The December Birthstone Collection by Kendra Scott: A Celebration of Blue and Aqua Crystals

The December birthstone, as presented in Kendra Scott's curated jewelry collection, is symbolized by two distinct gemstone options: blue crystal and aqua crystal. These vibrant stones, while not traditional natural gemstones like sapphire or zircon, capture the essence of December through their calming and elegant tones. Kendra Scott’s collection transforms these colored crystals into exquisite pieces of jewelry, offering a modern and stylish interpretation of December’s birthstone tradition.

This article explores the gemological and aesthetic qualities of these crystals, their significance in the jewelry industry, and how Kendra Scott has leveraged these materials to create a compelling and accessible birthstone collection. It also delves into the broader context of birthstone traditions, the role of synthetic or lab-created crystals in contemporary jewelry design, and practical considerations for owning and caring for these pieces.

History and Lore of the December Birthstone

The concept of birthstones has deep historical roots, with the earliest known reference dating back to the Breastplate of Aaron described in the Bible (Exodus 28:15–30), where 12 gemstones were believed to represent the 12 tribes of Israel. Over time, these stones were associated with the 12 months of the year. The modern birthstone calendar, which includes the December birthstone as turquoise, lapis lazuli, or zircon, was standardized in the 20th century by organizations like the American National Retail Jewelers Association (now CIBJO).

Kendra Scott’s interpretation of the December birthstone diverges from the traditional natural stones in favor of blue crystal and aqua crystal. These materials are synthetic or lab-created crystals, commonly made of quartz or glass, designed to mimic the appearance of natural gemstones. While they do not possess the geological history or mineral composition of their natural counterparts, they offer a more affordable and versatile option for jewelry design.

The use of colored crystals in jewelry has a long-standing appeal due to their ability to reflect light and create a vibrant visual effect. Blue and aqua crystals, in particular, evoke the hues of the winter sky, ocean waves, and twilight skies—common themes in December celebrations.

Geological Formation and Characteristics of the Crystals

Although blue and aqua crystals used in Kendra Scott’s December collection are not naturally occurring gemstones in the traditional sense, they are often synthetic or lab-created materials. These crystals are typically made from quartz or leaded glass, which are engineered to resemble the optical and aesthetic properties of natural gemstones.

Composition and Properties

Color: The December birthstone options include blue crystal, described as London blue, and aqua crystal, which has a lighter, more translucent hue.
Hardness: While the exact hardness is not specified in the sources, synthetic crystals are generally harder than natural glass but softer than most natural gemstones. For example, natural quartz has a hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, while leaded glass may have a hardness of around 5–6.
Clarity: These crystals are typically transparent or semi-transparent, with minimal inclusions or impurities.
Cut and Facet: The crystals are faceted to enhance light reflection and dispersion, creating a sparkling effect that is visually appealing in jewelry.
Luster: These crystals have a glassy luster, which gives them a smooth, polished appearance.

It is important to note that these crystals are not minerals in the traditional geological sense. Instead, they are man-made or synthesized materials designed to replicate the appearance of natural gemstones. As such, they do not have the same durability or longevity as natural gemstones like sapphire or zircon, but they are suitable for everyday wear with proper care.

Symbolism and Cultural Significance

Crystals have long been associated with spiritual and metaphysical properties, and their colors are often linked to specific meanings and energies. In the case of blue and aqua crystals, the symbolism aligns with themes of calmness, clarity, and emotional balance.

Blue Crystal

Emotional Healing: Blue is often associated with tranquility and emotional stability. It is believed to help calm the mind and reduce stress.
Communication: In some traditions, blue stones are linked to throat chakra activation, aiding in clear and confident communication.
Protection: Some cultures view blue stones as protective, offering a sense of security and grounding.

Aqua Crystal

Purity: The aqua hue is reminiscent of water, symbolizing purity, renewal, and cleansing.
Balance: Aqua is seen as a harmonizing color, representing the balance between the emotional and physical realms.
Intuition: It is also associated with intuition and spiritual insight, encouraging one to trust their inner voice.

While these beliefs are not scientifically validated, they reflect the deep cultural and historical significance of color symbolism in jewelry and gemstones. Kendra Scott’s use of these crystals in December-themed jewelry taps into these associations, offering wearers a piece that is both fashionable and symbolically meaningful.

Kendra Scott’s December Birthstone Collection

Kendra Scott has created a diverse and stylish collection of December birthstone jewelry, incorporating blue and aqua crystals into a variety of designs. These pieces are crafted with a focus on modern aesthetics, comfort, and versatility, making them suitable for both everyday wear and special occasions.

Key Designs and Materials

Elisa Necklace: This necklace features a London blue crystal in either gold or silver plating, making it a versatile accessory that can be dressed up or down. The crystal is set in a simple, elegant setting that highlights its natural beauty.
Cailin Pendant Necklace: Available in both gold and silver, this pendant features a blue violet crystal, adding a subtle pop of color to any outfit.
Davie Earrings: These sterling silver stud earrings are set with turquoise, a color that closely resembles the aqua crystal used in the December collection. They are a classic and timeless design that complements a wide range of styles.
Ellie Earrings: These earrings feature a blue crystal in a classic stud design, making them a perfect match for the December birthstone collection.

These designs reflect Kendra Scott’s commitment to accessible luxury—creating beautiful, high-quality jewelry that is both stylish and affordable. The use of gold and silver plating allows for a range of color options and styles, ensuring that there is something for every taste and occasion.

Care and Maintenance of December Birthstone Jewelry

Proper care and maintenance are essential for preserving the beauty and longevity of Kendra Scott’s December birthstone jewelry. While the blue and aqua crystals are not as durable as natural gemstones, they can still be enjoyed for many years with the right care.

General Care Tips

Avoid Exposure to Harsh Chemicals: The crystals can be sensitive to cleaning agents, perfumes, and lotions. It is best to remove the jewelry before applying these products.
Store Properly: To prevent scratches and damage, store the jewelry in a soft pouch or jewelry box when not in use. Avoid stacking pieces on top of each other.
Clean Gently: Use a soft, lint-free cloth to wipe the crystals clean. Avoid using ultrasonic or steam cleaners, as these can damage the materials.

Kendra Scott also offers a 30-day return policy for unworn items, ensuring that customers can return their jewelry if it does not meet their expectations. This policy reflects the brand’s commitment to customer satisfaction and confidence in the quality of their products.

Conclusion

Kendra Scott’s December birthstone collection offers a fresh and stylish interpretation of the December birthstone tradition. By using blue and aqua crystals, the brand creates jewelry that is both visually appealing and symbolically meaningful. These crystals, while not natural gemstones, capture the essence of December through their calming and elegant tones.

The collection’s diverse range of designs, including necklaces, earrings, and pendants, ensures that there is something for every style and preference. The use of gold and silver plating adds a touch of luxury, making these pieces both accessible and elegant.

For those who value the symbolism and beauty of birthstone jewelry, Kendra Scott’s December collection provides a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the month with a piece that is both fashionable and meaningful. Whether worn as a personal talisman or given as a gift, these pieces are a testament to the enduring appeal of birthstone jewelry and the creative vision of Kendra Scott.