December is a month rich in tradition and beauty, and this is reflected in its selection of birthstones. Unlike many other months that are associated with a single gemstone, December boasts a collection of four to five distinct stones—each with its own unique history, properties, and symbolism. These include tanzanite, blue topaz, zircon, turquoise, and lapis lazuli. Each of these stones captures the essence of the season, from the cool, tranquil blues of winter to the vibrant hues of ancient talismans. This article explores the fascinating world of December’s birthstones, delving into their geological origins, cultural significance, and enduring appeal in the world of jewelry and gemology.
Introduction
The birthstones of December offer a rich tapestry of gemological and cultural significance. These stones are more than just ornamental; they carry centuries of symbolism and historical meaning. From the vibrant blue of tanzanite to the deep blue-green of turquoise, each gemstone represents a different aspect of the December experience—be it the chill of winter, the warmth of celebration, or the spiritual depth of tradition.
This article will explore the following key aspects of December’s birthstones:
- Their historical and cultural roots, including ancient uses and symbolic meanings.
- The geological properties and sources of each gemstone, such as where they are found and how they are formed.
- Their gemological characteristics, including hardness, color, and clarity.
- Their metaphysical and symbolic significance, including the beliefs and meanings attributed to them across cultures.
- Practical care and maintenance tips to preserve their beauty and value.
By the end of this article, you will have a comprehensive understanding of why December’s birthstones are not only beautiful but also deeply meaningful and historically significant.
History and Lore
The tradition of assigning gemstones to specific birth months dates back centuries, with roots in both ancient religious and cultural practices. The earliest known reference to birthstones appears in the High Priest’s Breastplate of the Old Testament, which lists 12 gemstones representing the 12 tribes of Israel. While the exact identities of these stones have been debated, their symbolic significance as sacred and protective stones laid the foundation for the modern birthstone tradition.
For December, the list of associated gemstones includes tanzanite, blue topaz, zircon, turquoise, and lapis lazuli. Each of these stones has a distinct historical journey.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is the youngest of December’s birthstones, first discovered in the late 1960s in Merelani Hills, near Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. The gem was initially found in a violet color, but when cut and heated, it revealed a stunning blue to violet hue that became highly desirable. Tanzanite was officially recognized as a birthstone in the 1980s and has since become a symbol of exclusivity and rarity, given that it is found only in this one location in the world.
Blue Topaz
Blue topaz is a relatively recent addition to the list of December birthstones, officially recognized in the 1990s. Unlike its natural yellow or brown varieties, blue topaz is typically produced through heat treatment, which enhances its color. While the natural occurrence of blue topaz is rare, the treatment process has made it more accessible and popular in jewelry.
Zircon
Zircon has been known and used for thousands of years. The name comes from the Arabic word "zarkun", meaning "gold-colored," and the gemstone is often mistaken for diamonds due to its brilliance and fire. Zircon is one of the oldest minerals on Earth, with some crystals dated back to over 4 billion years. It has been found in ancient jewelry from cultures across the globe, from Mesopotamia to India.
Turquoise
Turquoise is one of the oldest known gemstones and has been used for thousands of years in jewelry and decorative arts. It was especially revered in ancient Egypt, Persia, and the American Southwest, where it was believed to offer protection, wisdom, and good fortune. The stone’s blue-green color has been associated with the sky and water, making it a symbol of life, healing, and spiritual connection.
Lapis Lazuli
Lapis lazuli is another ancient gemstone, known for its deep blue color and golden flecks of pyrite. It has been used since antiquity in Egypt, where it was favored by royalty and associated with the goddess Isis. The stone was also used in Mesopotamia, India, and Mesoamerica, often carved into amulets and inlays for jewelry and decorative objects. Lapis lazuli is believed to promote wisdom, truth, and spiritual insight.
Geological Formation and Sources
The geological properties of a gemstone determine its rarity, durability, and visual appeal. Each of December’s birthstones has a unique formation process and source location.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is a form of columbite-zircon, a mineral that forms under specific geological conditions. It is found only in the Merelani Hills of Tanzania, a region known for its unique geological history. The gem is formed when columbite is exposed to hydrothermal activity and metamorphism, which alters its chemical structure and produces the distinct blue to violet color. Due to its exclusive location, tanzanite is considered one of the rarest gemstones in the world.
Blue Topaz
Topaz is a silicate mineral that forms in pegmatite and rhyolite deposits. It is found in several countries, including the United States, Brazil, Mexico, and Russia. Natural blue topaz is extremely rare, so most blue topaz in the market is heat-treated to enhance its color. The treatment involves heating the stone to high temperatures, which alters its structure and produces the blue color. Despite this treatment, blue topaz remains a popular and affordable gemstone.
