The December Birthstone: Turquoise and London Blue Glass in Modern Jewelry Design

The December birthstone is traditionally associated with turquoise, a gemstone with a rich history of cultural and aesthetic significance. However, in the context of Kendra Scott’s collection of December-themed jewelry, the brand has also incorporated London blue glass, a man-made material designed to mimic the appearance of natural gemstones. This article explores both the gemological and symbolic attributes of turquoise, the role of London blue glass in modern jewelry, and the significance of these materials in Kendra Scott’s December birthstone collection.

History and Lore

Turquoise has been treasured for thousands of years across various cultures, particularly in ancient Egypt, the Americas, and the Middle East. It was often used in ceremonial and decorative objects, believed to possess protective and healing properties. The name “turquoise” is derived from the French word Turquoise, meaning “Turkish,” because the gemstone was historically imported into Europe through Turkey, despite not being native to the region.

In ancient Egypt, turquoise was considered a sacred stone and was frequently used in jewelry and amulets to protect the wearer and ensure a prosperous afterlife. The Egyptians also believed it could ward off illness and bring good fortune. In the Americas, especially among Native American tribes, turquoise was used in jewelry and inlay work, often symbolizing the sky and water. It was believed to promote harmony and balance.

In modern times, turquoise continues to be a popular gemstone, especially in the December birthstone tradition. It is associated with communication, self-expression, and emotional stability. These symbolic meanings reflect its enduring cultural significance.

Kendra Scott, while inspired by the traditional December birthstone, has also introduced London blue glass into its jewelry designs. London blue glass is a type of man-made glass that mimics the color and appearance of natural gemstones. It is a popular choice in costume jewelry for its affordability and ability to replicate the look of precious stones. In the context of Kendra Scott’s collection, London blue glass serves as a stylish and accessible alternative for those who may prefer a more budget-friendly option or are looking for a versatile design element.

Geological Formation and Sources

Turquoise is a phosphate mineral composed of basic copper and aluminum. Its chemical formula is CuAl₆(PO₄)₄(OH)₈·4H₂O. It is typically found in arid regions where copper deposits come into contact with phosphorus-rich water. This process results in the formation of turquoise in the form of nodules, veins, or crusts within the surrounding rock.

The most well-known sources of turquoise include:

Iran (Persia): Historically one of the most important sources of high-quality turquoise, Persian turquoise is known for its deep blue color and minimal matrix (the web-like patterns of dark material within the stone).
United States (particularly Arizona and New Mexico): American turquoise is widely used in Native American jewelry and is prized for its vibrant blue color and intricate matrix patterns.
China: A significant modern producer, Chinese turquoise is often lighter in color and may require treatment to enhance its appearance.
Egypt: As mentioned earlier, ancient Egyptians sourced turquoise from the Sinai Peninsula and used it extensively in their jewelry and artifacts.

The hardness of turquoise is relatively low on the Mohs scale, ranging from 5 to 6. This makes it a delicate gemstone that requires careful handling and protection from scratches and abrasion. It is also porous and can be sensitive to chemicals and heat, which means it should be cleaned gently and stored separately from harder gemstones.

In contrast, London blue glass is a synthetic material. It is produced by melting a mixture of silica, potassium, and other minerals, then cooling it rapidly to form a glass-like substance. London blue glass is known for its deep blue color and high refractive index, giving it a glassy, sparkling appearance. Unlike natural gemstones, it does not contain any matrix patterns and is more uniform in color.

While London blue glass is not a natural gemstone, it is valued for its durability and affordability. It has a hardness similar to that of glass, around 5.5 to 6 on the Mohs scale, and is more resistant to damage than turquoise. This makes it a practical choice for everyday wear and for use in a variety of jewelry designs.

Gemological Properties

Turquoise

Property	Description
Color	Ranges from light blue to deep blue-green, often with dark matrix lines.
Hardness (Mohs)	5 to 6
Refractive Index	1.60 to 1.90
Chemical Formula	CuAl₆(PO₄)₄(OH)₈·4H₂O
Luster	Waxy to greasy
Transparency	Opaque
Cleavage	None; fractures conchoidally
Inclusions	Matrix patterns (iron oxides and other minerals)

Turquoise is typically cut into cabochons, as its softness and lack of cleavage make it unsuitable for faceting. The matrix patterns within the stone are often preserved as part of the design, as they add character and uniqueness to each piece.

