The Ultimate Guide to December Birthstones: Healing, History, and Holistic Wellness

Key Points

• Multiple Stones: December is unique in having three official birthstones recognized by the American Gem Trade Association (AGTA)—Turquoise, Tanzanite, and Zircon—and a widely accepted modern alternative, Blue Topaz.
• Color Theme: All December birthstones share a common palette of blue, ranging from the icy sky blues of topaz to the deep violet-blues of tanzanite and the greenish-blues of turquoise, symbolizing winter's cool elegance.
• Holistic Significance: These stones are deeply connected to the Throat Chakra (communication) and Third Eye Chakra (intuition), promoting clarity, truth, and spiritual transformation.
• Durability Variance: They range significantly in hardness; Blue Topaz is durable (Mohs 8), while Turquoise and Tanzanite are softer and require special care, particularly in engagement rings.
• History: The list has evolved from ancient Tibetan and Egyptian use of Turquoise to the 2002 addition of Tanzanite, the first change to the birthstone list in nearly a century.

Introduction: The Winter Blues You Actually Want

For those born in the final month of the year, the "winter blues" take on a sparkling, celebratory meaning. Unlike most months that are represented by a single gem, December boasts a rich array of gemstones: Turquoise, Tanzanite, Zircon, and the modern favorite, Blue Topaz. This variety offers December babies a spectrum of choices that range from opaque, earthy ancient talismans to transparent, high-fire gems that rival diamonds.

From a health and holistic wellness perspective, December birthstones are unified by their color: Blue. In color therapy and chakra healing, blue stones are inextricably linked to the Throat Chakra (Vishuddha), governing communication, truth, and self-expression, and the Third Eye Chakra (Ajna), associated with intuition and spiritual insight, as explored by Mystix Gemstones and DWS Jewellery. Whether you are a Sagittarius seeking grounding or a Capricorn seeking spiritual elevation, these stones offer profound metaphysical benefits alongside their aesthetic beauty.

This comprehensive guide explores the "true" birthstones of December, their healing properties, historical origins, and practical advice for jewelry buyers.

The Mystery of the Multitude: Why Does December Have Multiple Birthstones?

One of the most common questions regarding December birthdays is: Why are there so many stones? The answer lies in a blend of ancient tradition, commercial availability, and modern marketing.

The Evolution of the List

The concept of birthstones traces back to the Breastplate of Aaron described in the Book of Exodus, which contained twelve stones representing the tribes of Israel. However, the modern standardized list was not created until 1912 by the National Association of Jewelers (now Jewelers of America), as detailed by She Said Yes and Gem Rock Auctions.

1. 1912 (The Standard): The original list designated Turquoise and Lapis Lazuli for December. Turquoise was the primary stone due to its immense historical significance, as noted by She Said Yes.
2. 1952 (The Update): The Jewelry Industry Council of America updated the list, adding Zircon to December to offer a transparent, sparkling alternative to the opaque Turquoise, an update documented by Gem Rock Auctions.
3. 2002 (The Modern Addition): In a significant move, the American Gem Trade Association (AGTA) added Tanzanite to the December list. This was the first change to the birthstone list in 90 years, recognizing the immense popularity of this gem discovered in the 20th century, a fact highlighted by Gem Rock Auctions and Beaverbrooks.

Is Blue Topaz a December Stone?

While Turquoise, Tanzanite, and Zircon are the official trio recognized by the AGTA, Blue Topaz is widely considered a December birthstone in the consumer market, as discussed by Gem Society and Blue Nile.

• Reason for Inclusion: Natural Blue Topaz is rare, but treated Blue Topaz (Sky, Swiss, and London Blue) became widely available and affordable in the mid-20th century. Because it fits the "blue" color theme of December and is more durable than Tanzanite or Turquoise, jewelers frequently market it as a practical December birthstone, as detailed by She Said Yes and Blue Nile.

1. Turquoise: The Ancient Healer

"A turquoise given by a loving hand carries with it happiness and good fortune." — Arabic Proverb, often quoted on Goodreads.

Origin and History

Turquoise is arguably the "true" and oldest birthstone for December. It has been prized for thousands of years, found in the jewelry of Ancient Egyptian Pharaohs (dating back to 5500 BC) and revered by Native American cultures as a piece of the sky fallen to earth, as Gem Rock Auctions explains. The name derives from the French pierre tourques ("Turkish stone"), as it arrived in Europe via trade routes through Turkey, according to Manipuramala.

Physical Properties

• Color: Ranges from powdery sky blue (Persian/Sleeping Beauty) to apple green and greenish-blue.
• Matrix: Often contains dark veins (matrix) of the host rock (limonite or sandstone), creating unique spiderweb patterns, as shown in this Gem Rock Auctions Guide.
• Hardness: 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale (relatively soft), as detailed by Bluestone.

Holistic Meaning and Healing Properties

For a health blog audience, Turquoise is a powerhouse of healing.

