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💎 December Birthstone

December Birthstone: Tanzanite

The full guide to December birthstones — meaning, history, and the gemstones for those born in December.

TanzaniteModern
TurquoiseTraditional
OnyxMystical
About

December Birthstone Meaning

Turquoise was sacred to the Aztecs, the Egyptians, and the Persians — buried with pharaohs, set into Aztec masks, given to brides in Persia for love and protection. Tanzanite was discovered only in 1967 in Tanzania, making it both the oldest and newest birthstone tradition combined. December-born straddle ancient wisdom and brand-new beauty.

Quick Facts

December Birthstone At a Glance

Modern BirthstoneTanzanite, Turquoise, Zircon
TraditionalTurquoise
Mystical (Tibetan)Onyx
ColorBlue-violet / Sky Blue / Various
Zodiac SignsSagittarius, Capricorn
Stones

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❓ December Birthstone FAQ

What is the December birthstone?
The December birthstone is Turquoise, a sky blue-green gem treasured for centuries as the official birthstone for anyone born in December. Tanzanite and Zircon are also recognised as December birthstones. Whether worn as a ring, a pendant, or simply kept as a small pocket talisman, Turquoise is the traditional way to carry the energy of your birth month with you every day.
What does the December birthstone mean?
Turquoise is associated with luck, protection, and honest communication. People wear it to stay connected to those qualities — as a daily reminder, a quiet source of focus, or simply a meaningful link to the month they were born. Like every birthstone, its symbolism is personal: it means the most when it reflects something you genuinely want to nurture in your own life.
What colour is the December birthstone?
The classic December birthstone, Turquoise, is a sky blue-green stone. Natural gems vary in tone and saturation, so no two are ever exactly alike — part of what makes each piece feel personal. When choosing Turquoise jewellery, look for an even colour and good clarity, and remember that a slightly imperfect natural stone often carries more character than a flawless one.
Which zodiac signs share the December birthstone?
Because December spans two star signs, the December birthstone connects most closely with Sagittarius and Capricorn. Many people enjoy pairing their birthstone with their zodiac sign for a fuller picture: your birthstone reflects your birth month, while your sign reflects the sky on the exact day you were born. Together they make a thoughtful, deeply personalised combination.
Is Turquoise a good birthday gift?
Yes — Turquoise is one of the most meaningful birthday gifts you can give someone born in December. It is personal without being too revealing, it suits any age, and it never goes out of style. A small Turquoise piece quietly says you remembered not just the date but the person — which is exactly what a thoughtful birthday gift should do.

Famous December Birthstone (Turquoise) Jewels in History

The most legendary December Birthstone (Turquoise) specimens have shaped history through royal courts, museums, and cultural lore:

Persian Turquoise Crown of Iran

Pahlavi Crown features hundreds of turquoise from Neyshabur mines used since 2,000 BC.

Native American Squash Blossom Necklaces

Traditional Navajo silver and turquoise jewelry highly valued as cultural artifacts.

Tibetan Buddhist Turquoise Altars

Ancient temple decorations featuring sacred turquoise believed to enhance prayer.

Geological Properties of December Birthstone (Turquoise)

  • Hydrated copper aluminum phosphate - rare mineral
  • Hardness only 5-6 on Mohs scale - relatively soft, needs care
  • Color varies from sky blue to green based on copper/iron content
  • Pure spider-web matrix patterns are highly valued
  • Iran (Persian), Arizona, Tibet, and Mexico are top sources