So, you're looking into the **birthstone color for the month of December**? Maybe you've got a December birthday yourself, or you're hunting for the perfect gift. Honestly, it's a bit more complex than just picking "blue" – and way more interesting. Forget just one shade; December folks get a whole stunning spectrum of blues to play with, thanks to not one, but three official birthstones: Turquoise, Blue Zircon, and Tanzanite. Each brings its own vibe, its own story, and yeah, its own set of quirks. Let's dive in and figure out what this **birthstone color for December** is really all about, and how to choose the right piece for you or your loved one.

Why December Gets Three Stunners: Turquoise, Blue Zircon & Tanzanite

Ever wonder *why* December gets three birthstones? It’s not just luck! The modern list (think American Gem Society, Jewelers of America) added Tanzanite relatively recently (2002) because, well, it’s gorgeous and rare. Turquoise is the ancient traditional choice, loved for millennia. Blue Zircon? It’s been recognized as a December birthstone for over a century, prized for its brilliance and fire. This trio gives you incredible choice depending on your style and budget. Frankly, it's a bit overwhelming at first glance, but having options is a good problem to have! The core **birthstone color for December** definitely leans blue, but the hues range wildly.

Turquoise: The Ancient Sky Stone

Turquoise is probably what leaps to mind for most folks when they think **birthstone color for the month of December**. That vivid, opaque robin's egg blue? That's classic turquoise. It’s been adored by cultures from ancient Egypt to the Native Americans of the Southwest. What makes its color? Copper creates that iconic blue, while iron adds greenish tones. The matrix (those brown or black spiderweb lines) is the host rock and adds character, though some prefer stones without it. Finding a pure, even sky-blue with no green and minimal matrix? That's the premium stuff (Nevada and Persian/Iranian sources are legendary).

My aunt has a stunning Sleeping Beauty turquoise ring – that intense, pure sky blue with zero matrix. She wears it constantly, even gardening (which makes me wince a bit, turquoise isn't super tough!). While gorgeous, I find the very high-end Persian blue almost *too* perfect sometimes; a little matrix gives it earthy charm, in my opinion.

Blue Zircon: The Sparkly Underdog (Not Cubic Zirconia!)

Okay, first things first: Blue Zircon is a natural gemstone, NOT the synthetic diamond simulant Cubic Zirconia (CZ). It's one of the biggest misconceptions and does zircon dirty! Zircon is a naturally occurring mineral, and when heat-treated, it produces stunning blues. Its brilliance and fire (the way it splits light into flashes of color) rival diamonds. Think vibrant cornflower blue or slightly deeper teal-tinged blues. It’s the bright, sparkly contender for the **birthstone color for December**.

Zircon offers fantastic value for its sparkle. However, it has a downside: brittleness. Gemologists call it "sensitive." My cousin chipped the corner of her beautiful blue zircon cocktail ring on a doorframe – heartbreaking! It needs a protective setting and careful wear. Also, some zircons can slightly fade in extremely strong, prolonged sunlight (though this is less common with modern heating techniques). Ask your jeweler about light stability if concerned.

Why isn't zircon more popular? Honestly, the confusion with CZ hurts it. Plus, that brittleness puts some people off. But if you want maximum sparkle for your December birthstone color without breaking the bank, zircon is a seriously underrated gem.

Tanzanite: The Velvety Blue-Violet Royalty

Ah, Tanzanite. The newcomer to the December birthstone party (added in 2002), but what a showstopper. Found only in one tiny area near Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania (hence the name), its supply is genuinely finite. Tanzanite is a variety of the mineral zoisite and is almost always heat-treated to bring out its signature color – a mesmerizing, deeply saturated blend of blue and violet, often described as "velvety." It's luxurious.

This stone shifts color dramatically depending on the light – bluer in daylight/fluorescent light, more violet under incandescent bulbs. This pleochroism is magical. But... here's the rub. Tanzanite is softer than sapphire and requires gentle care. Also, top-grade, saturated blues command seriously high prices. I once debated for weeks over a small tanzanite pendant – stunning, but wow, the price per carat stung! You're paying for rarity and that unforgettable color.

