Editors

December Birthstone Baubles

EditorsDec 01, 2016

December Birthstone Baubles

As 2016 enters its final month, Senior Editor Brecken Branstrator spotlights the December gems: tanzanite, turquoise and zircon.

20161201_Oscar-Heyman.jpg

It feels like just yesterday I was writing my last December birthstone blog, celebrating the three stones of the month. And yet here we are again, coming to the end of the year and rounding up jewels set with tanzanite, turquoise and zircon.

These three bring a range of beautiful blue hues to the first real wintry month, with zircon available in some warmer tones as well.

Tanzanite’s been popping into the spotlight more as of late and is now the subject of its own book. It can range from blue to purple, but those with the slightly violet-blue hue and vivid saturation are generally considered the most valuable. The beautiful stone also is believe to bring balance to one’s life.

Meanwhile, turquoise, which is generally more plentiful and available in all shapes and sizes, is believed to bring serenity, peace and inner calm, while zircon can help harmonize a person’s goals and dreams with real life.

As the hectic holiday season gets into gear, I think we could all do with a dose of the benefits from all three.



These earrings from Shahla Karimi feature trillion tanzanite stones set in 14-karat gold and are sold as singles ($495 for one, $990 for a set).



This ring from Kaali Designs’ Maya collection features a 1.44-carat marquise tanzanite accented with diamonds and set in 14-karat white gold ($2,800)



A “Legends Cobra” ring from John Hardy with tanzanite at center, accented with blue sapphires and diamonds and set in sterling silver ($3,900)



A tanzanite (5.95 carats), diamond and platinum ring from Oscar Heyman ($46,000)



Sydney Evan’s 14-karat yellow gold, diamond and turquoise paisley necklace ($1,430)


Smith + Mara’s 14-karat yellow gold open turquoise cuff ($1,450)



The “Cleo” bangle from Marli features turquoise and diamonds made in 18-karat rose gold ($7,700)



Buddha Mama’s 20-karat gold hand-carved Nefertiti pendant features Sleeping Beauty turquoise and diamond accents ($33,200).



Giacomelli Jewelry’s “Corner Stack” necklace with blue zircons and a princess-cut diamond made in 14-karat yellow gold ($1,400)



The “Blockette” zircon and diamond ring in 18-karat gold from Jennifer Dawes Design ($1,950)



Lali Jewels’ 14-karat white gold, sapphire and blue zircon pendant ($8,480)



Paolo Costagli’s bespoke ring features a 21.35-carat cushion-shaped zircon with 0.82 carats of yellow diamonds and 18-karat yellow gold ($19,000).

Brecken Branstratoris the senior editor, gemstones at National Jeweler, covering sourcing, pricing and other developments in the colored stone sector.

The Latest

Mug shots of murder suspects Michael McCormack and Charles Robinson Shay
CrimeMay 03, 2024
Second Suspect Arrested in Murder of Colorado Jeweler

Wheat Ridge, Colorado police took a 50-year-old man into custody Wednesday following a two-month search.

Five Platinum Pieces
CollectionsMay 03, 2024
A Sneak Peek Into PGI’s Couture Platinum Spotlight Program

PGI partnered with four new and seven returning designers for its annual platinum capsule collection.

Kristie Nicolosi
MajorsMay 03, 2024
Kristie Nicolosi Joins WJA Board Again

Nicolosi, president and CEO of The Kingswood Company, previously sat on WJA’s board from 2011 to 2018.

Header image w logo.jpg
Brought to you by
From Registration to Return: 10 Tips to Protect You Before, During and After a Tradeshow

Tradeshow risks are real. Get tips to protect yourself before, during and after and gain safety and security awareness for your business.

Karina Brez Bit of LUV Bracelet
CollectionsMay 03, 2024
Piece of the Week: A “Bit of LUV” for the Derby

Karina Brez’s race-ready piece is a sophisticated nod to the horse-rider relationship.

Weekly QuizMay 02, 2024
This Week’s Quiz
Test your jewelry news knowledge by answering these seven questions.
Take the Quiz
Stock image of handcuffs and gavel
CrimeMay 02, 2024
4 Indicted in Burglary Ring Targeting Indian, South Asian Families

The men are allegedly responsible for stealing millions in jewelry and other valuables in 43 burglaries in 25 towns across Massachusetts.