• Physical Healing: Historically believed to strengthen the immune system, aid nutrient absorption, and alleviate respiratory issues and pollution-related ailments, as discussed by DWS Jewellery and Bhoma.
• Emotional Balance: It is a stone of purification. It dispels negative energy and protects against outside pollutants. It balances and aligns all the chakras, stabilizing mood swings and instilling inner calm, as noted by DWS Jewellery.
• The Throat Chakra: As a blue stone, it unlocks the throat chakra, aiding in the articulation of one's deepest wisdom and truth. It is excellent for those who fear public speaking, as explored in this video guide to December Birthstones.

2. Tanzanite: The Stone of Transformation

"Tanzanite is a gateway to spiritual transformation, guiding us towards our true potential," a concept explored by Tanzanite Jewelry Designs.

Origin and History

Tanzanite is the "new kid on the block." Discovered in 1967 by Manuel de Souza in the Merelani Hills of Tanzania (near Mount Kilimanjaro), it is a blue-violet variety of the mineral Zoisite, as explained by Gem Rock Auctions. Tiffany & Co. named it "Tanzanite" because "Blue Zoisite" sounded too much like "blue suicide," a detail also shared by Gem Rock Auctions.

Physical Properties

• Rarity: It is found in only one place on Earth (a 4km strip in Tanzania), making it 1,000 times rarer than diamonds, as noted by Beaverbrooks and Brilliant Earth.
• Pleochroism: Tanzanite is trichroic, meaning it shows three different colors (blue, violet, and burgundy/bronze) when viewed from different angles, a characteristic highlighted by Brilliant Earth and Golden Bird Jewels.
• Hardness: 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale.

Holistic Meaning and Healing Properties

• Spiritual Awakening: Tanzanite is a high-vibration stone associated with the Third Eye and Crown Chakras. It is used in meditation to facilitate higher consciousness and intuition, according to Tanzanite Jewelry Designs.
• Emotional Healing: It is believed to help dissolve old patterns of disease and karma, relieving stress and anxiety. It harmonizes the heart and mind, a benefit discussed by Beaverbrooks and Tanzanite Jewelry Designs.
• The "Workaholic's Stone": Some holistic practitioners suggest Tanzanite helps slow down and find balance for those who are overworked, a suggestion from Purlynude.

3. Zircon: The Spark of Brilliance

Origin and History

Zircon is often misunderstood. It is not cubic zirconia (a synthetic lab-created simulant). Zircon is a natural mineral and the oldest known material on Earth, with some Australian crystals dating back 4.4 billion years, as detailed in this Gem Rock Auctions guide and by the Almanac.

Physical Properties

• Fire (Dispersion): Zircon has a high refractive index and dispersion, giving it a sparkle and "fire" that rivals diamonds, as noted by the American Gem Society.
• Double Refraction: Facets on zircon appear doubled when viewed under magnification, a characteristic noted by Gem Society.
• Hardness: 6 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale, but it is brittle and can chip.

Holistic Meaning and Healing Properties

• Grounding and Virtue: In the Middle Ages, Zircon was believed to aid sleep, ward off evil spirits, and bring prosperity and wisdom.
• Mental Clarity: Blue Zircon is said to clear the mind of mental fog, helping the wearer focus on goals and organize their thoughts, a benefit highlighted by DWS Jewellery.
• Physical Health: Historically associated with relieving pain and protecting travelers, according to Bluestone.

4. Blue Topaz: The Stone of Clarity (Modern Alternative)

Origin and History

While not always on the "traditional" lists, Blue Topaz has become the most commercially popular December birthstone due to its affordability and durability. Most blue topaz on the market is natural colorless topaz that has been treated (irradiated and heated) to produce blue hues, a process explained by Blue Nile and Jewelry of Stuart.

Physical Properties

• Colors:
  • Sky Blue: Light, clear blue.
  • Swiss Blue: Bright, electric blue.
  • London Blue: Deep, dark, inky blue, as described by Gem Society.
• Hardness: 8 on the Mohs scale, making it the hardest and most durable of the December stones, according to Jewelry of Stuart.

Holistic Meaning and Healing Properties

• Communication: Like Turquoise, it governs the Throat Chakra. It promotes clear communication, self-expression, and the ability to articulate complex ideas, as highlighted by DWS Jewellery.
• Emotional Cooling: It is known to soothe a hot temper, release anger, and encourage forgiveness and truth, benefits also noted by DWS Jewellery.

Comparative Guide: Price, Durability, and Jewelry

For those looking to buy December birthstone jewelry, particularly engagement rings, understanding the physical limitations of these stones is crucial.

December Birthstone Engagement Rings

• Trend: Blue Topaz and Tanzanite are popular for "something blue" engagement rings.
• Warning: While Tanzanite is stunning, it is significantly softer than sapphire or diamond. If chosen for an engagement ring, it requires a protective setting (like a bezel) and should not be worn during vigorous activity, a caution from LoveToKnow. Turquoise is generally discouraged for engagement rings because hand lotions, soaps, and water can discolor the porous stone over time, as explained by She Said Yes.

