The gemstone associated with December, turquoise, holds a place of significance both as a birthstone and a culturally revered material. While the provided sources offer a limited scope of information, they establish turquoise as a December birthstone offered by KAY Jewelers, alongside examples of jewelry featuring the gem. This article will explore the available information regarding this captivating blue-green stone, focusing on its presence in modern jewelry offerings and its general association with the month of December.
History and Lore
The sources do not provide detailed historical information regarding turquoise. However, the very fact that it is designated as a December birthstone suggests a long-standing tradition of associating the gem with this time of year. The designation of birthstones themselves evolved over centuries, with early associations often linked to religious or astrological beliefs. While the origins of this specific association are not detailed in the provided materials, the consistent listing of turquoise as a December birthstone by retailers like KAY Jewelers indicates its continued cultural relevance.
Gemological Properties
The provided sources do not contain any gemological properties of turquoise, such as its chemical composition, hardness, or refractive index. They do not detail the variations in color or clarity that can occur within turquoise specimens. The only physical characteristic mentioned is its color, implicitly described as a shade of blue-green, as it is presented as a gemstone option in jewelry.
Turquoise in Modern Jewelry
The sources highlight the availability of turquoise jewelry through various retailers. KAY Jewelers is specifically mentioned as offering a turquoise ring featuring diamonds set in 18K Vanilla Gold, priced at $3743.25 (originally $5347.50). This suggests that turquoise is often incorporated into higher-end jewelry designs, frequently paired with precious metals and diamonds. The sources also indicate that turquoise is available in more affordable options, reflecting its versatility in jewelry design.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
The provided sources do not offer any insight into the symbolism or metaphysical beliefs associated with turquoise. However, it is worth noting that turquoise has historically been considered a sacred stone by many cultures, particularly in the American Southwest. It was believed to offer protection, promote healing, and bring good fortune. These beliefs, while not present in the provided materials, contribute to the gem’s enduring appeal.
Care and Cleaning
The sources do not provide any specific care or cleaning instructions for turquoise. However, given the lack of information regarding its hardness or composition, general gemstone care guidelines would be advisable. Turquoise is known to be relatively soft and porous, making it susceptible to damage from harsh chemicals, abrasives, and even prolonged exposure to sunlight. Gentle cleaning with a soft cloth and mild soap is generally recommended.
Purchasing Turquoise Jewelry
The sources demonstrate that turquoise jewelry is readily available for purchase through online retailers like Amazon and KAY Jewelers, as well as through specialized jewelry stores like Anthropologie and Jordan Kay Jewelry. The price range varies significantly, from $19.90 for an Amazon Essentials Sterling Silver Created Blue Sapphire Necklace (listed alongside turquoise as a December option) to $3743.25 for the KAY Jewelers turquoise and diamond ring. The Jordan Kay Jewelry source offers 4mm birthstone rings, including turquoise, in 14k gold filled settings, emphasizing their durability and suitability for everyday wear. These rings are described as stackable, suggesting a trend towards layering and personalized jewelry styling.
Turquoise and Other December Birthstone Options
The sources indicate that while turquoise is a December birthstone, other options exist. The provided list of birthstones includes garnet (January), amethyst (February), aquamarine (March), diamond (April), emerald (May), pearl (June), ruby (July), peridot (August), sapphire (September), opal (October), topaz (November), and turquoise (December). This demonstrates the variety of gemstones associated with different months, allowing individuals to choose a stone that resonates with their personal preferences.
The Appeal of Stackable Rings
The Jordan Kay Jewelry source specifically highlights the popularity of 4mm birthstone rings, emphasizing their dainty size, colorful appearance, and stackable design. The rings are made with 14k gold filled material, which is described as durable enough for everyday wear, eliminating the need to remove them for washing hands, showering, or exercising. This focus on practicality and convenience appeals to a modern consumer base seeking versatile and low-maintenance jewelry options. The ability to stack these rings allows for personalized combinations, representing loved ones or simply showcasing a variety of colors and styles.
Retailer Offerings and Price Points
The sources provide a snapshot of the current retail landscape for birthstone jewelry. KAY Jewelers appears to be a prominent retailer, offering a range of turquoise pieces at varying price points. Anthropologie and Amazon also feature birthstone jewelry, including options alongside turquoise for other months. The price differences reflect variations in materials, craftsmanship, and gemstone quality. The inclusion of lab-created gemstones, such as lab-created sapphire and white sapphire, offers more affordable alternatives to natural gemstones.
Limitations of the Provided Sources
It is important to acknowledge the limitations of the provided sources. They primarily consist of product listings and promotional material from retail websites. This means that the information is heavily focused on commercial aspects and lacks in-depth gemological or historical detail. The sources do not provide information on the mining locations of turquoise, its geological formation, or the different varieties of turquoise available. Furthermore, the sources do not address the ethical considerations surrounding turquoise mining or the potential for treatments and enhancements.
Conclusion
Based on the provided sources, turquoise is firmly established as a December birthstone, readily available in a variety of jewelry styles and price points. While the sources lack detailed gemological or historical information, they demonstrate the continued cultural relevance of this captivating blue-green gem. The popularity of stackable rings and the use of durable materials like 14k gold filled suggest a trend towards practical and personalized jewelry options. The limited scope of the sources highlights the need for further research to gain a more comprehensive understanding of turquoise’s history, properties, and significance.