December is unique among months, boasting not one, but three recognized birthstones: turquoise, tanzanite, and zircon, with blue zircon being particularly prominent. This selection reflects a fascinating evolution in birthstone traditions, shifting from earlier associations with ruby to the modern inclusion of tanzanite in 2002. The month itself, derived from the Latin decem meaning “ten,” symbolizes change, camaraderie, and the warmth of reunions during the colder season. Each of these gemstones carries its own distinct history, symbolism, and gemological properties, offering a diverse range of choices for those born in December.
History and Lore
The history of December birthstones is marked by change. Initially, ruby was designated as the birthstone for December, a practice rooted in early Biblical gemstone lists. However, over time, this association evolved. By 1870, Tiffany & Co.’s “Gregorian Birthstone Poems” pamphlet had established turquoise as a December birthstone. The National Association of Jewellers (now Jewellers of America) further solidified this in 1912, listing turquoise as the primary stone and lapis lazuli as an alternative. Zircon was added to the list in 1952 by the Jewelry Industry Council of America, and most recently, tanzanite joined the ranks in 2002.
Turquoise holds a particularly long and rich history, cherished for millennia across various cultures. Ancient Egyptians adorned themselves with turquoise, believing it possessed protective qualities and guaranteed good fortune. Chinese artisans were carving turquoise over 3,000 years ago. From the 13th century onward, it was believed to safeguard against falls, particularly from horses, and to warn of impending disaster by fracturing. Hindu mystics associated turquoise with wealth, believing that viewing the stone after a new moon would bring prosperity.
Tanzanite, in contrast, has a relatively recent history. Legend attributes its discovery to a bolt of lightning striking the ground near the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro, transforming the rocks into shimmering blue stones. The Maasai tribe traditionally gifts tanzanite to new parents as a blessing, symbolizing health, well-being, and wealth.
Geological Formation and Sources
Turquoise is a semi-translucent gem formed from a combination of copper and aluminum phosphate. It is created through the chemical interaction of acidic groundwater with minerals containing aluminum and phosphorus, resulting in its characteristic blue-green hue.
Tanzanite, a relatively recent discovery, originates from a single location: the Merelani Hills of northern Tanzania, near Mount Kilimanjaro. This limited source contributes to its rarity and value.
Zircon’s origins are more widespread, with deposits found in various locations globally. The sources for zircon are not detailed in the provided materials.
Gemological Properties
Turquoise is described as a semi-translucent to opaque gem, exhibiting colors ranging from blue to green. A defining characteristic of turquoise is the presence of matrix, which refers to remnants of the host rock visible as veins running through the stone.
Tanzanite displays a captivating blue to bluish-purple color.
Zircon is noted for its variety of colors, including rainbow hues, though blue zircon is particularly associated with December. The provided materials do not detail the chemical composition, hardness, or other specific gemological properties of these stones.
A comparative table of properties, based on the limited information available, is as follows:
| Gemstone | Color Range | Transparency | Notable Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Turquoise | Blue to Green | Semi-translucent to Opaque | Matrix Veins |
| Tanzanite | Blue to Bluish-Purple | Not Specified | Recent Discovery |
| Zircon | Rainbow Hues, Blue | Not Specified | Variety of Colors |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, December’s birthstones have been imbued with symbolic meaning and metaphysical properties. Turquoise has long been associated with protection, promoting self-expression, and encouraging compassion. It was believed to guarantee health and good fortune, and to ward off danger.
Tanzanite is linked to new beginnings, transformation, beauty, intuition, and psychic abilities. It is also believed to raise consciousness, dissolve old patterns, and promote health, well-being, and prosperity. Historically, it was thought to strengthen the immune system, detoxify blood, and regenerate cells.
Zircon is believed to enhance mental clarity, intuition, and grounding.
Blue topaz, also listed as a December birthstone, is associated with calmness, communication, and emotional balance.
Care and Cleaning
The provided materials offer specific care instructions only for tanzanite. It is advised to avoid sudden or extreme temperature changes, as well as exposure to extreme heat, steam cleaners, and ultrasonic cleaners. Cleaning should be performed with a soft brush and warm soapy water, followed by drying with a soft cloth. The care instructions for turquoise and zircon are not detailed in the provided sources.
Conclusion
December’s birthstones – turquoise, tanzanite, and zircon – represent a captivating blend of history, beauty, and symbolism. From the ancient protective powers attributed to turquoise to the modern allure of tanzanite and the varied brilliance of zircon, these gemstones offer a diverse range of options for those born in the final month of the year. Their enduring appeal lies not only in their aesthetic qualities but also in the rich traditions and cultural significance they embody. These stones are more than just beautiful adornments; they are timeless symbols of elegance, individuality, and the spirit of December.