December, the final month of the year, is associated with a unique selection of birthstones, each offering its own distinct beauty, symbolism, and historical significance. These gemstones—blue zircon, blue topaz, tanzanite, lapis lazuli, and turquoise—have been cherished across cultures for their vibrant colors, metaphysical properties, and enduring appeal. This article delves into the rich history, geological properties, cultural meanings, and care requirements of these December birthstones, providing a detailed overview for gemstone enthusiasts, jewelry buyers, and students of gemology.
Introduction
December is notable for having five officially recognized birthstones—blue zircon, blue topaz, tanzanite, lapis lazuli, and turquoise—offering a diverse range of options for those born in this month. These gemstones are celebrated not only for their aesthetic appeal but also for their historical and symbolic significance. Each December birthstone has a unique story, from the ancient use of lapis lazuli in royal courts to the modern popularity of tanzanite. Their varied colors and properties make them ideal for a wide range of jewelry applications, including rings, necklaces, and pendants. This article explores the origins, properties, and cultural lore of each of these gemstones, offering a comprehensive resource for anyone interested in the world of birthstones.
History and Lore
The tradition of birthstones dates back thousands of years, with roots in ancient civilizations such as the Babylonians, Egyptians, and Greeks. These cultures assigned specific stones to each month of the year, believing that the gemstone held protective, healing, or spiritual powers for individuals born during that time. The practice evolved over centuries, with the modern list of birthstones being standardized in the 20th century by organizations such as the American National Association of Jewelers (now known as the Jewelers of America).
Blue Zircon
Zircon, particularly the blue variety, has been used as a December birthstone since the 1950s. The gemstone is one of the oldest minerals on Earth, with some zircon crystals dating back over 4 billion years. Its brilliant fire and range of colors, from golden yellow to deep blue, make it a popular choice for jewelry. Zircon has also been historically used as a diamond simulant due to its high refractive index and dispersion, which give it a fiery sparkle.
Blue Topaz
Blue topaz has gained popularity as a December birthstone in modern times, particularly for its affordability and durability. While topaz has been used in jewelry for centuries, the blue variety was not always common. It was only after the development of heat treatment techniques in the 20th century that blue topaz became widely available. This process involves heating yellow or brownish topaz to transform it into a vibrant blue hue. The result is a gemstone that is both beautiful and accessible, making it a popular choice for those born in December.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is a relatively recent addition to the list of December birthstones, having been discovered in Tanzania in 1967. Unlike the other December birthstones, which have been known for centuries, tanzanite is a modern gemstone that quickly gained popularity due to its striking blue to violet color. It is the only gemstone found exclusively in one location—near Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania—which adds to its rarity and value. Tanzanite is often associated with spiritual awakening and transformation, making it a meaningful choice for those who resonate with its symbolism.
Lapis Lazuli
Lapis lazuli has been used as a gemstone for thousands of years, with evidence of its use dating back to ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia. Its deep blue color, often flecked with gold or white, has made it a symbol of wisdom, truth, and royalty. In ancient times, lapis lazuli was ground into powder and used to create cosmetics, particularly eye makeup, by Egyptian royalty. It was also used in jewelry, amulets, and decorative objects. As a December birthstone, lapis lazuli continues to carry its historical significance, representing intellect, spirituality, and a connection to higher consciousness.
Turquoise
Turquoise has been used for millennia across various cultures, including ancient Egypt, Persia, and the Americas. Its blue-green color has been associated with protection, good fortune, and spiritual power. In many indigenous cultures, turquoise is considered a sacred stone, used in rituals and ceremonies to connect with the spiritual world. As a December birthstone, turquoise is valued for its calming properties and its ability to enhance creativity and inner peace. Its popularity as a birthstone is also due to its availability and affordability, making it accessible to a wide range of people.
Geological Formation and Sources
Each December birthstone has its own unique geological history and source locations, contributing to its rarity and beauty.
Blue Zircon
Zircon is a silicate mineral that forms in igneous and metamorphic rocks. It is found in various parts of the world, including Australia, Sri Lanka, and Thailand. The blue color of zircon is typically the result of heat treatment, which alters the gemstone’s color from its natural brown or yellow hues. Zircon is known for its high refractive index and dispersion, which give it a brilliant, fire-like sparkle. However, it is relatively soft compared to other gemstones, with a hardness ranging from 6 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale.
