The month of December, nestled within the chill of winter, is uniquely represented by a complex and evolving array of birthstones. Unlike some months with a single, long-held gemological association, December boasts a history of shifting designations, reflecting changing traditions, discoveries, and market influences. Currently, turquoise, zircon, tanzanite, and blue topaz all claim the title of December birthstone, but the story of December’s natal gems is far more intricate, stretching back to ancient interpretations of religious texts and evolving through centuries of cultural exchange. This article will explore the fascinating journey of December’s birthstones, from the ancient chrysoprase and ruby to the modern prominence of blue topaz and tanzanite.
A History of Changing Attributions
The concept of linking gemstones to specific months, and thus to individuals born within them, has roots in the biblical breastplate of Aaron, which featured twelve stones representing the tribes of Israel. This foundational idea was later adapted to associate gemstones with the months of the year. However, the assignment of stones wasn’t static. The first modern birthstone list, published in 1912 by the National Association of Jewelers in the United States, marked a significant shift, replacing less desirable opaque stones with clearer, more marketable gems. This trend of adaptation continues even today, with spinel being added as a modern August birthstone in 2016, demonstrating the dynamic nature of these associations.
December, in particular, has experienced a tumultuous history regarding its birthstone. Early traditions varied significantly. In Russia, chrysoprase held the position of December’s birthstone, a designation stemming from interpretations of the Book of Revelation. This ancient text describes a gem called chrysoprasos, which was initially believed to be a golden-green beryl. However, the chrysoprase of today is a variety of chalcedony, ranging from light to deep green, differing from the original description. Similarly, ruby was considered a December birthstone in several ancient cultures, particularly in India, where it was linked to the zodiac sign Leo and the sun.
The Ancient Claimants: Chrysoprase and Ruby
The earliest documented December birthstone, according to some interpretations, was chrysoprase. The connection arises from the tenth Foundation Stone mentioned in Revelation 21:19-20, identified as chrysoprasos. While modern interpretations equate chrysoprasos with the green chalcedony known as chrysoprase, ancient writers like Pliny the Elder described it as a golden-green beryl, more accurately identified as heliodor. This discrepancy highlights the challenges of interpreting ancient texts and the evolution of gemological understanding. Despite this ambiguity, chrysoprase held the position in Russia, though it did not gain widespread acceptance in Europe from the 1400s onward.
Ruby, another contender for the original December birthstone, enjoyed prominence in India. As the gem of the sun and associated with the zodiac sign Leo, ruby held a revered position in Hindu culture and was assigned to both July and December. India’s extensive ruby exports to Europe further contributed to its recognition as a December stone in various cultures.
The Rise of Modern Choices: Turquoise, Zircon, and Blue Topaz
As traditions shifted, turquoise, zircon, and blue topaz emerged as prominent December birthstones. Turquoise, recognized as one of the oldest known birthstones, retains a strong historical and cultural significance. Zircon, often mistaken for diamond due to its brilliance, offers a sparkling alternative. Blue topaz, a popular modern choice, is valued for its calming blue hues, ranging from sky blue to deep London Blue.
Blue topaz is particularly noteworthy as most blue stones available today are created through heat treatment of colorless topaz, demonstrating the impact of modern gemological techniques on the availability and appearance of birthstones. The association of topaz with December stems from the Sanskrit word “tapas,” meaning fire, historically linking the gem to strength and protection. In contemporary times, blue topaz symbolizes love and fidelity.
Tanzanite: The Newest December Gem
The most recent addition to December’s birthstone family is tanzanite, discovered in Tanzania in 1967. This relatively new gem, with its captivating blue-violet color, quickly gained popularity and was officially recognized as a December birthstone in 2002. Its rarity – tanzanite is found in only one location worldwide – contributes to its value and allure. While lacking the extensive lore of older stones, tanzanite is associated with healing, protection, and self-transformation, and is believed by some to activate the throat, third-eye, and crown chakras.
Gemological Properties: A Comparative Overview
The December birthstones exhibit a diverse range of gemological properties. Here’s a comparative overview:
| Gemstone | Chemical Formula | Hardness (Mohs) | Color(s) | Transparency |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Turquoise | CuAl6(PO4)4(OH)8·4H2O | 5-6 | Blue-green, sky blue, greenish-gray | Opaque |
| Zircon | ZrSiO4 | 6.5-7.5 | Colorless, brown, red, yellow, blue | Transparent |
| Blue Topaz | Al2SiO4(OH,F)2 | 8 | Blue (heat-treated colorless topaz) | Transparent |
| Tanzanite | Ca2Al3(SiO4)3(OH) | 6-7 | Blue-violet, purple, indigo | Transparent |
These varying properties influence the care and cleaning requirements of each stone. Turquoise, being relatively soft, requires gentle handling and should be protected from harsh chemicals and impacts. Zircon, with its good hardness, is more durable but can be brittle. Blue topaz and tanzanite, both with good hardness, are relatively resistant to scratching but should still be handled with care.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Each December birthstone carries its own set of symbolic meanings and metaphysical beliefs. Turquoise is often associated with protection, healing, and good fortune. Zircon is believed to promote wisdom, prosperity, and honor. Blue topaz symbolizes love, fidelity, and calmness. Tanzanite is linked to transformation, intuition, and spiritual awareness. These beliefs, while not scientifically proven, add another layer of significance to these beautiful gemstones.
Conclusion
The story of December’s birthstones is a testament to the evolving nature of tradition and the enduring appeal of gemstones. From the ancient chrysoprase and ruby to the modern turquoise, zircon, blue topaz, and tanzanite, each stone carries a unique history, symbolism, and gemological profile. The shifting designations reflect not only changing cultural preferences but also the impact of new discoveries and advancements in gemological understanding. Ultimately, the choice of a December birthstone is a personal one, reflecting individual preferences and the desire to connect with the rich history and captivating beauty of these remarkable gems.