Birthstone for December
Depending on the source referenced Ruby or Turquoise is December's Birthstone.
Those born in December have a choice between the precious gemstone Ruby or the semi-precious gemstone Turquoise.
Depending on which gemstone resource is referenced you can be all over the map as to which gemstone is the true gemstone for December.
I've always considered Ruby the 'official' gemstone for the month of December. However, reference books that I have scanned recently also suggest Turquoise.
The big different between the two gemstones besides color is the cost. Ruby is one of the three precious gemstones. Turquoise, while also a beautiful gemstone, is considered to be semi-precious. Going beyond these two facts, Ruby is usually set in gold and Turquoise is usually set in sterling silver.
Which you pick is really up to personal preference. To follow is a brief overview of both the gemstones.
Turquoise is a light blue or blue green stone. The finest and most expensive stones are flawless and sky blue.
This gentle soothing stone is a Native American favorite. The Native Americans believe it prevents illness and if given as a gift it brings wealth and happiness.
On the Mohs' Scale of Hardness turquoise is a 6 (diamond is 10). Most gemstones used in jewelry range from 6 to 8. Turquoise rings are quite popular. I would suggest making sure the sterling silver setting for the ring also serves the purpose of protecting the gemstone.
For example, make sure the prongs or bezel holding the turquoise in place extends slightly over the stone so that if you bang your hand against a hard object the setting makes contact rather than the turquoise.
Ruby is a brilliant deep red precious gemstone and can have undertones ranging from orange to pink to purple. Fine quality rubies are more expensive than similar sized diamonds while emeralds are considered more precious than both.
Some important facts to consider when buying ruby jewelry:
- To cut costs consider ruby beaded jewelry. I have some brilliant faceted ruby beads that were quite inexpensive yet are simply beautiful. Always examine gemstone beads in natural light - go to a window or door in the shop - to see how luminous the beads appear. The image on this page shows a fine example of ruby faceted beads.
- Consider purchasing lab-grown rubies. As the name implies these gemstones are products of man, not nature, however they must have the same basic chemical composition and similar physical properties as the natural counterpart. Lab grown is also referred to as 'synthetic' in the jewelry trade.
- Check the ruby for blemishes and inclusions. These two types of flaws are important in evaluating the attractiveness and durability of the gemstone.
- Assume the ruby has been heated treated unless the lab document states otherwise.
Note: I am not a gemologist. This list is not all inclusive and merely represents tips that I follow when purchasing rubies. Always buy precious gemstones from a trusted source.
