The month of December, encompassing the early days of Capricorn season, boasts a remarkable array of birthstones – a testament to the evolving traditions surrounding these gems. While historically, Turquoise held prominence, the modern list recognizes Tanzanite, Blue Zircon, Garnet, Lapis Lazuli and Turquoise as significant stones for those born in December. For Capricorns specifically, both January and December offer distinct gemstones, reflecting the transition between years and the multifaceted nature of this ambitious zodiac sign. These stones, ranging in color from vibrant blues and greens to fiery reds, carry with them a rich history of symbolism, metaphysical beliefs, and geological origins.
History and Lore
The tradition of associating specific gemstones with months of the year, and subsequently with zodiac signs, has ancient roots. While early connections can be traced to Biblical texts, the formalized system of twelve birthstones emerged around the 1500s. However, the list has undergone several revisions, most notably standardized by the National Association of Jewelers in 1912, with further modifications in 1952 and as recently as 2016. December’s birthstones have experienced particularly frequent changes, with stones being added, removed, and reassigned over time.
Turquoise was originally the primary December birthstone, holding this position for a considerable period. Lapis Lazuli also held a place as a December stone until 1952, when Blue Zircon took its place. Today, Lapis Lazuli is considered an alternate September birthstone, but remains a stone of significance for Capricorns. Garnet, traditionally associated with January, is also recognized as a Capricorn birthstone, particularly for those born in the latter part of December. Tanzanite, a relatively recent discovery, has also gained prominence as a December birthstone, celebrated for its unique brilliance and color.
Geological Formation and Sources
The origins of these December birthstones are geographically diverse. Blue Topaz, mentioned as an alternative, is found in Brazil, India, Sri Lanka, and Madagascar. Turquoise, a longstanding December stone, is an opaque, blue-green stone often found with black inclusions. Garnet, while commonly red, exists in a spectrum of colors including brown, black, and orange, and its name derives from the Latin word “granatus,” meaning pomegranate. Tanzanite, a more recent find, is exclusively sourced from Tanzania, hence its name. Blue Zircon is known for its sparkle and luster, and is found in various locations, with some specimens dating back 4.4 billion years, making it the world’s oldest known gemstone. Lapis Lazuli, a vibrant blue rock often speckled with gold pyrite flakes, has a rich history and is found in various locations.
Gemological Properties
The December birthstones exhibit a wide range of gemological properties. Garnet, as a family of gemstones, doesn’t have a single chemical formula, but generally consists of silicate minerals. Turquoise is a hydrated phosphate of copper and aluminum, with a hardness that makes it relatively soft compared to other gemstones. Tanzanite, a variety of the mineral zoisite, boasts a unique pleochroism, displaying different colors when viewed from different angles – shades of blue, violet, and red. Blue Zircon is a zirconium silicate (ZrSiO4) and is known for its high refractive index, contributing to its brilliance. Lapis Lazuli is a metamorphic rock composed primarily of lazurite, with varying amounts of calcite, pyrite, and other minerals.
Here's a comparative overview of some key properties:
| Gemstone | Chemical Composition | Hardness (Mohs) | Color(s) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Garnet | Silicate minerals | 6.5 - 7.5 | Red, Brown, Black, Orange |
| Turquoise | CuAl6(PO4)4(OH)8·4H2O | 5 - 6 | Blue-Green |
| Tanzanite | Ca2Al3(SiO4)3(OH) | 6 - 7 | Blue-Violet |
| Blue Zircon | ZrSiO4 | 6.5 - 7.5 | Blue |
| Lapis Lazuli | (Na,Ca)9Al6Si6O24S | 5 - 6 | Deep Blue with Pyrite |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, each of these gemstones has been imbued with symbolic meaning and metaphysical properties. Garnet, with its rich red tones, symbolizes passion, strength, and resilience, inspiring confidence and promoting success. Tanzanite, with its deep blue-violet hue, represents wisdom, peace, and inner strength. Blue Zircon is associated with Saturn, Capricorn’s ruling planet in Vedic astrology, and is believed to bring romance and a positive outlook. Turquoise, historically significant, is a sign of hope, happiness, and loyalty in some cultures, while others associate it with joy and prosperity. Lapis Lazuli, often called the “Stone of Heaven,” is believed to contain the wisdom of the universe, aiding in spiritual awareness.
Black Tourmaline, a Capricorn power color, offers grounding, protection, and strength. Bloodstone, associated with Mars, brings endurance and stress-relief. Ruby, while now a July birthstone, is still considered beneficial for Capricorns, providing greater concentration, compassion, and creativity, and protecting what they value most. Sapphires, also part of the corundum family, are linked to Saturn, fostering determination and self-discipline.
Care and Cleaning
The care required for each of these gemstones varies based on their hardness and composition. Garnet, with its relatively good hardness, can be cleaned with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Turquoise, being softer, requires more gentle cleaning – avoid harsh chemicals and ultrasonic cleaners. Tanzanite is susceptible to damage from heat and chemicals, so gentle cleaning with mild soap and water is recommended. Blue Zircon, while durable, should also be cleaned carefully to avoid scratching. Lapis Lazuli, due to its composition, should be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap, avoiding prolonged exposure to water.
Conclusion
The December birthstones – Garnet, Blue Zircon, Tanzanite, Turquoise, and Lapis Lazuli – offer a diverse and captivating collection of gems, each with its unique history, geological origins, and symbolic meaning. These stones resonate particularly well with the Capricorn personality, embodying traits such as ambition, resilience, and a deep connection to tradition. Whether chosen for their aesthetic beauty, metaphysical properties, or historical significance, these December birthstones provide a meaningful connection to the natural world and the enduring power of gemstones.