Turquoise: The December Birthstone

Known as the December Birthstone, Turquoise is a captivating gem that captivates the eye with its vibrant blue-green hue. 

With a history that dates back centuries, Turquoise has been highly prized for its stunning color and unique patterns. This gemstone is believed to promote wealth, success, and happiness. Its calming energy is said to enhance communication, creativity, and spiritual awareness.

If you're looking to find the perfect December Birthstone Jewellery for a birthday, or want to add a touch of elegance to your collection, Turquoise is an excellent choice that will never go out of style.

Turquoise, the beautiful December Birthstone has a rich and fascinating history that stretches back thousands of years. This vibrant blue-green gem has been prized by cultures around the world for its striking beauty and believed to possess powerful symbolic and metaphysical properties.

The name "Turquoise" is derived from the French word "pierre turquoise," meaning "Turkish stone," as the gem was first brought to Europe from Persia (modern-day Iran) via Turkey. However, turquoise has been mined and utilized by civilizations long before it reached the European continent. The ancient Egyptians, Persians, Chinese, and Native American tribes all revered turquoise and incorporated it into their cultural and spiritual practices.

In ancient Egypt, Turquoise was considered a sacred stone, often used in the adornment of pharaohs and their tombs. Turquoise amulets and jewelry were believed to offer protection, healing, and good fortune. Similarly, the Persians associated turquoise with the sky and regarded it as a symbol of prosperity and power.

 The Chinese also prized turquoise, using it in ceremonial objects and incorporating it into their traditional medicine and feng shui practices.

Turquoise is a unique and fascinating gemstone, formed through a complex geological process that gives it its distinctive hue and patterns. The stone is composed of hydrous copper aluminum phosphate, with the copper content responsible for its blue-green coloration. The specific shade of turquoise can vary widely, ranging from a pale, almost white-blue to a deep, rich turquoise that borders on green.br/>

One of the most captivating aspects of turquoise is its natural variations and inclusions, which create unique patterns and markings within the stone. These patterns, often referred to as the "matrix," can range from delicate veins and webbing to bold, dramatic swirls and speckles. The matrix can be composed of various minerals, such as iron, calcite, or limonite, which can add additional hues and visual interest to the gem.

Turquoise is a relatively soft gemstone, with a Mohs hardness of 5-6, making it susceptible to scratches, chips, and discoloration. However, this softness also contributes to the stone's unique character, as it can be carved and shaped into intricate and beautiful designs.

Turquoise is also relatively porous, which means it can absorb oils and other substances, potentially altering its color over time. Proper care and maintenance are essential to preserving the beauty and longevity your December Birthstone Jewellery and accessories.

The world's turquoise deposits are found in relatively few locations, with the majority of high-quality turquoise coming from the southwestern United States, Iran, and China. The most famous turquoise mines are located in the American Southwest, particularly in Arizona, New Mexico, and Nevada, where the stone has been mined for centuries by Native American tribes.

One of the most renowned turquoise mining regions is the Cerrillos Hills in New Mexico, where the Pueblo people have extracted the stone for over a thousand years. The Cerrillos Hills are home to some of the oldest and most extensive turquoise mines in the world, with evidence of mining activity dating back to the 10th century. The turquoise found in this region is known for its vibrant, rich hues and distinctive matrix patterns.

In Iran, Turquoise has been mined for thousands of years, with the mines of Nishapur in the northeastern part of the country producing some of the world's finest and most valuable turquoise. The Iranian turquoise is prized for its deep, saturated blue color and is often considered the benchmark for high-quality turquoise. 

China also has a long history of turquoise mining, with the Yunnan Province in the southwest of the country being a major source of the gemstone.

The versatility of Turquoise has allowed it to be featured in a wide range of jewelry styles, from classic and elegant to bold and contemporary. One of the most iconic turquoise jewellery designs is the bib necklace, which features a large, chunky pendant or cluster of turquoise stones. These dramatic necklaces were popularized in the 1960s and 1970s and have remained a favorite among turquoise enthusiasts.

Turquoise December Birthstone Ring: A timeless and elegant choice, a single Turquoise Birthstone Ring can make a bold statement while remaining versatile enough for everyday wear.

Turquoise December Birthstone Bracelet: This classic bracelet is a perfect way to incorporate the December birthstone into your daily accessory lineup. The clean, minimalist design allows the vibrant blue hue of the Turquoise to shine.

Turquoise Birthstone Necklace: Whether you prefer a delicate chain or a more substantial design, a turquoise pendant necklace can be a stunning focal point, drawing attention to the face and neck.

• Made Here with Love was founded in 2022, and we are a an award- winning jewellery brand that is dedicated to creating and crafting meaningful, size-inclusive jewellery that tells your unique story.

• Inspired by the founder's personal journey and values of family, kindness, and inclusivity, the brand offers bespoke jewellery that tells a story and enhances personal style.

• Our December Birthstone Jewellery featuring beautiful Turquoise, is perfect for celebrating your individuality. Each piece is made with care, ensuring quality and elegance.

• Our commitment to inclusivity means everyone can find their perfect fit, while our core values of family, kindness, and gratitude shine through in every design.

• Plus, with 10% of sales donated to YoungMindsUK, your purchase supports a worthy cause. Choose Made Here with Love for beautiful, meaningful jewellery that celebrates you and gives back to the community.

• Made Here with Love is passionate about our craft; therefore, we are also able to offer a more personalized shopping experience, allowing you to find or even custom design the Turquoise piece that frankly speaks to your heart.

• With a discerning eye and a sense of adventure, finding the perfect December Birthstone Jewellery to add to your collection or gift to a loved one can be a fulfilling and enjoyable endeavour.

• If there is something that you don’t see in our December Birthstone collection, please do let us know as we always love hearing rom our customers and community, about anything new they would like to see, or if you would like a unique gift creating for a loved one or for yourself!

