There are three gems recognized as December birthstones, tanzanite, zircon, and turquoise and all three are renowned for their beautiful hues in varying shades of blue. The gems range from zircon which is the oldest on earth, to turquoise which is one of the first gems ever procured and used often in jewelry, to the more recently discovered tanzanite. While all three of these stones are fairly inexpensive, their beauty can rival even the most precious of diamonds. In fact zircon is often used to replicate priceless diamond jewelry, tanzanite is often used as a substitute for sapphire, and turquoise is unique with its varying tones of brilliant bluish greens.
Tanzanite VS Sapphire Stones
Tanzanite is found in only one part of world and is a variation on the name Tanzania, the country where it is mined. Tanzanite is the beautiful blue stone produced by the mineral zoisite which was discovered in 1967. The blue gem stones can be found when trace amounts of vanadium are mixed with extreme heat to produce colors which range from pale to vibrant blues with violet undertones. Tanzanite has the ability to display various colors when viewed from different angles (pleochroism) Stones are cut to emphasis the most attractive shades of blues and violets. Tanzanite is often heat treated to enhance the blue shades that are similar to the blue tones of sapphires and also to ensure that any of the less desirable traits such as the natural brown undertones found in the stones are diminished. Tanzanite is a visually stunning gem stone that is perfectly displayed in earrings and pendants.
Zircon Gemstones
Zircon is often confused with synthetic cubic zirconia since both stones are often used in place of diamonds. Most people are unaware that zircon is available in a variety of stunning colors. The name zircon originally comes from the Persian word zargun which means “golden-colored.” Zircon is available in a wide range of hues including red, orange, yellow, green, blue and brown. The color differences that are found naturally in zircon are caused by impurities. Many ancient civilizations believed that zircon could ward off evil, promote prosperity, and ensure a good night’s sleep. One of the leading countries in zircon mining is Australia, while other sources include Thailand, Cambodia and the United States. Zircon is a popular choice for necklaces, bracelets, earrings and rings.
Turquoise Stones
Turquoise has been admired for centuries and is well known for its very distinct blue color which can range from a powdery blue to a greenish robin’s egg. The United States is one of the world’s leading suppliers of turquoise and sources can be found in Arizona, Nevada, California, New Mexico and Colorado. Arizona leads production for both quality and value and the stones mined are a popular adornment in Native American jewelry items. Turquoise can be found in areas where rainwater dissolves copper found in the soil and turns it to colorful deposits when combined with aluminum and phosphorus. The copper is responsible for the brilliant blues while the iron adds a touch of green. Turquoise is a fairly soft stone which has traditionally been carved into talismans by the ancient Egyptians, Persians, and Aztecs and of course the Native American Indians. Kings and warriors alike have admired turquoise and it has been used as popular adornments from pieces of jewelry to ceremonial masks which were believed to grant the wearer, power and protection. Turquoise remains a popular gemstone that is often paired with beaten silver to fashion cuff bracelets, brooches, necklaces, earrings and many other items.
Tanzanite, Zircon & Turquoise & Other Gemstone & Jewelry Appraisals in Beverly Hills, Agoura Hills, Palm Springs, Indio & Southern California
If you are interested in learning more about your precious gemstones, jewelry and other collectible items for estate, insurance or other purposes, contact Brigitte Kruse and the knowledgeable experts at Brigitte Kruse Appraisal Services today!
