December is a month rich in symbolism and beauty, with its three official birthstones—Turquoise, Tanzanite, and Blue Zircon—each carrying unique colors, meanings, and values. These gemstones not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of jewelry but also hold cultural, historical, and spiritual significance. For individuals seeking meaningful adornments or spiritual harmony, understanding the cost, rarity, and symbolism of these stones is essential.
The Official December Birthstones and Their Significance
December is the only month with three official birthstones: Turquoise, Tanzanite, and Blue Zircon. Each of these gemstones is associated with different properties and energies. Turquoise is traditionally linked with protection and spiritual guidance, Tanzanite with emotional healing and intuition, and Blue Zircon with clarity of thought and mental focus. These properties can be especially important in the context of Vastu Shastra, where the placement and selection of gemstones can influence the energy dynamics of a space or individual.
The decision to include multiple December birthstones reflects the diversity and richness of gemstone symbolism, allowing individuals to choose the stone that most resonates with their personal energy or spiritual journey.
Cost Variability and Factors Affecting Value
The cost of December birthstones varies significantly, influenced by factors such as rarity, color, clarity, treatment, and origin. Each of the three official stones has a distinct market presence and price range.
Turquoise is often considered one of the more affordable birthstones, especially when treated or enhanced. However, high-quality, untreated turquoise—particularly those from renowned mines such as the Sleeping Beauty Mine in Arizona or Nishapur in Iran—can be quite valuable. The price of turquoise is primarily determined by its color intensity and the presence or absence of matrix patterns. A vibrant, even blue without matrix is most sought after.
Tanzanite, discovered in 1967 in Tanzania, is the rarest of the December birthstones and commands a higher price. Tanzanite’s price per carat can range from $400 to over $1,500, depending on the quality and size. The violet-blue to purple hue of tanzanite is a result of heat treatment, which is common in the industry to enhance the stone’s natural color.
Blue Zircon is another affordable option, with prices ranging from $50 to $400 per carat, depending on the vibrancy of the blue color and the clarity of the stone. Zircon is known for its brilliance and is often used in 14K gold jewelry, which provides durability and a luxurious finish.
Blue Topaz, while not an official December birthstone in all versions of the list, is often included as an alternative. It is the most affordable of the December options, with prices ranging from $10 to $100 per carat, especially when heat-treated to achieve its vivid blue color. Blue topaz is known for its clarity and is ideal for everyday wear.
Choosing the Right Birthstone for Your Needs
Selecting the appropriate birthstone depends on personal preferences, budget, and intended use. For those seeking affordability and durability, Blue Topaz or Blue Zircon may be the most suitable. For rare and unique gemstones, Tanzanite is the ideal choice. Turquoise, with its historical significance and spiritual properties, is a favorite among those looking for meaningful and symbolic jewelry.
In the context of Vastu Shastra, the choice of gemstone can also be influenced by the energy of the individual and the space. For example, Tanzanite is often recommended for those seeking emotional balance and clarity, while Turquoise is associated with protection and spiritual guidance. These energies can be harnessed to create a harmonious environment in homes or offices.
Jewelry as a Meaningful Gift
Birthstone jewelry is a timeless and meaningful gift, especially for December birthdays. These stones carry deep symbolic meanings, making them ideal for expressing love, appreciation, and good wishes. The choice of 14K gold is often recommended for birthstone jewelry due to its durability and elegant appearance. Gold not only enhances the beauty of the gemstones but also adds a touch of luxury to the piece.
When gifting December birthstone jewelry, it is important to consider the preferences and personality of the recipient. For instance, someone who values rarity and uniqueness may appreciate Tanzanite, while someone drawn to historical and spiritual significance may prefer Turquoise. Understanding these nuances can help in selecting a gift that is both aesthetic and meaningful.
Cultural and Spiritual Significance
December birthstones have a rich cultural and spiritual history, particularly in India and the Middle East. Turquoise, for example, was used as an amulet against the Black Death in Europe and was believed to have greater potency when set in gold in India. These beliefs highlight the spiritual and protective properties associated with gemstones.
In Vastu Shastra, gemstones are often used to balance and enhance the energy of a space. For instance, Tanzanite is believed to bring emotional stability and intuition, making it suitable for those in leadership or decision-making roles. Similarly, Turquoise is used to enhance spiritual awareness and protect against negative energies, making it an excellent choice for residential spaces.
Ethical and Sustainable Considerations
When purchasing December birthstones, it is important to consider ethical and sustainable sourcing. This is particularly relevant for Tanzanite, which is found only in Tanzania, and Turquoise, which is mined in specific regions. Ethical sourcing ensures that the environment is preserved and that miners and artisans are treated fairly.
In the context of Vastu Shastra, ethical sourcing can also be seen as a way to honor the natural energies of the gemstone and maintain harmony with the environment. This aligns with the holistic approach of Vastu Shastra, which emphasizes balance and respect for nature.
Summary of December Birthstone Costs
Below is a summary of the cost ranges for the December birthstones, based on their rarity, quality, and treatment:
| Birthstone | Price Range per Carat | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Turquoise | $1–$50 | Affordability varies with treatment and matrix patterns |
| Tanzanite | $400–$1,500+ | Rarest December birthstone; heat-treated for color |
| Blue Zircon | $50–$400 | Affordable with vibrant blue; good clarity and brilliance |
| Blue Topaz | $10–$100 | Most affordable; heat-treated for vivid blue |
These price ranges provide a clear understanding of the cost of each stone, helping individuals make informed decisions based on their budget and preferences.
Conclusion
December birthstones offer a beautiful and meaningful way to celebrate birthdays and personal milestones. Each of the three official stones—Turquoise, Tanzanite, and Blue Zircon—has its own unique color, symbolism, and cost, making them suitable for a variety of purposes and preferences. Whether used in jewelry, Vastu Shastra corrections, or personal adornment, these gemstones can enhance the energy, beauty, and harmony of a space or individual.
When choosing a December birthstone, it is important to consider factors such as rarity, treatment, and ethical sourcing. These considerations can help in selecting a gemstone that not only meets aesthetic and financial criteria but also aligns with personal and spiritual values. With the right choice, December birthstones can be a valuable addition to one's spiritual and energetic well-being.