December Birthstones: Tanzanite and Turquoise Explained
|
|
|
Time to read 3 min
December is one of the few months with more than one widely recognized birthstone. Tanzanite and turquoise are two of the best-known December stones, and each has a different appearance, history, and care profile.
If you are comparing december birthstones tanzanite and turquoise, the main difference is simple: tanzanite is a violet-blue gemstone known for rarity and color shift, while turquoise is an opaque blue-to-green gem valued for its long history and distinctive matrix patterns. The right choice depends on whether you want transparency and brilliance, or a softer, more organic look.
What are the December birthstones?
Modern birthstone lists commonly recognize tanzanite, turquoise, and zircon for December. This article focuses on tanzanite and turquoise because they are the two names most often compared by shoppers looking for blue December jewelry.
Tanzanite is a transparent variety of the mineral zoisite. Turquoise is an opaque phosphate mineral that has been used in jewelry for thousands of years. Both are strongly associated with blue tones, but they look very different when worn.
Tanzanite vs turquoise at a glance
The fastest way to compare these December birthstones is to look at color, transparency, hardness, and overall style effect. Tanzanite usually appears more refined and light-reactive, while turquoise reads more earthy and historic.
| Feature | Tanzanite | Turquoise |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Transparent to translucent | Opaque |
| Typical color | Blue, violet-blue, purplish blue | Sky blue, blue-green, greenish blue |
| Optical effect | Brilliance and pleochroism | Soft, even color; may show matrix |
| Hardness | About 6 to 7 on Mohs scale | About 5 to 6 on Mohs scale |
| Origin note | Found mainly in Tanzania | Found in several regions worldwide |
| Everyday wear | Needs some care | Needs careful wear and protection |
How tanzanite looks and why people choose it
Tanzanite is known for its saturated blue to violet-blue color and its pleochroism, which means it can show different colors from different viewing angles. In many stones, that creates a mix of blue, violet, and sometimes burgundy tones under changing light.
People often choose tanzanite when they want a December birthstone with the look of a faceted fine gem. It suits rings, pendants, and earrings where transparency and sparkle matter. If you are browsing birthstone jewelry, tanzanite usually fits a cleaner, more polished style direction.
How turquoise looks and why people choose it
Turquoise is usually opaque and ranges from bright robin's egg blue to blue-green. Some stones are a solid color, while others show veining or matrix from the host rock, which gives each piece a distinct surface pattern.
People often choose turquoise for its long cultural history and its unmistakable natural look. It works especially well in simple everyday pieces, boho styling, and designs where color is the main feature rather than brilliance. It also pairs naturally with gemstone jewelry that emphasizes color contrast and texture.
Which December birthstone is rarer?
Tanzanite is generally considered the rarer of the two. It is strongly associated with a single source area in Tanzania, which makes its geographic origin more limited than turquoise.
Turquoise is also valuable, especially in fine natural material with desirable color and minimal treatment, but it is not usually described as rarer in the same way. Rarity and price still vary by color quality, treatment status, size, and overall craftsmanship.
Which is better for everyday jewelry?
Neither stone is as tough as sapphire or diamond, so both benefit from thoughtful wear. Tanzanite has moderate hardness but can be vulnerable to knocks because toughness and resistance to impact matter as much as hardness.
Turquoise is softer and more porous, so it is more sensitive to scratches, chemicals, oils, and prolonged moisture exposure. For frequent wear, both stones tend to be safer in earrings and necklaces than in rings. If you prefer a minimal daily piece, a birthstone necklace or stud earrings may be more practical than a ring.
How to care for tanzanite and turquoise
Tanzanite care
- Clean with mild soap, lukewarm water, and a soft cloth.
- Avoid hard impacts and rough storage.
- Keep away from ultrasonic cleaning unless a professional confirms it is safe for that piece.
Turquoise care
- Wipe gently with a soft dry or slightly damp cloth.
- Avoid perfumes, lotions, harsh cleaners, and prolonged water exposure.
- Store separately to reduce scratching and surface damage.
Turquoise often requires more caution because porosity can affect color and surface condition over time. If you want a softer blue stone look but plan to wear it often, protective settings and careful habits matter.
How to choose between tanzanite and turquoise
Choose tanzanite if you want a faceted gemstone with visible sparkle, deeper violet-blue tones, and a rarer-source story. Choose turquoise if you want an opaque blue stone with historic significance, a relaxed feel, and a more organic surface character.
Style can also guide the decision. Tanzanite often suits refined, dainty, or occasion-focused jewelry, while turquoise can work especially well in boho jewelry and casual everyday looks. For gift giving, the simplest question is whether the recipient prefers brilliance or color texture.
FAQ
Is turquoise a real December birthstone?
Yes. Turquoise is one of the recognized December birthstones on modern birthstone lists.
Is tanzanite a real December birthstone?
Yes. Tanzanite is a recognized modern December birthstone and is especially known for its violet-blue color.
Why does December have more than one birthstone?
Birthstone lists have changed over time, and some months now include multiple accepted options to reflect availability, tradition, and consumer preference.
What color are December birthstones?
Tanzanite is usually blue to violet-blue, while turquoise is usually blue to blue-green. Both are commonly associated with cool blue tones.
