Four Elements: Stimulating Zircon

Dec 1

What's your birthstone? It's kind of like your birthday but in gorgeous gemstone form. It's something to celebrate. The ancient Greeks believed everything was made of four elements: earth, water, air, and fire. We believe every birthstone month deserves (at least) four jewelry wishes. Happy birthstone!

Photo credit: @matchesfashion & @theodorawarre

Awaken your chakras with December’s zircon

December’s popular birthstones are turquoise and tanzanite, but zircon, the lesser-known birthstone, is gaining popularity. Regarded as an energy-stimulating stone, zircon is naturally a brownish-yellow or red color. Once treated with heat, it can turn blue and even clear. While the blue tone is usually considered December’s hue, the clear is ideal for anyone favoring semi-precious stones that look like diamonds minus the premium price.

**EARTH**

When Parlé Jewelry Designs started in 1973, they focused on Idaho opals. They’ve grown into a brand that sources, designs, and manufactures a variety of fine gemstone jewelry. That includes birthstones, like this mesmerizing blue zircon in an equally stunning setting.
Parlé 14k rose gold, blue zircon, and diamond ring, $1,624.53 at PK Bennett Jewelers
*This item is sold out.

**FIRE**

Nak Armstrong’s unusual settings are just as surprising as his use of rarified stones. He uses white zircon in many necklaces and bracelets, creating modern takes on tennis necklaces and bracelets.
Nak Armstrong sterling silver and zircon “Nakard Mini Deco” necklace, $2,075 at Moda Operandi

**AIR**

London-based designer Theodora Warre started her eponymous brand in 2014 after working at Russian *Vogue* and *Glamour* and studying gemology in Jaipur. Her passion for jewelry and travel shines through each piece handcrafted in Jaipur.
Theodora Warre gold-plated sterling silver and zircon earrings, $393 at Matchesfashion

**WATER**

Milan’s Pomellato is known for bold gold pieces set with intensely colored gemstones. While this bracelet may be more delicate than bold, it stands out with its double December birthstone setting of tranquil blue zircons surrounding vibrant turquoise.
Pomellato rose gold, turquoise, and blue zircon “M’ama non M’ama” bracelet, $2,280 at Nordstrom

Editor: Samantha Durbin
Market Editor: Johannah Masters

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