December is uniquely recognized for having not one, but two traditional birthstones: turquoise and blue topaz. While modern jewelry often features blue topaz as the primary December gem, turquoise holds a significant historical connection to the month and continues to be a popular choice, particularly for men’s jewelry. This article will explore the characteristics, history, symbolism, and modern applications of both turquoise and blue topaz, drawing exclusively from available sources.
History and Lore
Traditionally, turquoise has been strongly associated with December. Sources indicate its symbolism centers around protection and wisdom. This association likely stems from ancient cultures, though the provided materials do not detail the specific origins of this belief. The use of turquoise in jewelry dates back centuries, and it remains a favored material for both decorative and meaningful pieces.
Blue topaz, while gaining prominence as a December birthstone in more recent times, also carries rich symbolism. It is believed to represent love, affection, and the ability to soothe and heal, while also imparting strength and intelligence to the wearer. The sources do not provide a detailed historical timeline for the adoption of blue topaz as a December birthstone, but its increasing popularity is evident in contemporary jewelry offerings.
Geological Formation and Sources
The provided sources do not detail the geological formation of either turquoise or blue topaz. However, they do highlight the use of turquoise in rings crafted with titanium, suggesting a source for this material. The sources do not specify the origin of the turquoise used, nor do they provide any information regarding the mining locations of either gemstone.
Gemological Properties
The sources offer limited gemological data. Turquoise is described as having a “vibrant color,” and is often inlaid into rings. Rings featuring turquoise are available in widths of 4mm, 6mm, and 8mm. The material is set in titanium, which is noted for its lightweight strength and hypoallergenic qualities.
Blue topaz is described as a “precious” gemstone with “brilliant blue hues.” It is commonly found as a 3mm gemstone set in rings crafted from 9k, 14k, 18k yellow, white, or rose gold, and sterling silver. These rings typically have a 1mm band width and a high-polish finish. A matte finish is available upon request. The sources do not provide information on the chemical composition, hardness, refractive index, or clarity of either gemstone.
A comparison of the materials used in the rings is shown below:
| Gemstone | Metal | Band Width (approx.) | Gemstone Size (approx.) | Finish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Turquoise | Titanium | 4mm, 6mm, 8mm | N/A | N/A |
| Blue Topaz | Gold/Silver | 1mm | 3mm | High Polish/Matte |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Turquoise is specifically linked to symbolism of protection and tranquility. Blue topaz, on the other hand, is associated with love, affection, soothing properties, healing, strength, and intelligence. These symbolic meanings contribute to the gemstones’ appeal as birthstones and gifts for special occasions. The sources do not elaborate on the cultural origins of these beliefs, nor do they provide a comprehensive overview of metaphysical properties beyond these associations.
Applications in Jewelry
The provided sources focus primarily on rings as the featured jewelry item. Turquoise is presented as a versatile option for wedding bands, wedding rings, or everyday accessories for both men and women. Rings featuring turquoise are handcrafted and may take 5 to 14 days to ship.
Blue topaz rings are also presented as suitable for a variety of occasions. They are crafted with a platinum plating over sterling silver to enhance durability and longevity. Due to this plating, resizing is not possible, and rings are made to order, requiring approximately 10 business days for delivery.
The sources also mention other jewelry options featuring December birthstones. Tanzanite stud earrings and pendants are suggested as complementary pieces, while turquoise beaded bracelets and pocket knives are presented as gift options for men.
Care and Cleaning
The sources do not provide specific care and cleaning instructions for turquoise or blue topaz. However, the mention of platinum plating on blue topaz rings suggests a need for careful handling to preserve the plating’s integrity. The durability of titanium, used in turquoise rings, is highlighted, implying a degree of resilience. General jewelry care guidelines, such as avoiding harsh chemicals and abrasive cleaners, would likely be applicable to both gemstones.
Men’s December Birthstone Options
The sources specifically address December birthstone jewelry for men. While both turquoise and blue topaz rings are presented as viable options, the sources highlight turquoise beaded bracelets and pocket knives as particularly suitable gifts for men. This suggests a preference for more rugged and functional designs when selecting birthstone jewelry for male recipients.
Customization and Ordering
Both turquoise and blue topaz rings can be customized. Turquoise rings are available in varying widths (4mm, 6mm, and 8mm). Blue topaz rings offer customization options for width, thickness, texture, design, and the addition of diamonds and gemstones. Bespoke services are available for both gemstones, allowing for personalized designs tailored to individual preferences. “Ready to ship” options are available for certain sizes and metal selections, offering faster delivery times.
Conclusion
December’s birthstones, turquoise and blue topaz, offer a diverse range of options for those seeking meaningful and beautiful jewelry. Turquoise, with its historical significance and symbolism of protection, remains a popular choice, particularly for men’s jewelry. Blue topaz, representing love, healing, and strength, has gained prominence as a modern December birthstone. Both gemstones are versatile and can be incorporated into a variety of jewelry designs, offering opportunities for customization and personalization. The available sources demonstrate a continued appreciation for both traditional and contemporary interpretations of December’s birthstone heritage.