Turquoise — December Birthstone: Meaning, Styling & Gifts (vs. Blue Topaz)

December birthdays have something extra special — a vibrant birthstone that perfectly captures the cool serenity of winter. Turquoise, known for its striking blue-green hue, has been cherished for thousands of years as a symbol of protection, wisdom, and good fortune. Alongside turquoise, blue topaz is also celebrated as a modern December birthstone, offering a brilliant, sparkling alternative.

In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to know about this meaningful gemstone — from styling ideas and gifting tips to turquoise care, symbolism, and how it compares to blue topaz.

If you’re shopping for December birthstone jewelry, turquoise is a beautiful, meaningful choice for everyday wear and gifting — especially in dainty, layerable pieces.

What Is Turquoise?

Turquoise is an opaque gemstone known for its dreamy blue to blue-green color, sometimes showing natural web-like veining called matrix. Its distinctive hue comes from copper-rich minerals deep underground, giving it a look that feels both organic and luminous.

Quick Facts

• Birthstone Month: December
• Color Range: Sky blue, teal, blue-green; may show natural matrix
• Hardness: 5–6 on the Mohs scale
• Symbolism: Protection, peace, intuition, friendship
• Style Vibe: Earthy, artisanal, elegant and minimal

Turquoise has been adored for millennia — a stone believed to bridge sky and earth with calm, meaning, and beauty.

Why Turquoise Makes a Perfect December Gift

• A symbol of friendship: turquoise has long represented loyalty and connection.
• A protective talisman: traditionally worn for calm and safe travels.
• Winter-friendly color: soft blue-green brightens cozy, neutral wardrobes.
• Timeless style: pairs beautifully with dainty, gold-filled jewelry.

A turquoise necklace or bracelet from Lolabean’s Turquoise Collection offers both beauty and meaning — a heartfelt gift for December birthdays or holiday surprises.

How to Style Turquoise Jewelry (Dainty & Layered)

Turquoise pairs effortlessly with gold-filled jewelry, creating a warm contrast that feels modern and elevated.

Layered Necklaces

• Pair a turquoise pendant with a shorter gold-filled chain or choker.
• Add a longer chain for extra depth and movement.
• Mix turquoise with simple gold pieces for balance.

Stacked Bracelets

• Combine a turquoise bead bracelet with thin gold bangles.
• Mix multiple textures: smooth metal + natural gemstone.
• Add other birthstones for a personal palette.

Everyday Earrings

• Turquoise studs: a subtle pop of color.
• Turquoise drops: bright and eye-catching against winter knits.

Gemstone Layering

Turquoise looks stunning with opal, moonstone, citrine, and blue topaz — a soft, glowing winter color story.

Turquoise vs. Blue Topaz — Which December Birthstone Fits Your Style?

December is one of the few months with more than one official birthstone. Here’s a shopper-friendly comparison:

Our take: Choose turquoise if you love natural character and symbolism with a soft, serene pop of color. Pick blue topaz if you prefer high sparkle and a modern, dress-up-or-down shine.

How to Care for Turquoise Jewelry

Turquoise is naturally porous, so gentle care keeps it vibrant.

For gold-filled turquoise pieces, a soft jewelry cloth keeps the metal glowing.

Meaning & Symbolism of Turquoise

Protection & Strength

Across cultures, turquoise has been seen as a guardian stone and protective talisman — a source of grounding and emotional balance.

Calm, Peace & Communication

Often linked to the throat chakra, it’s associated with honest expression and emotional clarity.

Friendship & Loyalty

Historically, turquoise was gifted between friends as a symbol of trust and long-lasting connection.

History & Origins

Ancient Egypt

Mined in the Sinai Desert as early as 6000 BCE, turquoise appeared in royal jewelry, ceremonial items, and famously inlaid in King Tutankhamun’s burial mask.

Persia (Modern Iran)

Prized for its vivid, even sky-blue tone; used to adorn palaces, domes, and armor as a symbol of protection.

Native American Traditions

Across the American Southwest, turquoise is viewed as a piece of sky fallen to earth — symbolizing harmony, health, and connection to nature.

Where Turquoise Comes From

• United States (Arizona & Nevada): Sleeping Beauty (pure sky-blue, minimal matrix); Kingman (bright blue with gentle veining); Nevada mines (deep blues with striking spiderweb matrix).
• Iran (Persian Turquoise): valued for rich, even color with little to no veining.
• China & Mexico: large deposits offering a wide range of blue-green shades and natural patterns.

Gift Ideas from Lolabean

• Turquoise December Birthstone Necklace: a delicate pop of color for everyday.
• Turquoise Bead Bracelet: perfect for layering with gold.
• Minimalist Turquoise Studs: soft, timeless, easy to wear.
• Layering Set: a curated turquoise stack for December gifting.

Shop Lolabean’s Turquoise Collection →

FAQ

What is the December birthstone?

Turquoise is the traditional December birthstone, with blue topaz and tanzanite recognized as modern additions.

Is turquoise good for everyday wear?

Yes — especially in necklaces and earrings — just treat it gently due to its softness (Mohs 5–6).

Can turquoise get wet?

It’s best to avoid prolonged water exposure and harsh chemicals to preserve its beauty.

Does turquoise change color over time?

Some natural turquoise may deepen slightly with skin oils — many consider this part of its charm.

Does turquoise layer well with other gemstones?

Absolutely — especially opal, moonstone, citrine, and blue topaz.

Final Thoughts

Turquoise is more than a beautiful gemstone — it’s a symbol of protection, calm, friendship, and heartfelt meaning. Whether you’re celebrating a December birthday or finding a gift with emotional depth, turquoise has a timeless charm that never fades.

Explore the Lolabean Turquoise Collection to discover handcrafted pieces inspired by the peaceful beauty of December’s birthstone.

Disclaimer: Gemstone meanings are for inspiration only and are not medical claims or a substitute for professional advice.