December 6th holds a unique place in the world of birthstones, as it is associated with three gemstones—Tanzanite, Turquoise, and Zircon. These stones, each with its own rich history, gemological properties, and symbolic meanings, have been cherished across cultures and epochs. This article explores the significance of these December 6 birthstones in depth, covering their geological origins, historical roles, and their place in contemporary jewelry and culture.
Introduction
Individuals born on December 6th are gifted with the unique opportunity to associate themselves with three distinct gemstones—Tanzanite, Turquoise, and Zircon. These stones are celebrated not only for their visual appeal but also for their symbolic associations with success, healing, and truth. While all of December shares these gems as its modern birthstones, their significance is particularly highlighted for those born on this date.
This article will explore the historical and cultural significance of each of these stones, their unique gemological properties, and their roles in both ancient and modern contexts. It will also delve into how these gemstones have been used in jewelry and their care requirements.
History and Lore
Tanzanite
Tanzanite, discovered in 1967 near Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, is one of the most recent gemstones to be recognized as a birthstone. Despite its modern origin, it has quickly become a symbol of elegance and rarity. The gemstone was named after its country of origin and was initially marketed as a new variety of zoisite. Its vibrant blue-to-violet hues have made it a popular choice for December birthstones, especially for those born on the 6th.
Tanzanite is believed to promote emotional healing, clarity, and inner peace. These metaphysical properties have contributed to its growing popularity in both jewelry and spiritual practices. Its limited availability—being found only in Tanzania—adds to its mystique and value.
Turquoise
Turquoise has a much older and more storied history than Tanzanite. Its use dates back thousands of years, with archaeological evidence of its use in ancient Egypt, Persia, and the Americas. Known for its blue-green hues, Turquoise was often associated with protection, good fortune, and spiritual communication.
In ancient Egypt, Turquoise was considered a sacred stone and was used in jewelry and amulets. It was also believed to have healing properties and was used in medicine. Native American cultures, particularly the Navajo and Zuni, revered Turquoise as a stone of divine power and transformation. These cultural associations have contributed to its enduring appeal and its inclusion as a December birthstone.
Zircon
Zircon is one of the oldest minerals on Earth, with some zircon crystals found to be over 4 billion years old. The gemstone has been known to humans for centuries, though its identity and classification have evolved over time. In ancient times, Zircon was often mistaken for other gemstones such as Topaz or Diamond due to its brilliance and refractive qualities.
The name "Zircon" comes from the Arabic word "zir", which means "to glow in the dark". This property, along with its vibrant colors and high refractive index, made it a popular gemstone in the past. Zircon has been used in various forms, from ancient jewelry to modern engagement rings, and is now recognized as a December birthstone for its sparkling beauty and historical significance.
Geological Formation and Sources
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is a variety of the mineral zoisite (Ca₂Al₃(SiO₄)(OH)₃) and is only found in the Merelani Hills near Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. Its formation is closely tied to the geological activity in this region, where tectonic forces and metamorphic processes have created the conditions necessary for the development of this gemstone.
The unique blue-violet color of Tanzanite is due to trace amounts of vanadium in the crystal structure. The gemstone is known for its trichroism, meaning it can display three different colors depending on the angle of light. Tanzanite is typically heat-treated to enhance its color and is often cut in oval or emerald shapes to best showcase its brilliance.
Turquoise
Turquoise is a hydrated phosphate of aluminum and copper, with the chemical formula CuAl₆(PO₄)₄(OH)₈·4H₂O. It forms in arid environments where copper-rich rocks are exposed to water. The presence of copper gives Turquoise its characteristic blue-green color, while iron and other impurities can alter the hue.
The most famous sources of Turquoise are in Iran, Nepal, and the American Southwest (particularly Arizona and New Mexico). These deposits have been mined for centuries, and the quality of Turquoise from these regions is highly valued. Turquoise is often found in matrix form, meaning it is embedded in the surrounding rock, which is sometimes left in place for aesthetic purposes.
Zircon
Zircon is a zirconium silicate mineral (ZrSiO₄) and is found in a variety of geological environments, including igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks. It is one of the most ancient minerals on Earth, with some zircon crystals dating back over 4 billion years. This makes Zircon a fascinating subject for geologists and gemologists alike.
The gemstone is found in many parts of the world, including Australia, Brazil, India, and Madagascar. Zircon is known for its high refractive index and strong dispersion, which gives it a sparkling appearance similar to that of Diamond. Zircon comes in a wide range of colors, from colorless and yellow to red, blue, and green. The most popular form for jewelry is the blue Zircon, which is created through heat treatment.
Gemological Properties
Tanzanite
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | Ca₂Al₃(SiO₄)(OH)₃ |
| Color | Blue to violet |
| Hardness (Mohs) | 6 – 6.5 |
| Refractive Index | 1.694 – 1.700 |
| Specific Gravity | 3.1 – 3.4 |
| Cleavage | Poor |
| Luster | Vitreous |
| Transparency | Transparent to translucent |
| Cut | Oval, emerald, cushion |
Tanzanite is a relatively soft gemstone compared to others, which means it requires careful handling and gentle cleaning. Its trichroism and pleochroism make it a visually captivating gemstone, especially when cut properly.
