December is a month celebrated with a rich array of gemstone options, offering a diverse palette of blues and beyond for those born within its festive timeframe. While turquoise and zircon have historically held prominence as December birthstones, modern lists include tanzanite, lapis lazuli, and blue topaz, providing a wide selection of choices based on preference, price, and personal meaning. This article will delve into the history, geological origins, gemological properties, and symbolism of these December birthstones, offering a comprehensive overview for enthusiasts and those seeking to understand the significance of these captivating gems.
A History Rooted in Tradition and Modern Discovery
The tradition of associating gemstones with specific months dates back to ancient civilizations, including Egypt, Greece, and Rome, where gems were believed to possess mystical and healing properties. The practice evolved over time, with different cultures assigning varying stones to each month. For December, turquoise and zircon have long been recognized as primary birthstones. Turquoise, with a history stretching back millennia, was even found adorning the funerary mask of King Tut, demonstrating its value in ancient cultures. It is also associated with the 11th wedding anniversary. Zircon, one of the oldest minerals on Earth, carries significant historical and geological weight.
However, the December birthstone landscape expanded in the 20th century. In 1952, zircon was officially recognized as a December birthstone. More recently, tanzanite, discovered in Tanzania near Mount Kilimanjaro, gained popularity due to its unique color and limited source. Blue topaz also emerged as a modern alternative, particularly in the United States. This expansion provides a variety of options, catering to different tastes and budgets.
Geological Formation and Sources
The origins of December’s birthstones are as diverse as the stones themselves. Turquoise forms in relatively shallow subsurface environments during the weathering of copper-rich rocks. It is often found in arid regions, and while the name suggests a Turkish origin (“pierre turquoise” meaning “stone of Turkey”), much of the turquoise traded in Europe historically came through Turkish bazaars.
Zircon, a remarkably durable mineral, forms in igneous rocks and metamorphic rocks. Its widespread presence in the Earth’s crust contributes to its ancient history.
Tanzanite, uniquely, is found in only one location globally: the Merelani Hills of northern Tanzania, near Mount Kilimanjaro. This limited source contributes to its rarity and value.
Blue topaz is typically created through irradiation of colorless topaz, which is found in various locations including Brazil, Nigeria, and Russia.
Gemological Properties: A Spectrum of Brilliance
Each December birthstone possesses distinct gemological properties that contribute to its unique appeal.
Turquoise: This opaque gemstone ranges in color from blue to green, often with matrix (veins of other minerals) present. Its hardness on the Mohs scale is relatively low, around 5-6, requiring careful handling.
Zircon: Celebrated for its brilliant fire and rainbow of colors, zircon boasts a high refractive index, contributing to its sparkle. Its hardness ranges from 6.5 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale.
Tanzanite: This gemstone is prized for its trichroism – displaying three different colors (blue, violet, and burgundy) depending on the viewing angle. Its hardness is between 6 and 7 on the Mohs scale.
Blue Topaz: Topaz, in its blue variety, is known for its clarity and serene color. It has a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively durable.
Here's a comparative table of hardness:
| Gemstone | Mohs Hardness |
|---|---|
| Turquoise | 5-6 |
| Zircon | 6.5-7.5 |
| Tanzanite | 6-7 |
| Blue Topaz | 8 |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, December birthstones have been attributed with various symbolic meanings and metaphysical properties. Turquoise is often associated with success, happiness, and prosperity. It is believed to bring good fortune and protect against negative energy. Zircon is thought to promote wisdom, honor, and prosperity, and is valued for its clarity and color range. Tanzanite is believed to stimulate intuition and enhance spiritual awareness. Blue topaz is associated with calmness, serenity, and loyalty.
These stones are more than just beautiful adornments; they are believed to connect wearers to historical and cultural narratives, enhancing both their aesthetic appeal and personal meaning. The belief in their power has persisted for centuries, influencing their use in jewelry and as talismans.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care is essential to maintain the beauty and vibrancy of December birthstones. Due to its lower hardness, turquoise is susceptible to scratching and should be protected from harsh impacts. Cleaning turquoise involves using only mild soap and warm water, avoiding ultrasonic cleaners or harsh chemicals. Zircon, tanzanite, and blue topaz are more durable but still require gentle cleaning with mild soap and warm water. Avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight, which can fade the color of some stones. Regular cleaning will help preserve their brilliance and luster. Following these simple care instructions will ensure that these gemstones remain beautiful for years to come.
Conclusion
December’s birthstones—zircon, topaz, tanzanite, lapis lazuli, and turquoise—offer a rich mix of history and symbolism, making each unique for those born in this month. From the ancient allure of turquoise to the modern discovery of tanzanite, these gems represent a diverse range of colors, origins, and beliefs. These stones are more than just beautiful; they reflect the wearer's personality and bring a variety of cultural significances. When choosing between these gemstones, December’s stones stand out with their vibrant colors and deep cultural roots, providing a distinct way to express individuality. Purchasing these gemstones requires careful research and consultation with experts to ensure quality and authenticity. Their unique traits demand thoughtful handling and care to maintain their beauty over time.