December Birthstone: Turquoise

 If you were born in December then you’re in luck. While many months have only one official birthstone, you get to choose from among several. The most widely accepted list includes Tanzanite, Zircon, and Turquoise, but there are also a few sources that list Blue Topaz and Lapis Lazuli. The one thing all these gemstones all have in common is that they’re all lovely shades of blue, giving a whole new meaning to the term “winter blues.”

Prized for millennia, turquoise is known for its distinct color which ranges from light blue to greenish blue. It often has veins of matrix, which are remnants of the rock in which it formed, running through it creating what looks like a dark web. Everyone from ancient Egyptians to Native Americans have admired turquoise for thousands of years. It’s adorned everything from jewelry to ceremonial masks.

In ancient times, turquoise was thought to possess many beneficial powers, like guaranteeing health and good fortune. Hindu mystics believed that seeing a turquoise after beholding the new moon ensured fantastic wealth.

The U.S. is now the world’s largest turquoise supplier. Nevada, New Mexico, California, and Colorado have produced turquoise, but Arizona leads in both production by value and quality. Its popularity here makes it a staple in Native American jewelry.

Fun Fact: In European tradition, the gift of a turquoise ring means “forget me not.” Turquoise also adorns the mask of King Tut, who ruled Egypt more than 3,000 years ago.

Click here to browse our collection of turquoise jewelry.