What's the Birthstone for December?

If someone you love is a December baby, you might be asking, what’s the birthstone for December? Welcome! I’m here to tell you all about it.

Birthstones have very sacred meanings or very modern, material meanings. (Interestingly enough, so do the birth flowers, which I cover a bit on this page as well.)

For anyone born in December, you have three different birthstones to choose from! That’s right, those born in December get to choose from turquoise, zircon, or tanzanite as their birthstone. But with so many options, which one should you choose?

On this page, I will fully answer your question, “what is the birthstone for December.” So keep on reading on…

What’s the Birthstone for December?

The Official December Birthstones

As I said, December birthdays get to pick from three official gems.

*So spoiled!* 😀

There are more options, of course (as you can see when you look at other birthstone color charts), but there are just three on the official birthstone list.

Your choices for December are turquoise, blue zircon and tanzanite. Ta da!

Traditionally, What’s the Birthstone for December?

Answer: Turquoise

Birthstone Meaning – Wisdom, Prosperity, Honesty, Friendship, Peace

Turquoise is an opaque blue-to-green mineral that has been used for centuries by cultures around the world. Its unique color has made it a popular choice for jewelry and other decorative objects. Turquoise is found in many different parts of the world, including the southwestern United States, Chile, and Tibet.

Turquoise was once known as a symbol of great wealth. It is held as a sacred stone in many different cultures from ancient times until the present. It’s believed to bring powerful spiritual understanding, protection, health and abundance. Turquoise also encourages open and honest communication, true friendship, and peace.

Early writings claimed that turquoise could keep the wearer from getting injured by a fall.

Facts & Mythology

Turquoise is the national stone of Persia and considered a sacred token of good luck. In Native American cultures, the turquoise shaped like a bird was meant to protect the wearer from harm.

It was once believed that the powers of the turquoise would leave the stone if bought or sold. But if given in a spirit of love or friendship, the power would return to the stone.

Another Birthstone for December: Blue Zircon

Birthstone Meaning: Success, Love, Luck, Happiness, Honor

Zircon is a brilliant and lustrous gemstone that comes in a wide variety of colors, including red, blue, green, yellow, and orange. It is said to promote wisdom and knowledge, and is sometimes known as “the stone of virtue.” Zircon is found in many different parts of the world, including Sri Lanka, Australia, and Madagascar.

Historically, zircon was used to drive away plagues, evil spirits, and misfortune. It is believed to reduce depression, insomnia, and believed to help you turn your dreams into reality. Zircon was also said to bring wisdom and long life to the recipient.

Facts & Mythology

Zircon was well known in ancient times, but it didn’t gain popularity until more recent centuries. Blue is the most valuable color. Like some other birthstones, blue zircon can change shades when treated with heat.

The Other Birthstone for December: Tanzanite

Birthstone Meaning: Peace, Compassion, Enlightenment, Protection

Tanzanite is a beautiful blue stone that was only discovered relatively recently in 1967. It is named after the country where it was found (Tanzania) and has quickly become one of the most popular gemstones in the world. Tanzanite is said to promote communication and understanding, making it a perfect gift for those who are close to you.

Tanzanite is a rare and popular gemstone believed to help alleviate stress and depression. It is said to provide spiritual protection and increase feelings of sympathy. Tanzanite is often used to help with meditation or relaxation.

Facts & Mythology

There aren’t many legends and folk tales about tanzanite because it wasn’t discovered until 1967 – probably the most modern addition to the birthstone list! It is a very rare stone, only found in Tanzania, Africa – hence its name – and it quickly became a very popular (and might I add, expensive) gem.

Common Alternative: Blue Topaz Birthstone

I’m throwing this in here because blue topaz is often confused with blue zircon as an official birthstone for December. According to the authorities on the subject, it just ain’t so.

But it is certainly an acceptable alternative to any of the December birthstones.

What Goes Better With Birthstones Than Flowers?

And … What’s the December Birth Flower?

Narcissus

The narcissus flower is in the same family as the daffodil and looks much the same. Narcissus represents good cheer, sweetness, and tells the person receiving them, “You’re perfect just the way you are. Never change.”

Holly

The holly berry is a plant traditionally used to symbolize the Christmas holiday. Its name actually comes from the word “holy”. The holly flower represents not only domestic bliss (or happiness at home), but also a promise of protection.

I might need a holly bouquet this year. I always seem to get sick in December, so a “promise of protection” sounds great!

Now you’ll be singing “The Holly and the Ivy…” or “Have a Holly, Jolly Christmas!” for the rest of the day.

You’re welcome.

Okay, So What’s the Birthstone for December Color?

December Birthstone Color: True Blue

The color blue is often related to royalty, calm, dependability, and strength. If you think about the biggest things on this earth that are blue – mainly the waters of the ocean and the sky – you can see where these meanings come from.

And since water and sky are sacred symbols in many cultures, the color blue also holds sacred meaning.

No matter which birthstone you choose for yourself or for a loved one born in December, you can’t go wrong with any of these three beautiful options. Turquoise, zircon, and tanzanite are all unique and special stones that are sure to please anyone lucky enough to receive them.

The month of December is a time to celebrate, so what better way to ring in the holiday season than by choosing your birthstone? Whether you’re drawn to the icy blues of turquoise or the fiery reds of zircon, there’s a gem out there for everyone.

If you need some help picking, consider tanzanite – it ranges from light blue to deep purple and is sure to be stunning. No matter which stone you choose, make sure you take care of it so that it can last a lifetime.

So, what’s the verdict? What will you choose for a December birthstone?

Whether you want to represent the chilly weather with a deep blue stone like turquoise or zircon, or bring in some of that holiday cheer with a festive red like tanzanite, I hope this guide has helped you make a decision.

No matter which stone you go for, we think it’s important to celebrate your unique personality and individuality by choosing something special just for you. Thanks for reading!

Sources: See citation notes on the Birthstone Color Chart page.

Up Next:

January Birthstone – Month of Passion, Power and Fire

Previously:

November Birthstone – Happiest and Wealthiest Month Of The Year

What’s the Birthstone for December?