The quest for the perfect piece of jewelry often begins with a personal connection, and for many, birthstone rings represent a deeply meaningful choice. These rings are not merely decorative; they carry the weight of tradition, personal identity, and often, a significant financial investment. For the month of December, three distinct gemstones—turquoise, tanzanite, and zircon—share the honor of being the traditional birthstones. This article delves into the world of December birthstone rings, exploring the unique characteristics of each gem and providing a framework for understanding their market value, as reflected in contemporary retail sources.
Understanding the value of a birthstone ring requires more than a simple price tag. It involves an appreciation for the gem's geological origins, its gemological properties, and the craftsmanship of the setting. While the provided sources are primarily retail-focused, they offer a valuable snapshot of the current market for these stones. This article will synthesize this information, contextualizing it with established gemological knowledge to guide enthusiasts, buyers, and students in their appreciation and acquisition of December's vibrant birthstones.
December's Trio: Turquoise, Tanzanite, and Zircon
The designation of three birthstones for December offers a spectrum of color and character. Each stone possesses a unique history and set of properties that influence its desirability and price.
Turquoise is one of the oldest known gemstones, prized for its opaque, sky-blue to greenish-blue hue. Its color is due to the presence of copper, and its distinctive matrix—the web-like veins of host rock—can add to its character and value. As an opaque stone, turquoise is often cut as a cabochon (a smooth, rounded dome) to best display its color and matrix. Its value is influenced by color uniformity, matrix pattern, and origin, with certain mines, such as those in the Persian (now Iranian) region, historically producing some of the finest material.
Tanzanite is a relatively modern discovery, found only in a single location in Tanzania. This variety of the mineral zoisite exhibits a striking trichroic property, displaying different colors—typically blue, violet, and burgundy—when viewed from different angles. Its vivid blue-violet hue is its most sought-after characteristic. Most tanzanite on the market is heat-treated to achieve its stable blue color, a standard practice accepted by the gemological community. The stone's rarity, due to its limited geographic source, is a significant factor in its market value.
Zircon is the oldest mineral on Earth, with crystals dating back billions of years. It should not be confused with the synthetic cubic zirconia. Natural zircon is known for its high refractive index and strong dispersion, giving it a brilliant sparkle that rivals diamond. While it occurs in a variety of colors, the blue variety is most associated with December. Blue zircon often achieves its color through heat treatment of brownish or yellowish crystals. Its hardness (6.5 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale) makes it suitable for jewelry, though it can be brittle.
Market Value and Retail Pricing for Birthstone Rings
The provided sources from the retail website birthstone.com and the mass-market retailer Target.com offer a practical lens through which to view the current pricing of birthstone rings. It is critical to note that these sources reflect commercial retail prices, which include manufacturing, design, and brand overhead, and are not indicative of loose gemstone wholesale or investment values.
Source [1], from birthstone.com, presents December’s birthstones—turquoise, tanzanite, and zircon—as "shining brightly with their vibrant colors." While the source does not list specific prices for rings, it positions these gems as desirable and central to its product line, emphasizing their visual appeal. The mention of "FREE SHIPPING ON ALL DOMESTIC ORDERS" is a common e-commerce strategy to enhance perceived value and reduce friction for online purchasers.
Source [2], from Target.com, provides more concrete pricing data, though it is presented within a dynamic, sponsored retail environment. A search for "birthstone rings" on Target's site yields a range of products, with prices varying significantly based on materials and brand. For example, the source references a price point of $52.99 for a specific birthstone ring, likely a fashion-oriented piece with a smaller gemstone set in sterling silver or a similar base metal. This price reflects the mass-market segment, where affordability and trendiness are key drivers.
The price disparity between a specialized retailer like birthstone.com and a mass merchant like Target is expected. At a dedicated birthstone retailer, customers might expect to find rings with higher-quality gemstones, more substantial precious metal settings (e.g., 14k gold), and greater craftsmanship, which would command higher prices. Conversely, Target's offerings are likely geared toward accessible, everyday jewelry, often using semi-precious stones or synthetic alternatives in plated settings.