Turquoise's captivating beauty and rich history have made it a highly sought-after gemstone for jewellery and decorative arts. Its vibrant hues and unique patterns have enchanted people for centuries, and the stone's enduring popularity shows no signs of waning.

One of the primary reasons for Turquoise's enduring popularity is its versatility. The gem can be cut and shaped into a wide variety of jewelry designs, from delicate pendants and earrings to bold, statement-making rings and bracelets. Turquoise also pairs beautifully with other gemstones, such as diamonds, pearls, and sterling silver, creating stunning and eye-catching pieces.

Turquoise has long been a staple in Native American jewellery, with tribes like the Navajo, Zuni, and Hopi incorporating the stone into their traditional designs. These intricate and culturally significant pieces often feature turquoise alongside other materials, such as silver, coral, and shell, creating a rich and visually striking aesthetic. 

The popularity of Native American-inspired turquoise jewellery has continued to grow, with many contemporary designers drawing inspiration from these timeless designs.

Proper care and maintenance are essential for preserving the beauty and longevity of your December Birthstone Jewellery.

By following a few simple care tips, you can ensure that your December Birthstone Jewellery remains a cherished part of your collection for years to come.

• Regular Cleaning: Gently clean your turquoise jewellery with a soft, lint-free cloth to remove any oils or dirt. For a deeper clean, use a mild soap and warm water solution. Soak the piece for a couple of minutes, then gently scrub with a soft toothbrush. Rinse thoroughly and pat dry with a clean cloth.

• Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Keep your turquoise jewellery away from harsh chemicals, including household cleaners, perfumes, and lotions. These substances can tarnish the silver and dull the peridot's sparkle. Always put on your jewellery last when getting ready to minimize exposure.

• Proper Storage: Store your December Birthstone Jewellery in a cool, dry place. Use a jewellery box with separate compartments or a soft pouch to prevent scratches and tangling. Consider using anti-tarnish strips in your storage area to help maintain the silver’s shine.

• Wear with Care: Remove your jewellery before engaging in activities that could damage it, such as swimming, exercising, or doing household chores. Avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures and direct sunlight for prolonged periods.

• Professional Cleaning: You can also send your piece to us once a year for a small cost. We can check for any loose stones, signs of wear, and perform any necessary repairs to keep your piece in excellent condition.

By following these care tips, you can ensure that your Turquoise December Birthstone Jewellery will remain a treasured and beautiful accessory for years to come.

December is a month that boasts a remarkable array of talented and influential individuals, many of whom have a special connection to the December Birthstone Turquoise. 

From renowned artists and musicians to celebrated authors and political leaders, the December-born have left an indelible mark on the world, often with the help of the captivating gemstone that represents their birth month.

One such December-born luminary is the iconic American painter Georgia O'Keeffe, whose bold, abstract works often featured the vibrant hues of turquoise. O'Keeffe's love for the American Southwest and its natural landscapes deeply influenced her artistic vision, and the turquoise-hued skies and landscapes of New Mexico became a recurring motif in her paintings.

 The artist's deep appreciation for the beauty and symbolism of turquoise is evident in her powerful and evocative artworks.

Another notable December-born figure is the legendary musician and singer-songwriter Frank Sinatra, whose suave and sophisticated persona was often complemented by his penchant for turquoise jewelry. Sinatra, born on December 12th, was known to wear turquoise bolo ties and rings, which he believed brought him good luck and added a touch of Western flair to his iconic look.

 The singer's love for turquoise reflected his affinity for the American Southwest and its rich cultural heritage.

Beyond its captivating physical beauty, Turquoise has long been revered for its believed metaphysical and healing properties. 

This gemstone has been associated with a wide range of spiritual and emotional benefits, making it a popular choice among those seeking to harness the power of crystals and gemstones.

One of the primary metaphysical attributes associated with Turquoise is its ability to promote communication and self-expression. 

The stone is believed to enhance both verbal and nonverbal communication, making it a valuable tool for those seeking to improve their interpersonal skills or overcome communication challenges.

 Turquoise is also thought to stimulate creativity and inspire innovative thinking, making it a popular choice among artists, writers, and other creative professionals.

In addition to its communicative and creative properties, Turquoise is also believed to possess powerful healing abilities. The stone is often associated with the throat chakra, the energy center responsible for self-expression and communication, and is said to help balance and align this chakra. Turquoise is also thought to have a calming and soothing effect on the mind and body, making it a valuable tool for reducing stress, anxiety, and promoting overall emotional well-being.

As the captivating December Birthstone, Turquoise is a gemstone that has captivated the hearts and imaginations of people for centuries. With its rich history, stunning physical properties, and believed metaphysical and healing powers, turquoise is a truly remarkable and versatile gemstone that continues to enchant and inspire.

Whether you have the December Birthstone as your birth month, and would like to celebrate it, with a beautiful and meaningful piece of jewellery, or simply someone who appreciates the allure of this captivating gem, Turquoise offers a world of possibilities. 

From classic and elegant designs to bold and contemporary interpretations, there is a Turquoise Jewellery piece to suit every taste and style.

As you embrace the beauty and symbolism of Turquoise, may it bring you a sense of wealth, success, and happiness – the very qualities that this remarkable gemstone is believed to embody. 

Celebrate your December Birthstone and Birthday or honor the special December-born individuals in your life with the gift of Turquoise, a gemstone that will forever hold a special place in the hearts and minds of those who appreciate its timeless charm.

To find out more about the December Birthstone, please follow these links:

December Birthstones | Tanzanite, Turquoise, Zircon Birthstones | GIA

December Birthstones: Blue Topaz, Blue Zircon, Tanzanite and Turquoise - International Gem Society