What is the December birthstone?
The December birthstone is traditionally Aquamarine, with Turquoise recognised as a beautiful alternative December birthstone. Turquoise is a vibrant blue gemstone long associated with protection, balance and calm energy. With its distinctive sky-blue to greenish tones, Turquoise has been admired and worn for over 6,000 years.
The Turquoise gemstone was revered by ancient civilisations including the Egyptians, Aztecs and Romans, who believed it offered protection and spiritual strength. Today, December birthstone jewellery featuring Turquoise remains a meaningful way to celebrate December birthdays, anniversaries and personal milestones.
Frequently asked questions about Turquoise
1. What is Turquoise jewellery?
Turquoise jewellery features an opaque hydrated copper aluminium phosphate mineral set into pieces such as rings, necklaces, earrings and bracelets. It is recognised for sky blue to blue-green, sometimes with brown or dark matrix patterns. H.AZEEM London specialises in natural gemstone jewellery crafted primarily in 925 sterling silver, with gold and rose-gold finishes.
2. What colour is Turquoise?
Turquoise is recognised for sky blue to blue-green, sometimes with brown or dark matrix patterns. Natural stones can vary in tone, transparency, inclusions and pattern, so an individual piece may not look identical to another or to a sample photograph.
3. Is Turquoise a natural gemstone?
Yes, Turquoise occurs naturally. Natural does not always mean untreated, however, so buyers should check the product description for the gemstone identity, treatment information where relevant, and the jewellery metal. Turquoise may be natural, stabilised, treated, reconstructed or imitated, so clear disclosure is especially important.
4. What does Turquoise jewellery symbolise?
Turquoise has traditionally been associated with strength, confidence and protection. These meanings can make the jewellery personally significant, but they are cultural or spiritual associations rather than scientifically proven medical effects.
5. Is Turquoise a birthstone or anniversary gemstone?
Turquoise is recognised as a birthstone for December. It is therefore commonly chosen for December birthdays and eleventh wedding anniversaries. Birthstone and anniversary associations vary between traditions, so they should be presented as cultural conventions rather than scientific facts.
6. Is Turquoise jewellery expensive?
Turquoise jewellery is available at different price points. The cost depends on the stone's variety, colour, clarity, size, cut, rarity and treatment, together with the metal, craftsmanship and complexity of the finished design. The gemstone name alone is not enough to judge value.
7. How much is Turquoise worth in the UK?
There is no single UK price for Turquoise. Loose-stone value depends on quality, size, cut, treatment, origin where reliably established, and market demand; finished jewellery also reflects its metal and craftsmanship. For a formal valuation of an existing piece, consult an independent qualified jewellery valuer or gemologist.
8. Can you wear Turquoise jewellery every day?
Turquoise is wearable with careful handling because it can be porous and sensitive to cosmetics, oils, acids and moisture. Rings and bracelets experience more contact than earrings and necklaces, so suitability also depends on the setting and the wearer's routine. Remove gemstone jewellery before exercise, cleaning, swimming or manual work.
9. How do you clean Turquoise jewellery?
Wipe Turquoise jewellery gently with a clean, soft cloth after wear. Follow the care instructions for the specific product before using water or soap, and avoid bleach, acids, abrasive cleaners and unapproved ultrasonic or steam cleaning. Dry the piece fully before storing it.
10. Can Turquoise jewellery get wet?
Occasional brief contact with clean water may not immediately damage every Turquoise piece, but it should not be worn while showering, swimming or bathing. Water, chlorine, salt, soap and repeated moisture can affect the gemstone, setting or plated finish, so remove the jewellery first.
11. How can you tell if Turquoise jewellery is genuine?
Check whether the seller clearly identifies the stone as natural, laboratory-created, treated or imitation and states the jewellery metal. Photographs and inclusions alone cannot prove authenticity. For a high-value or uncertain piece, professional gemmological testing provides the most reliable identification.
12. Does Turquoise look better in gold or silver?
Turquoise can work with both gold and silver. Gold normally creates a warmer, richer effect, while sterling silver gives a cooler or more contemporary contrast. The best choice depends on the stone's individual colour, the design and the metals the wearer already prefers.
13. Is Turquoise jewellery a good gift?
Yes. Turquoise jewellery can be chosen for its distinctive appearance — sky blue to blue-green, sometimes with brown or dark matrix patterns — its association with strength, confidence and protection, or its connection with December birthdays and eleventh wedding anniversaries.
14. Is Turquoise suitable for rings?
Turquoise can be used in rings, but the right setting and care are important. Rings receive more knocks and abrasion than necklaces or earrings, so consider the stone's durability, how exposed it is and whether the ring will be worn daily. Remove it for strenuous or manual activities.
15. What is the difference between Turquoise and Howlite?
Turquoise is a distinct copper-bearing gemstone; Howlite is a different white mineral that is sometimes dyed to imitate Turquoise. Similar colour does not mean two gemstones are the same, and reliable identification may require gemological testing rather than visual comparison alone.
Because Turquoise can absorb oils and chemicals, always apply makeup and skincare products before wearing Turquoise jewellery. Store pieces separately in a cool, dry place to prevent scratches and discoloration.
With thoughtful care, your December birthstone Turquoise jewellery will retain its vibrant blue tones and natural beauty for years to come.