Zircon
Zircon is a zirconium silicate that forms in igneous rocks and is often found in metamorphic and sedimentary deposits. It is known for its brilliant luster and high refractive index, which gives it a diamond-like sparkle. Zircon is found in Australia, Brazil, Cambodia, and Sri Lanka, among other locations. Some zircon crystals are over 4 billion years old, making them some of the oldest minerals on Earth.
Turquoise
Turquoise is a phosphate mineral that forms in hydrothermal veins and weathered copper deposits. It is typically found in arid regions where copper-bearing rocks are exposed to water and air. The stone gets its characteristic blue-green color from the presence of copper and aluminum. Turquoise is found in the United States (especially New Mexico and Arizona), China, Iran, and Egypt.
Lapis Lazuli
Lapis lazuli is a metamorphic rock composed primarily of lazurite, with pyrite and calcite often included. It forms under high-pressure and high-temperature conditions in alkaline igneous rocks. The most famous source of lapis lazuli is Afghanistan, where it has been mined for thousands of years. Other sources include Russia, Chile, and Pakistan. The deep blue color of lapis lazuli is due to the presence of sulfur in the lazurite crystals.
| Gemstone | Chemical Composition | Source Locations | Formation Process |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tanzanite | Calcium aluminum silicate | Merelani Hills, Tanzania | Hydrothermal and metamorphic activity |
| Blue Topaz | Aluminum silicate | Brazil, Mexico, United States, Russia | Pegmatite and rhyolite deposits |
| Zircon | Zirconium silicate | Australia, Brazil, Cambodia, Sri Lanka | Igneous rock formations |
| Turquoise | Phosphate mineral (copper, aluminum) | United States, China, Iran, Egypt | Hydrothermal veins and weathered copper |
| Lapis Lazuli | Lazurite (with pyrite and calcite) | Afghanistan, Russia, Chile, Pakistan | Alkaline igneous rock under pressure |
Gemological Properties
Each of December’s birthstones has distinct gemological properties that define its appearance, durability, and suitability for jewelry.
Tanzanite
- Color: Blue to violet
- Hardness (Mohs scale): 6–7
- Refractive Index: 1.694–1.700
- Specific Gravity: 3.10–3.40
- Cut: Typically cut as a cabochon or faceted gem
- Clarity: Usually has inclusions, which are common and not considered flaws
Tanzanite is a relatively soft gemstone, so it should be protected from hard knocks and abrasions. It is best suited for pendants and earrings, rather than rings and bracelets, where it may be more susceptible to damage.
Blue Topaz
- Color: Blue (naturally rare; most is heat-treated)
- Hardness (Mohs scale): 8
- Refractive Index: 1.619–1.627
- Specific Gravity: 3.49–3.57
- Cut: Typically brilliant cut
- Clarity: Generally clear or slightly included
Blue topaz is a hard and durable gemstone, making it suitable for a variety of jewelry types. Its high hardness and clarity make it a popular choice for rings, necklaces, and earrings.
Zircon
- Color: Colorless, yellow, red, blue, green, and violet
- Hardness (Mohs scale): 6–7.5
- Refractive Index: 1.925–2.00
- Specific Gravity: 4.6–4.7
- Cut: Typically brilliant cut
- Clarity: Often included, but these inclusions are not considered flaws
Zircon is known for its brilliant fire and high refractive index, which gives it a sparkling, diamond-like appearance. It is a versatile gemstone, available in a wide range of colors. Blue zircon is especially popular as a December birthstone.
Turquoise
- Color: Blue-green (varies depending on mineral content)
- Hardness (Mohs scale): 5–6
- Refractive Index: 1.61–1.65
- Specific Gravity: 2.60–2.80
- Cut: Typically cabochon
- Clarity: Usually opaque, with visible matrix patterns
Turquoise is a soft and porous gemstone, which makes it more delicate than other gemstones. It should be handled with care and protected from exposure to harsh chemicals, heat, and moisture. It is best suited for pendants and earrings, rather than rings or bracelets.
