December has two birthstones, turquoise and blue topaz, and both come in the cool, wintry blues that suit the month so well. Turquoise is one of the oldest gemstones in history, while blue topaz brings a clear, icy sparkle. Together they are linked with protection, friendship and good fortune, which makes either one a thoughtful gift for a December birthday or for Christmas.
What are the December birthstones?
The two traditional December birthstones are turquoise and blue topaz. Some modern lists also include tanzanite. If you are buying for someone born in December, either turquoise or blue topaz is a lovely choice, so you can simply pick the colour and style you think they will love most.
What does turquoise mean?
Turquoise has been treasured for thousands of years, from ancient Egypt and Persia to the Native American Southwest. It has long been worn as a stone of protection and given as a token of friendship and good luck. Its soft sky blue to sea green colour feels relaxed and warm, and it looks especially beautiful against gold.
What does blue topaz mean?
Blue topaz is the brighter, sparkling side of December. Its clear blue is often linked with calm, honesty and clear thinking, and it shares turquoise's meaning of protection, friendship and good fortune. It has a crisp, icy look that works beautifully in sterling silver as well as gold.
Turquoise or blue topaz: how to choose
- For a relaxed, earthy style: turquoise, especially raw stones and gold settings.
- For sparkle and a polished look: blue topaz, in hearts, huggies and tennis bracelets.
- If she mostly wears silver: blue topaz in sterling silver looks crisp and bright.
- If she mostly wears gold: turquoise in gold vermeil has a warm, timeless feel.
December birthstone gift ideas
- Blue Topaz December Birthstone Love Heart Necklace: a heart of December blue in 18ct gold plate, one of our most loved pieces last Christmas.
- Minimalist Sterling Silver Blue Topaz Bangle: a slim, everyday bangle with a single blue topaz.
- Blue Topaz Dainty Tennis Bracelet: a row of sparkling blue topaz birthstones on a gold plated bracelet.
- Turquoise December Birthstone Sterling Silver Necklace: a simple, wearable turquoise pendant.
- Raw Turquoise Huggie Hoops: raw turquoise crystal drops on 18ct gold plated sterling silver huggies.
See the full December birthstone collection, or browse our Christmas Gift Guide for more ideas.
Caring for December birthstone jewellery
Turquoise is softer and more porous than many stones, so keep it away from water, perfume and lotions, and wipe it gently with a soft dry cloth. Blue topaz is harder, but it still looks its best when stored on its own in a pouch so other pieces cannot scratch it. Take all jewellery off before swimming, showering or sleeping.
Quick answers
What is the December birthstone colour? Blue. Turquoise ranges from sky blue to sea green, and blue topaz is a clear, bright blue.
Is blue topaz or turquoise better for a Christmas gift? Both carry the same meaning of protection, friendship and good fortune. Choose blue topaz for sparkle, or turquoise for a softer, earthy look.
What are the stones made from? It depends on the piece, and each product page lists the exact stone and metal under Materials.
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