True blue: Dazzling tanzanite and turquoise birthstone jewellery for December
Whether you prefer your jewels a deeper shade of blue or in a bright sky hue, December's birthstones have you, or her, covered
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Those born in December may have to contend with the attention-seeking festivities of Christmas clashing with their own celebrations but they are able to claim two beautiful gems as their birthstones (and doesn’t a December birthday equal a present that is twice as special?!). Tanzanites vary from blue with a hint of purple to a darker shade, which means they can be mistaken for sapphires.
They are rare, too, found only in the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro; their name comes from the East African country where the gems have predominantly been sourced since they were first discovered in 1967. Local legend recounts that Masai herders discovered the stones when lightning struck their fields and set them ablaze. For those who believe in the power of stones and crystals, tanzanite promises to balance mind, body and soul, as well as creativity and assertiveness.
Turquoise, meanwhile, has thousands of years of history attached to it, and many associations. In ancient Persia, a change in colour of the stone was believed to portend disaster while, in Tibet, turquoise, known as the ‘Sky Stone’, is associated with good fortune. Among Native American tribes, on the other hand, it is used for healing and protection. The Aztecs so revered turquoise that only their gods could wear it. The stone’s name is simply French for ‘Turkish’ as it made its way to Europe via Turkey, and before that, Iran. Here’s our selection of the finest tanzanite and turquoise birthstone jewellery that you could hope to find in that little box under the tree this year.
Bucherer Joy Earrings
The clue is in the name: who could fail to be delighted by Bucherer Fine Jewellery’s festively-named Joy earrings? ‘Tis indeed the season to be jolly and joyful. This dazzling duo features two cushion-cut tanzanites surrounded by brilliant-cut diamonds and white gold. These earrings are as stylishly pared back as is possible with two glorious statement gemstones.
Covett Tanzanite & Diamond Pendant
If she loves to change her jewellery in line with the seasons, turn to Covett and its unique shared ownership and subscription-based models. She can buy a share in this modern geometric platinum pendant, set with a striking tanzanite that’s flanked by diamonds. There are four shares available, with a retail value £11,500.
Annoushka Birthstones December Tanzanite Necklace
Annoushka’s birthstone collection features 13 unisex Lovelocket designs crafted in 18 karat yellow gold. December’s charm features a square-cut tanzanite at its centre, framed by a halo of white diamonds. The charm slides open to reveal a hidden chamber designed to hold a photo, lock of hair, note or any other mini talisman. Layer the locket with Annoushka’s Zodiac or Initial pendants on a Cable Chain. Truly charming.
Minka Tanzanite & Pearl Hoop Earrings
The shape of these bold hoop earrings was inspired by the curve of a mermaid’s tail and oceanic treasures; hence beautiful pearls, shimmering diamonds and aquatic-coloured gemstones. These handcrafted earrings in 18 karat yellow gold team two purple tanzanite beads with two white pearls.
Jennifer Meyer mini evil eye necklace
This necklace has a double whammy of symbolism. The Evil Eye talisman crafted with diamonds and turquoise is believed to ward off negative energy while the benefits of the turquoise itself were spelt out at the start of this article, and we are on board. Here’s to good fortune in 2024…
Swarvoski Birthstone Pendant
Turn to Swarovski for a matching set of birthstone jewellery for December perfectly priced for wearing every day. Inspired by December’s twin birthstones, this pendant necklace is rhoduim plated and features a round crystal to match.
Loquet London
Santa baby, just slip a locket under the tree, for me… Loquet London is queen when it comes to personalised necklaces. Once you’ve added your tanzanite birthstone charm, choose an initial, a word and any number of charms relating to flora and fauna, love, luck, healing, faith and celebration to your digital creation, which can then be ordered at the click of a button. We warn you – the process is addictive.
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