December is unique among the calendar months, boasting not one, but four recognized birthstones: turquoise, blue zircon, blue topaz, and, more recently, tanzanite. Lapis Lazuli is also associated with December. These gemstones, each with its own distinct hue and history, offer a spectrum of choices for those born in the final month of the year. The predominant color associated with December birthstones is blue, ranging from the softest sky blue to deep, violet-tinged shades, mirroring the cool tones of the winter season.
History and Lore
The history of December’s birthstones is rich and varied, stretching back millennia. Turquoise, considered the primary birthstone for December, has a particularly long and storied past. Archeological evidence traces its use as far back as 3,000 BCE in ancient Egypt, where it was frequently set in gold within necklaces and rings, often carved into the shape of a scarab beetle – a symbol of the morning sun and the god Khepri.
Ancient Persians also held turquoise in high regard, utilizing it in the decoration of palace domes, believing its blue color reflected the heavens. They also attributed protective qualities to the stone, believing it would change color to warn the wearer of impending danger, and thus adorned dagger handles and jewelry with it. Native American cultures, particularly the Apache, also valued turquoise, incorporating it into bows, believing it enhanced accuracy, and later, into the silver and turquoise jewelry that became popular in the 1880s.
Zircon, another traditional December birthstone, shares a long history, though specific details regarding its early use are less detailed in the available sources.
Tanzanite, the newest addition to the December birthstone family, has a more recent history. Discovered in the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania in the late 1960s by a Maasai tribesman named Jumanne Ngoma, it was initially mistaken for sapphire. The Gemological Institute of America subsequently identified it as a previously unknown variety of zoisite.
Lapis Lazuli, with its deep blue hue, was revered by ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians, Sumerians, and Greeks, adorning tombs and ceremonial jewelry. Its name derives from the Latin "lapis" (stone) and the Persian word for blue, "lazulum."
Geological Formation and Sources
Turquoise is found globally, with significant sources in ancient Persia (modern-day Iran), Turkey, and the southwestern United States. Each region imparts unique characteristics to the stone.
Zircon is not discussed in detail regarding its geological formation or sources in the provided materials.
Blue topaz sources are not specified in the provided materials.
Tanzanite is exclusively sourced from the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, contributing to its rarity and value. The sources indicate that the gem begins as brownish zoisite, requiring heat treatment to achieve its characteristic blue to violet hues.
Lapis Lazuli is not detailed regarding its geological formation or sources in the provided materials.
Gemological Properties
The provided sources offer limited detailed gemological data. Tanzanite registers between 6 and 7 on the Mohs scale of hardness, indicating moderate resistance to scratching. It can be susceptible to cracking with exposure to high temperatures or sudden temperature changes and is vulnerable to attack by hydrochloric and hydrofluoric acids. The heat treatment used to enhance its color is a permanent process, with no subsequent durability concerns.
Turquoise, zircon, topaz, and lapis lazuli’s gemological properties are not detailed in the provided sources.
The following table summarizes the limited hardness data available:
| Gemstone | Mohs Hardness |
|---|---|
| Tanzanite | 6-7 |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, December’s birthstones have been imbued with symbolic meaning. Turquoise, for the ancient Persians, represented protection and was believed to change color to warn of danger. It is also associated with royalty and divine wisdom.
Lapis Lazuli symbolized royalty and divine wisdom in ancient times, its deep blue hue reminiscent of the night sky.
Blue topaz is linked to instilling a sense of inner calm and fostering creativity.
Tanzanite, with its vivid colors, is treasured for its rarity and beauty.
Zircon’s symbolism is not detailed in the provided sources.
Care and Cleaning
The sources provide specific care instructions for tanzanite. Warm, soapy water is recommended for cleaning, while ultrasonic and steam cleaners should be avoided. Due to its moderate hardness, tanzanite is best set in earrings or pendants to minimize the risk of damage from daily wear. With a protective mounting and careful handling, it can be worn as a special-occasion ring.
Care instructions for turquoise, zircon, topaz, and lapis lazuli are not detailed in the provided sources.
December Gemstones vs. Fancy Colored Diamonds
The sources briefly compare December birthstones to fancy colored diamonds. While fancy colored diamonds offer a spectrum of vibrant hues, December birthstones represent a variety of colored gems with unique cultural significance. December birthstones are mined from various regions, while fancy colored diamonds originate from locations like Russia, South Africa, Botswana, Australia, and Brazil. December birthstones embody protection, well-being, and uniqueness, while fancy colored diamonds emphasize individuality and expression.
Conclusion
December’s birthstones – turquoise, blue zircon, blue topaz, tanzanite, and lapis lazuli – offer a diverse and historically rich selection for those born in the twelfth month. From the ancient origins of turquoise in Egyptian tombs to the recent discovery of tanzanite in Tanzania, each gemstone carries a unique story and symbolism. While the provided sources offer limited detailed gemological data, they highlight the enduring appeal and cultural significance of these beautiful stones. The variety of colors and histories associated with December’s birthstones allows individuals to choose a gem that resonates with their personal style and beliefs.