December is unique among the months, offering not one, but three distinct birthstones: turquoise, blue zircon, and tanzanite. These gemstones, each possessing its own allure and history, provide a diverse range of options for those seeking meaningful jewelry to celebrate a December birthday or simply appreciate their inherent beauty. This article will delve into the characteristics, origins, and symbolism of these December birthstones, offering insight into their appeal and suitability for various jewelry styles.
A Historical Perspective on December Birthstones
The tradition of associating specific gemstones with each month of the year has ancient roots, though the specific assignments have evolved over time. While turquoise holds the longest-standing association with December, blue zircon and, more recently, tanzanite have been added to the list, expanding the choices available. Turquoise is noted as the most commonly known December birthstone. Tanzanite was officially added to the birthstone list in 1952, recognizing its growing popularity and unique qualities. The availability of multiple birthstones allows for personalized selection based on preference and symbolism.
Turquoise: Loyalty, Love, and Ancient Origins
Turquoise, a captivating opaque gemstone, is perhaps the most recognizable of the December birthstones. Its stunning color, ranging from sky blue to greenish-blue, has captivated cultures for centuries. This dynamic gemstone is considered the oldest mineral on Earth, offering a glimpse into the planet’s formation. Its versatility makes it an excellent choice for a variety of jewelry, including earrings, necklaces, and bracelets.
Symbolically, turquoise represents loyalty, great love, health, good fortune, and peace. This rich symbolism contributes to its enduring appeal as a gift and a personal adornment. Turquoise birthstone rings are particularly well-suited for individuals who express their style and individuality.
Blue Zircon: A Gem of Virtue and Trust
Blue zircon, while less commonly encountered in modern jewelry than some other gemstones, remains a beautiful and historically significant option for December birthdays. It is described as possessing a deep blue color and a unique way of catching the light. Historically, zircon has been associated with chastity, virtuousness, and trustworthiness.
Zircon is frequently mined in Australia, but can also be found in Thailand, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, Cambodia, Canada, and the United States. Despite its historical significance, zircon is not as prevalent in contemporary jewelry as it once was, making it a distinctive and somewhat rare choice.
Tanzanite: A Modern Marvel from Tanzania
Tanzanite, the newest addition to the December birthstone family, is a relatively recent discovery with a fascinating origin story. Named after Tanzania, the only place in the world where it is found, this gemstone is located in a small area near Mount Kilimanjaro. Tanzanite exhibits a range of exquisite blue-purple colors, stemming from the mineral zoisite.
The gemstone is often heat-treated to minimize natural brown tones and enhance the desirable blue shades, which closely resemble those of sapphire. Due to its tendency to scratch, tanzanite is best suited for earrings and pendants, where it is less likely to be subjected to abrasive wear. A Tanzanite necklace is described as a truly rare treasure.
Gemological Properties and Characteristics
While each birthstone possesses unique characteristics, some general properties define their appeal. Turquoise is known for its opaque nature and vibrant color. Blue zircon’s brilliance and fire are notable features, while tanzanite is prized for its trichroism – displaying different colors depending on the viewing angle.
The following table summarizes key characteristics based on the provided sources:
| Birthstone | Color | Transparency | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Turquoise | Sky blue to greenish-blue | Opaque | Versatile, ancient origins |
| Blue Zircon | Deep blue | Transparent | Catches the light, historically significant |
| Tanzanite | Blue-purple | Transparent | Trichroism, heat-treated to enhance color |
Jewelry Styles and Applications
The three December birthstones lend themselves to a variety of jewelry styles. Turquoise is particularly well-suited for statement pieces, such as bold rings and necklaces, and is often incorporated into bohemian or southwestern-inspired designs. Blue zircon, with its brilliance, can be showcased in classic settings, such as solitaire pendants or elegant earrings. Tanzanite, with its rich color and clarity, is often featured in halo settings or as a centerpiece in sophisticated pendants and earrings.
The sources highlight specific examples of jewelry featuring these stones: IPPOLITA’s rock candy turquoise earrings, Marco Bicego’s turquoise drop earrings, sterling silver turquoise pendants with diamonds, Sabel collection’s radiant cut blue zircon and diamond pendant, and 14K yellow gold oval Tanzanite and diamond drop earrings. Men’s jewelry options include turquoise beaded bracelets and even turquoise pocket knives.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Beyond their aesthetic appeal, these birthstones carry symbolic weight. Turquoise is associated with loyalty, love, health, good fortune, and peace. Blue zircon represents chastity, virtuousness, and trustworthiness. Tanzanite embodies the heart, intellect, intuition, and purity. These symbolic meanings add depth and significance to the gemstones, making them particularly meaningful gifts.
Care and Maintenance
While the sources do not provide detailed care instructions, the properties of each stone suggest certain precautions. Tanzanite, being prone to scratching, requires careful handling and storage. Turquoise, while durable, may be sensitive to certain chemicals and cleaning agents. Blue zircon, with its hardness, is relatively resistant to scratching but should still be protected from harsh impacts.
Conclusion
December’s birthstones – turquoise, blue zircon, and tanzanite – offer a captivating array of choices for those seeking meaningful and beautiful jewelry. From the ancient origins of turquoise to the modern discovery of tanzanite, each gemstone possesses a unique history, symbolism, and aesthetic appeal. Whether celebrating a December birthday or simply appreciating the beauty of these remarkable stones, the options are diverse and enchanting. Selecting a piece of December birthstone jewelry is a way to cherish a loved one and acknowledge the special qualities they embody.