December boasts a unique distinction among the months: it possesses not one, but three recognized birthstones – turquoise, blue zircon, and blue topaz. This offers a diverse range of options for those seeking meaningful jewelry to celebrate a December birthday, or simply to appreciate the beauty of these captivating gemstones. This article will explore each of these December birthstones, focusing on their characteristics, historical context, and suitability for men’s rings, as detailed in available resources.
A Historical Overview of December Birthstones
The tradition of associating specific gemstones with each month of the year dates back centuries, with roots in ancient astrology and religious beliefs. While the modern list of birthstones has evolved over time, the December stones have a rich and varied history. Turquoise is the most traditionally recognized December birthstone, boasting a long and storied past. Blue zircon and, more recently, Tanzanite (though not specifically mentioned in relation to men’s rings in the provided sources) were added to the list to provide greater choice. The addition of Tanzanite occurred in 1952, expanding the options available for December-born individuals. The selection of a birthstone was often believed to bestow specific qualities or protection upon the wearer.
Turquoise: A Stone of Versatility and Style
Turquoise is presented as the most commonly known December birthstone. Its appeal lies in its striking color and versatility, making it a popular choice for a wide range of jewelry, including rings. The sources highlight turquoise’s suitability for those with a more artistic or individualistic style. Turquoise rings, particularly those featuring Heishi beads, are suggested as ideal for expressing personal style. The sources suggest turquoise beaded bracelets and pocket knives as options for men, indicating a broader range of applications beyond traditional rings. The stone’s beauty and versatility make it a compelling choice for December birthstone jewelry.
Blue Zircon: A Bold and Beautiful Alternative
Blue zircon is presented as a secondary option for December birthstone jewelry. While not as frequently encountered in contemporary jewelry as turquoise, it remains a bold and beautiful choice. The sources emphasize its deep blue color and unique light-catching properties. Although the provided materials do not specifically detail men’s zircon rings, the overall description suggests it could be a striking option for those seeking a less conventional birthstone. The sources note that zircon is not as common in recent years, but its inherent beauty continues to make it a worthwhile consideration.
Blue Topaz: Symbolism and Serene Beauty
Blue topaz is another prominent December birthstone, celebrated for its calming and soothing properties. The sources emphasize its symbolism of love and affection, making it a thoughtful gift for loved ones. Blue topaz rings, crafted in sterling silver and often accented with simulated diamonds, are presented as a charming and elegant option. The sources specifically mention a Birth Gems Blue Topaz Ring crafted with platinum plating over sterling silver, designed for durability and lasting brilliance. This ring is described as a perfect gift for those born in December or anyone who appreciates the stone’s serene beauty.
Gemological Properties and Ring Construction
The provided sources offer limited detailed gemological information. However, some properties are discernible. Blue topaz is described as having calming and soothing properties, and is featured in rings crafted from 925 sterling silver with platinum plating for enhanced durability. The platinum plating is noted as preventing resizing through traditional methods, necessitating custom ordering to ensure a perfect fit. Simulated diamonds are often used as accents to enhance the brilliance of the blue topaz. Turquoise is noted for its versatility and is featured in bracelets and pocket knives, suggesting a range of hardness and workability. Zircon’s properties are not detailed beyond its deep blue color and light-catching qualities.
A table summarizing the available information on the December birthstones is provided below:
| Birthstone | Color | Metal Setting (Example) | Notable Properties |
|---|---|---|---|
| Turquoise | Varied Blue/Green | Sterling Silver | Versatility, artistic expression |
| Blue Zircon | Deep Blue | Not specified | Bold color, unique light reflection |
| Blue Topaz | Brilliant Blue | Platinum Plated Sterling Silver | Calming, soothing, symbolizes love and affection |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
The sources primarily focus on the symbolic associations of blue topaz, linking it to love, affection, and calming energies. Turquoise, while not explicitly detailed in terms of metaphysical properties, is presented as a stone that allows for self-expression and individuality. The sources do not provide information on the symbolic meanings associated with blue zircon beyond its aesthetic appeal. The emphasis is on the emotional resonance of the stones, making them meaningful gifts for those born in December.
Care and Cleaning
The sources offer limited guidance on gemstone care. However, the description of the blue topaz ring highlights the importance of platinum plating for durability and longevity. The ring’s construction suggests that gentle handling is necessary to preserve the plating. No specific cleaning instructions are provided, but standard practices for sterling silver and simulated diamonds – such as using a soft cloth and mild soap – would likely be appropriate. The durability of turquoise and zircon is not addressed, suggesting that caution should be exercised when wearing jewelry featuring these stones.
Men’s December Birthstone Rings: Options and Considerations
While the sources primarily focus on jewelry for women, they do offer some insights into men’s December birthstone options. Turquoise is specifically mentioned in the context of men’s bracelets and pocket knives, suggesting its suitability for masculine designs. A turquoise ring could be a statement piece for a man with a bold and artistic style. Blue zircon, while not explicitly featured in men’s rings, could be a striking alternative for those seeking a less conventional birthstone. Blue topaz rings, with their elegant design and symbolic meaning, could also be a thoughtful gift for a man who appreciates classic jewelry.
Conclusion
December’s trio of birthstones – turquoise, blue zircon, and blue topaz – offers a diverse range of options for celebrating a December birthday. Turquoise provides a versatile and artistic choice, blue zircon offers a bold and unique alternative, and blue topaz embodies serene beauty and symbolic meaning. While the provided sources offer limited detailed gemological information, they highlight the historical significance, aesthetic appeal, and emotional resonance of these captivating gemstones. The selection of a December birthstone ring, whether for a man or a woman, is a thoughtful gesture that acknowledges the unique qualities of the individual and the special significance of their birth month.