The month of December is associated with a unique trio of gemstones: tanzanite, turquoise, and zircon. Among these, a distinct, deep blue variety—often referred to as "London Blue"—has emerged as a prominent feature in contemporary jewelry design, particularly within the collections of the Kendra Scott brand. While traditional gemology recognizes the aforementioned minerals, the jewelry market frequently employs "London Blue" as a descriptor for a specific, richly saturated blue stone used in fashion-forward pieces. This article explores the significance of this December birthstone-inspired jewelry, focusing on the design philosophy, material choices, and stylistic interpretations found within Kendra Scott's offerings. It will examine the historical context of December's birthstones, analyze the gemological properties of the materials used, and detail the specific pieces that feature this signature blue hue. The discussion is grounded in the available product information and design guides, providing a comprehensive look at how modern jewelry brands reinterpret birthstone traditions for a contemporary audience.
The Tradition of December Birthstones
The concept of birthstones has evolved over centuries, with roots in ancient civilizations that attributed mystical and healing properties to specific gems. The modern list of birthstones, largely standardized in the early 20th century by jewelers and trade associations, designates December as the month for tanzanite, turquoise, and zircon. These stones were chosen for their distinct colors and historical significance, offering a range of blue and green hues that evoke winter skies and landscapes.
Tanzanite, a relatively recent addition to the gemstone world, was discovered in the Merelani Hills of Tanzania in 1967. It is a variety of the mineral zoisite and is prized for its vivid violet-blue to blue-violet color, which is often the result of heat treatment. Turquoise, one of the oldest known gemstones, has been used for millennia by cultures across the globe, from ancient Egypt to the Native American tribes of the American Southwest. Its characteristic blue-to-green color comes from copper and aluminum minerals. Zircon, a naturally occurring gemstone, is not to be confused with the synthetic cubic zirconia. It occurs in a variety of colors, with the blue variety being particularly sought after for its brilliance and fire.
In the context of Kendra Scott's collection, the December birthstone is interpreted through a specific lens. The brand's "London Blue" stone is a key feature, described as a bold, deep blue that captures the moody and sophisticated atmosphere of the winter months. This aligns with the traditional blue palette of December stones but offers a distinct, fashion-forward interpretation. The available sources indicate that Kendra Scott's December birthstone jewelry is designed to be "inspiring," "bold," and "moody," moving beyond a literal representation of a single mineral to embrace a broader aesthetic concept of winter luxury.
Kendra Scott's Design Philosophy and Material Choices
Kendra Scott, the founder of her eponymous brand, established a design ethos centered on color, personalization, and accessible luxury. The brand's jewelry is known for its use of vibrant stones, often semi-precious or simulated, set in plated metals like gold, rose gold, and silver. The December birthstone collection is no exception, focusing on a specific blue hue that is both versatile and striking.
The primary material used for the December birthstone is a "London Blue Clear Glass" or a similar synthetic stone. This is evident from the product listings, which specify "December: Gold/Rhodium London Blue Clear Glass" for the Elisa Necklace, Ellie Earrings, and Elaina Bracelet. The use of clear glass or crystal allows for a consistent, deep blue color that is difficult to achieve in natural stones without significant inclusions or color variations. This choice aligns with the brand's focus on design and color consistency over natural gemological rarity.
The metal settings are typically plated over brass. The sources mention "14k Gold Plated Over Brass" and "Silver Plated over Brass." This provides a luxurious appearance at a more accessible price point compared to solid gold or platinum. The plating ensures a bright, lustrous finish that complements the cool tones of the blue stone. The lobster clasp with adjustable closure is a standard feature, ensuring a secure and comfortable fit for various necklines and wrist sizes.
Beyond the signature blue, the December birthstone collection also includes pieces featuring other stones that evoke a winter or December aesthetic. For example, the Elisa Pendant Necklace is available in "Light Green Mother Of Pearl," which offers a soft, luminous hue reminiscent of winter light. The Mini Elisa Satellite Short Pendant Necklace features an "Emerald Cats Eye," providing a rich green color that aligns with the "lush palette" suggested for December styling. These alternatives demonstrate the brand's flexibility in interpreting the December birthstone theme, moving beyond a single color to explore a range of winter-appropriate tones.
