All About Topaz And Tanzanite As December Birthstones
Fog and snow, it's more like dewy days and misty nights— that's exactly what December and its birthstones are all about! If you're a December baby, you're gifted with the season's shades— Tanzanite, Blue Topaz, and Turquoise!
As the official favourites, in this blog we're gonna talk about Tanzanite & Blue Topaz!
Tanzanite
If you're lucky enough to be born in December, you have the stunning Tanzanite as your birthstone! This rare and captivating gem, with its mesmerising shades of blue and violet, comes exclusively from a single region in Tanzania. Found only in the Merelani Hills near Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzanite has become a sought-after jewel for collectors and gemstone lovers alike. Known for its beautiful trichroism—displaying different colours based on the angle you view it from. This play of colors brings a rich vibrancy to any piece of December birthstone jewellery, whether it’s a bold Tanzanite ring or dainty tanzanite necklaces and pendants.
History and Symbolism
Discovered in 1967, Tanzanite is a relatively recent addition to the gemstone world, yet it has quickly gained iconic status. The Maasai people were the first to discover it, noticing its deep blue hues in the aftermath of a lightning-induced wildfire that exposed the gems. They named it Tanzanite, linking it to their land and the beauty of the African landscape. This gem is considered symbolic of new beginnings, making it perfect for celebrating life milestones and personal growth. In metaphysical terms, Tanzanite represents transformation and is often worn to inspire positive changes.
Benefits of Wearing Tanzanite Jewellery
- Adds positive energy that uplift moods and transform negativity into optimism.
- Enhances clarity, concentration, and self-assurance.
- Acts as a luck magnet.
- Purifies negative energies, fosters spiritual comfort, and supports immune system strength.
- Inspires new approaches to life and evokes creative thinking.
- Promotes mental clarity and emotional balance.
- Enhances and strengthens professional relationships.
- Helps achieve tranquility and break through unproductive habits.
- Opens the mind and heart to explore latent psychic abilities.
Tanzanite Characteristics :
Mineral: zoisite
Colour: rare blue-violet
Mohs hardness: 6 to 7
Places mined: only in Tanzania, particularly in the Merelani Hills.
Zodiac: Sagittarius
Birthstone: December
Gifting: 24th anniversary
Planet: Neptune
Element: Water
Popular shapes: oval, round, and pear cuts
Did You Know?
Tanzanite is one thousand times rarer than diamonds, as it’s found in just one place on Earth: Tanzania!
The 4Cs of Tanzanite
Colour:
Tanzanite is celebrated for its rich, vibrant blue-violet hues, and its trichroic nature. The stone displays three different colours depending on the angle! These can range from deep blue and violet to flashes of burgundy or reddish-brown, adding a mesmerising depth and versatility.The most prized Tanzanites are a rich blue with hints of violet. Generally, the deeper the colour, the higher the value.
Cut:
Since Tanzanite is a softer gem, it requires expert cutting to ensure durability and enhance its colour and sparkle. Oval, cushion, and emerald cuts are popular.
Clarity:
Tanzanite tends to have very few inclusions, meaning that most pieces are eye-clean. High-quality Tanzanites are transparent with no visible flaws.
Carat:
Tanzanite is available in a range of sizes. As with most gems, larger carats can be more valuable, but because of its rarity, even smaller stones are highly prized. Although this gem is priced high due to its rarity, tanzanite ring price in India in shapes like tanzanite pear shaped ring still has reasonable rates for the wedding and engagement ring market.
Treatments
Tanzanite typically undergoes heat treatment to enhance its colour. This is a common, industry-accepted practice, as it brings out its vivid blues and purples and is stable, meaning the colour won’t fade over time. It’s worth noting that untreated Tanzanites are exceptionally rare and can show a more muted brown hue.
Blue Topaz
The December alternative birthstone Blue Topaz, with its serene hue, isn't just eye candy. It's a vibrational powerhouse that can work wonders on your physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being.
Benefits of Wearing Blue Topaz Jewellery
Physical Benefits
Blue Topaz’s impact on the throat chakra helps to soothe sore throats and ease tension in the neck and shoulders. It's like a natural remedy for a croaky voice or a stiff neck. So if you often sound like opening a rusty gate, you know what to pick! Beyond that, Blue Topazis often used to alleviate migraines. Its calming energy can help reduce the intensity and frequency of headaches, providing much-needed relief. And when the day gets crazy, Blue Topazhas got your back (and your sanity)! Its serene hue and calming properties will unwind and relax you, melting stress away like a warm bubble bath!
Emotional Benefits
Emotionally, Blue Topazcan help you calm your nervers. If you're an overthinker or can't help procrastinating — this gem will have your back! Plus, it helps you express yourself clearly and confidently, whether you're giving a presentation or simply having a heart-to-heart. It can also reduce anxiety and promote a sense of inner peace. And if you're stuck in some creative rut, it's the perfect kick that'll spark imagination!
Spiritual Benefits
Spiritually, Blue Topazis a powerful tool for personal growth and enlightenment. It's closely linked to the Throat Chakra (Vishuddha), which governs communication and self-expression. By balancing this chakra, Blue Topazcan help you connect with your higher self, tap into your intuition, and express your truth authentically. It's like a spiritual guide, leading you towards a deeper understanding of yourself and the world around you.
Blue Topaz Characteristics:
Mineral: Silicate mineral of fluorine and aluminium
Color: Colors: While pure topaz is colorless, it commonly appears in shades of blue, yellow, orange, pink, and even brown. Blue Topazis particularly popular as a November birthstone.
Mohs Hardness: 8 on the Mohs scale
Places mined : Brazil, Russia, Nigeria, Pakistan, The United States (particularly in Utah)
Zodiac Sign: Sagittarius and Scorpio
Planet: Saturn
Gifting: 4th year anniversary
Popular shapes: Round, Oval, Pear, Emerald (rectangular), Cushion
Did You Know?
Among its variety of hues, the first topaz that was discovered was yellow. It was much later that London Blue Topaz emerged as the darkest and richest colour.
4'Cs Of Blue Topaz
Colour:
Blue Topazis available in shades from pale sky blue to vibrant Swiss blue. However, the intensity, hue, and saturation of the colour is the primary determinant and significantly impacts its value. The most desirable colour is a deep, rich blue, often referred to as "London Blue."
Cut:
When choosing a blue topaz, look for a stone with well-proportioned facets and a symmetrical cut. A well-cut stone will have a lively sparkle and a captivating appearance.
It's widely available in the market in various cuts including, round, oval, pear, emerald and cushion cuts.
Clarity:
Blue Topaz is generally a very clear gemstone, with few inclusions visible to the naked eye. However, the clarity of the stone can affect its overall appearance and value.
Carat Weight:
The carat weight of a Blue Topaz refers to its size. Larger stones are generally more valuable, but the quality of the stone is also important.
Treatments:
Naturally, topaz comes in a rainbow of colors - yellow, orange, pink, and brown. But blue topaz? Most Blue Topazis obtained by heating colourless or lightly coloured Topaz through:
- Irradiation: A gentle nudge to awaken the gem's hidden colour.
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Heat treatment: A carefully controlled process that enhances the colour.
This treatment is:
- Common practice in the gem industry
- Completely safe
- Doesn't compromise the stone's durability
- Makes Blue Topaz more affordable and accessible
Naturally occurring Blue Topaz Is as rare as a unicorn! But thanks to this treatment, we can enjoy the beauty of Blue Topaz without breaking the bank.
And well, don't worry— Blue topaz, treated or not, remains a stunning and sought-after gemstone. Its captivating color and durability make it a perfect choice for jewellery enthusiasts.
Remember,
- If the colour seems too vivid or uniform, too good to be natural — it probably is!
- Natural Blue Topaz typically has a distinct, softer hue that may appear less intense than treated varieties.
- Look for subtle variations. Natural stones often display slight colour zoning.
- Treated stones may show signs of internal fractures or cloudiness due to the treatment process. Natural ones are rarely included.
- The most fool-proof way is to get a geological evaluation. They can assess factors like refractive index and pleochroism.
But where to buy exceptional quality birthstone jewellery?
Angara of course! With our easy customisation feature, you can tailor every detail of your birthstone jewellery to make it uniquely yours. Be it tanzanite earrings, a stunning blue topaz necklace, or a dazzling combination of topaz and tanzanite ring, we’ve got you covered with unmatched quality and design. Plus, with a 15-day return policy and free insured shipping, shopping with Angara is as worry-free as it is delightful.
So, rare Tanzanite or serene Blue Topaz—what’s your December vibe? ‘Tis time to grab a hot coffee mug and scroll through our exclusive December Birthstone jewellery collection!
FAQs
1. Why is Angara the best place to buy a December birthstone?
For their wide range of birthstone jewellery collection and elaborate customisation features. Angara offers gorgeous options, top-notch quality, and designs for every taste. Plus, with perks like free shipping (with a smile & 15-day return policy), you’re basically getting sparkle with zero stress.
2. Which stone is suitable for December?
December born get to flaunt these three stunning birthstones: Tanzanite (for that luxurious, rare vibe), Turquoise (classic and calming), and Blue Zircon (the ultimate sparkle)