Tanzanite is a relatively new gemstone that was discovered in 1967 in Tanzania, East Africa. Since its discovery, tanzanite has quickly become a popular gemstone, especially for jewelry. One of the reasons for tanzanite’s popularity is that it is used as a birthstone for the month of December.
What are birthstones?
Birthstones are gemstones that are associated with each month of the year. Wearing or gifting a birthstone that corresponds to someone’s birth month is thought to bring good luck and health. The idea of birthstones has origins dating back to biblical times, but the modern list of birthstones was established in 1912 by the American National Association of Jewelers.
| Month | Birthstone |
|---|---|
| January | Garnet |
| February | Amethyst |
| March | Aquamarine |
| April | Diamond |
| May | Emerald |
| June | Pearl, Alexandrite |
| July | Ruby |
| August | Peridot |
| September | Sapphire |
| October | Opal, Tourmaline |
| November | Topaz, Citrine |
| December | Tanzanite, Zircon, Turquoise |
As you can see from the birthstone chart, tanzanite is considered a birthstone for December, along with zircon and turquoise. This makes it a perfect gift for someone born in the month of December.
History of tanzanite as a December birthstone
Tanzanite was added as an official December birthstone in 2002 by the American Gem Trade Association. Since tanzanite is 1,000 times rarer than diamond, the AGTA wanted to promote this striking and exotic gemstone. After tanzanite’s discovery in 1967, it quickly grew in popularity and became a treasured gem. The deep blue-violet color of tanzanite is unlike any other gemstone and beautifully complements December’s cool winter color palette. Adding tanzanite as a December birthstone was a way to showcase this one-of-a-kind gem.
Before tanzanite, the primary December birthstone was turquoise, a sky blue gemstone that has been valued for thousands of years. Zircon is another historic December birthstone known for its colorless, blue, and orange varieties. Now, tanzanite joins these other two gems as the perfect choices for December-born babies.
Why tanzanite works for December birthdays
There are a few key reasons why tanzanite is well-suited as a December birthstone:
- Color – Tanzanite’s vivid blue-violet hue suits the cool, icy tones associated with winter. The color invokes a sense of mystery and depth.
- Rarity – Tanzanite is only found in one small area of Tanzania, which adds to its allure and suits December’s sense of exclusivity as the end of the year.
- Meaning – The rarity and beauty of tanzanite represents prosperity, achievement, and new beginnings – all fitting associations for December birthdays.
- Versatility – Tanzanite suits both traditional and modern tastes. It works well in both vintage and contemporary jewelry styles.
Overall, tanzanite’s striking color, exclusivity, meaning, and versatility help make it an appropriate and distinctive birthstone for December-born individuals.
December birthstone jewelry featuring tanzanite
When shopping for December birthday gifts, there are many beautiful jewelry options that showcase dazzling tanzanite:
- Tanzanite stud earrings – Simple yet sophisticated, these earrings make a timeless gift.
- Tanzanite pendant necklace – A tanzanite solitaire pendant is a classic and elegant choice.
- Tanzanite cocktail ring – For a bold, artistic gift, choose a dramatic tanzanite cocktail ring.
- Tanzanite bracelet – A tennis bracelet or bangle featuring tanzanite is always on trend.
- Tanzanite and diamond earrings – Pairing tanzanite with diamonds adds extra sparkle and luxury.
Whether shopping for a family member, friend, or treating yourself, tanzanite jewelry makes for a meaningful and beautiful December birthday present. It is sure to be appreciated as a thoughtful birthday gift.
How to care for tanzanite jewelry
While beautiful, tanzanite does require some special care since it is more fragile than many other gems:
- Avoid knocking or scratching tanzanite, as it can chip. Be careful not to bang it against surfaces.
- Remove tanzanite jewelry before physical activities like exercise, gardening, cleaning, etc.
- Store tanzanite separately from other gems and metals, as it can scratch due to its softness.
- Clean tanzanite with gentle soap and water only. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners may damage it.
- Keep tanzanite away from heat, as high temperatures can cause it to lose its signature blue-violet color permanently.
By caring for your tanzanite properly, you can enjoy its stunning color for many years to come. Simple precautions will help ensure your December birthstone jewelry retains its beauty and value over time.
Conclusion
With its vivid and mesmerizing blue-violet color, tanzanite is a perfect and prestigious choice for a December birthstone. After its discovery in 1967, tanzanite quickly joined the ranks of turquoise and zircon to become one of three officially recognized gems for December. Its rarity and striking color suit December’s icy winter tones. From dazzling pendants to elegant earrings, tanzanite birthstone jewelry makes a thoughtful gift for someone born in December. With proper care, tanzanite jewelry can be treasured for many years as a memorable December birthday present.
