For someone born in December, a birthstone necklace is an appropriate gift. There are many options available, from chains to engravable name tags. If you’re looking for a unique birthstone necklace, consider adding engraving to make it extra special. Blue quartz is the birthstone of December, and many birthstone necklaces feature a teardrop pendant. Choose between sterling silver or 14k gold chains. Alternatively, you can get a birthstone necklace that includes your child’s birthstone in a stylish birthstone locket.
Whether you’re looking for a unique necklace or one that has a meaningful message, December birthstones make perfect companions. You can combine all three stones on a single necklace to create a custom pendant for yourself. There are so many beautiful options out there, and you can choose one that symbolizes your relationship status. Alternatively, if you’re looking for a gift for a partner, you can also combine their birthstones with your own.
What is the December Birthstone?
Tanzanite, Zircon, and Turquoise are three possibilities for December birthstones. The birthstone for December is blue, which comes in various colors depending on the gemstone. While zircon comes in various colors, blue is the most popular, particularly as a winter birthstone.
Zircon is the oldest of the three December birthstones; turquoise was the first gemstone mined, while tanzanite was the most recently discovered. The stones are becoming acceptable alternatives to diamond jewelry as they provide affordable birthstone jewelry options.
Tanzanite
Unlike many other well-known gemstones that have been used for ages, tanzanite has a comparatively recent history.
According to legend, Maasai ranchers discovered blue crystals in the Merelani Hills in Arusha, Tanzania, while tending to their livestock in 1967. They notified Manuel d’Souza, a prospector who quickly filed claims with the government to commence mining.
D’Souza initially believed he was mining sapphire jewels. Still, the crystal was quickly identified as a brilliant blue form of zoisite, a mineral stone that has been available since the early 1800s.
Tiffany & Co. saw this blue gem’s potential to compete with more expensive sapphire and decided to be its exclusive distributor. Tiffany chose the term “tanzanite” to emphasize the gemstone’s unique geographic provenance rather than “blue zoisite,” which sounded a little too much like “suicide.” In 1968, they launched a commercial campaign to promote it.
Before the Tanzanian government seized the mines in 1971, two million carats of tanzanite were extracted. In 1990, the government split the mines into four divisions or blocks. More significant than the other blocks combined, Block C is owned by Tanzanite One Mining Ltd., the world’s largest tanzanite producer.
According to a 2012 independent analysis, Block C’s tanzanite reserves could be depleted in as little as 30 years at a production rate of 2.7 million carats per year.
Tanzanite may not have the same historical history as other gemstones, but it is highly prized for its uncommon beauty due to restricted availability and quickly expanding demand.
Zircon
Zircon is the Earth’s oldest mineral, going back over 4.4 billion years. It can be found in most sand and sedimentary deposits, metamorphic rocks, and solidified magma in Earth’s crust.
Zircon has endured eons of geologic processes such as erosion and pressure shifts thanks to its chemical makeup, acting as a time capsule for these changes. The radioactive element uranium is found in zircon, which affects the gemstone’s chemical structure and color with time, providing valuable information on the formation of our planet.
Zircon gemstones were thought to encourage restful sleep, ward off evil, and provide riches and intelligence during the Middle Ages.
Blue zircon was fashionable in the Victorian period, and it can be seen in a lot of English estate jewelry dating back to the 1880s. In mourning jewelry, zircon with a hazy or smoky look was fashionable.
Heat treatment became a common practice in the 1920s to enhance the color of zircon gemstones for jewelry. Zircon has also been utilized in the production of beautiful pottery.
While zircon is a popular gemstone among collectors because of its broad spectrum of colors, consumers appear to be particularly charmed with the blue variation and otherwise perplexed about the history and potential of this various gemstone.
Cubic zirconia is frequently confused for zircon (CZ). One of the most well-known manufactured diamond implants is CZ. It’s zirconium dioxide in its crystalline form (ZrO2). Zircon is a naturally occurring zirconium silicate mineral (ZrSiO4).
