December Birthstone: Beautiful Blues

December has three birthstones, all of which are beautiful shades of blue. They are turquoise, tanzanite, and zircon.

Turquoise

Typically, turquoise is found in very dry areas where there has been volcanic activity. Turquoise color ranges from blue to green and often has remnants of the rock in which it formed running through it. It has been adored by different cultures throughout time. The pharaohs of ancient Egypt decorated themselves with it. King Tut’s burial mask is adorned with turquoise. Not just the Egyptians admired this stone, Chinese artisans carved it over 3,000 years ago. This birthstone also had a role in the culture of Native Americans. The Apache tribe thought that you could find turquoise by going to the end of a rainbow and that if you attached turquoise to a bow or a gun, your aim would be better.

Tanzanite

Found in Tanzania, tanzanite is believed to help bring a higher consciousness and intuition. The blue color is thought by some to bring calmness to whoever wears it. This birthstone is often referred to as “velvety,” because of its deep color that ranges from a deep blue to violet. The blue color is thought to be the most valuable.

Zircon

Not to be confused with cubic zirconia, zircon is a natural gemstone that has been worn and adored throughout the ages. Zircon comes in many colors, but blue zircon is the most valuable. Blue zircon is connected with serenity and purity. In the Middle Ages, it was that zircon would take a person into a deep sleep and ward off evil spirits. The Victorians also admired blue zircon. You can find pieces in English estate jewelry in the 1880’s.

December is sure to be a great birthday month with any of these birthstones. Choose your favorite and treat yourself or buy for that special person in your life. Contact us today to find the right gift for the month of December. Or, maybe you have some turquoise, zircon, or tanzanite that you would like to have appraised. We will gladly do that as well.