Turquoise
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | CuAl₆(PO₄)₄(OH)₈·4H₂O |
| Color | Blue to green |
| Hardness (Mohs) | 5 – 6 |
| Refractive Index | 1.61 – 1.65 |
| Specific Gravity | 2.6 – 2.8 |
| Cleavage | None |
| Luster | Waxy to greasy |
| Transparency | Opaque to translucent |
| Cut | Cabochon (most common) |
Turquoise is a relatively soft gemstone, and it is often cut in cabochon to avoid the risk of chipping. It is also porous, which means it can be easily stained if not cared for properly. Its waxy luster and vibrant colors make it a popular choice for jewelry and decorative objects.
Zircon
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | ZrSiO₄ |
| Color | Colorless, yellow, red, blue, green |
| Hardness (Mohs) | 6.5 – 7.5 |
| Refractive Index | 1.925 – 2.01 |
| Specific Gravity | 4.0 – 4.7 |
| Cleavage | None |
| Luster | Vitreous |
| Transparency | Transparent to translucent |
| Cut | Round, oval, emerald, princess |
Zircon is a hard and durable gemstone, making it suitable for everyday wear. Its high refractive index and strong dispersion give it a sparkling appearance that is similar to Diamond. Blue Zircon is the most popular form and is often used as a Diamond substitute in jewelry.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is often associated with emotional healing, clarity, and inner peace. It is believed to help individuals overcome emotional trauma and to balance the heart and mind. Tanzanite is also associated with success and ambition, making it a popular choice for those who are striving to achieve their goals.
In metaphysical practices, Tanzanite is used to enhance intuition and to promote spiritual growth. It is also believed to open the third eye chakra, which is associated with insight and vision. These properties make Tanzanite a powerful gemstone for both personal and spiritual development.
Turquoise
Turquoise has long been associated with protection, good fortune, and spiritual communication. In ancient Egypt, it was believed to have protective properties and was used in amulets and jewelry to ward off evil spirits. In Native American cultures, Turquoise was considered a stone of transformation and was used in ceremonial objects and jewelry.
Turquoise is also believed to promote calmness, emotional balance, and creativity. It is often used in spiritual practices to enhance intuition and to facilitate communication with the divine. These properties make Turquoise a valuable gemstone for those who are seeking inner peace and spiritual growth.
Zircon
Zircon is often associated with clarity, insight, and wisdom. It is believed to help individuals see through illusions and to gain a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them. Zircon is also associated with prosperity and good fortune, making it a popular choice for those who are seeking success and abundance.
In metaphysical practices, Zircon is used to enhance mental clarity and to stimulate the mind. It is also believed to open the third eye chakra, which is associated with insight and vision. These properties make Zircon a powerful gemstone for both personal and spiritual development.
Care and Cleaning
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is a relatively soft gemstone with a Mohs hardness of 6 – 6.5, so it requires gentle handling and careful cleaning. It should be avoided from harsh chemicals, abrasive materials, and extreme temperatures, as these can damage the gemstone.
To clean Tanzanite, use warm, soapy water and a soft cloth or brush. Avoid using ultrasonic cleaners, as they can damage the gemstone. Store Tanzanite in a separate compartment to prevent scratching from harder gemstones.
Turquoise
Turquoise is a soft and porous gemstone, with a Mohs hardness of 5 – 6. It is susceptible to staining and damage from chemicals, moisture, and heat. It should be avoided from direct sunlight, high temperatures, and moisture, as these can alter its color and structure.
To clean Turquoise, use damp cloth and avoid using chemicals or abrasive materials. Store Turquoise in a dry, cool place to prevent it from drying out and cracking.
Zircon
Zircon is a hard and durable gemstone, with a Mohs hardness of 6.5 – 7.5, making it suitable for everyday wear. It can be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth or brush. Ultrasonic cleaners can be used for Zircon, as they are safe for this gemstone.
Store Zircon in a separate compartment to prevent it from scratching from harder gemstones. Zircon does not require special care beyond gentle cleaning and safe storage.
Conclusion
December 6th is a unique date in the world of birthstones, as it is associated with three gemstones—Tanzanite, Turquoise, and Zircon. These stones each have their own rich history, gemological properties, and symbolic meanings. Tanzanite, with its vibrant blue-violet color, is a modern gemstone that has quickly become a symbol of success and emotional healing. Turquoise, with its blue-green hues, has been cherished for centuries for its protective and spiritual properties. Zircon, with its sparkling brilliance, is a versatile gemstone that has been used in jewelry and spiritual practices for centuries.
These gemstones offer a rich mix of history, symbolism, and beauty, making them ideal choices for those born on December 6th. Whether worn as jewelry, used in spiritual practices, or simply admired for their beauty, these stones are more than just gemstones—they are symbols of connection, meaning, and individuality.