Turquoise
The striking blue of turquoise has been admired by cultures worldwide since prehistoric times.
Ancient Egyptian tombs include intricate turquoise jewelry going back to 3000 BCE, the earliest evidence of turquoise gemstones. Turquoise was embedded in gold necklaces and rings, used as inlay, and carved into scarabs by Egyptians. The most famous example is King Tut’s renowned burial mask, lavishly decorated with turquoise.
Egypt’s Sinai Peninsula is home to the world’s oldest turquoise mines. One sat beside an ancient temple dedicated to Hathor, the Greek goddess of love and joy venerated as a desert guardian and mining patron saint. Turquoise was known to the Egyptians as meat, representing “pleasure” and “delight.”
Turquoise was used widely by the ancient Persians, and it was frequently engraved with Arabic lettering. Turquoise was used to cover palace domes because of its sky-blue tint, symbolizing heaven. Turquoise was later used in constructions such as the Taj Mahal this.
Persians wore turquoise on their daggers and bridles because they believed it would protect them. Pirouzeh, their word for turquoise, meant “victory.”
Persians wore turquoise gemstone jewelry around their necks and in their turbans. They believed that changing hue to warn of impending calamity provided safety. (When exposed to sunshine or chemicals, turquoise can fade.)
Turkish traders impacted the name of this “Persian blue” stone when they brought it to Europe via the Silk Road in the 13th century. “turquoise” is derived from the French Pierre torques, which means “Turkish stone.”
In the meantime, pre-Columbian Native Americans mined turquoise in what is now the southwestern United States. Shamans utilized it for communicating with the spirit of the sky during holy ceremonies.
Attaching turquoise to bows (and later, rifles) was thought to increase a hunter’s aim by the Apache Indians.
Turquoise became valued in Native American trade, transporting materials from North America to South America. As a result, the Aztecs prized turquoise for its defensive properties, and it was used on ceremonial masks, knives, and shields.
In the 1880s, a white trader persuaded a Navajo craftsman to turn a silver coin into turquoise jewelry, now widely associated with Native Americans.
Even though many historic turquoise deposits have been depleted over the gemstone’s lengthy history, certain minor mine operations (mainly in the United States) continue to produce excellent material today.
Here Are Some Beautiful December Birthstone Necklaces
14 Karat White Gold Tanzanite Diamond Pendant Oval Shape 2 Carats
Features
- Tanzanite, Oval Cut, 9x7mm, 2 carats, Violet Blue Hue with Brilliant Sparkle, Tanzanite, Oval Cut, 9x7mm, 2 carats, Tanzanite, Oval Cut, 9x7mm, 2 carat
- Sparkling Eye Cleaner The exquisite 14k White Gold pendant is set with genuine diamonds. Authenticity is 100% guaranteed. Freebies are included. Sterling Silver 18-Inch Chain
- This pendant will add a lovely splash of color to your ensemble and is suitable for day and nightwear.
- No of the occasion – birthday, Mother’s Day, Valentine’s Day, anniversary, vow renewal, push present for the new mom, wedding shower, baby shower, bridesmaids, Christmas, and more – is the perfect personal treat or gift!
Peora Tanzanite Pendant in 14 Karat Yellow Gold, Classic Solitaire, Cushion Cut, 6mm, 1 Carat total
Features
- WOMEN’S CLASSIC SOLITAIRE GOLD PENDANT – With our Peora 14K Gold Pendants Collection, we’ve given the traditional solitaire favorite a vibrant twist. Natural Peora Tanzanite, Cushion Cut, 6mm, 1 Carat, AAA Grade Quality, with its characteristic Rich Bluish Purple color for a rich shine. Set in 14 karats yellow gold for optimum sparkle from all angles. This gold pendant is a jewelry must-have since it is versatile, feminine, and flattering.
- EXCEPTIONAL QUALITY – Each Peora Tanzanite is hand-selected from the best materials and thoroughly polished to enhance the color and beauty of the stone, resulting in an exceptional display of sparkle and brilliance. Peoria’s exquisite jewelry offers not just a history of authenticity but also a guarantee of high quality, and 14K gold jewelry is hallmarked and has a 14K stamp.
