December

Known by the Celts as "Dumannios" (Darkest Depths) December sees the start of Winter

Dim and dark, and overwhelmed by Christmas, although midwinter festivities predate Christianity by several millennia.

Our distant ancestors were aware of the lightening days after the winter solstice on 20-22 December and, as the world was frozen, preventing cultivation and as livestock culled, to allow enough food for the remaining cattle through the rest of the winter season, there was nothing much to do but feast and be merry.

Gemstone of the month is turquoise, in hues of green - aqua - turquoise.

Zodiac sign is Saggittarius the Archer, portrayed as a faun (22nd November - 21st December), the planet of Saggittarius is Jupiter, the element fire and the colour dark purple / dark blue.

Pantone^® colour for December is Pagoda Blue.