December’s Birthstone | Tanzanite
What is the birthstone for December?
For those born in the magical month of December, you’ll be pleased to know that the beautiful tanzanite is your birthstone. There are in fact three birthstones for the month of December - tanzanite, turquoise and zircon. With our December birthstone guide, we’ll talk you through their properties, along with our must-have jewellery for the perfect gift. But before we do, let’s talk more the December birthstone meaning, and about what colour the birthstone for December is.
For those lucky enough to be born between 23rd November - 21st December, you have some seriously beautiful birthstones to choose from. All three Sagittarius birthstones boast a vivid blue colour which makes for beautiful December birthstone earrings, bracelets, necklaces and rings, and if you’re looking for something sentimental for someone who means the world, birthstone jewellery also makes a very thoughtful gift for Christmas too.
If you’re getting married this winter, these beautiful blue pieces would also make the perfect ‘something blue’ wedding jewellery for your special day and beyond.
What is December’s birthstone meaning?
One of December’s three birthstones, the tanzanite birthstone is a truly breathtaking gemstone found in only one part of the world; Tanzania. Taking its name from this location, this December birthstone was discovered in the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro in the 1960s and this is still the only place in the world where tanzanite is found. Rare, limited and relatively new, tanzanite can be passed down through generations as a treasured heirloom. The tanzanite meaning comes from its high energy, which is said to help with bringing together the heart and mind - perfect for deep meditation.
The December birthstone meaning makes this jewellery perfect for not only Sagittarius birthdays, but other sentimental gifting such as push presents, Mother’s Day, and graduations. Channelling serenity and peace of mind, the birthstone for December not only makes a glamorous gift, but a thoughtful one too. Your loved one can carry the December birthstone meaning and properties with them everywhere they go.
What colour is December’s birthstone?
So, what colour is tanzanite? Ranging from deep violet to a breathtaking blue, this birthstone for December really stands out with its signature, richly coloured sparkle. Tanzanite jewellery is especially known for its glistening properties.
“Tanzanite showcases an indulgent blue colour that complements the cool tones of white gold and sparking diamonds beautifully. We love December birthstone earrings, December birthstone necklaces, and December birthstone rings for adding some pretty blues to your winter looks - and beyond!” - Courtney, Jewellery Buyer.
Styling tip: For your Christmas party looks, you need tanzanite jewellery that’s dramatic and glamorous. Why not try December birthstone earrings in drop design? Or a necklace with a statement pendant? You can also layer your tanzanite pieces by stacking December birthstone bracelets. For everyday styling, we love tanzanite studs and delicate December birthstone necklaces.
Why are there multiple birthstones for December?
Traditionally, each month is associated with one birthstone but having multiple options for some months was created in order for more affordable options. Originally just zircon and turquoise, there became a third birthstone for the month of December, tanzanite, in October 2002.
What is zircon & the meaning of turquoise stone? Zircon is one of the oldest minerals on earth. Known for its stunning brilliance, this December birthstone meaning is purity, innocence, inner peace and wisdom. The turquoise birthstone has been loved for thousands of years thanks to its unique greeny-blue hue and said to bring calming energy, good luck, peace, and protection. You can get the look with these beautiful blue jewellery pieces.
December’s birthstone jewellery
For a little something to say you’re my everything, discover some of our favourite tanzanite jewellery.
Looking for birthstone bracelets for December? This 9ct Yellow Gold Gemstone Bracelet showcases an array of lustrous blue-purple gemstones, including tanzanite, garnet, iolite, blue topaz and amethyst. Set in 9ct yellow gold, it’s the perfect backdrop to enhance the depth and richness of December’s birthstone.
Looking for a December birthstone necklace for a loved one? We love this Dance 9ct White Gold Diamond Tanzanite Pendant for a stunning, colourful shine. Showcasing a 9ct white gold infinity motif that’s embellished with dazzling diamonds, this pendant from our exclusive Dance by Beaverbrooks diamond collection is a sentimental piece that your favourite December baby will love.
A December birthstone necklace that will make a glamorous addition to the rest of your pieces, this 18ct White Gold Diamond Tanzanite Pear Shaped Halo Pendant boasts a fiery sparkle around an icy blue, central tanzanite stone. We love the pear-shaped pendant for a dramatic finish that’s guaranteed to make a statement.
A pair of December birthstone earrings that will match your necklaces perfectly, opt for chic studs with these 9ct White Gold Diamond Tanzanite Stud Earrings. Adorned with diamonds, these dainty earrings have a sparkle to be seen from afar.
We love the pairing of glistening white gold with the intense blues, and if you love the pear-shaped design, then these dazzling 18ct White Gold Diamond Tanzanite Pear Shaped Halo Drop Earrings are perfect. For December birthstone earrings with extra drama and breathtaking sparkle, these statement earrings will make you feel like royalty.
If you’re thinking of proposing to your loved one who celebrates a birthday in December, or who loves the beautiful tanzanite or blue gemstones, this 18ct White Gold Diamond Tanzanite Halo Ring is the ultimate engagement ring to love forever. Featuring a halo design and embellished with stunning diamonds, this ring is definitely a show-stopper.
If you’re searching for December birthstone rings in a teardrop design, this 18ct White Gold Diamond Tanzanite Pear Shaped Halo Ring is sure to take your loved one’s breath away. Crafted in 18ct white gold with an array of stunning diamonds, this timeless engagement ring has the right amount of classic glamour.
Planning a wonderful Christmas proposal to accompany this December birthstone ring? Read our Proposal Guide for inspiration and advice on how to make your proposal perfect. Plus, discover some of our favourite Christmas-themed proposal ideas to sweep your loved one off their feet.
How to clean December birthstone jewellery
What’s the best way to look after your December birthstone jewellery? Jewellery with gemstones such as diamonds and tanzanite require cleaning from time-to-time to ensure their shine is bright and clear. Here are some of our top tips when cleaning December birthstone earrings, rings, bracelets and necklaces:
Use a microfibre cloth to gently wipe away any dirt, such as our Connoisseurs Ultrasoft Gold Jewellery Polishing Cloth or our Connoisseurs Jewellery Beauty Wipes.
As tanzanite is a fairly delicate gemstone with a Mohs hardness scale of 6-7, you should avoid soaking your December birthstone jewellery, as well as using any harsh cleaning products (such as detergent and bleach) on these pieces.
If your December birthstone jewellery contains diamonds, our Connoisseurs Diamond Dazzle Stik is handy to give your diamonds an on-the-go touch-up and instant shine.
For more information and advice, visit our Cleaning Jewellery Guide for tips on cleaning all your jewellery pieces.
A piece of birthstone jewellery makes a perfectly personal gift, filled with love and meaning. If you don’t know their birthstone, you can find it out using our Guide to Birthstone Jewellery, or head over to our Luxury Edit for more luxurious gift ideas. Or, if the sparkle’s caught your eye, keep in mind that ‘tis the season to sparkle after all! Discover our must-have statement pieces for all your Christmas celebrations in our Sparkling Party Jewellery Edit.
If you love birthstone jewellery, and many other types of jewellery and watches, keep up-to-date and subscribe to our email newsletter to become a member of The Beaverbrooks Club.