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