To understand the factors that drive these price differences, we can look at the gemological properties that influence value:
| Gemstone | Key Color | Typical Cut | Hardness (Mohs) | Key Value Factors (Inferred from Market Context) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Turquoise | Sky-blue to greenish-blue | Cabochon | 5-6 | Color uniformity, matrix pattern, origin (e.g., Persian vs. American), treatment (stabilization). |
| Tanzanite | Blue-violet | Faceted | 6.5-7 | Color saturation (vivid blue), clarity, size, and its single-origin rarity. |
| Zircon | Blue (often heat-treated) | Faceted | 6.5-7.5 | Brilliance (due to high refractive index), color intensity, clarity, and size. |
For a buyer, the price of a birthstone ring is a function of several variables: the carat weight of the gemstone, the cut and quality of the stone, the type and weight of the metal (e.g., sterling silver, 14k gold, platinum), the brand and design complexity. A simple sterling silver ring with a small, commercial-grade turquoise cabochon will be priced similarly to the $52.99 example from Target. In contrast, a custom-designed ring featuring a large, clean, vividly blue tanzanite set in 18k gold would be in a significantly higher price bracket, potentially hundreds or thousands of dollars, though such specific pricing is not detailed in the provided sources.
Evaluating Source Reliability and Making Informed Choices
The provided sources, while useful for understanding retail market trends, must be evaluated for their limitations. birthstone.com is a specialized retailer, and its content is designed to market its products, emphasizing beauty and tradition. Target.com is a broad-based retailer, and its pricing reflects a high-volume, low-margin business model.
Neither source provides detailed gemological reports, independent quality assessments, or historical pricing data. For a serious purchase, especially for higher-value stones like tanzanite or fine zircon, it is advisable to seek additional information. Reputable sources for such information include: * Gemological Institute of America (GIA) reports, which provide an unbiased assessment of a gemstone's characteristics (color, clarity, cut, carat, and any treatments). * Independent appraisals from certified gemologists for insurance and resale purposes. * Peer-reviewed geological publications and established trade magazines that discuss mining locations and market trends.
When purchasing a birthstone ring, consumers should inquire about: 1. Gemstone Treatments: It is standard and accepted for tanzanite and blue zircon to be heat-treated. However, any treatment should be disclosed. Turquoise is often stabilized with a resin to improve durability and color, which should also be disclosed. 2. Metal Purity: Look for hallmarks indicating the metal's purity (e.g., 925 for sterling silver, 585 for 14k gold). 3. Return Policies and Certificates: A reputable seller will offer a clear return policy and, for higher-value items, a certificate of authenticity or a gemological report.
Care and Maintenance of December Birthstones
The durability of a birthstone ring dictates its care. Based on their established gemological properties, here are guidelines for maintaining December's gems:
- Turquoise: With a hardness of only 5-6 on the Mohs scale, turquoise is relatively soft and prone to scratching. It is also sensitive to chemicals, perfumes, and cosmetics, which can damage its surface and cause discoloration. Clean turquoise jewelry with a soft, damp cloth and mild soap. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners and steamers.
- Tanzanite: With a hardness of 6.5-7, tanzanite is more durable than turquoise but still requires care. It has perfect cleavage in one direction, making it susceptible to breaking if struck with force. Avoid wearing it during vigorous activities. Clean with warm water, a soft brush, and mild detergent. Avoid sudden temperature changes and harsh chemicals.
- Zircon: Although zircon has a higher hardness (6.5-7.5), it can be brittle due to its crystal structure. It is sensitive to heat, so avoid prolonged exposure to high temperatures. Clean with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners, as the vibrations can cause existing fractures to worsen.
Proper storage is also important. Store birthstone rings separately in a soft cloth pouch or lined jewelry box to prevent scratching from other pieces.
Conclusion
December offers a rich palette of birthstones—turquoise, tanzanite, and zircon—each with its own story and appeal. The retail market, as seen through sources like birthstone.com and Target.com, reflects a wide range of options for consumers, from affordable fashion jewelry to more substantial investment pieces. The price of a birthstone ring is a direct reflection of its components: the quality and size of the gem, the preciousness of the metal, and the artistry of the design.
For the enthusiast and buyer, knowledge is the key to value. Understanding the unique properties and care requirements of each December stone ensures that a birthstone ring remains a cherished item for years to come. While retail sources provide a starting point for price awareness, the most informed decisions are made by combining this market knowledge with an appreciation for the gemological science and historical significance that make these stones so special.