December’s birthstone is the beautiful turquoise, a gem used in jewelry for centuries. Discover the fascinating story behind this special stone–from its history and symbolism to how best to care for your pieces of turquoise jewelry and everything you need to know about December’s birthstone.
Introduction to Turquoise
Turquoise, the birthstone for December, is a beautiful gemstone prized for centuries for its striking blue-green color and unique characteristics.
History of Turquoise
Turquoise has a long and fascinating history. For thousands of years, it has been used for jewelry and other decorative purposes.
The ancient Egyptians, for example, used turquoise in their jewelry, often incorporating it into elaborate pieces such as necklaces and earrings. The stone was also popular in ancient Persian and Mesoamerican cultures.
Turquoise was prized by Native American tribes, who believed it had protective powers. They would wear turquoise jewelry to protect themselves from harm and ward off evil spirits. Some tribes even thought that turquoise could bring good fortune and promote prosperity.
Symbolism of Turquoise
Turquoise has been associated with many different meanings and symbols throughout history. In many cultures, it is considered a symbol of friendship and protection. In some Native American tribes, it is believed to represent the sky and the sea and is therefore seen as a symbol of the natural world.
Turquoise is also associated with the zodiac sign of Sagittarius, which is the astrological sign for people born in December. According to astrology, turquoise is said to enhance the qualities of Sagittarius, such as honesty, intelligence, and creativity.
Harnessing the Power of Turquoise
Protection
Turquoise is a protective stone used in amulets and talismans for centuries. It protects the wearer from negative energy and provides a shield against harm.
Balance
Turquoise helps balance emotions and promotes a sense of inner calm. It also helps release negative emotions and brings a sense of peace and tranquility.
Communication
Turquoise is associated with the throat chakra, which governs communication and self-expression. It can help improve communication and strengthen the voice.
Healing
Turquoise is used in crystal healing practices. It can help with issues related to the respiratory, immune, and nervous systems.
Creativity
Turquoise is associated with the sacral chakra, which governs creativity and passion. It can help stimulate creativity and inspire new ideas.
Caring for Turquoise Jewelry
If you own turquoise jewelry, it’s important to take proper care of it to ensure it remains beautiful and in good condition. Here are some tips to help you care for your turquoise jewelry:
Keep it away from chemicals
Turquoise is sensitive to chemicals, so avoiding exposure to hairspray, perfume, and cleaning products is important.
Avoid water
While turquoise is generally quite durable, it’s still important to avoid exposing it to water. You should remove your jewelry before showering, swimming, or doing other water-based activities.
Store it carefully
Store your turquoise jewelry in a cool, dry place when you’re not wearing it. Avoid storing it in direct sunlight, which can cause the color to fade.
Clean it gently
If you need to clean your turquoise jewelry, gently wipe it down with a soft, damp cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive materials, as these can damage the stone.
Shopping for Turquoise Jewelry
Knowing where to buy quality pieces is essential when shopping for turquoise jewelry. The best places to find authentic and genuine turquoise are from reputable jewelers or online stores specializing in stone. You can also visit local craft fairs or flea markets, but check the stones carefully before purchasing.
You can also find beautiful handmade pieces at local craft fairs or art galleries. It’s a good idea to ask the seller questions about the origin of the stone and its authenticity before making your purchase.
Different styles and designs of turquoise jewelry are available depending on your preference. From traditional Native American-style necklaces and earrings to modern rings with intricate settings – there’s something for everyone. Look out for unique pieces such as pendants with semi-precious gemstones like lapis lazuli or jasper set into them.
Many modern designers have embraced this gemstone by creating unique statement pieces featuring bold colors and shapes that will stand out.
Learning how to spot fake or low-quality stones when shopping for turquoise jewelry is important, so you don’t get duped into buying an imitation piece. Natural turquoise has visible veins running through it, which should not be too uniform in shape or color; if they look too perfect, it may be a sign of artificial treatment.
Be sure to check for any cracks, as these can indicate an inferior product that won’t last long-term wear and tear. Additionally, look out for inconsistencies in size, shape, or color which could suggest a fake stone has been used instead of a genuine one.
Additionally, genuine turquoise will feel slightly waxy when touched, whereas imitations tend to have a chalky texture due to their lower-grade materials used in production.
FAQs about Everything You Need to Know About December’s Birthstone
How rare is December’s birthstone?
December’s birthstone is turquoise. It is a semi-precious stone and one of the oldest known gemstones. It has been used in jewelry for thousands of years and can be found in shades of blue, green, yellow, and even pink. Although it is not as rare as some other stones, such as diamond or sapphire, it still has a unique beauty, making it highly sought after by collectors. Turquoise is a popular choice for December birthdays and makes an excellent gift.
What is December’s birthstone color called?
The December birthstone is turquoise. It is a beautiful blue-green color, often with flecks of black or brown. Turquoise has been used in jewelry for centuries and is said to bring good luck and protection to its wearer. The stone also symbolizes wisdom, strength, and friendship. Its calming energy can help reduce stress and promote relaxation when worn as jewelry or kept nearby as an ornament.
What are the four birthstones for December?
The four birthstones for December are turquoise, zircon, tanzanite, and topaz. Turquoise is a blue-green stone used in jewelry since ancient times. It is believed to bring good luck and protection to its wearer.
Zircon is a brilliant yellow-gold gemstone with strong spiritual properties associated with it. Tanzanite is an intense violet-blue gemstone that was discovered in Tanzania in 1967. It symbolizes wisdom and understanding when worn as jewelry.
Lastly, topaz is a vibrant golden stone known for its healing properties and ability to promote creativity and success. These stones have unique meanings that those born in December can harness.
Conclusion
Turquoise is a beautiful gemstone that has captivated people for centuries. Its vibrant blue-green color and unique characteristics make it a popular choice for jewelry, while its history and cultural significance add to its appeal.
In addition to its aesthetic qualities, turquoise has powerful properties–from promoting balance and tranquility to stimulating creativity and communication, turquoise offers a range of benefits to those who use it.
So if you’re looking for a way to improve your life and find peace of mind, why not explore how turquoise could be harnessed to improve your daily life? Learn more about the healing benefits of turquoise today!
