December Birthstone Quick FAQs

The December birthstone is associated with people born in the final month of the calendar year. December is unusual because it has five commonly recognised birthstones: Tanzanite, Topaz, Zircon, Turquoise and Lapis Lazuli.

Each gemstone offers its own colour, appearance, history and symbolism. Tanzanite is admired for its blue-violet tones, Topaz is available in a wide range of colours, Zircon is known for its brilliance and fire, Turquoise is recognised for its distinctive blue-green appearance, and Lapis Lazuli is valued for its rich blue colour and historic significance.

Birthstones are also popular in jewellery, including engagement rings, promise rings, wedding bands, necklaces, earrings and tennis bracelets. Their personal association with a birth month can make them particularly meaningful as gifts or as part of custom jewellery.

Gemstone colour can have different causes depending on the stone. Some colours occur naturally through trace elements and geological conditions, while others may be enhanced through accepted treatments. For example, blue Topaz available in the jewellery market is commonly treated to achieve its colour.

If you are looking for the birthstone for December, the following quick FAQs explain the key differences, meanings, colours, rarity and care considerations for these gemstones.

A. What is the December birthstone?

The December birthstone is represented by several gemstones rather than one single stone. Tanzanite, Zircon, Topaz, Turquoise and Lapis Lazuli are commonly associated with December.

Tanzanite is particularly recognised as a modern December birthstone and is admired for its striking blue to violet colours. It was discovered in Tanzania and is notable for its limited geographic source.

Zircon is valued for its strong brilliance and range of natural colours, while Topaz occurs in several colours and varieties. Turquoise is recognised for its blue to blue-green appearance and long history in jewellery and decorative objects. Lapis Lazuli is an opaque blue gemstone that has been prized for centuries.

The variety means that people born in December have several options when choosing a birthstone based on colour, style, symbolism and budget.

B. Why does December have more than one birthstone?

December is unusual because it has several modern and traditional birthstone associations, including Tanzanite, Zircon, Topaz, Turquoise and Lapis Lazuli.

Having multiple December birthstones gives people a broad choice of colours and styles. Topaz, for example, can occur in several colours, while Zircon is found in colours including blue, red, brown, yellow, orange and green.

Tanzanite is best known for its blue-violet appearance. Turquoise is associated with blue and blue-green shades, while Lapis Lazuli is recognised for its intense opaque blue colour.

This variety allows December birthdays to be celebrated with a gemstone that suits an individual's personal style rather than being limited to a single colour or stone.

C. What is the most valuable birthstone for December?

Tanzanite is often considered one of the most valuable December birthstones, particularly when it has an attractive blue-violet colour, strong clarity and good cutting.

Its appeal is influenced by its rarity and the fact that gem-quality Tanzanite is associated with a relatively small mining area in Tanzania. Fine-quality material with desirable colour can therefore command a significant price.

However, value depends on several factors, including colour, clarity, cut, carat weight, origin, treatment and overall quality. Zircon, Turquoise, Topaz and Lapis Lazuli can also vary considerably in value depending on their quality and characteristics.

D. How rare is the December birthstone?

The rarity of a December birthstone depends on which gemstone you choose.

Tanzanite is particularly rare because known commercial deposits are concentrated in northern Tanzania. Its distinctive blue-violet colour and restricted geographic occurrence contribute to its desirability.

Zircon is a naturally occurring gemstone found in many parts of the world, although fine-quality stones in certain colours and sizes can be uncommon.

Turquoise and Lapis Lazuli also vary in availability and quality according to their geological sources. As with any gemstone, rarity alone does not determine price; colour, clarity, size, cut and overall quality also matter.

E. How can I buy a December birthstone easily?

To buy a December birthstone with confidence, start by deciding which gemstone best suits your preference, jewellery style and budget.

When buying a December birthstone, consider:

• Choose a reputable jeweller or established online retailer.
• Ask whether the gemstone has been treated or enhanced.
• Request appropriate gemstone documentation where available.
• Compare the colour, clarity, cut and carat weight of similar stones.
• Check the retailer returns and warranty policies.
• Make sure the gemstone description accurately identifies the stone.
• Consider how the gemstone will be worn and whether its durability suits the jewellery design.

For a valuable Tanzanite, Zircon or other gemstone, independent documentation or a recognised gemmological report can provide additional confidence about the stone's identity and characteristics.

F. What is Tanzanite known for?

Tanzanite is renowned for its blue-violet colour, rarity and restricted geographic origin.

The gemstone was discovered in Tanzania in the 20th century and became particularly popular because of its distinctive colour range, which can display blue, violet and sometimes burgundy or purplish tones depending on the stone and viewing conditions.

Tanzanite is also associated with spiritual and metaphysical beliefs, including balance, calmness and transformation. These are traditional or personal beliefs rather than scientifically established properties.

As a December birthstone, Tanzanite is frequently selected for rings, pendants, earrings and other fine jewellery because of its distinctive appearance.

G. What does Turquoise symbolise?

Turquoise has historically been associated with protection, good fortune, healing and positive energy in various cultures.

Its characteristic blue to blue-green colour has made it a treasured material for jewellery, ornaments and decorative objects for thousands of years.

Many traditional beliefs attribute protective or spiritual qualities to Turquoise. These associations form part of the gemstone's cultural history and symbolism rather than scientifically proven effects.

For someone choosing a December birthstone, Turquoise can therefore represent protection, good fortune and a connection with long-standing gemstone traditions.

H. What are the colour variations of Zircon?

Zircon occurs in a broad range of colours, including:

• Blue
• Red
• Brown
• Orange
• Yellow
• Green
• Colourless

Blue Zircon is one of the most popular varieties, particularly for people looking for a vivid blue gemstone. Brown Zircon can also have an attractive warm appearance, while colourless Zircon is known for its strong brilliance and fire.

