There’s something magical about December’s birthstones. Turquoise and tanzanite both capture the cool elegance of the season but in completely different ways. Turquoise, with its earthy, tranquil tones, feels like a connection to ancient history, while tanzanite’s vivid, color-shifting beauty is pure modern luxury. Whether you love timeless simplicity or crave something bold and rare, December’s birthstones bring the best of both worlds.
Let’s dive into what makes turquoise and tanzanite so uniquely stunning—and why these gems are a perfect fit for winter.
Turquoise: A Stone Steeped in History
Turquoise isn’t just a gem; it’s a piece of history. One of the oldest gemstones in the world, turquoise has been revered by ancient cultures for thousands of years. From Egyptian pharaohs adorning their tombs with turquoise treasures to Native American tribes crafting intricate jewelry, this gem symbolizes protection, prosperity, and timeless beauty.
Its signature sky-blue hue, sometimes accented with natural “matrix” patterns from the host rock, gives each stone a one-of-a-kind look. The relative affordability of turquoise means it’s perfect for bold statement pieces like rings, pendants, and earrings—jewelry that’s meant to be seen.
Bonus: Turquoise is believed to bring good fortune and ward off negativity. Gifting this gem isn’t just about style; it’s like giving a little charm of positivity wrapped up in a beautiful package.
Tanzanite: A Pleochroic Marvel
Then there’s tanzanite, December’s modern and daring birthstone. Discovered in the 1960s near Mount Kilimanjaro, this gem is found in only one place in the world: Tanzania. Its rarity alone makes it special, but what really sets tanzanite apart is its pleochroic nature—meaning it displays different colors depending on the angle and light. A single stone can shift between deep sapphire blue, violet, and even flash hints of burgundy.
Tanzanite’s velvety, multidimensional hues make it a favorite for those who love jewelry with a bold, eye-catching quality. Ranking 6–7 on the Mohs scale, tanzanite is slightly more delicate than harder stones like sapphires or diamonds, but with a little extra care, it’s a breathtaking choice for statement rings, earrings, or pendants.
Whether you’re drawn to its rare origin or its chameleon-like color play, tanzanite brings a unique kind of magic to any jewelry collection.
Turquoise vs. Tanzanite: Which Gem Will You Choose?
December’s birthstones offer two very different kinds of beauty, and that’s what makes them so exciting. Turquoise is all about earthy, timeless charm, with its soothing blues and rich cultural heritage. Tanzanite, on the other hand, is vibrant, modern, and full of surprises with its pleochroic color shifts.
If you’re torn between the two, why not both? Their cool tones complement each other beautifully, making for a jewelry collection that feels as unique as you are.
Why December Birthstones Make Perfect Holiday Gifts
There’s no better time to celebrate December’s birthstones than during the holidays. Turquoise and tanzanite both bring a wintery coolness that’s perfectly on-theme for the season, while their unique colors and meanings make them deeply personal gifts. Whether it’s a bold turquoise ring or a dazzling tanzanite pendant, these stones are gifts with serious wow factor.
Thinking of gifting turquoise or tanzanite this season? Make sure it’s appraised to ensure its value and authenticity. Here in the Greater Baltimore Area, we specialize in professional jewelry appraisals, so you can gift with confidence, knowing your pieces are as special as they look.
December’s birthstones are proof that winter can shine just as brightly as summer. Whether you’re drawn to turquoise, tanzanite, or both, these gems are timeless treasures waiting to be cherished. Ready to celebrate in style? We’re here to help appraise and protect your stunning stones—just in time for the holidays.
