December Birthstones: Tanzanite & Turquoise
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1. What are the birthstones for December?
Tanzanite as December’s Birthstone
Tanzanite is one of December’s birthstones, known for its rare and captivating blue-violet hue.
Turquoise as December’s Birthstone
Turquoise is also a birthstone for December, symbolizing peace and protection, often referred to as the "Stone of Heaven."
2. Colors of December Birthstones
Color of Tanzanite
Tanzanite's blue-violet color shifts in various lights, displaying shades of deep blue, purple, and burgundy.
Color of Turquoise
Turquoise varies from sky blue to greenish-blue, with sky blue being the most prized and sought-after.
3. Historical Background of December Birthstones
The History of Tanzanite
First discovered in Tanzania in 1967 and introduced to the global market by Tiffany & Co. in 1969, Tanzanite is considered a national treasure due to its unique geographic origin.
The History of Turquoise
The name "turquoise" originates from the French word for "Turkish stone," as it was first brought to Europe via Turkey.
4. Meaning and Symbolism of December Birthstones
Symbolism of Tanzanite
Tanzanite represents wisdom and spirituality, believed to enhance intuition, inner peace, and a sense of elegance.
Symbolism of Turquoise
Turquoise signifies peace and protection, enhancing confidence, warding off negative energy, and bringing a sense of harmony and happiness.
5. Origin of December Birthstones
Origin of Tanzanite
Tanzanite is exclusively found in the Merelani Hills of Tanzania, which makes it exceptionally rare and valuable.
Origin of Turquoise
Turquoise is primarily sourced from Iran, the United States, and China, with each region producing stones with distinct colors and patterns.
6. Care and Maintenance of December Birthstones
Caring for Tanzanite
Tanzanite should be cleaned with mild soap and water, avoiding ultrasonic cleaners to prevent damage due to its relative softness.
Caring for Turquoise
Turquoise should be kept away from chemicals and can be gently wiped with a soft cloth to maintain its unique luster and texture.
7. Styling Tips for December Birthstones
Styling Tanzanite
Tanzanite pairs beautifully with diamonds, emeralds, or lapis lazuli to enhance its mystical and sophisticated aura.
Styling Turquoise
Turquoise looks stunning alongside diamonds and coral for a striking contrast, adding a touch of vintage or bohemian charm.
8. Market Overview of December Birthstones
Tanzanite Market Overview
Due to its rarity and rich blue-violet color, Tanzanite is highly sought after, especially in high-end jewelry designs, with consistent demand in the market.
Turquoise Market Overview
Turquoise is widely appreciated in vintage and bohemian-style jewelry, maintaining stable demand in the market.
9. How to Choose December Birthstones
Choosing Tanzanite
- Color: High-quality tanzanite should display a vivid, evenly distributed blue-violet color.
- Clarity: Premium tanzanite is usually transparent with minimal inclusions.
- Cut: Excellent cuts enhance the color and brilliance of tanzanite to its fullest potential.
Choosing Turquoise
- Color: Premium turquoise has an even color, with sky blue being the most coveted.
- Texture: High-quality turquoise should have a smooth and dense texture.
- Treatment: Check for untreated stones, as dyed or stabilized turquoise may lack the quality of natural stones.
10. Common Treatments and Identification Tips for December Birthstones
Common Treatments and Identification of Tanzanite
Tanzanite is often heat-treated to enhance color and clarity. Under magnification, natural tanzanite should show minimal artificial treatment marks.
Common Treatments and Identification of Turquoise
Turquoise is sometimes waxed to increase luster or dyed to intensify color. Identifying natural turquoise involves examining texture and color for any signs of treatment.
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