The gemstone's high refractive index contributes to its lively appearance. Its colour range makes Zircon a versatile option for jewellery, including rings, earrings, necklaces and bracelets.

I. How does Tanzanite get its colour?

Tanzanite's blue and violet colours are primarily associated with the presence of vanadium and the geological conditions under which the gemstone formed.

Tanzanite is also well known for pleochroism, meaning it can display different colours when viewed from different directions. Cutting is therefore particularly important because the orientation of the gemstone can influence the colours visible to the observer.

Many Tanzanites used in jewellery are heat-treated to enhance their blue-violet colour. This is an important consideration when purchasing one, and buyers should ask whether the stone has undergone treatment.

J. Can these December birthstones be worn together?

Yes. Tanzanite, Zircon, Topaz, Lapis Lazuli and Turquoise can be combined in jewellery, provided the design and gemstone properties are considered carefully.

Combining different December birthstones can create an attractive contrast of blue, violet, green and other colours. A custom jewellery piece could incorporate more than one birthstone to represent a person's birth month, family members or significant occasions.

However, gemstones have different levels of hardness and durability. Softer or more vulnerable stones may require additional protection in rings or bracelets that receive frequent knocks and abrasion.

For this reason, the jewellery setting should be chosen according to the individual gemstone rather than simply its appearance.

K. What historical significance does Turquoise hold?

Turquoise has an exceptionally long history in jewellery and decorative arts. Ancient cultures valued it for its distinctive colour and believed it offered protection and good fortune.

It has been used in ornaments, amulets, jewellery and ceremonial objects across different cultures. Its distinctive appearance has also made it particularly important in traditional jewellery styles.

These historical associations help explain why Turquoise remains one of the recognised traditional December birthstones and why it continues to appear in vintage, antique-inspired and contemporary jewellery.

L. Is Zircon as durable as diamond?

No. Zircon is not as hard or durable as diamond.

Diamond ranks at 10 on the Mohs scale of hardness, whereas Zircon has a lower hardness and can be more susceptible to scratching and abrasion.

Zircon nevertheless has excellent brilliance and fire, making it an attractive gemstone for many types of jewellery. With appropriate care, it can be worn successfully, although protective settings and sensible handling are particularly important for rings that experience regular impact.

This distinction is important when comparing Zircon with diamond for engagement rings or wedding jewellery. Zircon can offer impressive optical qualities, but it should not be described as having the same durability as diamond.

M. Are there alternative birthstones for December?

Yes. December has several birthstone choices, with Tanzanite, Zircon, Turquoise, Topaz and Lapis Lazuli providing different alternatives.

Some lists also distinguish between traditional and modern birthstone systems. Blue Topaz is particularly popular because of its attractive colour and comparatively accessible price.

The best choice depends on personal preference, including colour, symbolism, jewellery design, durability and budget.

N. Can December birthstones be incorporated into custom jewellery designs?

Absolutely. December birthstones can be incorporated into custom jewellery designs in many different ways.

A jeweller can use a single gemstone as the central feature or combine several December stones in one design. For example, a custom bracelet could incorporate blue Zircon alongside other gemstones, while a necklace could use Turquoise or Lapis Lazuli as its principal stone.

Birthstones can also be combined with diamonds or other coloured gemstones to create a personalised appearance. This makes them suitable for birthday gifts, engagement jewellery, anniversary pieces and other meaningful occasions.

When designing custom jewellery, the gemstone's hardness, care requirements, setting and intended use should all be considered.

O. How do you clean a December birthstone and jewellery?

Cleaning instructions depend on the specific December birthstone.

For many pieces, a soft cloth, mild soap and lukewarm water can provide a gentle cleaning method. Avoid harsh chemicals and abrasive materials that could damage the gemstone or jewellery setting.

Extra care is particularly important with gemstones such as Turquoise and Lapis Lazuli, which can be more sensitive to chemicals, heat and prolonged exposure to moisture. Tanzanite should also be handled carefully because it is less resistant to scratching and impact than diamond.

Ultrasonic or steam cleaners should not be used automatically. The safest approach is to follow care recommendations for the specific gemstone and metal, or ask a professional jeweller when the correct cleaning method is uncertain.

P. Is Blue Zircon similar to a blue diamond?

Blue Zircon and blue diamond can both display an attractive blue colour, but they are very different gemstones.

Blue diamonds are extremely rare and can command exceptionally high prices, particularly when they have desirable natural colour and excellent quality. Zircon is a different mineral with its own optical properties and is generally much more accessible in price.

Blue Zircon is admired for its brilliance, fire and vibrant colour, making it an appealing alternative for someone who likes the appearance of a blue gemstone but does not want the price associated with a blue diamond.

However, Blue Zircon should not be described as an imitation of blue diamond. It is a natural gemstone with its own identity, history and characteristics.

Quick Takeaway: Which December Birthstone Should You Choose?

There is no single December birthstone that is right for everyone.

Tanzanite is an excellent choice for someone attracted to rare blue-violet gemstones. Zircon offers strong brilliance and a wide range of colours. Topaz provides extensive colour choices and is often more accessible. Turquoise is ideal for someone who appreciates historical symbolism and its distinctive blue-green appearance, while Lapis Lazuli offers a rich opaque blue colour and a long cultural history.

Before buying, consider the gemstone's colour, durability, treatment, rarity, setting and price, rather than choosing solely on appearance.

Whether selected for a birthday, engagement ring, promise ring, wedding jewellery or a personalised gift, a December birthstone can add both visual appeal and personal meaning to a piece of jewellery.

Are you still interested to know more about birthstones? See our other guides on birthstones: