02 Dec December Birthstones

If you like blue, you’re in luck.  December has 3 birthstones associated with it, all of which are absolutely stunning.

Tanzanite, as its name implies, was originally discovered in Tanzania.  An early substitute for the more expensive sapphire, tanzanite has come into its own in recent years to possess a beauty all its own.  Though far less common, those stones with a bit of violet color accenting the deep blue are more treasured among tanzanite enthusiasts.

The second of the December birthstones is zircon.  Though its etymology suggests Arabic origins, it comes largely from Southeast Asian countries like Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam.  Most people are probably familiar with the colorless variant of zircon which was used as an inexpensive substitute for diamonds, but zircon is found in every color of the rainbow.  As folklore would have it, zircon also has the unique ability to ward off disease and injury.

Lastly, there is turquoise.  Cherished in the American Southwest and often found adorning bracelets and necklaces, turquoise is one of the oldest known gemstones.  Although it is known for it’s pale blue color, it can also appear greenish blue as well.  Turquoise is a more plentiful gemstone and can be found in a wide variety of sizes and shapes.