Tanzanite and Turquoise: A Complete Guide to these December Birthstones

Tanzanite and Turquoise are the birthstones of December. Tanzanite with its deep violet-blue hues, and Turquoise, offering cool, earthy blue-greens. These stones are more than just beautiful: they carry history, symbolism and a sense of individuality perfect for December birthdays.

Whether you favour the regal, shifting tones of Tanzanite or the ancient, earthy charm of Turquoise, this guide will walk you through their origins, meaning, and how to care for them so they shine for years to come. 

A Little History Behind The December Birthstone

Both Tanzanite and Turquoise offer two distinct, beautiful ways to celebrate a December birthday. One speaks of ancient traditions, spiritual protection, and timeless calm. The other whispers of rarity, transformation, and contemporary elegance.

Tanzanite

Tanzanite is a comparatively recent arrival having been first discovered in 1967, in the Merelani Hills near Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania. Originally, the crystals appeared as brownish or greenish rough stones, but through controlled heat treatment the rich blue-violet colours we know today emerged. Tanzanite is one of the rarest gemstones in the world because it’s found in only one place: a small area at the base of Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. Once it’s mined, there’s no new source anywhere else on Earth.

Turquoise

The name “turquoise” comes from the French phrase pierre turquoise, meaning “Turkish stone,” reflecting how the gem was brought to Europe centuries ago via Turkey. Turquoise dates back to ancient Egypt, adorning tombs and jewellery of pharaohs. Over time, turquoise has remained a symbol of history, tradition, and natural beauty becoming a gemstone that connects modern wearers to ancient stories.

Each gemstone carries its own irresistible charm, something we’re delighted to share with our customers at Aleks Jewellers.

Why does December have two birthstones?

December has multiple birthstones, as does every other month. This is so there are more affordable options available alongside the original stone. Everyone should have access to beautiful gems, which is why having multiple birthstones for December should be viewed as a positive. Who doesn’t love having options?

PHYSICAL AND GEMOLOGICAL PROPERTIES OF Tanzanite and Turquoise

Just like citrine, both turquoise and tanzanite have distinctive features that make them special:

Turquoise

• Composition & Colour: Turquoise is a hydrated copper-aluminum phosphate mineral – its distinctive shades from sky-blue and robin-egg blue to greenish-blue come largely from copper, while iron or other elements can introduce greener tones.
• Clarity & Transparency: Often opaque, Turquoise sometimes shows veins or a “matrix” (web-like patterns) from the host rock.
• Hardness: On the Mohs hardness scale, it rates about 5–6: soft compared to many gemstones.
• Symbolism: Ancient Charm, Healing, Protection & Peace

Tanzanite

• Composition & Colour: Tanzanite is a blue-violet variety of the mineral zoisite. A mesmerizing mix of blues, purples and even burgundy which comes from trace elements like vanadium.
• Clarity & Transparency: One of Tanzanite’s most enchanting properties is pleochroism. Depending on how and under what light you look at it, the colour shifts from rich blue to violet or even burgundy/purple.
• Hardness: Mohs hardness sits around 6–7.
• Symbolism: Modern Rarity, Transformation, Intuition & Elegance

Both December birthstones shine beautifully in yellow gold or white gold. Tanzanite’s vivid blue-violet tones sparkle brilliantly alongside diamonds, while turquoise brings a soft, serene colour that stands out in any setting.

CARING FOR YOUR Tanzanite and Turquoise JEWELLERY

Because these stones differ in hardness and structure, they require thoughtful care:

• Turquoise: With its softer makeup and porous nature, Turquoise should be cleaned gently with lukewarm water and mild soap, soft cloth. It’s best to avoid ultrasonic cleaners, harsh chemicals, acids or high heat. Also, prolonged exposure to sunlight or perfumes can affect colour and finish.
• Tanzanite: Due to its moderate hardness and potential fragility, Tanzanite jewellery benefits from protective settings (e.g., pendants or earrings instead of rings for everyday wear) and gentle cleaning. Avoid knocks, exposure to chemicals, and harsh cleaning methods.

Storing each piece separately (soft pouch or lined box) is wise, to prevent scratches.

DECEMBER BIRTHSTONE GIFT IDEAS

If you’re looking for a thoughtful gift for someone with a December birthday, turquoise and tanzanite pieces are full of warmth and meaning. Some of our favourites include:

• Pre-Loved Statement Turquoise and Pearl Ring in 9ct Yellow Gold
• 1.05ct Tanzanite & 0.20ct Diamond Set Shoulder Ring in 18k White Gold
• Oval Tanzanite Trilogy Ring with 0.24ct Round Brilliant Cut Diamonds in 9k White Gold

Each piece captures the brightness and positivity associated with December’s gemstones ideal for birthdays and anniversaries.

December birthstone jewellery from Aleks Jewellers

So, which December birthstone jewellery pieces will you choose? Something subtle yet unique, or a showstopping, vibrant piece? For advice on finding the perfect December birthstone gift for a partner or loved one, pop into Aleks Jewellers today and browse our collection. Our team is friendly and approachable and would be more than happy to assist with finding a sentimental December birthday gift this winter.