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In This Article:
- What Is the December Birthstone?
- What Color Is the December Birthstone?
- How Do Tanzanite, Zircon and Turquoise Compare?
- What is tanzanite?
- What is zircon?
- What is turquoise?
- How can you tell if turquoise is treated or imitation?
- How to Choose Your December Birthstone
- Which December Birthstone Suits Sagittarius and Capricorn?
- How Do You Use December Birthstones in Your Spiritual Practice?
- Where can I find high quality December birthstone jewelry online?
- How do I choose the right December birthstone jewelry for a gift?
- How Do You Clean and Care for December Birthstones?
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Expert Tips
- About Mindful Souls
What Is the December Birthstone?
December has three birthstones: tanzanite, zircon and turquoise. The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) and the American Gem Society (AGS) both recognize all three. You can choose any of them. None of the three is more official than the others.
Why Does December Have Three Birthstones?
The list grew over time. Jewelers updated it as new gems were discovered and as tastes changed.
| Year | Who Updated the List | December Stones |
|---|---|---|
| Ancient Times | Traditional and biblical lists | Turquoise and related blue stones |
| 1912 | National Association of Jewelers (now Jewelers of America) | Turquoise, lapis lazuli |
| 1952 | Jewelry Industry Council of America | Turquoise, zircon (lapis lazuli as alternate) |
| 2002 | American Gem Trade Association (AGTA) | Tanzanite added, next to turquoise and zircon |
Lapis lazuli still appears on some traditional lists. If you love deep royal blue, my guide to the protective magic of lapis lazuli is a good next read.
Is Blue Topaz a December Birthstone?
Blue topaz is not on the official US birthstone list for December, but many jewelers sell it as a popular December alternative. Topaz officially belongs to November, which I cover in my November birthstone guide. Its icy blue color fits the winter palette, so many people born in December still choose blue topaz jewelry.
What Color Is the December Birthstone?
The December birthstone color is blue. Tanzanite ranges from violet blue to purple, zircon is best known in bright sky or electric blue, and turquoise shows an opaque robin's egg blue to green. Blue is why people often call this trio the winter blues gems.
Each stone reaches blue in a different way:
- Tanzanite: shows two or three colors depending on the viewing angle. Gemologists call this pleochroism. You may see blue, violet and burgundy in one stone.
- Zircon: also comes in colorless, yellow, orange, red, brown and green. Most blue zircon on the market gets its color from heat treatment.
- Turquoise: its color comes from copper (blue) and iron (green). Some stones carry dark lines called matrix, which is the host rock.
If you love this color family, explore my guide to blue and indigo crystals.
How Do Tanzanite, Zircon and Turquoise Compare?
Tanzanite is the rarest and usually the most expensive, zircon has the most sparkle, and turquoise is the most affordable and the most fragile. Use this table to compare the three December birthstones side by side.
| Feature | Tanzanite | Zircon | Turquoise |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mineral | Blue violet variety of zoisite | Zirconium silicate | Hydrated copper aluminum phosphate |
| Look | Transparent, faceted | Transparent, very high sparkle | Opaque, often polished smooth |
| Main Colors | Violet blue to purple | Blue, colorless, golden, red, green | Sky blue to green |
| Mohs Hardness | 6 to 7 | 6 to 7.5 | 5 to 6 |
| Main Sources | Merelani Hills, Tanzania (only known source) | Cambodia, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Australia | Iran, US Southwest, China, Egypt, Mexico |
| Common Treatment | Heat treated for color | Heat treated for blue | Stabilized, dyed or waxed |
| Everyday Wear | Good for earrings and pendants, careful in rings | Good with protective settings | Best for pendants, earrings and bracelets |
| Price Level | High | Medium | Low to high (natural untreated costs more) |
| Chakra (Crystal Tradition) | Third eye, crown, throat | Root and crown | Throat |
| Wedding Anniversary | 24th | 4th (blue zircon) | 11th |
| Best For | A rare statement gift | Sparkle lovers on a budget | Daily boho style and tradition |
What is tanzanite?
Tanzanite is the blue to violet variety of the mineral zoisite. It is mined commercially in only one place, the Merelani Hills of northern Tanzania, near Mount Kilimanjaro. That single source makes it one of the rarest gemstones sold today.
What is the history of tanzanite?
- 1967: Prospectors found blue zoisite crystals in the Merelani Hills. Manuel de Souza is often credited with the find.
- 1968: Tiffany & Co. named the gem tanzanite after its homeland and launched it with a big campaign.
- 2002: The AGTA added tanzanite to the December birthstone list, the first change to the list since 1952.
Most tanzanite is gently heated to bring out its violet blue color. GIA explains this in its tanzanite gem description. This treatment is stable and standard in the trade.
What does tanzanite mean spiritually?
In crystal traditions, tanzanite is linked with intuition, calm communication and spiritual awareness. People often pair it with the third eye and throat chakras. I like to keep tanzanite close during journaling or meditation when I want to think clearly and speak from the heart. Browse third eye chakra crystals for similar stones.
How do you care for tanzanite?
- Clean it with warm water, mild soap and a soft brush.
- Skip ultrasonic and steam cleaners.
- Keep it away from sudden temperature changes.
- Store it apart from harder gems so it does not get scratched.
What is zircon?
Zircon is a natural mineral made of zirconium silicate. It has strong fire and brilliance, and it shows double refraction, so facet edges can look doubled under a loupe. Blue is the most popular color, but zircon also forms in colorless, golden, red and green shades.
Is zircon the same as cubic zirconia?
No. Zircon is a natural gemstone, while cubic zirconia is a synthetic material made in a lab. Cubic zirconia is zirconium dioxide and was created as a diamond imitation. Zircon formed in the Earth and has been used in jewelry for centuries. The similar names cause this common mix up.
| Feature | Zircon | Cubic Zirconia |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Natural mineral | Lab made |
| Chemistry | Zirconium silicate | Zirconium dioxide |
| Double Refraction | Yes | No |
| December Birthstone | Yes | No |
What is the history of zircon?
- Oldest mineral on Earth: Tiny zircon crystals from the Jack Hills in Western Australia are about 4.4 billion years old. Scientists use them to study the early Earth.
- Middle Ages: People believed zircon helped with sleep, prosperity and wisdom.
- Victorian era: Blue zircon was a favorite in English estate jewelry.
- 1952: Zircon joined the December birthstone list.
Where is zircon found?
Major sources include Ratanakiri in Cambodia, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Australia, Tanzania and Nigeria. Cambodia is especially known for bright blue material. Read more in GIA's zircon guide.
What does zircon mean spiritually?
Crystal lovers connect zircon with grounding, confidence and a fresh sense of purpose. Many people use it with the root and crown chakras. I like zircon as a reminder that growth takes time, just like the billions of years behind this mineral.
How do you care for zircon?
- Wash it with warm soapy water and a soft brush.
- Avoid ultrasonic and steam cleaners.
- Keep heat treated blue zircon away from long, strong sunlight and high heat, because some stones can shift in color.
- Store it separately. Zircon is hard but brittle, and its facet edges can chip.
What is turquoise?
Turquoise is an opaque blue to green mineral made of copper and aluminum phosphate. It is one of the oldest gemstones used by humans. Its name comes from the French phrase for Turkish stone, because it reached Europe through Turkish trade routes.
What is the history of turquoise?
- Ancient Egypt: Egyptians mined turquoise in the Sinai Peninsula. Turquoise inlays appear on the burial mask of Tutankhamun.
- Persia: Mines near Nishapur in Iran produced the famous Persian blue for centuries.
- Aztec and Native American cultures: Turquoise appeared in masks, mosaics and jewelry. Navajo, Zuni and Pueblo artisans still work it today.
- China: Carvers have shaped turquoise for more than 3,000 years.
- Traditional lists: Turquoise is the oldest December birthstone and the gem for the 11th wedding anniversary.
Where is turquoise found?
Today the main sources are Iran, the US Southwest (Arizona, Nevada and New Mexico), China, Egypt and Mexico. Each mine produces its own color and matrix pattern, so collectors can often tell where a stone came from.
What does turquoise mean spiritually?
Turquoise is a classic protection stone in many cultures. Crystal lovers use it for calm, balance, friendship and honest expression, and they often pair it with the throat chakra. I wear a turquoise bracelet when I travel, since it has long been called a traveler's stone.
Note: crystal meanings come from tradition and personal practice. They do not replace medical care.
Bohemian Turquoise Anklet – A stunning boho-inspired anklet featuring natural turquoise stones, perfect for those born in December. Blue Turquoise Tungsten Ring – A bold and durable tungsten ring adorned with vibrant blue turquoise, the iconic December birthstone. Feather Turquoise Crystal Ring – A delicate feather-motif ring set with turquoise crystals, beautifully representing December's birthstone.
Bohemian Turquoise Anklet
Blue Turquoise Tungsten Ring
Feather Turquoise Crystal Ring
How can you tell if turquoise is treated or imitation?
| Type | What It Means | How to Spot It |
|---|---|---|
| Natural | Untreated stone | Usually higher price, seller discloses it |
| Stabilized | Soft turquoise hardened with resin | Very common, uniform look, should be disclosed |
| Dyed | Color added | Color may gather in cracks, may rub off with acetone test by a jeweler |
| Reconstituted | Turquoise powder bonded with resin | Very even color, low price |
| Imitation | Dyed howlite or magnesite | Often lighter weight feel, sold at very low prices |
How do you care for turquoise?
- Wipe it with a soft damp cloth and mild soap only.
- Never use ultrasonic or steam cleaners.
- Keep it away from perfume, lotion, sunscreen and cooking oil, because turquoise is porous.
- Put your turquoise on last and take it off first.
- Avoid heat and harsh sunlight, which can fade or dry the stone.
How to Choose Your December Birthstone
Here is the simple process I use when someone asks me which December stone to buy.
- Set your budget. Turquoise and zircon give great value. Fine tanzanite costs more.
- Think about daily wear. For rings worn every day, choose a protective bezel setting. Turquoise and tanzanite do best in pendants and earrings.
- Pick your look. Want sparkle? Go with zircon or tanzanite. Want earthy, boho style? Choose turquoise.
- Match the intention. Choose tanzanite for intuition, zircon for grounding and confidence, or turquoise for protection and calm.
- Ask about treatments. A good seller tells you if a stone is heated, stabilized or dyed.
- Check the birthday date. People born on December 1 to 21 are Sagittarius. People born on December 22 to 31 are Capricorn. You can add a zodiac stone as a second layer of meaning.
- Pick the format. Choose jewelry for daily wear, or a tumbled stone or tower for your altar. Browse our crystal jewelry and healing crystals.
| If You Want | Choose |
|---|---|
| A rare luxury gift | Tanzanite |
| Maximum sparkle for less | Blue zircon |
| A classic, affordable everyday stone | Turquoise |
| A protection stone for travel | Turquoise |
| A meditation and intuition stone | Tanzanite |
| A grounding stone | Zircon |
Which December Birthstone Suits Sagittarius and Capricorn?
Every December birthday uses the same three birthstones, whatever the date. A December 5, December 22 or December 29 birthday all share tanzanite, zircon and turquoise. Your zodiac sign can help you choose between them.
| Birthday | Zodiac Sign | Birthstone That Fits Best | Why |
|---|---|---|---|
| December 1 to 21 | Sagittarius | Turquoise or blue zircon | Turquoise is the traveler's stone for the adventurous archer |
| December 22 to 31 | Capricorn | Tanzanite or zircon | Grounding and focus suit the goal-driven goat |
How Do You Use December Birthstones in Your Spiritual Practice?
You can wear, hold, meditate with or place December birthstones on your altar to focus on intention. Start by cleansing the stone, then set one clear intention, and keep it where you see it every day.
Step by step ritual
- Cleanse the stone with smoke, sound or moonlight. Avoid water and salt for turquoise. My crystal cleansing guide covers every method.
- Set an intention such as "I speak my truth" (turquoise) or "I trust my inner voice" (tanzanite).
- Meditate for five minutes while holding the stone.
- Wear or place it near you. Try tanzanite on your nightstand, zircon on your desk and turquoise on your wrist.
- Recharge the stone during the full moon. Learn how in my guide on how to activate crystals.
Where can I find high quality December birthstone jewelry online?
Buy from sellers who clearly state the stone type, treatment, metal and return policy. For turquoise, the listing should say natural, stabilized or reconstituted. For a high value tanzanite, ask for a lab report from a lab such as GIA. You can also find trusted local jewelers through the American Gem Society.
At Mindful Souls, you can browse our turquoise crystal collection, blue topaz jewelry and the wider crystal jewelry collection. Each product page lists the stone and material details, so you know what you are buying.
How do I choose the right December birthstone jewelry for a gift?
Start with the person's style, then pick the stone that matches it. A classic or luxury lover will enjoy tanzanite, a person who loves sparkle will enjoy blue zircon, and a boho or nature lover will enjoy turquoise.
- Know their style: minimal, classic, boho or statement.
- Pick a safe size: earrings, pendants and adjustable bracelets avoid ring sizing problems.
- Match their daily life: choose sturdy designs for active people.
- Add the story: include a note that explains the stone's meaning and history.
- Think about the date: add a Sagittarius or Capricorn touch from our Sagittarius or Capricorn collections.
For more ideas, browse our birthday gifts and Christmas crystal gifts.
| Stone | Intention | Chakra | Best Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tanzanite | Intuition, clear thinking | Third eye, throat | Meditation, journaling |
| Zircon | Grounding, confidence | Root, crown | Workspace, goal setting |
| Turquoise | Protection, calm, honest speech | Throat | Travel, daily wear |
How Do You Clean and Care for December Birthstones?
Clean tanzanite and zircon with warm soapy water and a soft brush, and wipe turquoise with a damp cloth only. None of the three should go in an ultrasonic or steam cleaner.
| Care Step | Tanzanite | Zircon | Turquoise |
|---|---|---|---|
| Warm soapy water | Yes | Yes | Quick wipe only |
| Ultrasonic cleaner | No | No | No |
| Steam cleaner | No | No | No |
| Heat sensitive | Yes | Yes (color can shift) | Yes |
| Chemical sensitive | Somewhat | Somewhat | Very |
| Store separately | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Thinking zircon is cubic zirconia. Zircon is natural. Cubic zirconia is lab made.
- Believing only one stone is the real December birthstone. All three are official.
- Soaking turquoise in water or salt. It is porous and can discolor.
- Wearing tanzanite rings for rough work. It can chip or crack.
- Buying cheap turquoise without asking about treatment. It may be dyed howlite.
- Leaving blue zircon in hot sunlight. Some heated stones can change color.
- Choosing by date instead of by the person. Every December birthday shares all three stones, so choose by style and intention.
Expert Tips
- Look at tanzanite from several angles before you buy. Deep violet blue from the top view is the most prized.
- Check zircon under a loupe. Doubled facet edges help confirm natural zircon.
- Ask for the mine or origin of turquoise. Origin affects color, matrix and value.
- Layer the trio. A tanzanite pendant, zircon studs and a turquoise bracelet make a thoughtful December set.
- Gift with meaning. Add a short note that explains the stone's story. Browse our birthday gifts and Christmas crystal gifts for December celebrations.
- Try something new every month. A crystal subscription box brings a fresh stone and ritual each month.
About Mindful Souls
Mindful Souls started in 2018 with a simple idea: to make crystals and spiritual practices feel more accessible in everyday life. Today, we're a community of over 180,000 people exploring these tools in a practical, personal way.
We carefully source all of our crystals directly from ethical suppliers around the world, ensuring they are 100% natural. Each one is also tested and third-party lab certified for authenticity and quality, so you always know what you're working with. If you're curious about how it all started, you can read more on our story page.
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