Lapis Lazuli
- Color: Deep blue with flecks of gold (pyrite)
- Hardness (Mohs scale): 5–6
- Refractive Index: 1.62–1.64
- Specific Gravity: 2.40–2.95
- Cut: Typically cabochon
- Clarity: Opaque with visible inclusions
Lapis lazuli is a soft and opaque gemstone, best suited for pendants and earrings. It is often carved into amulets, inlays, and decorative objects. The golden flecks of pyrite add visual interest and make each piece unique.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
The symbolic and metaphysical meanings of gemstones have been an important part of their cultural and historical significance. December’s birthstones are no exception, each carrying its own set of meanings and beliefs across different cultures.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is associated with transformation, intuition, and spiritual awakening. It is believed to enhance emotional healing and self-awareness, making it a popular stone for spiritual growth and emotional balance. In some cultures, it is also seen as a stone of love and connection, helping to deepen relationships and foster understanding.
Blue Topaz
Blue topaz is a stone of calm, clarity, and serenity. It is believed to promote peace of mind and emotional stability, helping to reduce anxiety and stress. In ancient times, it was used as a protective stone, believed to ward off illness and negative energy. It is also associated with communication and self-expression, making it a helpful stone for those who struggle with verbal or emotional expression.
Zircon
Zircon is a stone of wisdom, truth, and spiritual insight. It is believed to enhance mental clarity and intellectual ability, making it a popular stone for students and scholars. In ancient cultures, it was often used as a protective and healing stone, believed to bring good fortune and protection. It is also associated with love and passion, making it a symbol of romantic and emotional connection.
Turquoise
Turquoise is one of the most spiritually significant of December’s birthstones. It has been used for thousands of years as a protective and healing stone, believed to offer protection, wisdom, and good fortune. In many cultures, it is also associated with communication and truth, helping to enhance verbal and spiritual communication. It is often used in spiritual practices and rituals, especially those involving healing, protection, and spiritual growth.
Lapis Lazuli
Lapis lazuli is a stone of wisdom, truth, and spiritual insight. It has long been associated with royalty, intellect, and spiritual enlightenment, making it a popular stone among philosophers, artists, and spiritual seekers. It is believed to enhance intellectual abilities, stimulate creativity, and promote spiritual awareness. In ancient Egypt, it was associated with the goddess Isis and was used in religious and ceremonial contexts.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care and maintenance are essential to preserving the beauty and value of December’s birthstones. Each gemstone has specific requirements based on its hardness, porosity, and sensitivity to environmental factors.
Tanzanite
- Hardness: 6–7
- Porosity: Low
- Sensitivity: Sensitive to heat and chemicals
- Care Instructions:
- Clean with mild soap and water
- Avoid exposure to harsh chemicals and heat
- Store in a soft cloth or jewelry box to prevent scratches
- Avoid knocking or abrasion, especially in rings and bracelets
Blue Topaz
- Hardness: 8
- Porosity: Low
- Sensitivity: Not highly sensitive
- Care Instructions:
- Clean with mild soap and water
- Avoid exposure to harsh chemicals
- Store in a soft cloth or jewelry box
- Suitable for daily wear, but avoid hard knocks
Zircon
- Hardness: 6–7.5
- Porosity: Low
- Sensitivity: Sensitive to heat and abrasion
- Care Instructions:
- Clean with mild soap and water
- Avoid exposure to high heat and harsh chemicals
- Store in a soft cloth or jewelry box
- Avoid knocking or abrasion, especially in rings and bracelets
Turquoise
- Hardness: 5–6
- Porosity: High
- Sensitivity: Highly sensitive to heat, chemicals, and moisture
- Care Instructions:
- Clean with mild soap and water
- Avoid exposure to harsh chemicals, heat, and moisture
- Store in a soft cloth or jewelry box
- Avoid daily wear, especially in rings and bracelets
Lapis Lazuli
- Hardness: 5–6
- Porosity: High
- Sensitivity: Sensitive to heat, chemicals, and moisture
- Care Instructions:
- Clean with mild soap and water
- Avoid exposure to harsh chemicals, heat, and moisture
- Store in a soft cloth or jewelry box
- Avoid daily wear, especially in rings and bracelets
Conclusion
The birthstones of December—tanzanite, blue topaz, zircon, turquoise, and lapis lazuli—offer a rich and diverse collection of gemstones that reflect the beauty, history, and symbolism of the season. Each stone has its own unique geological properties, cultural significance, and metaphysical meanings. From the rare and vibrant tanzanite to the ancient and protective turquoise, these gemstones have captivated people for centuries and continue to be cherished today.
Whether you are a gemstone enthusiast, a jewelry buyer, or a student of gemology, understanding the history and properties of December’s birthstones deepens your appreciation for these remarkable gems. Their enduring appeal lies not only in their beauty but also in the stories and traditions they carry, connecting us to the past and enriching our lives with meaning and symbolism.