December Birthstone Jewelry and Gifts

December's Blue Birthstones

December has the most birthstones of any month: Tanzanite, Blue Topaz, Blue Zircon, Turquoise, and Lapis Lazuli. What they all have in common is that they are gorgeous shades of blue. There is an icy Winter blue shade for everyone, even if you are not celebrating a birthday this month.

December birthstone jewelry stands out for its rich array of gem choices and cool blue hues. December is unique with large array of beautiful birthstones, offering an invitation to personalize gifts and celebrate winter birthdays with meaning. These gemstones are popular for their beauty and symbolic value, making them a top pick for thoughtful holiday and birthday gifts.

December has the most birthstones of any month: Tanzanite, Blue Topaz, Blue Zircon, Turquoise, and Lapis Lazuli

The Beauty and Meaning Behind December's Birthstones

December features a rare abundance of birthstones. The most celebrated are Tanzanite, Blue Topaz, Turquoise, Blue Zircon, and Lapis Lazuli. Each stone brings its signature look and special symbolism.

  • Tanzanite: Known for its vibrant violet-blue shade, Tanzanite was discovered in Tanzania in the 1960s. The gem symbolizes transformation and spiritual growth.
  • Blue Topaz: From clear sky blue to the stormy grayish London Blue hue, this stone has long stood for calm and clarity. Ancient Greeks believed it could increase strength.
  • Blue Zircon: This gemstone offers a striking, icy blue sparkle. It's admired for its brilliance and has been a symbol of wisdom and prosperity.
  • Turquoise: Recognized for its opaque, bright blue to greenish-blue hue, Turquoise has been cherished for millennia as a stone of protection and luck.
  • Lapis Lazuli: With its deep, royal blue color flecked with gold, Lapis Lazuli was treasured by pharaohs. It represents truth, harmony, and friendship.

You can learn more about the Icy blue birthstones of December and see how these gems each carve out their own place in history and your jewelry collection.

Popular December Birthstone Jewelry Styles

December birthstone jewelry comes in a wide range of styles, from timeless to modern designs. The popularity of these stones has inspired both classic and creative pieces.

  • Rings: Solitaire and halo styles highlight the colors and brilliance of December's gems. Stackable bands are also in demand for daily wear.
  • Necklaces and Pendants: Simple pendants let the gem shine, while personalized engravings or mixed-gem clusters add a special touch.
  • Earrings: Studs in blue topaz or turquoise make a subtle statement. Dangling designs pair beauty with movement and sparkle.

Handmade pieces With gorgeous blue December birthstones bring unique character and sentimental value.

Choosing the Perfect December Birthstone Gift

Selecting the right December birthstone jewelry depends on the recipient’s taste, the meaning of the gem, and the occasion.

  • Consider the wearer’s style: Do they prefer subtle elegance or bold statements?
  • Match gem symbolism to personality: For example, tanzanite for someone embracing change, or turquoise for a lover of tradition.
  • Personalize the gift: Engraving, mixed metals, or birthstone stacking can make the piece truly one-of-a-kind.

A custom piece makes a thoughtful gift for birthdays, anniversaries, or milestones. Find more insight in the Handmade Birthstone Jewelry Guide.

December birthstone jewelry delivers both style and meaning, making it a top choice for thoughtful gifts. With multiple gemstones to choose from, there’s a design to match every personality and taste. These pieces can last for years, offering a blend of color, tradition, and style for winter birthdays and special moments. Take the time to find or customize a December birthstone piece—the significance and beauty of these gems will be cherished for a lifetime.

FAQs About December Birthstone Jewelry

How should I clean December birthstone jewelry?

Use warm soapy water and a soft brush for most stones. Avoid harsh cleaning methods for turquoise and lapis lazuli, which are porous and can be damaged by chemicals or ultrasound cleaners.

Stone-Specific Care Tips

  • Turquoise: Soft, Highly porous and sensitive to chemicals, perfumes, and lotions. Clean gently with a damp cloth and avoid prolonged sun exposure to prevent fading.
  • Tanzanite: Relatively soft (Mohs 6-7) and best suited for earrings or pendants rather than rings. Clean with soapy water and a soft brush, and avoid ultrasonic cleaners, harsh chemicals, and high heat.
  • Zircon: Though hard, it can be brittle. Clean with mild soap and a soft cloth, and avoid sharp impacts and harsh chemicals.
  • Blue Topaz: Quite hard, it can be brittle. Protects against chipping. Clean with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid steam and ultrasonic cleaners, and store separately to prevent scratches.

    • Are December birthstones durable for everyday wear?

    Blue topaz and blue zircon with a hardness of 8 to 7.5 on the Moh's scale, are more durable and suit everyday jewelry like earrings and necklaces. However they tend to be still too soft for the wear and tear in engagement rings or wedding bands. In rings they tend to last longer in protective settings like bezel settings.

    Tanzanites are softer with a hardness of 6 to 6.5 and are best set in necklaces or earrings or occasionally worn rings.

    Turquoise and lapis lazuli are better for pieces worn with care since they are soft and porous, and can scratch easily.

    Is it okay to mix multiple December birthstones in one piece?
    Yes. Combining different stones can create a vibrant and meaningful design that captures winter's essence.