December, the final month of the year, is marked by a unique trio of birthstones: tanzanite, turquoise, and zircon. Each of these gemstones carries its own distinct beauty, history, and symbolism. While the search query "December 7 birthstone" might imply a specific gem, it is important to note that December is associated with three birthstones, and the specific date does not traditionally correlate with one particular gem. This article will provide a comprehensive exploration of all three December birthstones, covering their geological properties, historical significance, and cultural symbolism. The article will also include practical advice on how to care for these gemstones, ensuring their longevity and beauty.
History and Lore
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is a relatively modern discovery in the world of gemstones. As stated in the sources, it was first discovered in 1967 in the Merelani Hills of northern Tanzania. This gemstone quickly gained popularity due to its vivid blue-violet color and its association with spiritual awakening and insight. Tanzanite is believed to activate the throat, third-eye, and crown chakras, allowing the wearer to tap into their psychic abilities and communicate with higher dimensions.
The gemstone's journey to international fame was significantly influenced by the jewelry company Tiffany & Co., which became its main distributor. In 1968, Tiffany launched a major advertising campaign to promote tanzanite, and the gemstone soon became a sensation. Today, tanzanite is not only recognized as a December birthstone but also as the gemstone for the 24th wedding anniversary.
Turquoise
Turquoise, on the other hand, is one of the oldest known gemstones. The earliest evidence of turquoise dates back to 3000 BCE. Ancient civilizations, including those in Egypt, Persia, and China, cherished turquoise for its sky-blue color and believed it held protective powers. In ancient Egypt, the pharaohs and other rulers adorned themselves with turquoise, considering it a symbol of power and divinity.
The sources mention that turquoise was thought to guarantee health and good fortune. From the 13th century onwards, it was believed to protect the wearer from falling, particularly off horses. Additionally, it was said that turquoise would break into several pieces at the approach of disaster, serving as a warning to the wearer. Hindu mystics also attributed significant meaning to turquoise, believing that seeing it after the new moon ensured fantastic wealth.
Zircon
Zircon, the third December birthstone, has a rich history as well. While the sources do not provide extensive information on zircon's historical uses, it is clear that this gemstone has been appreciated for its sparkling brilliance and variety of colors. Zircon is known for its high refractive index, which gives it a diamond-like sparkle, making it a popular choice for jewelry.
The sources also indicate that zircon has been used in various cultural contexts, though specific historical anecdotes are not detailed. Its versatility in color, ranging from colorless to vibrant red, blue, and green, has made it a favorite among jewelers and collectors alike.
Geological Formation and Sources
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is a type of zoisite that undergoes heat treatment to enhance its blue-violet color. The gemstone is found exclusively in the Merelani Hills of northern Tanzania, a location that adds to its rarity and value. The mining process involves thousands of workers who recover tanzanite from mines that extend over 100 meters deep. The area is characterized by grass-covered hillsides, scrub brush, and rocky soil, with the majestic snow-covered slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro looming in the distance.
The unique geological conditions in the Merelani Hills contribute to the formation of tanzanite. The gemstone is formed under high pressure and temperature conditions, resulting in its distinctive coloration. The rarity of tanzanite, combined with its vibrant hues, makes it a highly sought-after gemstone in the jewelry industry.
Turquoise
Turquoise is a phosphate mineral that forms in the oxidation zone of copper deposits. It is typically found in arid regions where the conditions are suitable for its formation. The sources mention that turquoise has been cherished for thousands of years, with evidence of its use dating back to ancient Egypt and China. The gemstone is semi-translucent to opaque and ranges in color from blue to green, often with veins of matrix running through it.
The formation of turquoise is a slow process, occurring over long periods of time. The presence of copper, aluminum, and phosphorus in the earth's crust is essential for its development. The unique coloration of turquoise is influenced by the presence of copper, which imparts a blue hue, while the greenish tones are due to the presence of iron.
Zircon
Zircon is a zirconium silicate mineral that occurs in a wide range of colors, including colorless, yellow, red, blue, and green. The sources do not specify the exact geological conditions for zircon's formation, but it is generally understood that zircon forms in metamorphic and igneous rocks. The gemstone is known for its high refractive index and dispersion, which gives it a brilliant sparkle.
Zircon is found in various parts of the world, including Australia, Brazil, and India. The gemstone's versatility in color and brilliance has made it a popular choice for jewelry. However, due to the lack of detailed information in the sources, further exploration into the geological formation of zircon would be beneficial for a more comprehensive understanding.
Gemological Properties
Tanzanite
Tanzanite has a hardness of 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively soft compared to other gemstones. Its vibrant blue-violet color is due to the presence of vanadium, and it is often heat-treated to enhance its color. The gemstone is sensitive to high temperatures and sudden temperature changes, which can cause it to crack or abrade. It is also susceptible to damage from hydrochloric and hydrofluoric acids.
Tanzanite is best suited for earrings or pendants, as these settings minimize the risk of damage. While it can be used in rings with a protective mounting, it is not recommended for daily wear due to its susceptibility to abrasion. The gemstone should be cleaned with warm, soapy water, as ultrasonic and steam cleaners are not recommended.
Turquoise
Turquoise has a hardness of 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale, making it a relatively soft gemstone. It is semi-translucent to opaque and ranges in color from blue to green, often with veins of matrix running through it. The gemstone is known for its unique coloration, which is influenced by the presence of copper and iron.
Turquoise is best suited for protective settings, as it can be prone to damage. It should be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap to avoid any harsh chemicals that could damage its surface. The gemstone's porous nature makes it susceptible to absorbing oils and lotions, so it is important to clean it regularly to maintain its appearance.
Zircon
Zircon has a hardness of 6 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale, making it a relatively durable gemstone. It is known for its high refractive index and dispersion, which gives it a brilliant sparkle. The gemstone is available in a wide range of colors, including colorless, yellow, red, blue, and green. Zircon is often used in jewelry due to its brilliance and affordability.
The gemstone can be cleaned with warm, soapy water, and it is generally resistant to damage from common chemicals. However, it should be handled with care to avoid any potential scratches or abrasions. Zircon is best suited for open settings that allow its brilliance to shine through.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is believed to bring insight and spiritual awakening to its wearer. It is associated with the throat, third-eye, and crown chakras, allowing the wearer to tap into their psychic abilities and communicate with higher dimensions. The gemstone is also believed to promote healing, protection, and self-transformation. Its vibrant blue-violet hues are said to enhance intuition and emotional balance, making it a popular choice for those seeking spiritual growth.
Turquoise
Turquoise has been cherished for its protective properties for thousands of years. It is believed to guarantee health and good fortune, and it was historically used to protect the wearer from falling, particularly off horses. The gemstone is also said to break into several pieces at the approach of disaster, serving as a warning to the wearer. Hindu mystics attributed significant meaning to turquoise, believing that seeing it after the new moon ensured fantastic wealth.
Zircon
While the sources do not provide extensive information on zircon's metaphysical properties, it is generally believed to have a positive influence on the wearer's energy and vitality. Zircon is known for its brilliance and is often associated with clarity and insight. The gemstone is also believed to enhance the wearer's intuition and spiritual awareness, making it a popular choice for those seeking a connection to the spiritual realm.
Care and Cleaning
Tanzanite
Tanzanite requires careful handling to maintain its beauty and durability. Due to its hardness of 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale, it is relatively soft and can be prone to scratches and abrasions. The gemstone should be cleaned with warm, soapy water to avoid any harsh chemicals that could damage its surface. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners are not recommended for tanzanite, as they can cause it to crack or abrade.
Tanzanite is best suited for earrings or pendants, as these settings minimize the risk of damage. If worn in a ring, it should be set in a protective mounting to prevent any potential damage. The gemstone should be stored separately from other gemstones to avoid any potential scratches or abrasions.
Turquoise
Turquoise is a relatively soft gemstone with a hardness of 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale. It is semi-translucent to opaque and ranges in color from blue to green. Due to its porous nature, turquoise is susceptible to absorbing oils and lotions, so it should be cleaned regularly with a soft cloth and mild soap to maintain its appearance.
Turquoise is best suited for protective settings, as it can be prone to damage. It should be stored separately from other gemstones to avoid any potential scratches or abrasions. The gemstone should also be kept away from harsh chemicals and extreme temperatures to prevent any potential damage.
Zircon
Zircon is a relatively durable gemstone with a hardness of 6 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale. It is known for its high refractive index and dispersion, which gives it a brilliant sparkle. The gemstone can be cleaned with warm, soapy water to avoid any harsh chemicals that could damage its surface.
Zircon is best suited for open settings that allow its brilliance to shine through. It should be stored separately from other gemstones to avoid any potential scratches or abrasions. The gemstone should also be kept away from harsh chemicals and extreme temperatures to prevent any potential damage.
Conclusion
December is a month of celebration and festivity, and the December birthstones—tanzanite, turquoise, and zircon—each bring their own unique beauty, history, and symbolism to the table. Tanzanite, with its vibrant blue-violet hues, is a modern gemstone that has quickly gained popularity for its association with spiritual awakening and insight. Turquoise, one of the oldest known gemstones, has been cherished for thousands of years for its protective properties and its sky-blue color. Zircon, known for its brilliance and versatility in color, is a popular choice for jewelry due to its affordability and beauty.
Each of these gemstones has its own unique geological properties and care requirements, making it important to understand how to maintain their beauty and durability. Whether you are drawn to the rich blues of tanzanite, the ancient allure of turquoise, or the sparkle of zircon, each December birthstone offers a world of beauty, history, and meaning. These gemstones not only serve as stunning adornments but also carry the rich cultural and historical significance that makes them perfect for celebrating the spirit of December.