Gemological Properties and Material Analysis
While the Kendra Scott pieces are primarily fashion jewelry, understanding the materials used provides insight into their durability, appearance, and care requirements. The following table summarizes the key properties of the materials mentioned in the sources, based on general gemological knowledge and the specific descriptions provided.
| Material | Type | Typical Color | Hardness (Mohs) | Chemical Composition | Key Characteristics |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| London Blue Clear Glass | Synthetic/Man-Made | Deep, saturated blue | ~5.5 | SiO₂ (Silicon Dioxide) with metal oxides for color | Consistent color, may show bubbles or flow lines under magnification. Not a natural gemstone. |
| Opalite | Man-Made Glass | Iridescent, milky white/blue | ~5.5 | SiO₂ (Silicon Dioxide) | Often used as a pearl or opal simulant. Appears milky in ambient light and blue in reflected light. |
| Mother of Pearl | Organic | White, cream, or pastel hues | 2.5 - 4.5 | CaCO₃ (Calcium Carbonate) | Lustrous, iridescent. Soft and prone to scratching; requires gentle care. |
| Cats Eye | Chrysoberyl (Natural) | Green, yellow, or brown | 8.5 | BeAl₂O₄ | Exhibits a sharp, moving band of light (chatoyancy). Durable and suitable for daily wear. |
| Brass | Metal Alloy | Yellow/gold | Varies | Copper and Zinc | Base metal for plating. Can tarnish if not cared for properly. |
| 14k Gold Plating | Metal Layer | Yellow gold | N/A | Gold alloy over brass | Provides a gold appearance. Thickness affects durability; can wear over time. |
| Rhodium Plating | Metal Layer | Bright silver/white | N/A | Rhodium over brass | Prevents tarnish and adds a bright, reflective finish to silver-colored pieces. |
London Blue Clear Glass: This is the cornerstone of Kendra Scott's December collection. As a man-made material, it offers exceptional color uniformity and clarity. Its hardness is relatively low (around 5.5 on the Mohs scale), making it susceptible to scratches and abrasions. However, in jewelry settings where the stone is protected by a bezel or prong setting, this is less of a concern for everyday wear. The chemical composition is primarily silica (SiO₂), with metal oxides added to achieve the deep blue color. It is important to note that this material is not a natural gemstone like tanzanite or zircon; it is a simulated stone chosen for its aesthetic qualities.
Opalite: Featured in the Elisa Birthstone Necklace, opalite is a man-made glass that simulates the appearance of opal or pearl. It is known for its milky, iridescent quality, which can shift between white and blue depending on the light. Like glass, it has a moderate hardness and requires careful handling to avoid chipping or cracking.
Mother of Pearl: Used in the Light Green Mother of Pearl Elisa Pendant, this is an organic material derived from the inner lining of mollusk shells. It is relatively soft (2.5-4.5 on the Mohs scale) and has poor toughness, meaning it can crack or break under impact. Its beauty lies in its natural luster and iridescence, which adds a soft, organic touch to jewelry.
Cats Eye (Chrysoberyl): The Emerald Cats Eye in the Mini Elisa Necklace is a natural gemstone, specifically a variety of chrysoberyl. It is prized for its exceptional hardness (8.5 on the Mohs scale) and its distinctive chatoyancy—a narrow band of light that moves across the stone's surface. This makes it a durable and visually interesting choice for jewelry, suitable for daily wear.
Historical and Cultural Significance of the December Stones
The traditional December birthstones—tanzanite, turquoise, and zircon—each carry deep historical and cultural significance. While the Kendra Scott collection does not directly use these natural stones, the brand's aesthetic choices are influenced by the colors and lore associated with them.
Turquoise has been a sacred stone in many cultures. In ancient Egypt, it was used in jewelry and amulets, often placed on the burial masks of pharaohs. For the Native American peoples of the Southwest, turquoise is a symbol of sky, water, and spiritual protection. It is believed to bring peace, health, and good fortune. The light green and blue hues of turquoise are emblematic of the natural landscapes of the desert and sky.
Tanzanite is a modern gemstone with a short but dramatic history. Discovered just over 50 years ago, it quickly gained popularity for its unique color, which is said to be found in only one location in the world. Its violet-blue hue is often associated with intuition, clarity, and spiritual transformation. The stone's rarity and beauty have made it a symbol of exclusivity and sophistication.
Zircon is one of the oldest minerals on Earth, with some specimens dating back over 4 billion years. The blue variety of zircon is particularly valued for its brilliance and fire, which can rival that of a diamond. Historically, zircon was believed to promote sleep, ward off evil, and bring prosperity. Its durability and sparkle make it a practical and beautiful choice for jewelry.
The Kendra Scott "London Blue" stone, while not a natural gemstone, taps into the same cultural currents. The deep, moody blue is reminiscent of a winter night sky or a deep ocean, evoking feelings of calm, mystery, and introspection. The brand's marketing emphasizes the stone's ability to complement winter wardrobes and holiday celebrations, aligning it with the festive and reflective atmosphere of December. By using a consistent, bold blue, Kendra Scott creates a modern heirloom that captures the essence of the season's traditional stones while offering a fresh, accessible interpretation.