Blue Topaz
Topaz is a silicate mineral that forms in pegmatite rocks. Natural blue topaz is rare, so most of the blue topaz available in the market is produced through heat treatment. This process involves heating yellow or brownish topaz to transform it into a vibrant blue hue. The most common sources of topaz include Brazil, Nigeria, and the United States. Topaz is a relatively hard gemstone, with a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale, making it durable and suitable for everyday wear.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is a variety of the mineral zoisite, and it is found exclusively in Tanzania. It was discovered in the Merelani Hills near Mount Kilimanjaro in 1967 by a local Maasai herdsman. The gemstone’s unique blue to violet color is due to trace amounts of vanadium. Tanzanite is relatively soft, with a hardness of 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale, and it can be sensitive to heat and light. This makes it important to handle and care for tanzanite with care to preserve its color and luster.
Lapis Lazuli
Lapis lazuli is a metamorphic rock composed primarily of lazurite, a type of feldspar. It is found in Afghanistan, which has been the primary source of high-quality lapis lazuli for thousands of years. Other sources include Russia, Chile, and the United States. Lapis lazuli is relatively soft, with a hardness of 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale, making it more susceptible to scratches and damage. Its deep blue color is due to the presence of sulfur in the lazurite crystals, and the flecks of gold or white are caused by the presence of pyrite and calcite.
Turquoise
Turquoise is a hydrated phosphate of aluminum and copper. It forms in arid regions where copper-rich minerals are exposed to water and oxygen. The most well-known sources of turquoise include the American Southwest, particularly Arizona and Nevada, as well as Iran, China, and Egypt. Turquoise is a relatively soft gemstone, with a hardness of 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale, and it can be sensitive to heat, chemicals, and physical damage. Due to its softness, turquoise is often stabilized with resins or oils to enhance its durability and color.
Gemological Properties
Each December birthstone has distinct gemological properties that contribute to its beauty and desirability.
Blue Zircon
- Hardness: 6 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale
- Color: Blue, yellow, red, green
- Refractive Index: 1.92 to 2.00
- Chemical Composition: Zirconium silicate (ZrSiO₄)
- Specific Gravity: 4.5 to 5.0
- Luster: Vitreous
- Transparency: Transparent to translucent
Blue zircon is known for its high refractive index and dispersion, giving it a brilliant, fire-like sparkle. It is often heat-treated to produce its blue color and is available in a range of other colors, including golden yellow, red, and green.
Blue Topaz
- Hardness: 8 on the Mohs scale
- Color: Blue, yellow, pink, red
- Refractive Index: 1.61 to 1.63
- Chemical Composition: Aluminum silicate (Al₂SiO₆)
- Specific Gravity: 3.5 to 3.6
- Luster: Vitreous
- Transparency: Transparent
Blue topaz is a durable gemstone with a high hardness rating. It is often heat-treated to produce its blue color, which ranges from a pale sky blue to a deep electric blue. Its clarity and brilliance make it a popular choice for jewelry.
Tanzanite
- Hardness: 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale
- Color: Blue to violet
- Refractive Index: 1.694 to 1.701
- Chemical Composition: Calcium aluminum silicate (Ca₂Al₃(SiO₄)₃(OH))
- Specific Gravity: 3.3 to 3.4
- Luster: Vitreous
- Transparency: Transparent to translucent
Tanzanite is prized for its unique blue to violet color, which is caused by trace amounts of vanadium. It is a relatively soft gemstone and can be sensitive to heat and light. Its high refractive index gives it a brilliant luster, making it a popular choice for jewelry.
Lapis Lazuli
- Hardness: 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale
- Color: Deep blue with flecks of gold or white
- Refractive Index: 1.62 to 1.64
- Chemical Composition: Lazurite (Na,Ca)₈(Al,Si)₆O₂₀(S,SO₄,Cl)₁₋₂·(OH,F)₂
- Specific Gravity: 2.4 to 2.5
- Luster: Vitreous to waxy
- Transparency: Opaque to translucent
Lapis lazuli is a metamorphic rock composed primarily of lazurite, with flecks of pyrite and calcite. Its deep blue color is due to the presence of sulfur in the lazurite crystals. It is often used in jewelry and decorative objects due to its beauty and historical significance.
