Did you know that December is the only month to have three birthstones? Lucky December babies get to choose between the vivid tanzanite, the alluring zircon and the ever faithful turquoise. Confused as to which you should choose? Let’s take a closer look – but beware, you may decide you need them all!
Tanzanite
For a deep, dazzling blue so intense it will take your breath away look no further than tanzanite. Not only is it spectacularly beautiful, but it is also believed to bring good luck and prosperity to the wearer.
Origin
This spectacular gem is a newcomer to the market, having been discovered in 1967. Tanzanite is only found on the slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro in the east African country of Tanzania. Some experts predict that the mines will be depleted in as little as ten years which is why it is often described as a thousand times rarer than diamonds.
Color
Only 1% of all tanzanites have the deep saturated hue that is so desired by gemstone-lovers. These stones range from a velvety violet-blue to the more valuable deep blue. More intensely colored than any blue sapphire, tanzanite has a loyal fanbase around the world. Beyoncé was even spotted wearing a fabulous 10 carat cushion-cut tanzanite ring after the birth of her daughter Blue Ivy!
Zircon
The fiery zircon has a long and rich history as a gemstone. It was valued in the Middle Ages for its perceived ability to banish evil along with bringing wealth and wisdom to the wearer. The Victorians were particularly found of it and often used sky-blue zircon in the their jewelry.
Origin
The oldest mineral on Earth, zircon is almost 4.5 billion years old! It is mined in many locations around the world including the legendary jungle mines of Sri Lanka and the red hills of Australia’s outback.
Color
If you decide to go with a zircon as your birthstone of choice you have more decisions to make! Zircons can be colorless or come in a spectacular rainbow of hues. From earthy reds and oranges, through to gorgeous soft yellows and on to leafy greens and azure blues, there really is something for everyone.
Turquoise
From ancient Egyptian pharaohs, to Native Americans and British royalty, the turquoise has captured the imagination of people throughout history. It is believed by many cultures to protect the wearer and is often associated with enduring love.
Origin
This ancient stone was one of the first to be mined, with evidence that the ancient Egyptians were doing so 5000 years ago! The famous mines of Iran have been operating for at least 2000 with their sky-blue stones particularly prized. Turquoise has also been heavily mined in North America and China.
Color
This blue-green gem is so distinctive that its name has become a color in its own right. Mention turquoise seas and images of a tropical paradise come to mind. The most valuable turquoise is an intense robin’s egg blue that mirrors a cloudless summer sky.
Now that you know all about the fabulous December birthstones, all that remains is to contact us at Jupiter Gem for hand-selected gemstones of the finest quality. Whether you’re choosing for yourself or a loved one we are always available to guide you. What’s more, with Christmas around the corner there’s no need to choose between stones. Get in touch today and we’ll help you to pick one of each!
