December Birthstones - Tanzanite, Turquoise and Zircon
Babies born in December can celebrate with three birthstones - turquoise, tanzanite and zircon.
Turquoise is a blue-green mineral that is one of the oldest gemstones used in jewellery. The stone has a rich history that spans several cultures and is believed to have been used for spiritual and healing purposes.
In ancient Egypt, turquoise was used as a symbol of prosperity and wealth. The colour was also associated with the use of the plant reeds in their religious ceremonies, which were used as a symbol of resurrection. The stone was also favoured by Persian kings, who believed that wearing turquoise would protect them from harm. Native Americans also used turquoise in their jewellery and believed that it could bring protection, wellness, and good luck.
Turquoise is said to have many benefits and meanings, and is believed to be a stone of protection, purification, and healing. It is said to help with communication, improve relationships, and enhance intuition. The stone is also believed to bring peace, balance, and wisdom to those who wear it.
Turquoise is a porous stone, and it comes in many different types and colours. The finest turquoise is found in Iran, and is known for its deep sky blue colour with a hint of green. Other popular types include Mexican turquoise, which is known for its bright blue colour, and Egyptian turquoise, which is a more greenish-blue colour.
One of the most famous examples of turquoise jewellery is the Tutankhamun death mask, which features turquoise inlays on the beard and necklace. Other famous examples include the turquoise jewellery worn by Native American tribes, and the Tibetan turquoise known for its unique pattern and colour. Turquoise is a beautiful and meaningful birthstone that has been treasured by many cultures for thousands of years.
Tanzanite is a relatively new gemstone that was discovered in 1967 in Tanzania, Africa. It was named by Tiffany & Co. after the country of its origin. Its colour ranges from blue to violet, and it is known for its pleochroism, which means it can display different colours when viewed from different angles. Tanzanite is often heat-treated to enhance its colour.
In terms of meaning, tanzanite is said to promote communication and psychic abilities. It is also believed to have a calming effect and promote self-awareness.
Types of tanzanite include AAA, AA, and A grade stones. There are also various shapes and cuts, including pear, oval, cushion, and emerald cut.
Famous examples of tanzanite in jewellery include the Queen of Kilimanjaro, a necklace designed by Tiffany & Co. featuring a 242-carat tanzanite gemstone, and the Tote-Ally Tess handbag by Judith Leiber, which is covered in tanzanite crystals.
Zircon is a mineral that ranges in color from colorless to brown, yellow, green, and blue. It is often confused with cubic zirconia, which is a synthetic gemstone.
In terms of meaning, zircon is said to promote mental clarity and spiritual grounding. It is also believed to enhance creativity and self-expression.
Types of zircon include blue zircon, yellow zircon, and green zircon. There are also various shapes and cuts, including round, oval, and emerald cut.
Famous examples of zircon in jewellery include the zircon tiara worn by Queen Elizabeth II and the zircon necklace worn by Marilyn Monroe.