December's birthstone is turquoise — one of the oldest gemstones in human use, and one of the few whose name in English comes from a trade route rather than a property: turquoise means Turkish, because that's how it reached Europe. It has been protective jewellery in Persia, Egypt and the American Southwest independently.
Why turquoise suits December
Every one of those traditions arrived at the same association: protection, especially on journeys. For the darkest month, and for the sign that can't stay still, it's the appropriate stone — the one you give someone who's going somewhere.
What to look for when buying
Turquoise is porous and soft, which means two things: much of what's sold is stabilised with resin (normal and fine, if disclosed), and it should be kept away from water, oils and perfume. Wipe it with a dry cloth. Colour ranges from sky blue to green — the matrix veining is character, not damage.
The full guide to Turquoise covers its chakra, care and everyday uses. Born this month, you'll also fall under Sagittarius and Capricorn — each has its own stones.
Turquoise in the shop
Every month's birthstone
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