging from Ancient Egypt. Even though tanzanite and zircon have become more popular, its timeless significance makes it one of the most popular birthstones for December (8).

How to Pick Your Birthstone for December

How do you choose your December birthstone when there are so many options?

Choose tradition: Turquoise is a gem if you're looking for a stone with cultural and historical roots.

Seek rarity: Tanzanite is a memorable choice due to its uniqueness and transformative symbolism.

Love brilliance: If you're looking for something stunning and one-of-a-kind, zircon's fiery sparkle is ideal.

The best birthstone for December is the one that resonates with you the most because each one has its own personality.

Conclusion

What truly sets December apart is the variety of birthstones that are available. Whether you prefer the classic protection of turquoise, the deep spiritual significance of tanzanite, the fiery brilliance of zircon, or the modern versatility of blue topaz, the December birthstone collection has something for everyone.

December babies have a number of options. From the timeless allure of turquoise to the modern rarity of tanzanite, the brilliance of zircon, and the diverse beauty of blue topaz, each birthstone for December has a special tale to tell.