Astrology: Sagittarius vs. Capricorn

December birthdays span two zodiac signs, and the birthstones align differently for each.

Sagittarius (Nov 22 – Dec 21)

• Primary Stone: Turquoise.
• Meaning: Resonates with the adventurous, optimistic, and truth-seeking nature of Sagittarius. It balances their restless energy and protects them during their travels, a benefit noted by Bluestone and Purlynude.
• Alternative: Blue Topaz is also linked to Sagittarius, supporting their philosophical pursuits and need for clear expression, as suggested by Moonmagic.

Capricorn (Dec 22 – Jan 19)

• Primary Stone: Tanzanite or Zircon.
• Meaning: Capricorns are ambitious and disciplined. Tanzanite helps them open up emotionally and connect with their intuition, balancing their pragmatic nature. Zircon supports their drive for success and prosperity, as discussed on Purlynude.
• Overlap: Some lists also associate Ruby or Garnet with Capricorn, though these are typically January stones, according to Wikipedia.

The 12 Birthstones by Month (Reference List)

For context, here is the standard modern birthstone list as recognized by the AGTA and GIA, and other jewelers like AJewel:

• January: Garnet
• February: Amethyst
• March: Aquamarine (and Bloodstone)
• April: Diamond
• May: Emerald
• June: Pearl, Alexandrite, Moonstone
• July: Ruby
• August: Peridot, Spinel
• September: Sapphire
• October: Opal, Tourmaline
• November: Topaz, Citrine
• December: Tanzanite, Zircon, Turquoise (and Blue Topaz)

Multimedia & Resources

Video Guides

To see these stones in action and understand their visual differences, we recommend the following videos:

• [Video] December Birthstones: Turquoise, Tanzanite & Zircon Meaning: A deep dive into the metaphysical benefits.
  [Watch video here](https://www.youtube.com/embed/ZLw0WbqyWrs).
• [Video] Gem Rock Auctions Guide: Explains the history and value factors.
  [Learn more here](https://www.youtube.com/embed/kqUU6BPZuSE).

Downloadable Resources (PDFs)

• [Link] AGTA Gemstone Information Manual: For detailed care and enhancement codes. Download PDF from AGTA.
• [Link] GIA Gemstone Care Chart: A printable guide for cleaning your birthstones. Download GIA's cleaning guide.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What is the true birthstone for December?
A: Turquoise is the oldest and most traditional "true" birthstone. However, Tanzanite and Zircon are officially recognized by the jewelry industry (AGTA/JA) as equal birthstones. Blue Topaz is the "true" modern commercial choice due to its popularity, as discussed by Gem Rock Auctions and Brilliant Earth.

Q: What is the December birthstone color?
A: The color is Blue, encompassing various shades, as confirmed by Monthly Birthstones. This encompasses the greenish-blue of Turquoise, the violet-blue of Tanzanite, and the icy blue of Zircon and Topaz.

Q: Why does December have multiple birthstones?
A: It is a mix of history and practicality. Turquoise was the original. Zircon was added in 1952 to provide a transparent option. Tanzanite was added in 2002 due to its discovery and popularity. Blue Topaz is included to provide an affordable, durable blue gem, a topic explored by She Said Yes and Brilliant Earth.

Q: Is Blue Topaz a December stone?
A: Yes. While some strict traditional lists omit it, it is widely accepted as a December birthstone in the jewelry trade and by consumers because it fits the blue color profile and is more affordable than Tanzanite, according to Gem Society and Jewelry of Stuart.

Q: What is the price of December birthstones?
A:

• Blue Topaz: $10 - $30 per carat (Most affordable).
• Blue Zircon: $200 - $400 per carat.
• Tanzanite: $400 - $600+ per carat (Most expensive/Investment grade).
• Turquoise: Varies wildly from $5 to hundreds per carat depending on origin (e.g., Sleeping Beauty turquoise is expensive), with more details from Gem Society and Brilliant Earth.

Q: Can I wear a Turquoise engagement ring every day?
A: It is not recommended. Turquoise is porous and soft (Mohs 5-6). Daily exposure to hand sanitizer, lotion, and water will change its color and damage the stone. Blue Topaz or Sapphire are better blue options for daily wear, as advised by She Said Yes.

Conclusion

Whether you are drawn to the ancient protective powers of Turquoise, the high-vibrational spiritual transformation of Tanzanite, the fiery brilliance of Zircon, or the calming clarity of Blue Topaz, December birthstones offer a gem for every personality and budget.

By integrating these stones into your life—whether through jewelry or meditation—you embrace the energy of the winter season: cool, reflective, and profoundly wise.

Disclaimer: The information regarding the healing properties of gemstones is for entertainment and informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice.