Turquoise: The Beautiful Birthstone of December
While many people know that diamonds represent the December birthstone, turquoise also has a long history as a stone of the twelfth month.
The History of Turquoise as a Birthstone
Turquoise has been cherished for millennia as a gem of protection, good fortune and spiritual healing. Its use dates back at least 6,000 years to ancient Persia, Egypt and Mesopotamia.
In medieval Europe, turquoise became associated with the month of December. This is partly because turquoise mines in Iran – then part of the Persian Empire – began producing more gem-quality stones in winter months when mining was possible.
The Meaning and Symbolism of Turquoise
As one of the oldest gemstones, turquoise carries a wealth of symbolic meanings that make it a perfect match for the last month of the year:
- Luck: Turquoise has long been believed to bring good fortune and prosperity to its wearer.
- Protection: It was thought to ward off negative energies and harm, making it a protective talisman.
- Healing: Turquoise was believed to have cleansing and curative powers for both the spirit and body.
- Peace: The soothing blue hue represents tranquility, harmony and peace of mind.
- Wisdom: The gem’s ancient history and spiritual associations connect it to wisdom, knowledge and enlightenment.
Turquoise and December
These attributes of turquoise align well with themes of December, a month of:
- Reflection: The last month of the year is a time for looking back on the past 12 months.
- Preparation: December marks the start of winter and the coming of a new year.
- Hope: The holiday season infuses December with positivity and anticipating of good things to come.
In these ways, turquoise’s properties of protection, good fortune, healing and wisdom make it a perfect birthstone for those looking to the future with hope, gratitude and wisdom gained from the past year.
Turquoise and Other December Birthstones
While diamonds claim the title of “official” December birthstone, the centuries-old association of turquoise with the month gives it equal validity as a stellar birthstone choice. In fact, combining the two – with a dazzling diamond accentuating an ethereal turquoise center stone – creates an irresistible look for the last month of the year.
FAQs about Turquoise Birthstone Month
The word turquoise dates back to the 13th century, from the French expression ‘pierre tourques’, referencing the stone’s journey from Turkey to Europe. Today, the December birthstone is associated with meanings of freshness, femininity, tranquillity, intuition, serenity, creativity, emotional balance, and loyalty.
The turquoise birthstone is said to represent a host of positive personality traits, including happiness, honesty, and spirituality. It’s also said to represent strength, serenity, and creativity. If you were born in December, then you have prosperity in your future, and potentially the chance for rebirth.
While Turquoise is a birthstone for our December Capricorns, wearing Turquoise this season can be help for all of us. Wear it as a visual reminder is a great way to keep your focus and help you stay on track.
June: The Month with Three Birthstones – Pearl, Alexandrite, Moonstone. Amongst the 12 calendar months, June and December are the only ones with three birthstones, none of which an alternate one.
Items associated with December: