December birthstone: turquoise and blue topaz meaning and symbolism
Born in December? You get three birthstones to choose from: turquoise, tanzanite, and blue topaz.
At Haloom Handmade, we focus on turquoise and blue topaz because they're meaningful, beautiful, and actually wearable in everyday life. Both carry deep symbolism around protection, communication, and inner peace.
Whether you're drawn to the earthy blue-green of turquoise or the clear sky-blue of topaz, both stones offer something real — not just beauty, but meaning you can carry with you.
What turquoise means
Turquoise symbolises protection, healing, and good fortune. It's one of the oldest gemstones in human history, worn by ancient Egyptians, Persians, Native Americans, and Tibetan monks.
Ancient Persians believed turquoise could protect against falls, especially from horses. Native American tribes considered it sacred, using it in ceremonies and believing it connected the earth and sky. Tibetan culture still values turquoise as a symbol of courage, wisdom, and immortality.
Today, turquoise is still valued for its protective energy and its ability to bring calm, balance, and honest communication.
What blue topaz means
Blue topaz symbolises clarity, calm, and honest communication. Its clear, bright blue colour has made it popular for jewellery, and it's more affordable than many other blue gemstones.
Ancient Greeks believed topaz could increase strength and make the wearer invisible in times of emergency. Romans associated it with Jupiter, the god of the sun, and believed it could improve eyesight.
Blue topaz is known for:
Encouraging clear, honest communication
Bringing calm and reducing stress
Supporting mental clarity and focus
Helping you speak your truth with confidence
Both turquoise and blue topaz are about communication and truth. The difference? Turquoise has ancient, sacred roots. Blue topaz is bright, modern, and incredibly durable.
Where these stones come from
Turquoise is found in dry, arid regions. The finest turquoise comes from Iran (Persian turquoise), but it's also mined in the southwestern United States, China, and Egypt. The blue-green colour comes from copper and aluminium.
The name "turquoise" comes from the French "pierre turquoise," meaning "Turkish stone," because it was first brought to Europe through Turkey.
Blue topaz is found in Brazil, Sri Lanka, Nigeria, and Pakistan. Most blue topaz on the market is treated — colourless topaz is irradiated and heated to create that vibrant blue. This is standard practice and doesn't make it fake.
The name "topaz" may come from the Sanskrit word "tapas," meaning fire, or from the Greek island Topazios.
Things you probably didn't know
About turquoise:
Turquoise is porous and can change colour over time from oils, lotions, and even your skin's natural chemistry.
King Tutankhamun's burial mask was inlaid with turquoise.
Some Native American tribes believed turquoise could help archers shoot more accurately.
Turquoise is often stabilised with resin to make it more durable — this is common and accepted in the gem trade.
About blue topaz:
Natural blue topaz is extremely rare. Almost all blue topaz jewellery is treated colourless topaz.
Topaz is one of the hardest gemstones, making it perfect for everyday wear.
Blue topaz comes in different shades: Sky Blue (pale), Swiss Blue (bright), and London Blue (deep, almost teal).
In the Middle Ages, people believed topaz could break magic spells and calm anger.
Both stones have serious history and have been trusted across cultures for protection, clarity, and truth.
Chakra connections
Turquoise is connected to the throat chakra and third eye chakra, supporting honest communication, self-expression, and spiritual awareness.
Blue topaz is also linked to the throat chakra, encouraging clear communication, speaking your truth, and expressing yourself with confidence.
Both stones work well if you're trying to communicate more honestly, trust your intuition, or find calm in the middle of chaos.
Why turquoise and blue topaz make thoughtful December gifts
If you're shopping for someone born in December, turquoise or blue topaz jewellery is a meaningful choice. Both stones carry symbolism around protection, communication, and peace — things that actually matter in real life.
They're also great for anyone who needs help speaking up, wants to feel more protected, or just needs a reminder to stay calm and grounded. Neither stone is loud or showy. They're quiet, supportive, and timeless.
At Haloom Handmade, our turquoise bracelet (10mm), Protection & Luck turquoise bracelet, faceted blue topaz December birthstone bracelet, and blue topaz bracelet with gold bar are all designed for real life. Simple, intentional, and made to be worn — not stored away.
Common questions about December birthstones
Why does December have three birthstones?
December originally had turquoise, but tanzanite and blue topaz were added later to give people more options. Turquoise and blue topaz are the most popular and accessible choices.
Can I wear turquoise and blue topaz together?
Absolutely. They complement each other beautifully — both in colour and meaning. Pairing them creates a balanced, calming look.
Is turquoise fragile?
Turquoise is softer than many gemstones and can be porous, so it needs a bit more care. Avoid harsh chemicals, lotions, and prolonged water exposure. Many turquoise stones are stabilised to make them more durable.
Is blue topaz natural?
Natural blue topaz is extremely rare. Almost all blue topaz is treated (irradiated and heated) colourless topaz. This is standard practice and doesn't make it fake — it's still real topaz.
Which chakra do turquoise and blue topaz connect to?
Both connect to the throat chakra, supporting honest communication and self-expression. Turquoise also connects to the third eye chakra for intuition and spiritual awareness.
What do turquoise and blue topaz symbolise?
Turquoise symbolises protection, healing, and good fortune. Blue topaz symbolises clarity, calm, and honest communication. Both are about truth, peace, and staying grounded.