December is unique among the calendar months, boasting not one, but three recognized birthstones: turquoise, tanzanite, and zircon. This tradition, while formalized in the 20th century, has roots stretching back millennia, interwoven with ancient beliefs, cultural practices, and evolving gemological understanding. Each of these stones carries a distinct history and symbolism, reflecting the diverse origins of the birthstone tradition itself.
The practice of associating gemstones with specific months, or with zodiac signs, originates in ancient times. The earliest known connection can be traced to the Breastplate of Aaron, described in the Book of Exodus, which featured twelve gemstones representing the tribes of Israel. Over time, these stones became linked to the months of the year, imbued with perceived healing properties and auspicious energies. Different cultures developed their own interpretations and lists, leading to variations in birthstone assignments. The American National Association of Jewelers (now Jewelers of America) attempted to standardize these lists in 1912, yet the historical precedent for multiple birthstones, as seen in December, predates this standardization.
Turquoise: A Stone Across Civilizations
Turquoise holds the longest and most consistent association with December, predating the modern birthstone list by centuries. Its history is deeply embedded in the cultures of the Middle East, Asia, and the Americas. As early as the 1300s, Persians and Egyptians valued turquoise for its perceived protective and healing qualities. Pharaohs, symbols of power and divine favor, adorned themselves with turquoise, and the stone even featured prominently in the burial mask of King Tut, demonstrating its high status and spiritual significance in ancient Egypt.
In China, turquoise was skillfully carved into intricate jewelry and amulets over 3,000 years ago. Native American tribes, particularly those in the southwestern United States, also held turquoise in high regard. It was incorporated into jewelry, amulets, and used as a medium of exchange and in ceremonial practices. The Apache tribe believed turquoise was formed at the end of a rainbow and could improve accuracy when attached to weapons. The stone’s symbolic importance extended beyond mere ornamentation, representing friendship, good fortune, health, protection, and peace. The name “turquoise” itself originates from the French phrase “pierre tourques,” meaning “Turkish stone,” reflecting the historical trade routes through which the gem reached Europe.
Tanzanite: A Modern Discovery with Enduring Appeal
In contrast to turquoise’s ancient lineage, tanzanite is a relatively recent discovery, unearthed in the Merelani Hills of Tanzania in 1967. Prior to this, the gem existed in nature but remained unrecognized as a distinct stone. Tanzanite is a variety of the mineral zoisite, notable for its ability to transform from a brownish hue to its celebrated blue-violet shades when heat-treated. The name honors its country of origin, Tanzania, as it is the only known source of this gemstone worldwide.
Despite its recent introduction to the gemological world, tanzanite quickly gained popularity among jewelers and collectors. Its allure is linked to its striking color and relative rarity. Metaphysical traditions associate tanzanite with transformation, spiritual growth, and psychic awakening. Some believe it activates the throat, third-eye, and crown chakras, facilitating higher states of consciousness and enhanced communication.
Zircon: A Gem with a Shifting Identity
Zircon completes the trio of December birthstones, though its association is less consistently documented than turquoise. While not explicitly detailed in the provided sources, zircon has a long history of use in jewelry and ornamentation. The sources do not provide details on the historical use of zircon, but it is noted as one of the three birthstones associated with December.
Historical Variations in December Birthstones
The assignment of birthstones has not remained static throughout history. Sources indicate that chrysoprase was once considered the traditional December birthstone in Russia, linked to a gem called chrysoprasos mentioned in the Book of Revelation. However, the chrysoprasos of ancient texts likely referred to a different gem – a golden-green beryl known as heliodor – rather than the green chalcedony we know as chrysoprase today. Similarly, ruby was designated as a December birthstone in several ancient cultures, including India, where it was associated with the zodiac sign Leo and the sun. This demonstrates the fluidity of birthstone traditions and the influence of cultural and astrological beliefs.
The Standardization of Birthstones
The modern standardization of birthstones occurred in 1912 when the American National Association of Jewelers created a list associating a single gemstone with each month. However, the historical precedent for multiple birthstones, as exemplified by December’s trio, demonstrates that this standardization was a relatively recent development. The enduring popularity of turquoise, tanzanite, and zircon as December birthstones reflects their individual histories, symbolic meanings, and aesthetic appeal.
Symbolism and Significance
The December birthstones collectively represent a range of positive attributes. Turquoise embodies protection, friendship, and good fortune. Tanzanite symbolizes transformation and spiritual growth. While the sources do not detail the symbolism of zircon, the association with December and its place among these other meaningful stones suggests a connection to the themes of hope, renewal, and the approaching new year. The cool blue hues of all three stones also evoke the winter season, reflecting the cool tones of December skies and the mystery of the night.
Conclusion
The December birthstones – turquoise, tanzanite, and zircon – represent a fascinating intersection of history, culture, and gemological science. From the ancient civilizations that revered turquoise for its protective powers to the modern discovery of tanzanite and the enduring presence of zircon, each stone carries a unique story. The tradition of assigning gemstones to birth months, while evolving over time, continues to hold significance as a personal symbol and a connection to the rich tapestry of human history. The diversity of December’s birthstones reflects the multifaceted nature of the month itself – a time of celebration, reflection, and anticipation for the year to come.