December is unique among the months, boasting not one, but two recognized birthstones: Tanzanite and Zircon. Both gems offer a captivating spectrum of color and carry distinct histories and symbolic meanings. While traditionally Zircon held the sole designation for December, Tanzanite was added in 2002, acknowledging its growing popularity and international appeal. This article will delve into the geological origins, gemological properties, historical context, and symbolism of these two December birthstones, providing a comprehensive overview for enthusiasts and those seeking to understand their significance.
A History of December’s Gems
The concept of birthstones dates back to ancient times, with early associations often linked to astrological signs rather than specific calendar months. The practice of assigning gemstones to months gained traction over centuries, evolving through various cultural interpretations. Initially, zodiac stones and birthstones were largely synonymous, utilizing semi-precious gems. However, as precious gems became more accessible, they began to feature prominently in birthstone lists.
Zircon, with a history stretching back millennia, was long considered the primary December birthstone. Tanzanite, in contrast, is a relatively recent discovery, gaining prominence in the late 20th century thanks to the efforts of Tiffany & Co. who recognized its potential and launched a marketing campaign to introduce it to a wider audience. The addition of Tanzanite reflects the dynamic nature of birthstone traditions, adapting to new discoveries and evolving preferences.
Zircon: A Spectrum of Color and Ancient Origins
Zircon is not a single mineral, but a group of silicate minerals that come in a wide array of colors, including red, orange, brown, yellow, green, and blue. While blue Zircon is often associated with December, it is frequently substituted with blue Topaz in modern jewelry due to Zircon’s relative softness and potential for wear.
Historically, Zircon has been valued for its brilliance and used in jewelry for centuries. Its hardness ranges from 6 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale, making it suitable for everyday wear with proper care. Zircon is commonly heat-treated to enhance or alter its color, creating a diverse palette for jewelers. Major sources of Zircon include Sri Lanka and Australia.
Tanzanite: A Modern Gem with a Unique Origin
Tanzanite, a relatively recent addition to the birthstone family, derives its name from its country of origin: Tanzania. Discovered in the Merelani Hills of Tanzania, this gem quickly gained recognition for its exceptional clarity and vivid colors. Tiffany & Co. played a pivotal role in popularizing Tanzanite, launching a significant advertising campaign in 1968 to promote its beauty and rarity.
Tanzanite is a trichroic gem, meaning it exhibits three different colors depending on the viewing angle – blue, violet, and burgundy. This unique optical property contributes to its captivating allure. It is also commonly gifted to celebrate a 24th wedding anniversary. The gem’s hardness is rated between 6 and 7 on the Mohs scale, making it best suited for earrings or pendants to minimize potential damage. Tanzanite is commercially mined exclusively in the Merelani Hills of Tanzania, further enhancing its exclusivity.
Gemological Properties: A Comparative Overview
Understanding the gemological properties of both Zircon and Tanzanite is crucial for appreciating their unique characteristics and ensuring proper care.
| Property | Zircon | Tanzanite |
|---|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | ZrSiO₄ | Ca₂Al₃(SiO₄)₃(OH) |
| Mohs Hardness | 6 - 7.5 | 6 - 7 |
| Color | Red, Orange, Brown, Yellow, Green, Blue | Blue, Violet, Burgundy |
| Luster | Adamantine | Vitreous |
| Transparency | Transparent to Opaque | Transparent |
| Origin | Sri Lanka, Australia | Tanzania |
Zircon’s hardness, ranging from 6 to 7.5, makes it more durable than Tanzanite, which typically falls between 6 and 7. Both gems require careful handling to avoid scratches and damage. Tanzanite’s trichroism is a defining characteristic, while Zircon’s diverse color range offers a broader selection for jewelry design.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, gemstones have been imbued with symbolic meanings and believed to possess metaphysical properties. While these beliefs vary across cultures, they contribute to the enduring appeal of birthstones.
Zircon has been associated with prosperity, wisdom, and honor. Some traditions suggest it can promote restful sleep and ward off negative energy. Tanzanite, being a more recent discovery, has developed a more contemporary symbolism, often linked to transformation, intuition, and spiritual awareness. It is believed to facilitate communication and encourage self-expression.
Historically, Bloodstone, a variety of cryptocrystalline quartz, was also associated with December, believed to provide health, youth, strength, and even invisibility. It was linked to religious beliefs, with its red spots representing the blood of Christ. While less commonly recognized as a primary December birthstone today, its historical significance remains noteworthy.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care is essential to maintain the beauty and longevity of both Zircon and Tanzanite jewelry. Due to their moderate hardness, both gems are susceptible to scratches and damage from impacts.
For Zircon, avoid exposure to harsh chemicals and extreme temperatures. Cleaning can be done with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. For Tanzanite, avoid ultrasonic cleaners and steam cleaners, as these can damage the gem. Gentle cleaning with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth is recommended. It is also advisable to store both gems in a soft fabric pouch to prevent scratches. Bloodstone should also be protected from high temperatures and stored in soft fabric.
Zodiac Connections
Beyond monthly birthstones, ancient and medieval astrologers assigned gemstones to zodiac signs, believing them to reflect planetary influences. While zodiac stones and birthstones were initially intertwined, they have largely diverged over time. Today, zodiac birthstones often include semi-precious gems, while standard birthstones encompass a wider range of precious stones. The provided information includes a chart detailing zodiac birthstones and their corresponding colors, offering an alternative way to connect with gemstone symbolism based on astrological alignment.
Conclusion
December’s birthstones, Zircon and Tanzanite, represent a fascinating blend of tradition and modernity. Zircon, with its ancient origins and diverse colors, offers a timeless appeal, while Tanzanite, a relatively recent discovery, captivates with its unique trichroism and vibrant hues. Both gems carry symbolic meanings and require careful handling to preserve their beauty. Whether chosen for their aesthetic qualities, historical significance, or metaphysical properties, these December birthstones offer a meaningful connection to the month of their birth and a lasting treasure for generations to come.