Which December Blue is YOUR Blue? Picking the Right Birthstone Color

Choosing between turquoise, zircon, and tanzanite for your **December birthstone color** isn't just about the prettiest shade (though that matters!). It's about lifestyle, budget, and personal taste. Ask yourself:

• Budget First: Are you looking for an affordable everyday piece ($50-$200 range)? Zircon or stabilized turquoise win. Want an investment-grade gem? Tanzanite or natural high-grade turquoise enter the ring ($500+ easily).
• Lifestyle Check: Hard on your hands (gardening, typing, active job)? Avoid turquoise or tanzanite in daily rings. Opt for pendants or zircon/tanzanite in earrings. If it's for occasional glamour, tanzanite shines.
• Style Vibe: Love earthy, bohemian, or Southwestern style? Turquoise is your soulmate. Prefer classic brilliance like diamonds? Zircon delivers. Drawn to deep, luxurious, unique colors? Tanzanite calls your name.
• Color Preference: Do you adore bright sky blue? Turquoise. Love vibrant, sparkly cornflower? Zircon. Want that sophisticated, shifting blue-violet? Tanzanite.

Stuck? Honestly, there’s no rule against having multiple pieces! A turquoise pendant for casual days, zircon earrings for sparkle, and maybe save up for that tanzanite stunner for nights out. The **birthstone color for the month of December** offers incredible versatility.

Buying Your December Birthstone Jewelry: What to Ask & Watch Out For

Walking into a store or browsing online for that perfect **birthstone color for December** piece? Don't go in blind. Here's your cheat sheet:

Essential Questions for ANY December Birthstone Purchase

• "What is the exact gemstone?" (Confirm Turquoise, Blue Zircon, or Tanzanite)
• "Has it been treated?" (Turquoise: Stabilized? Dyed? / Zircon: Heat-treated? / Tanzanite: Heat-treated? Clarity enhanced?) Most are treated – disclosure is key!
• "What is the origin?" (Persian turquoise? Nevada turquoise? Tanzanite from Tanzania? Zircon from Cambodia/Sri Lanka?) Impacts value & story.
• "Do you have a lab report?" (Crucial for high-value tanzanite, natural untreated turquoise, large zircons). GIA, AGS, Gubelin are top labs.
• "What is the setting style/metal?" (Turquoise/Zircon/Tanzanite NEED protective settings like bezels. Avoid prongs catching on edges). Metal impacts durability (Platinum > Gold > Silver).
• "What is your return policy and warranty?" Especially for online purchases.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Misidentification: Dyed howlite sold as turquoise. Synthetic forsterite or glass as tanzanite. Cubic Zirconia instead of natural Zircon. Know the real deal.
• Overpaying for Treatments: Paying premium prices for heavily stabilized turquoise or low-grade tanzanite. Understand treatments and their impact on value.
• Ignoring Durability: Putting a soft turquoise or brittle tanzanite in a delicate ring setting for daily wear. Disaster waiting to happen.
• Vague Descriptions Online: "Natural Blue Gemstone" could be anything. "Tanzanite-like" is NOT Tanzanite. Read descriptions meticulously.

See a piece described as "Tanzanite Color Topaz" or "Blue Zirconia"? That's *not* a December birthstone. Don't get fooled by misleading names.

Caring for Your December Birthstone Treasures

Got your beautiful piece showcasing the **birthstone color for the month of December**? Fantastic! Now, keep it looking stunning:

Turquoise Care Guide (Handle with Kid Gloves)

• Avoid: Water (especially hot/long), soap, chemicals (perfume, lotion, hairspray, cleaners), heat, sunlight (can fade some dyed stones), scratches.
• Cleaning: Gently wipe with a completely dry, soft cloth. Never soak or use ultrasonic/steam cleaners.
• Storage: Wrap loosely in a soft cloth, separate from harder gems to prevent scratches. Keep in a dry place.
• Wear: Put on after makeup/perfume. Remove for housework, swimming, showering. Best for earrings, pendants, brooches.

Blue Zircon Care Guide (Sparkle Needs Protection)

• Avoid: Sharp blows, knocks, pressure on girdle (edge). Prolonged intense sunlight *might* fade some stones (less common now).
• Cleaning: Warm soapy water, soft brush, rinse well. Pat dry. Ultrasonics are *usually* okay for untreated zircon, but avoid if brittle or included. Steam risky.
• Storage: Store separately to avoid scratches/chips from harder stones. Soft pouch or compartment.
• Wear: Fine for rings in protective settings (bezel, halo) if not doing manual labor. Excellent for earrings/pendants.

Tanzanite Care Guide (Treat it Like Royalty)

• Avoid: Sharp blows (can cleave!), sudden temperature changes, harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, steam cleaners.
• Cleaning: Lukewarm water, mild dish soap, very soft brush. Rinse thoroughly. Dry immediately with soft cloth.
• Storage: Wrap individually in soft cloth or store in separate compartment. Never let it rattle against harder stones.
• Wear: Best reserved for pendants, earrings, or rings worn only occasionally/in protected settings. Remove for ANY strenuous activity.

