December Birthstones: Tanzanite, Zircon, and Turquoise
Blue is the theme of December! December's birthstones are all very different blue gemstones: tanzanite, zircon, and turquoise.
Here, we'll talk a little about each gem variety and how they can be used in custom jewelry so that you can give the perfect December birthstone gift.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is a gorgeous, deep blue-purple gemstone. It was only discovered in Tanzania in the 20th century, making it a newcomer to fine jewelry. Tiffany & Co. brought the gem to popularity in the 1960s and it has been extremely admired since then. In addition to one of December's birthstones, tanzanite is the gem for a 24th wedding anniversary.
On the Mohs scale of hardness, tanzanite is 6-7. Tanzanite is best suited for earrings or pendants but can be set in a ring if it is well taken care of. Most tanzanites are heat-treated to bring out strong natural coloring.
Custom Tanzanite And Diamond Engagement Ring
Custom Tanzanite And Diamond Pendant
Platinum Custom Tanzanite And Diamond Engagement Ring
Tanzanite And Diamond Earrings
Zircon
Although the most popular shade of zircon is blue, it is also found in a rainbow of colors: red, orange, yellow, brown, and green! This gem has a long history around the world and is thought to ward off evil spirits while bringing the wearer wealth, wisdom, and good health. During the Victorian Era in England, blue zircon was used in jewelry, so it can be found in many estate pieces today.
Zircon is frequently found nearby sapphire deposits, although the two varieties are not related. Sri Lanka and Australia are the main sources of the gem with deposits also in Myanmar, Vietnam, and Cambodia.
The hardness of this stone is 6-7.5, so be careful when wearing it. Most of these gems are heat-treated, like tanzanite, to bring out the beautiful natural colors. Zircon also double refracts light, making it a truly unique sparkle.
Custom Blue Zircon And Diamond Halo Engagement Ring
Spice Zircon Lever Back Earrings
Custom Blue Zircon And Diamond Engagement Ring
Custom Two-tone Pink Zircon And Diamond Engagement Ring
Turquoise
This is an opaque gem that has different ranges within blue-green and often features veins of the original rock within. Within many cultures and for thousands of years, it has been thought to bring health and good fortune and have certain fortune-telling capabilities to foreshadow events. It has played a significant role to the pharoahs of Egypt, ancient Chinese culture, Hindu mystics, Iran, Tibet, Europe, and Native Americans.
Turquoise is mined in Arizona, Nevada, and China. To improve the durability, it is heat-treated. It is extremely sensitive to chemicals and oils, so regular cleaning is recommended.
Custom Turquoise And Champagne Diamond Engagement Ring
Carved Pearl Turquoise Diamond Earrings
Custom Diamond And Turquoise Engagement Ring
Custom Hand Engraved Turquoise Men's Band
Choosing A Gemstone
All three of the December birthstones are beautiful! However, they each have a unique style. Tanzanite is fully faceted, giving a traditional sparkle with a royal, deep color. Zircon can be found in many colors and shades, from pastel to deep tones. Turquoise is not usually faceted and is almost always the light green-blue we know and love.
Need more guidance? Talk to our designers or browse our custom jewelry gallery- any piece can be made with any of these gemstones. Happy birthday, December babies!
Source: GIA
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