December boasts a unique distinction among the birthstones: not one, but four gemstones represent the month – turquoise, zircon, tanzanite, and blue topaz. Each offers a distinct shade of blue, alongside a rich history and captivating lore. This variety allows individuals born in December to select a gem that resonates with their personal style and preferences, ranging from the earthy tones of turquoise to the vibrant hues of blue topaz.
A History of Multiple Stones
The selection of multiple birthstones for December is a relatively recent development. Originally, turquoise held the sole designation as the December birthstone, recognized as early as 1912 by the National Association of Jewelers. Throughout the mid-20th century, blue zircon was added to cater to those seeking a more sparkling gem than the opaque turquoise could provide. The discovery of tanzanite in Tanzania in 1967 led to further lobbying by jewelers, and the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) officially recognized it as an alternate birthstone in 2002. Finally, blue topaz joined the list in 2016, offering an affordable and durable option for December babies. Today, the GIA acknowledges all four gemstones, making December the only month with such a broad range of birthstone choices.
Turquoise: The Ancient Sky Stone
Turquoise, with its captivating blue-to-green hues, is arguably the oldest of the December birthstones, coloring human history for nearly 6,000 years. Ancient Egyptians mined turquoise in the Sinai desert, crafting it into scarab amulets. Persian architects utilized crushed turquoise powder to create glowing domes for mosques. In the American Southwest, Navajo silversmiths revered it as “stone fallen from the sky,” believing it held the protective power of thunder gods.
This semi-translucent to opaque gem often displays veins of matrix, remnants of the rock in which it formed, adding to its unique character. Historically, turquoise was believed to guarantee health and good fortune. From the 13th century onward, it was thought to protect wearers from falls, even breaking into pieces to warn of impending disaster. Hindu mystics believed that viewing turquoise after a new moon would bring immense wealth. Turquoise is believed to calm nerves and aid in navigation through life, making it a popular talisman for travelers. It is particularly beneficial for those under the signs of Jupiter, Pisces, and Sagittarius, offering protection during risky endeavors.
Zircon: A Spectrum of Color and Lore
Zircon presents a diverse color palette, encompassing red, orange, yellow, brown, green, and blue. The name “zircon” is debated, potentially originating from the Arabic word “zarkun” meaning “cinnabar” or “vermilion,” or the Persian word “zargun,” meaning “gold colored.” Colorless zircon is renowned for its brilliance and fire, often mistaken for diamond.
During the Middle Ages, zircon was believed to induce sleep and ward off evil spirits. In Hindu tradition, it alternates with hessonite garnet as one of the nine gems of the navaratna, believed to bestow wealth, wisdom, and good health upon the wearer. Victorian-era jewelry frequently featured blue zircon, with fine specimens found in English estate pieces from the 1880s. Zircon typically ranges from 6 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale of hardness and is often heat-treated to produce blue and colorless varieties. Prolonged exposure to bright light can sometimes cause heat-treated stones to revert to their original color.
Tanzanite: A Modern Marvel
Tanzanite, discovered in Tanzania’s Mireland Hills in 1967, is a relatively recent addition to the birthstone family. Its violet-blue hue quickly captivated jewelers and the public alike, leading to its official recognition by the GIA in 2002. Cleaning tanzanite requires warm, soapy water; ultrasonic and steam cleaners are not recommended.
Blue Topaz: Affordability and Versatility
Blue topaz is a silicate mineral composed of aluminum and fluorine, possessing a glass-like luster and strong chemical bonding. It exhibits a range of blue shades, including deep inky London Blue, vibrant Swiss Blue, and light aqua Sky Blue. The name “topaz” derives from the Sanskrit word for “fire.” Most commercially available blue topaz is created by irradiating naturally colorless topaz.
London Blue topaz, with its deep, inky color, is particularly prized by collectors. Blue topaz is a durable and affordable option, available in numerous shapes and sizes, making it a popular choice for jewelry designers. Its chemical formula is Al2SiO4(F,OH)4.
Gemological Properties and Care
Each December birthstone possesses unique gemological properties requiring specific care. Zircon, with a hardness of 6 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale, is susceptible to abrasion and should be avoided in rough conditions. Turquoise, being relatively soft, also requires careful handling. Blue topaz, with its greater hardness, is more durable but can still be damaged by harsh chemicals. Tanzanite, while beautiful, is also relatively soft and requires gentle cleaning.
Here's a comparative table of hardness based on the Mohs scale:
| Gemstone | Mohs Hardness |
|---|---|
| Turquoise | 5-6 |
| Zircon | 6-7.5 |
| Blue Topaz | 8 |
| Tanzanite | 6.5-7 |
Generally, warm, soapy water and a soft brush are the safest methods for cleaning these gemstones. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners are not recommended for tanzanite or zircon.
Symbolism and Significance
Each of the December birthstones carries its own symbolism. Turquoise represents protection, healing, and good fortune. Zircon symbolizes prosperity, wisdom, and honor. Tanzanite is associated with transformation, intuition, and spiritual growth. Blue topaz embodies loyalty, clarity, and communication. The diverse symbolism of these gemstones allows individuals to choose a stone that aligns with their personal beliefs and aspirations.
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Conclusion
The December birthstones – turquoise, zircon, tanzanite, and blue topaz – offer a captivating spectrum of color, history, and symbolism. From the ancient lore surrounding turquoise to the modern appeal of tanzanite and blue topaz, these gemstones provide a wealth of options for those born in the final month of the year. The variety ensures that every December baby can find a birthstone that perfectly reflects their individual personality and style, connecting them to a rich legacy of beauty and meaning.