December Birthstone Jewelry - Tanzanite, Turquoise, Zircon, Blue Topaz and Lapis

Tanzanite:  Tanzanite is a variety of the mineral Zoisite.  Tanzanite is the modern birthstone for December and is one of the world's most popular and coveted stones.  Tanzanite shows different colors when viewed in different directions.   Tanzanite is usually blue with an overtone of purple.  Peacock Tanzanite is a fancy form of Zoisite with different colored hues. Tanzanite is found only in Tanzania and is a 6.5 on Mohs Scale of Mineral Hardness.

Zircon:  Zircon is a beautiful, natural stone with a lot of light refraction.  Blue is the most popular color of Zircon, but it comes in red, yellow, orange, green and brown, varieties include Cinnamon and Cognac.  Zircon is a 7.5 on Moh's Scale of mineral hardness.  

Turquoise:  Turquoise comes in light to dark blue or blue green.  Turquoise may contain narrow veins of the host rock known as the matrix (sometimes in a  a web like pattern).  The name turquoise means "Turkish stone" because of the trade route that anciently brought it to Europe  via Turkey.  Turquoise is a 6 on Moh's scale of mineral hardness.

Blue Topaz:  Blue Topaz is most commonly sold as a December Birthstone.  Topaz is an 8 on Moh's scale of mineral hardness and is one of the more affordable of December's Birthstones.

Lapis:  Lapis Lazuli ( Arabic and Latin word for Blue Stone) is deep blue with golden inclusions of pyrite.  At one time Lapis was used as a pigment in paint and used in carvings.  Lapis is a 5 to 6 on Moh's scale of mineral hardness.

Metaphysical Properties:   Tanzanite enables us to move forward with optimism and inspiration giving us a sense of direction and allowing us to manifest our powers for the highest good.  Zoisite opens the heart to forgiveness and helps release the past.  Zircon offers strength in emotionally stressful times, helping to overcome loss or heartbreak.  Zircon illuminates one's life path and aids in self realization.  Turquoise is considered lucky and capable of bringing happiness.  Lapis is a stone of friendship and truth.  Blue Topaz enhances spiritual growth and wisdom.

December Birthstone Varieties