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December Birthstone: Tanzanite — Meaning, Colour & Guide
December babies have a stunning trio of birthstones to choose from — but none is quite as extraordinary as Tanzanite. With its deep violet-blue colour and remarkable rarity, Tanzanite is a gemstone that has captured the hearts of jewellery lovers around the world since its discovery just over 50 years ago.
What Is the December Birthstone?
December has three official birthstones: Tanzanite, Blue Topaz, and Turquoise. Of these, Tanzanite is the most coveted in contemporary jewellery. Added to the official birthstone list in 2002 — the first new addition in over a century — it quickly became one of the most popular coloured gems in the world.
Tanzanite Colour & Appearance
Tanzanite is renowned for its trichroism — the ability to show three different colours (blue, violet, and burgundy) depending on the angle from which it is viewed. The most prized stones display a rich, vivid blue-violet that rivals the finest Sapphire. Because Tanzanite is found in only one location on Earth — a small area near Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania — it is considered at least 1,000 times rarer than Diamond.
Tanzanite Meaning & Symbolism
The Maasai people of Tanzania gift Tanzanite to newborn children as a symbol of life and new beginnings. In modern crystal work, Tanzanite is associated with spiritual awareness, transformation, and higher consciousness. Its deep, contemplative colour invites calm, wisdom, and a deeper connection to one’s own truth — making it a profoundly meaningful birthstone for December.
Tanzanite Properties & Benefits
How to Wear Tanzanite Jewellery
Tanzanite ring
Its colour rivals Sapphire at a fraction of the price
Tanzanite pendant necklace
A deep violet-blue drop that is dramatic and elegant
Tanzanite earrings
Stud or drop styles that complement both warm and cool skin tones
Tanzanite and yellow gold
The warm gold tones enhance the violet notes in the stone beautifully
In Australia, December marks the beginning of summer and the festive season — making Tanzanite jewellery a particularly meaningful and luxurious gift for someone born at the most celebrated time of year.
Caring for Tanzanite Jewellery
- Tanzanite has a Mohs hardness of 6.5–7 — wear with care to avoid chipping
- Clean with warm soapy water and a soft cloth; avoid ultrasonic and steam cleaners
- Remove before physical activity, swimming, or household cleaning
- Store in a soft pouch or lined jewellery box, away from harder gemstones
- Avoid exposure to sudden temperature changes, which can stress the stone
Shop Tanzanite Jewellery at Serendipity
Tanzanite is a once-in-a-lifetime gemstone — one that tells a story of rarity, beauty, and the magic of the natural world. At Serendipity, we work with this extraordinary stone to create pieces as meaningful as they are beautiful. Explore our Tanzanite jewellery collection and find the perfect December birthday gift — or a treasure for yourself.
Free standard shipping Australia wide
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the birthstone for December?
December has three official birthstones: Tanzanite, Blue Topaz, and Turquoise. Tanzanite is one of the newest additions to the birthstone list and is especially prized for its rare blue-violet colour and remarkable scarcity.
What does Tanzanite symbolise?
Tanzanite is associated with transformation, intuition, wisdom, and spiritual growth. It is often seen as a stone of new beginnings, helping to inspire self-discovery, creativity, and a deeper connection to personal truth.
What colour is Tanzanite?
Tanzanite is famous for its rich blue-violet colour, which can display flashes of blue, purple, and burgundy depending on the viewing angle. This unique optical effect, known as trichroism, is one of the gemstone’s most distinctive characteristics.
Is Tanzanite rare?
Yes. Tanzanite is considered one of the world’s rarest gemstones because it is found in only one location — a small region near Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. Its limited supply makes it significantly rarer than many other popular gemstones.
Can Tanzanite jewellery be worn every day?
Tanzanite can be worn regularly, but it requires more care than harder gemstones such as Sapphire or Diamond. With a Mohs hardness of 6.5–7, it is best to remove Tanzanite jewellery during sports, heavy lifting, and other activities that may cause impact or scratching.
How do I care for Tanzanite jewellery?
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