December is unique among months, boasting not one, but four recognized birthstones: turquoise, blue topaz, zircon, and tanzanite. These gemstones, each exhibiting shades of blue and violet, reflect the cool tones of the winter season and offer a diverse range of options for those born in December. Historically, December’s birthstone selection has evolved, with ruby, lapis lazuli, onyx, chrysoprase, and bloodstone also holding significance in various cultures and time periods. This article will delve into the history, geological origins, gemological properties, symbolism, and care of these December birthstones, drawing solely from available sources.
History and Lore
The association of gemstones with specific months dates back centuries, often rooted in astrological beliefs and cultural traditions. Turquoise holds the longest-standing connection to December, having been considered a birthstone for the month for thousands of years. Ancient shamans valued turquoise as a talisman for protection, prosperity, and good luck. Ruby, too, was historically linked to December, believed to sharpen the mind, improve concentration, and encourage courtly love.
Lapis lazuli was a recognized December birthstone prior to the 1950s, associated with ancient royalty and artists, and believed to promote self-mastery and protection. Chrysoprase, the old Russian birthstone for December, was thought to bring good fortune and mend broken hearts. Onyx, the Tibetan birthstone for December, offered protective energy and encouraged happiness. Bloodstone, a traditional December birthstone, was a stone of courage, renewing energy and grounding vigor.
Zircon officially replaced lapis lazuli as a December birthstone in 1952. Tanzanite is the newest addition, officially listed as a December birthstone in the United States in 2002, discovered in Tanzania in 1967. The addition of these newer stones reflects evolving trends in the gemstone market and a desire to provide variety.
Geological Formation and Sources
The origins of these December birthstones are geographically diverse. Turquoise forms in relatively dry, arid regions, often near copper deposits. Blue topaz is not described in terms of geological formation or specific sources within the provided materials. Zircon occurs in a variety of geological settings, and is found in many colors, including blue. Tanzanite is exclusively found in the Merelani Hills of northern Tanzania, near Mount Kilimanjaro.
The sources for the older, historically significant December birthstones are less specifically detailed in the provided materials. However, the long-standing use of turquoise suggests ancient sources in regions where it is naturally found.
Gemological Properties
The December birthstones exhibit a range of gemological properties. While a comprehensive analysis is limited by the provided sources, some key characteristics can be outlined:
| Gemstone | Color(s) | Notable Properties |
|---|---|---|
| Turquoise | Sky blue, earthy | Often opaque, valued for its unique matrix patterns |
| Blue Topaz | Icy blue | Clarity and calming energy |
| Zircon | Blue, golden, red, clear | Sparkles like diamonds, variety of colors |
| Tanzanite | Violet-blue | Shimmer reminiscent of sapphire, luxurious vibe |
Blue topaz is known for its icy blue clarity and calming energy. Zircon, while available in multiple colors, is often favored in its blue variety for December birthstone jewelry. Tanzanite displays a violet-blue shimmer, often compared to sapphire, and is considered an elegant and luxurious gem. Turquoise is characterized by its soft, sky-blue glow and earthy charm.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Each of the December birthstones carries its own symbolic weight and associated metaphysical beliefs. Turquoise is believed to offer protection, promote self-expression, and encourage compassion. Blue topaz is associated with calmness, communication, and emotional balance. Zircon is thought to enhance mental clarity, intuition, and grounding. Tanzanite is considered a protective and soothing stone, facilitating the sharing of spiritual information.
Ruby, historically associated with December, symbolizes sharpened focus and courtly love. Chrysoprase is believed to bring good fortune and heal emotional wounds. Onyx offers self-mastery and protective energy, while bloodstone is a stone of courage and revitalization. Lapis lazuli, once a December birthstone, represents self-mastery and protection, clearing the mind and bringing peace.
Care and Cleaning
The provided sources offer limited specific care instructions. However, a general recommendation is given: all gemstones are unique and should be handled with care. Regular cleansing is suggested, either by bathing in full moonlight, placing on selenite, or moving through sage smoke. It is also advised to remove jewelry daily to allow the gemstones to rest. Given the varying hardness of these stones, specific care requirements would depend on the individual gem, but gentle handling is universally recommended.
Conclusion
December’s birthstones – turquoise, blue topaz, zircon, and tanzanite – represent a beautiful and diverse selection of gems, each with its own unique history, properties, and symbolism. From the ancient protective qualities of turquoise to the modern discovery of tanzanite, these stones offer a connection to different cultures and eras. The inclusion of multiple birthstones for December provides a range of options for individuals to express their personal style and connect with the energy of their birth month. Whether valued for their aesthetic beauty, metaphysical properties, or historical significance, these gemstones remain timeless symbols of elegance and individuality.