Design and Styling: The Kendra Scott December Collection
The Kendra Scott December birthstone collection is designed with layering and versatility in mind. The pieces are meant to be mixed and matched, allowing the wearer to create a personalized look that suits their style and the occasion.
The Elisa Necklace is the flagship piece. Available in several styles, it features a prominent central stone set in a simple, elegant pendant. The December version typically uses the London Blue Clear Glass, set in either gold or rhodium-plated brass. The adjustable lobster clasp allows for a customizable fit, making it suitable for various necklines. The Elisa's classic silhouette ensures it remains a staple, while the vibrant blue stone adds a pop of color that can brighten up a winter outfit or complement holiday attire.
The Ellie Earrings and Elaina Bracelet complete the set, offering matching or complementary pieces. The Ellie Earrings are likely studs or small drops featuring the same London Blue stone, providing a coordinated look. The Elaina Bracelet is a delicate link chain with a sliding clasp, allowing for easy adjustment and a comfortable fit. Its subtle sparkle makes it ideal for everyday wear, while the blue stone adds a touch of elegance.
For those who prefer a different hue, the collection offers alternatives. The Light Green Mother of Pearl Elisa Pendant provides a softer, more organic look. The Emerald Cats Eye Mini Elisa Necklace offers a rich green color and the unique chatoyancy of a natural gemstone, adding texture and depth to a layered jewelry stack.
The brand's buying guide suggests pairing gold-plated pieces with warm skin tones and rhodium-plated pieces with cool skin tones for a flattering effect. It also recommends mixing pendant necklaces with daintier pieces like the Mini Elisa or Elaina Bracelet for a layered, contemporary look. This approach encourages personalization and allows the December birthstone jewelry to be integrated into a wider wardrobe.
Care and Maintenance
Proper care is essential to maintain the beauty and longevity of any jewelry, especially pieces with plated metals and softer stones. The following guidelines are based on the material properties outlined earlier.
For London Blue Clear Glass and Opalite: * Cleaning: Use a soft, lint-free cloth to gently wipe the stone after each wear. Avoid harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, and steam, which can damage the glass or loosen the setting. * Storage: Store separately in a soft pouch or lined jewelry box to prevent scratches from other harder items. * Durability: While glass is relatively hard, it can chip or crack if struck against a hard surface. Remove jewelry before engaging in physical activities or household chores.
For Mother of Pearl: * Cleaning: Wipe with a soft, damp cloth. Avoid any chemicals, including perfume, hairspray, and cosmetics, which can damage the organic surface. Never use an ultrasonic cleaner. * Storage: Keep in a soft, dry place. Mother of Pearl is sensitive to extreme temperatures and humidity, which can cause cracking or discoloration. * Durability: Due to its softness, it is prone to scratching and should be worn with care, avoiding contact with harder objects.
For Cats Eye (Chrysoberyl): * Cleaning: Safe to clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid harsh chemicals and extreme temperature changes. * Storage: Can be stored with other jewelry but is best kept separate to prevent scratching other softer stones. * Durability: With a hardness of 8.5, it is highly durable and suitable for daily wear. It is resistant to chipping and breaking under normal conditions.
For Plated Metals (Gold, Rhodium): * Cleaning: Wipe with a soft, dry cloth after wear to remove oils and perspiration. Avoid abrasive cleaners or polishing cloths that can strip the plating. * Storage: Store in a low-humidity environment to slow the tarnishing of the base brass metal. Using anti-tarnish strips in your jewelry box can help. * Longevity: The plating will eventually wear with time and exposure. To prolong its life, remove jewelry before swimming, showering, or applying lotions and perfumes.
Conclusion
The Kendra Scott December birthstone collection represents a modern interpretation of a centuries-old tradition. While it does not feature the traditional natural gemstones of tanzanite, turquoise, or zircon, it captures the essence of December through a carefully curated palette of blues and greens. The brand's use of "London Blue Clear Glass" provides a consistent, bold, and fashion-forward color that aligns with contemporary jewelry trends. By offering pieces in plated metals and a variety of stone options—from man-made glass to organic mother of pearl and natural cats eye—Kendra Scott creates accessible, versatile jewelry that appeals to a wide audience.
The collection emphasizes design, personalization, and styling versatility, encouraging wearers to layer pieces and express their individuality. Understanding the materials and their properties allows for informed choices and proper care, ensuring that these pieces remain beautiful for years to come. Ultimately, the December birthstone jewelry from Kendra Scott is less about a specific mineralogical identity and more about capturing a mood—a deep, moody blue that evokes the quiet beauty of winter and the celebratory spirit of the holiday season. It is a testament to how modern jewelry brands can reinterpret historical traditions to create meaningful and stylish accessories for today's consumer.