Bottom line on care? Turquoise is the most delicate. Tanzanite is surprisingly fragile despite its beauty. Zircon is tougher but hates knocks. Treat them right, and they'll reward you with lasting beauty representing that special **birthstone color for December**.

December Birthstone Color FAQs: Your Burning Questions Answered

Is the December birthstone color only blue?

Traditionally and primarily, yes – turquoise, blue zircon, and tanzanite all deliver blue hues. Turquoise can lean green, and tanzanite has violet, but the core **birthstone color for the month of December** is firmly rooted in blue. Some very old lists mention lapis lazuli (another blue), or bloodstone (green/red), but the modern trio defines the palette.

What is the most expensive December birthstone?

Generally, top-quality tanzanite takes the crown, especially larger stones (over 5 carats) with deep, saturated blue hues. Fine, natural, untreated Persian turquoise is also extremely valuable and rare. High-quality blue zircon is significantly more affordable.

Can I wear my December birthstone ring every day?

Honestly? It depends heavily on the stone and setting:

• Turquoise Ring: Not recommended daily. Too soft and porous. Prone to damage.
• Blue Zircon Ring: Maybe, *if* in a very protective bezel setting and you aren't hard on your hands. Still risk of chipping.
• Tanzanite Ring: Strongly discouraged for daily wear due to cleavage risk. Save it for special occasions.

Is blue zircon the same as cubic zirconia?

ABSOLUTELY NOT. This is crucial! Blue Zircon (ZrSiO4) is a natural, mined gemstone formed over millions of years. Cubic Zirconia (ZrO2) is a lab-created diamond simulant. They are completely different materials. Zircon has natural brilliance and fire; CZ is synthetic and lacks the same depth. Always confirm you're getting natural zircon.

Why does some turquoise turn green?

It's usually due to exposure! Turquoise is porous. Skin oils, lotions, perfumes, or even just prolonged exposure to light and air can cause the copper (which gives the blue) to react and potentially oxidize, leading to a greener color over time. Stabilized turquoise resists this better. Keeping it clean and dry helps.

Is tanzanite really running out?

Yes, its source is finite. Tanzanite is found in only one very small mining area (< 10 square miles) in Tanzania. Geologists believe it could be commercially mined out within decades (estimates vary). This scarcity is a major factor in its value, especially for high-quality stones. If you love it, buying sooner rather than later isn't a bad idea from an availability standpoint.

What's the best December birthstone for an engagement ring?

Tread carefully! None are ideal like sapphire/ruby/diamond due to durability. If you *must*:

• Turquoise: Strongly discouraged. Too soft and sensitive.
• Zircon: Risky due to brittleness. Only consider small stones in highly protective bezels, worn by someone very careful. Pastel shades might hide wear better.
• Tanzanite: Also risky due to cleavage. Only for very occasional wear rings or if budget allows for replacement. Sapphire is a much safer blue option.

Where are the best places to buy December birthstones?

Depends on budget and type:

• Reputable Local Jewelers: Best for advice, seeing stones in person, custom settings. Essential for high-value pieces like tanzanite.
• Specialist Gemstone Dealers (Online/Offline): Ideal for collectors or specific stones like high-grade turquoise or zircon. Look for established dealers with certifications and transparent sourcing.
• Reputable Online Retailers (e.g., Blue Nile, James Allen for tanzanite/zircon): Good selection/convenience, vet them carefully. Ensure good zoom, certification for expensive stones, clear return policy. Avoid generic marketplaces for valuable gems.
• Native American Artisans/Galleries: The *best* source for authentic, high-quality turquoise jewelry. Supports artists directly.

Wrapping Up: Celebrating December's Spectrum of Blue

So, what *is* the **birthstone color for the month of December**? It's the earthy, vibrant sky blue of turquoise, worn by pharaohs and warriors. It's the brilliant, fiery sparkle of blue zircon, lighting up the room. It's the rare, velvety blue-violet depths of tanzanite, shifting like twilight. December isn't confined to one blue; it celebrates a remarkable range.

Choosing between them isn't just picking a color; it's choosing a vibe. Turquoise connects you to the earth and ancient traditions. Zircon offers dazzling brilliance and accessibility. Tanzanite whispers exclusivity and depth. There’s no single "best" – just the best for *you* or the December-born person you're celebrating.

Remember the practical stuff: care matters (turquoise is fussy!), treatments are common (ask questions!), and settings need to protect these beautiful but sometimes delicate stones. Whether you fall for the hypnotic blue of a fine Sleeping Beauty turquoise, the electric sparkle of a zircon, or the royal richness of a tanzanite, wear your **December birthstone color** with pride. It’s a unique piece of the earth’s artistry, born from fire, time, and a whole lot of geological magic.