- PEACE OF MIND – Each piece of Peora jewelry is accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity and a satisfaction guarantee.
- AN EVERYDAY LUXURY GOLD PENDANT – Enjoy this lovely delicate Tanzanite pendant for women, constructed of Premium 14K Gold for a long-lasting and hypoallergenic look. It comes with an 18-inch Sterling Silver chain with rhodium polished for a brilliant shine. The pendant is 0.5×0.25 inches in size.
- ELEGANT AND MEANINGFUL GIFTING – Raise the bar on gifting. Tanzanite is a beautiful stone to wear. Give Peora Tanzanite jewelry to your wife, girlfriend, daughter, mother, sister, bestfriend, or yourself as a meaningful gift! A beautiful gift for weddings, anniversaries, birthdays, Christmas, Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day, graduation, promotion, push presents for expecting mothers, and many other occasions. In a Peora Signature Gift Box, your gift is ready to give.
14k Yellow Gold 3mm Blue Zircon Heart Birthstone Chain Necklace Pendant Charm Fine Jewelry For Women Gifts For Her
Features
- LIMITED SUPPLY HAPPY MAY 2022 JEWELRY DEALS Now is the time to get it before it sells out; Solid 14k Yellow Gold; 15in in length; 0.5mm in width; Hypoallergenic birthstone Gifts Necklaces & Pendants Charms Pendants Stunning Gift Packaging for Children; Each item is hand-wrapped specifically for you. One hundred percent Satisfaction Guaranteed; Ideal Cute Gift for Family; Anniversary; Her; Weddings; Birthdays; Wife; Mother; Mom; Daughter; Son; Sister; Grandma; Nana; Aunt; Best Friends, and more IceCarats, a completely American-owned and operated company, offers a lifetime warranty. Every purchase comes with a Certificate of Authenticity card.
- Our jewelry is produced from high-quality premium materials, such as gems, faceted stones, and Swarovski crystals, and is hand-stamped for authenticity and FTC legal approval. Customer satisfaction is a result of excellent value for money.
- We’ve produced this bespoke collection just for you to assist you in commemorating your first and most memorable occasions from the heart while also adding color to your everyday fashion décor.
Amazon Collection 18k Yellow Gold Plated Sterling Silver Stabilized Turquoise with Created Blue and White Sapphire Evil Eye Necklace, 18.”
Features
- 18k yellow gold plated sterling silver necklace with genuine stabilized turquoise at the center of an evil eye pattern decorated with manufactured white and blue sapphire stones
- The ideal jewelry present for a woman looking to add a modern, on-trend style to her fashion wardrobe.
- A delicate necklace may be layered or worn alone for a more minimalist look.
- Spring ring closure on an 18″ cable chain
- Handcrafted using the finest materials.
- 18K Yellow Gold and Gunmetal color plating have been added to increase shine and durability.
- Imported
- These silver pieces are made to last a lifetime. This component has metal plating, flashing, or electrocoating; however, it can wear off with long-term or hard use. To keep your plated jewelry in good condition, keep it in a dark, cold, dry area like a pouch or an airtight box, and avoid touching plated things together. Also, keep your items away from cleaning products and perfume, which can harm them. If you ever need your jewelry replated, your local jeweler can advise you on where to send it.
COIRIS Statement Simulated Turquoise Beads 3 Strand Necklace Set for Women with Earrings (N0043)
Features
- Turquoise, acrylic, and CCB are the materials used.
- Necklace length: approx. 18.9″ + 2.9″ extension chain, earrings length: 2.6″
- One necklace + 1 pair of earrings, packaged in a lovely gift box
- Excellent present for yourself, your mother, daughter, wife, girlfriend, friend, or sibling.
- Weddings, anniversaries, birthdays, Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day, parties, casual wear, and other occasions are all covered.
What are the Other Jewelry for December Tanzanite Birthstone?
Before purchasing tanzanite birthstone jewelry, you should consider a few gemstone qualities. Cut, carat weight and size, color, and clarity are crucial factors to consider.
While diamonds are cut to emphasize their conventional hue and shape, tanzanite is shaped to highlight its distinct color and beauty. Each tanzanite is cut in a way that brings out the gemstone’s intrinsic beauty and brilliance.
The carat size of tanzanite varies, as do its dimensions, and is determined by the gemstone’s weight and face-up proportions.
Each tanzanite gemstone is also distinct in color, with two distinct colors often visible at the exact moment. These hues are usually blue, although they can also be a blend of blue and violet.
Tanzanite’s blue tint is especially striking in a ring. Consider a cushion cut with a halo setting or a pear-shaped stone set in rose gold, such as this Blue Nile piece.
Choose a simple halo tanzanite pendant or a more lavish item like this round tanzanite surrounded by diamonds and sapphires in yellow gold from the Blue Nile for pendants and necklaces.
Like this one from the Blue Nile with oval diamonds, Tanzanite bracelets are usually classic and essential in style.
These lovely studs from the Blue Nile or those in a halo setting are tanzanite possibilities for earrings.
In addition, most tanzanite gemstones do not contain any visible inclusions that can be seen with the naked eye.
Because of the limited geographic distribution of tanzanite, it is significantly rarer than diamonds, and it is also not as tough or durable as other gemstones. Therefore while wearing tanzanite in various kinds of jewelry, it is critical that you take caution when wearing it and protect it from hitting anything, or it may be easily destroyed.
How to Buy Tanzanite?
Tanzanite can be purchased for various reasons, including a December birthday, a 24th wedding anniversary, or admire the gemstone’s uncommon, bright blue. It can even be used as a cheaper alternative to sapphire.
The blue color of most tanzanite on the market today is achieved through heat treatment, which reduces the stone’s natural brown tones. Because treated tanzanite is now the norm, it’s presumed even if it’s invisible.
Tanzanite follows the same value parameters as diamonds in general. The most coveted feature of tanzanite is its color, especially when it’s a rich saturated blue with violet undertones. Paler colors are less costly.
Tanzanite is pleochroic, which means it shows varied colors depending on the angle from which it is seen. The color, which determines the price, is heavily influenced by the cut. Because blue is more precious than violet, the cutter may choose a small fine-colored blue gemstone over a bigger violet while cutting tanzanite to emphasize the blue.
The majority of faceted tanzanite is under five carats. Although faceted 122.7-carat tanzanite is in The Smithsonian Institution’s collection, gemstones larger than 50 carats are uncommon. The largest raw tanzanite in the world weighed 16,839 carats.
Because tanzanite gems are only discovered in a few square kilometers of Tanzania, their price and availability are highly volatile.
Even though it does not have the same long history of adoration as some jewels, tanzanite has quickly risen through the ranks. Tanzanite’s popularity continues to rise due to its unique origin, limited supply, and deep blue beauty.
Find an American Gem Society jeweler near you if you’re looking for tanzanite birthstone jewelry.
Conclusion
If you’re thinking of buying a December birthstone necklace, remember that you should protect it! There’s no need to break the bank to protect it, and a few minutes is all you need to get a quote for jewelry insurance. You’ll also have a clear idea of what you can afford to insure. And the best part? You’ll know whether your December birthstone necklace or earrings will last for years if you choose the right one!
Turquoise is another excellent choice for a December birthstone necklace. Turquoise is a beautiful, soft, and porous stone. It’s often treated for strength. In ancient cultures, turquoise stones were attached to horses’ bridles as protection from cold water. Turquoise is believed to balance emotions and is also associated with success. Turquoise dreams also mean victory. Zircon is also a traditional December birthstone.
Zircon is the December birthstone, but it’s not as famous as diamond. It’s barely known to the average person, but it’s a geologist’s favorite. Its oldest known crystal, which is 3.3 billion years old, is the most expensive gem globally. The GIA recommends oval, or round shapes for zircon, and its fire is comparable to diamonds.