Turquoise
- Hardness: 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale
- Color: Blue to green
- Refractive Index: 1.60 to 1.63
- Chemical Composition: Hydrated phosphate of aluminum and copper (Al₂(Cu,Fe)₂(PO₄)₂(OH)₂·nH₂O)
- Specific Gravity: 2.6 to 2.8
- Luster: Waxy to vitreous
- Transparency: Opaque to translucent
Turquoise is a hydrated phosphate of aluminum and copper. Its color ranges from deep blue to green, depending on the amount of copper and iron present. It is often stabilized with resins or oils to enhance its durability and color. Turquoise is a popular gemstone due to its beauty and historical significance.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Each December birthstone carries its own unique symbolism and metaphysical properties, making them meaningful choices for jewelry and personal adornment.
Blue Zircon
Zircon is believed to enhance wisdom, intuition, and spiritual growth. It is also associated with protection and healing. In ancient times, zircon was believed to have protective properties, particularly against negative energies and nightmares. It is also thought to promote clarity of thought and emotional balance, making it a valuable gemstone for meditation and spiritual practices.
Blue Topaz
Blue topaz is associated with calmness, serenity, and emotional balance. It is believed to help reduce stress and anxiety, promoting a sense of peace and tranquility. Blue topaz is also thought to enhance communication and self-expression, making it a valuable gemstone for those who struggle with verbal expression or public speaking.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is often associated with spiritual awakening, transformation, and emotional healing. It is believed to help open the heart and mind, allowing individuals to connect with their higher selves and access their psychic abilities. Tanzanite is also thought to promote self-confidence and self-acceptance, making it a valuable gemstone for personal growth and development.
Lapis Lazuli
Lapis lazuli is one of the most historically significant of the December birthstones. It is associated with wisdom, truth, and enlightenment. In ancient times, lapis lazuli was believed to enhance intellectual abilities and stimulate a quest for knowledge. It is also thought to promote emotional balance and spiritual growth, making it a valuable gemstone for meditation and spiritual practices.
Turquoise
Turquoise is one of the most widely recognized and beloved gemstones, particularly in indigenous cultures. It is associated with protection, good fortune, and spiritual power. In many cultures, turquoise is considered a sacred stone used in rituals and ceremonies to connect with the spiritual world. It is also believed to promote emotional balance, creativity, and inner peace.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care and cleaning are essential to maintaining the beauty and longevity of December birthstones. Each gemstone has specific care requirements based on its hardness, sensitivity to heat and light, and susceptibility to damage.
Blue Zircon
Zircon is relatively soft and can be easily scratched or damaged. It should be kept away from harsh chemicals and abrasive materials. To clean zircon, use a soft brush and mild soap in warm water. Avoid using ultrasonic or steam cleaners, as they can damage the gemstone. Zircon should also be stored separately from other gemstones to prevent scratches.
Blue Topaz
Topaz is a durable gemstone with a high hardness rating, making it suitable for everyday wear. It is resistant to scratches and damage but can be affected by sudden temperature changes. To clean topaz, use a soft brush and mild soap in warm water. Avoid exposing topaz to harsh chemicals or abrasive materials. It can be cleaned with ultrasonic or steam cleaners, but it is best to follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is relatively soft and can be sensitive to heat and light. Prolonged exposure to bright light can cause the color to fade or change. To clean tanzanite, use a soft brush and mild soap in warm water. Avoid using ultrasonic or steam cleaners, as they can damage the gemstone. Tanzanite should also be stored in a cool, dark place to preserve its color and luster.
Lapis Lazuli
Lapis lazuli is a relatively soft gemstone and can be easily scratched or damaged. It is also sensitive to oils and lotions, which can dull its luster. To clean lapis lazuli, use a soft brush and mild soap in warm water. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials. Lapis lazuli should be stored in a cool, dry place to prevent damage from moisture.
Turquoise
Turquoise is a soft gemstone that can be easily damaged by heat, chemicals, and physical impact. It is also sensitive to oils and lotions, which can dull its luster. To clean turquoise, use a soft brush and mild soap in warm water. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials. Turquoise should be stored in a cool, dry place to prevent damage from moisture and heat.
Conclusion
December birthstones offer a rich and diverse selection of gemstones, each with its own unique beauty, history, and symbolism. From the brilliant fire of blue zircon to the deep blue hues of lapis lazuli, these gemstones have been cherished for centuries for their aesthetic appeal and metaphysical properties. Their varied colors and meanings make them ideal for a wide range of jewelry applications, allowing individuals to express their personal style and connection to the natural world. Whether used in engagement rings, wedding bands, or everyday jewelry, December birthstones continue to captivate and inspire those who wear them.