In Kendra Scott’s collection, turquoise is used in a variety of jewelry items, including earrings, pendants, and rings. The Davie Sterling Silver Stud Earrings in Turquoise, for example, feature natural turquoise stones that are carefully set in silver to highlight their natural beauty.

London Blue Glass

Property	Description
Color	Deep blue, often with a glassy, refractive sheen.
Hardness (Mohs)	5.5 to 6
Refractive Index	1.49 to 1.51
Chemical Formula	Varies depending on the manufacturing process. Typically includes silica.
Luster	Vitreous (glassy)
Transparency	Transparent to translucent
Cleavage	None; fractures conchoidally
Inclusions	None; uniform in color and structure

London blue glass is often cut into cabochons or used as a substitute for natural gemstones in costume jewelry. It is particularly popular in Kendra Scott’s Elisa and Cailin collections, where it is used in pendants and earrings to create elegant, eye-catching designs.

The Elisa Silver Pendant Necklace in London Blue Glass and the Cailin Gold Pendant Necklace in Blue Violet Crystal are examples of how London blue glass is used to create modern, stylish pieces that are both affordable and fashionable.

Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs

Turquoise has long been associated with protection, healing, and communication. In many ancient cultures, it was believed to have the power to ward off evil spirits and to bring good fortune to the wearer. It was also used in rituals and ceremonies as a symbol of peace and harmony.

In the realm of modern metaphysical beliefs, turquoise is often associated with emotional healing, spiritual growth, and the throat chakra. It is believed to help individuals express themselves more clearly and to promote a sense of calm and confidence. It is also thought to enhance intuition and to help people connect with their inner wisdom.

London blue glass, while not a natural gemstone, is sometimes used in modern metaphysical practices as a substitute for turquoise. It is believed to carry similar energies and to promote calmness, clarity, and emotional balance. Some practitioners also believe that it enhances spiritual communication and helps to open the mind to new ideas and perspectives.

In Kendra Scott’s collection, both materials are used to create pieces that are not only beautiful but also meaningful. The brand often emphasizes the symbolic and emotional value of its jewelry, making it a popular choice for those who are looking for pieces that carry deeper significance.

Care and Cleaning

Given the delicate nature of turquoise, it is important to handle it with care to avoid damage. Here are some tips for maintaining its beauty:

Avoid exposure to heat and chemicals: Turquoise can become brittle and lose its color when exposed to high temperatures or harsh chemicals such as household cleaners, perfumes, and lotions.
Store separately: To prevent scratches, store turquoise jewelry separately from harder gemstones like diamonds or sapphires.
Clean gently: Use a soft, damp cloth to clean the surface of the stone. Avoid using ultrasonic cleaners or steamers, as these can cause damage.
Avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight: Prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause the color of turquoise to fade.

London blue glass, on the other hand, is more durable and easier to care for. It can be cleaned with a soft, damp cloth and mild soap. It is also more resistant to scratches and damage, making it a practical choice for everyday wear.

Conclusion

The December birthstone, traditionally turquoise, is a gemstone with a long and storied history. Its vibrant blue color, symbolic meanings, and unique properties have made it a beloved gemstone across cultures and centuries. In the context of Kendra Scott’s collection, turquoise is used to create elegant, meaningful pieces that reflect the brand’s commitment to both style and significance.

In addition, the use of London blue glass in Kendra Scott’s December collection highlights the brand’s innovative approach to jewelry design. By incorporating man-made materials, Kendra Scott offers a range of options that cater to different tastes, budgets, and lifestyles.

Together, these materials—natural turquoise and synthetic London blue glass—represent the intersection of tradition and modernity in the world of birthstone jewelry. They offer wearers not only beautiful, wearable art but also a connection to the rich history and symbolism of the December birthstone.