For those born on December 25th, a trio of captivating gemstones – turquoise, tanzanite, and blue zircon – claim the honor of birthstone. Each stone carries a unique history, symbolism, and aesthetic appeal, offering a diverse range of choices for those seeking a meaningful connection to their birthdate. While historically, turquoise and zircon held prominence, the recent addition of tanzanite has expanded the options, reflecting evolving gemological preferences and discoveries. This article will explore the origins, properties, and significance of these December birthstones, drawing upon historical context and gemological understanding.
History and Lore
The designation of birthstones has ancient roots, evolving over centuries and across cultures. Traditionally, December was associated with a variety of gemstones, including lapis lazuli, bloodstone, chrysoprase, and onyx, alongside turquoise and zircon. Turquoise, one of the oldest known birthstones, boasts a history stretching back millennia. Ancient civilizations revered it as a protective amulet, with warriors adorning themselves with the stone before battle, believing in its power to safeguard them from harm and negative energies.
Zircon, while also possessing a long history, became the primary December birthstone in the United States in 1952, replacing lapis lazuli. Its association with strength and protection dates back to ancient times, with the name “topaz” believed to originate from the Sanskrit word “tapas,” meaning fire.
Tanzanite is the newest addition to the December birthstone family, discovered relatively recently in 1967 in Tanzania. It was officially recognized as a December birthstone in Britain before its acceptance in America in 2002. Its short but impactful history is tied to its unique origin and captivating color.
Geological Formation and Sources
The geological origins of these three birthstones are vastly different, contributing to their distinct characteristics. Turquoise is a hydrated phosphate of copper and aluminum, forming in arid regions through the interaction of copper-rich groundwater with aluminum and phosphorus-containing rocks. Significant sources include the United States, particularly Arizona and New Mexico, as well as Turkey – from which the name “turquoise” itself is derived, meaning “stone of Turkey” due to its historical trade route.
Zircon, a zirconium silicate, forms in igneous rocks and metamorphic rocks. It occurs in a wide range of colors, but the blue variety is most commonly associated with December. Sources of zircon are found globally, including Sri Lanka, Cambodia, and Australia.
Tanzanite, a relatively rare gemstone, is a blue-violet variety of the mineral zoisite. It is found exclusively in the Merelani Hills of northern Tanzania, making it a geographically unique gemstone. Its formation requires specific geological conditions, contributing to its scarcity and value.
Gemological Properties
Each of these December birthstones possesses unique gemological properties that contribute to their beauty and desirability.
Turquoise: This opaque gemstone typically ranges in color from blue to green, often with matrix patterns (veins of other minerals) that add to its character. Its hardness on the Mohs scale is relatively low, ranging from 5 to 6, making it susceptible to scratching.
Blue Zircon: Zircon exhibits a high refractive index and strong dispersion, resulting in exceptional brilliance and fire, often mistaken for diamond. It has a hardness of 6.5 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale. The blue color in most commercially available zircon is achieved through heat treatment of colorless zircon.
Tanzanite: Tanzanite is a transparent gemstone displaying a trichroic pleochroism, meaning it exhibits three different colors – blue, violet, and burgundy – depending on the viewing angle. Its hardness is between 6 and 7 on the Mohs scale.
The following table summarizes key gemological properties:
| Gemstone | Chemical Composition | Hardness (Mohs) | Color(s) | Transparency |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Turquoise | Hydrated Phosphate of Copper and Aluminum | 5-6 | Blue to Green | Opaque |
| Blue Zircon | Zirconium Silicate | 6.5-7.5 | Blue | Transparent |
| Tanzanite | Calcium Aluminum Silicate (Zoisite) | 6-7 | Blue, Violet, Burgundy | Transparent |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, these gemstones have been imbued with symbolic meanings and metaphysical properties. Turquoise is widely regarded as a stone of protection, wisdom, and spiritual insight. It is believed to promote harmony and healing, balancing the mind, body, and spirit.
Blue zircon is associated with peace of mind and prosperity. It is thought to enhance intuition and guide individuals on a path of enlightenment.
Tanzanite symbolizes spirituality, transformation, and enlightenment. Its vivid blue-violet shades are believed to evoke a sense of deep contemplation, promoting clarity of thought and spiritual growth.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care is essential to maintain the beauty and longevity of these December birthstones. Turquoise, due to its relative softness, is susceptible to scratching and should be protected from harsh impacts. Cleaning turquoise involves using a soft cloth and mild soapy water. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners and harsh chemicals.
Blue zircon and tanzanite require gentle cleaning with mild soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners, as they can damage the stones. Due to tanzanite’s sensitivity to heat, avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight or heat sources.
Conclusion
The December 25th birthstones – turquoise, tanzanite, and blue zircon – represent a rich tapestry of history, geological wonder, and symbolic meaning. From the ancient protective powers attributed to turquoise to the modern allure of tanzanite and the brilliance of zircon, these gemstones offer a diverse range of options for those born in the final month of the year. Each stone embodies unique qualities, providing a personal connection to the beauty and mystique of the natural world. Their enduring appeal lies not only in their aesthetic qualities but also in the stories and beliefs they carry, making them cherished symbols of December birthdays.