Horizon Campaign Collage
CollectionsMay 02, 2024
Foundrae Launches ‘Horizon’ Collection

“Horizon” invites individuals to explore the limitless possibilities that lie ahead, said the brand.

national-jeweler-top-image-v1.jpg
Brought to you by
Rio’s Reimagined Podcast: For the Love of Jewelers

Meet Ben Claus—grand prize winner of For the Love of Jewelers 2023 Fall Design Challenge.

Pandora jewelry
FinancialsMay 02, 2024
Pandora Raises Guidance After Strong Q1

The jeweler credits its recent “Be Love” campaign and ongoing brand revamp for its 17 percent jump in sales.

Glenn Lewis
IndependentsMay 02, 2024
Oklahoma Jeweler Glenn Lewis Dies at 68

The co-founder of Lewis Jewelers was also the longtime mayor of the city of Moore.

The back of the Baume & Mercier watch Elvis gave to Dodie Marshall
AuctionsMay 02, 2024
Vintage Baume & Mercier With Ties to Elvis Sells for $7K

Elvis Presley gifted this circa 1967 gold and diamond watch to Dodie Marshall, his co-star in “Easy Come, Easy Go.”

Harwell Godfrey
IndependentsMay 01, 2024
Harwell Godfrey Opens First Store

It is located in Marin County, California.

Woman holding a dress
SurveysMay 01, 2024
Consumer Confidence Falls in April

Concerns about rising prices, politics, and global conflicts continue to dampen consumer outlook.

Syna emerald earrings
TrendsMay 01, 2024
Amanda’s Style File: All Eyes on Emeralds

May’s birthstone is beloved for its rich green hue and its versatility.

Jacqui Larsson Looking at a Diamond
SourcingMay 01, 2024
Opsydia Names New Sales and Marketing Director

Jacqui Larsson joins Opsydia with nearly two decades of experience in the industry.

Stock image crime handcuffs
CrimeMay 01, 2024
Grand Jury to Hear Case Against Jeweler Charged in Fatal Shove Following IJO Show

Last month in Dallas, David Walton pushed another jeweler, David Ettinger, who later died.

Tiffany Blue Book 2024: Tiffany Céleste Wings Pendant
CollectionsApr 30, 2024
12 Otherworldly Pieces From Tiffany & Co.’s 2024 Blue Book

The “Tiffany Céleste” collection reimagines designer Jean Schlumberger’s interpretations of the universe.

Zales 100th Anniversary Marketing Campaign
MajorsApr 30, 2024
Zales Celebrates 100 Years With New Campaign

The brand also created a 100-carat lab-grown diamond necklace in honor of its centennial.

Tim Schlick
MajorsApr 30, 2024
Platinum Guild International Appoints New CEO

Tim Schlick has been promoted from his previous position as COO.

Canadian Jewellers Association logo
Events & AwardsApr 30, 2024
Canadian Jewellers Association Brings Back the Summit

It’s the second year for the event, slated to take place in October in Toronto.

Supplier Spotlight -GIA -Recorded-Webinar.png
Recorded WebinarsApr 29, 2024
Watch: Diamond Identification and Evaluation - How to Protect your Business

Supplier Spotlight Sponsored by GIA

De Beers polished in tweezers
SourcingApr 29, 2024
De Beers to Move Auction HQ from Singapore to Botswana

Sales will be paused while the relocation takes place over the next few months.

Simone I. Smith SIS x MISA Denim and Diamonds
CollectionsApr 29, 2024
Simone I. Smith Mixes Denim and Diamonds in New Collection

“SIS x MISA Denim and Diamonds” is a collaboration between the designer and celebrity stylist Misa Hylton.

Venus Jewelers Logo
IndependentsApr 29, 2024
Venus Jewelers Relocating After 45 Years

The retailer is moving to a newly designed space in the same shopping center.

Established Mom tattoo pendant
SurveysApr 29, 2024
Mother’s Day Jewelry Spending to Reach $7B, Says NRF

Gifts that are unique and thoughtful are top of mind this year, according to the annual survey.

Jacquie Aiche’s Starry Galaxy Inlay Necklace
CollectionsApr 26, 2024
Piece of the Week: Jacquie Aiche’s Starry Galaxy Necklace

The necklace is featured in the brand’s “Rebel Heart” campaign starring Adam Levine and Behati Prinsloo.

Gemological Institute of America headquarters
Events & AwardsApr 26, 2024
AGS Conclave and GIA Symposium Are Converging

The two organizations will host a joint event, “Converge,” in September 2025.

×

This site uses cookies to give you the best online experience. By continuing to use & browse this site, we assume you agree to our Privacy Policy