The December birthstone is actually three stones — turquoise, zircon and tanzanite — all in cool shades of blue that suit the winter month. December is one of only a few months with three official birthstones, so there is a colour, price and style for everyone. Blue topaz is also often sold as a December birthstone.
This guide explains what each December birthstone means, where it comes from, how durable it is, and which one makes the best gift.
What Is the December Birthstone?
| Turquoise | Zircon | Tanzanite | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Status | Traditional | Traditional/modern | Modern (added 2002) |
| Colour | Sky blue to green, often with matrix veins | Blue most popular; also colourless, gold, red | Violet-blue |
| Hardness (Mohs) | 5 – 6 | 6 – 7.5 | 6 – 7 |
| Main sources | Iran, USA (Arizona, Nevada), China | Cambodia, Sri Lanka, Australia | Only Tanzania (Merelani Hills) |
| Symbolises | Protection, luck, healing | Wisdom, honour, prosperity | Transformation, intuition, new beginnings |
Turquoise: The Classic December Birthstone
Turquoise is one of the oldest gemstones used by humans. Ancient Egyptians set it in royal jewellery, Persian turquoise has been prized for centuries, and Native American artisans in the US Southwest have made turquoise jewellery for generations. The name comes from the French for “Turkish stone”, because it reached Europe through Turkey.
As a December birthstone, turquoise stands for protection, good fortune and friendship. It is a traditional gift for the 11th wedding anniversary.
Turquoise care
- It is soft and porous: avoid perfume, lotions, oils and cleaning chemicals.
- Wipe with a soft, dry or slightly damp cloth only.
- Remove before swimming or washing up.
Zircon: The Sparkling December Birthstone
Natural zircon is not the same as cubic zirconia, the lab-made diamond simulant. Zircon is a natural gem with fire and brilliance close to a diamond’s. It is also among the oldest minerals on Earth — tiny zircon crystals found in Western Australia are around 4.4 billion years old. Blue zircon, the most popular December birthstone colour, is usually heat-treated brown zircon.
Zircon symbolises wisdom, honour and prosperity.
Tanzanite: The Modern December Birthstone
Tanzanite was discovered in 1967 in the Merelani Hills of northern Tanzania, near Mount Kilimanjaro — still the only place it is mined. Tiffany & Co. named it and introduced it to the world. Tanzanite is pleochroic: it shows blue, violet or burgundy depending on the viewing angle.
It symbolises transformation, calm and intuition, and is the traditional gift for a 24th anniversary.
Which December Birthstone Should You Choose?
- Turquoise – for boho, vintage or Southwestern style; best in pendants and earrings.
- Zircon – for maximum sparkle at a friendly price.
- Tanzanite – for a rare, luxurious stone with a single source; choose protective settings.
- Blue topaz – the most durable blue option (Mohs 8) for everyday rings.
December Birthstone by Zodiac Sign
December birthdays fall under Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21) and Capricorn (December 22 – January 19). Bright turquoise suits adventurous Sagittarius, while deep tanzanite matches ambitious, grounded Capricorn.
December Birthstone Gift Ideas
- Turquoise and silver cuff bracelet.
- Blue zircon stud earrings.
- Tanzanite solitaire pendant.
- A family ring featuring every child’s birthstone.
- Christmas-birthday combo: a birthstone ornament with the recipient’s name.
December birthdays often get lost in holiday season — make it special with our birthday quotes and Merry Christmas wishes. See also our November birthstone and October birthstone guides.
December Birthstone FAQ
What is the December birthstone?
December has three: turquoise, zircon and tanzanite. Blue topaz is often included too.
What colour is the December birthstone?
Mostly blue – sky blue turquoise, bright blue zircon and violet-blue tanzanite.
Is tanzanite rare?
Yes. It is found commercially in only one small area of Tanzania, which makes it far rarer than most coloured gems.
Is zircon the same as cubic zirconia?
No. Zircon is a natural mineral; cubic zirconia is a synthetic material.
Learn more from the GIA December birthstones guide.
