December is a month of celebration and transition, marked by the arrival of winter. Among the many traditions associated with this time of year, one particularly intriguing custom is the concept of birthstones—gemstones believed to be associated with the month of a person's birth. December is notable for having multiple birthstones, each with its own unique characteristics, history, and symbolism. This article explores the December birthstones: blue zircon, blue topaz, tanzanite, lapis lazuli, and turquoise, and delves into their geological properties, historical significance, and cultural importance.
Introduction
The December birthstone tradition offers a rich selection of gemstones, each reflecting the cool tones of winter and the diverse tastes of individuals. These gemstones include both traditional and modern choices, such as lapis lazuli and turquoise for the traditional list, and blue zircon, blue topaz, and tanzanite as more recent additions. This collection of gemstones not only serves as a symbol of the month of December but also carries deep cultural and historical significance.
In this article, we will explore the history and lore surrounding these gemstones, their geological formation and sources, their gemological properties, their symbolism and metaphysical beliefs, and practical advice on their care and cleaning. By examining these aspects, we aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of the December birthstones and their relevance in both historical and contemporary contexts.
History and Lore
The tradition of birthstones has ancient roots, with various cultures assigning specific gemstones to each month of the year. For December, the gemstones have evolved over time, incorporating both traditional and modern choices. Lapis lazuli and turquoise have long been associated with December, with their deep blue and blue-green hues symbolizing the chill of winter. These gemstones have been used in jewelry for centuries, with lapis lazuli being particularly revered in ancient civilizations for its association with wisdom and royalty.
In more recent years, blue zircon, blue topaz, and tanzanite have been added to the December birthstone list. These gemstones offer a broader range of options for individuals, catering to different tastes and preferences. The inclusion of these modern choices reflects the evolving nature of the birthstone tradition, adapting to contemporary trends while maintaining a connection to historical practices.
Geological Formation and Sources
The geological formation and sources of the December birthstones provide insight into their unique characteristics and availability. Each gemstone has distinct properties that influence its use in jewelry and its value in the market.
Lapis Lazuli
Lapis lazuli is a metamorphic rock composed primarily of lazurite, a deep blue mineral. It is often found with calcite and pyrite, which contribute to its characteristic patterns and gold flecks. The primary sources of lapis lazuli are Afghanistan, which has been a major supplier for centuries, and other locations such as Chile, Russia, and the United States. The formation of lapis lazuli occurs under high-pressure conditions, resulting in its dense and durable structure.
Turquoise
Turquoise is a phosphate mineral that forms in arid environments, typically in the oxidation zones of copper deposits. It is known for its vibrant blue-green color, which can vary depending on the presence of different minerals and impurities. The primary sources of turquoise include Iran (known for its "Persian blue" color), the United States (particularly in Arizona and Nevada), and China. The formation of turquoise is influenced by the interaction of water with minerals, leading to the creation of its distinctive hues.
Blue Zircon
Blue zircon is a variety of zircon, a mineral that occurs in various colors, including colorless, yellow, red, and blue. The blue coloration is achieved through heat treatment, which alters the crystal structure of the zircon. The primary sources of zircon include Australia, Thailand, and Sri Lanka. Zircon is a durable mineral with a high refractive index, making it a popular choice for jewelry.
Blue Topaz
Blue topaz is a variety of topaz, a silicate mineral that occurs in various colors, including colorless, yellow, and blue. The blue coloration is achieved through irradiation and heat treatment, which alter the crystal structure of the topaz. The primary sources of topaz include Brazil, the United States, and Nigeria. Blue topaz is known for its clarity and brilliance, making it a popular choice for jewelry.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is a variety of the mineral zoisite, known for its striking blue to violet coloration. It is unique to Tanzania, where it is found in a small mining area near the Mererani Hills. The formation of tanzanite involves the presence of vanadium, which imparts its characteristic color. Tanzanite is also known for its trichroism, appearing in different colors depending on the crystal orientation and lighting conditions.
Gemological Properties
The gemological properties of the December birthstones are essential for understanding their use in jewelry and their value. These properties include hardness, color, clarity, cut, carat weight, and refractive index.
Lapis Lazuli
Lapis lazuli has a hardness of 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively soft compared to other gemstones. Its color is primarily blue, with white calcite and gold pyrite inclusions. Lapis lazuli is typically opaque, with a waxy to vitreous luster. The presence of calcite and pyrite can affect its clarity, making it less transparent than other gemstones.
Turquoise
Turquoise has a hardness of 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale, similar to lapis lazuli. Its color ranges from blue to green, influenced by the presence of copper and iron. Turquoise is typically opaque, with a waxy to vitreous luster. The presence of matrix, which refers to the host rock in which turquoise forms, can affect its appearance and value.
Blue Zircon
Blue zircon has a hardness of 6 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively durable. Its blue coloration is due to the presence of trace elements such as iron and titanium. Blue zircon is typically transparent to translucent, with a vitreous luster. Its high refractive index contributes to its brilliance and fire, making it a popular choice for jewelry.
Blue Topaz
Blue topaz has a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale, making it one of the hardest gemstones. Its blue coloration is achieved through irradiation and heat treatment, which alter the crystal structure. Blue topaz is typically colorless in its natural state, with the blue coloration being a result of treatment. It is transparent to translucent, with a vitreous luster.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite has a hardness of 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively durable. Its striking blue to violet coloration is due to the presence of vanadium. Tanzanite is typically transparent to translucent, with a vitreous luster. Its trichroism, which allows it to appear in different colors depending on the crystal orientation and lighting conditions, is one of its most notable features.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
The December birthstones carry rich symbolism and metaphysical beliefs, reflecting their historical and cultural significance. These gemstones are often associated with various meanings and powers, making them cherished choices for jewelry and personal adornment.
Lapis Lazuli
Lapis lazuli has long been associated with wisdom and royalty. In ancient civilizations, it was considered a stone of truth and enlightenment, believed to enhance one's intellectual abilities and stimulate a quest for knowledge. It is also associated with inner wisdom and a connection to higher consciousness. Its deep blue color evokes the vastness of the night sky, offering a sense of serenity and expansiveness.
Turquoise
Turquoise is revered for its calming properties and is often seen as a talisman for protection and a symbol of good fortune. It is believed to instill a sense of inner calm and foster creativity, making it an ideal choice for those with December birthdays. Its vibrant color mirrors the wintry landscapes, adding a touch of warmth and optimism.
Blue Zircon
Blue zircon is celebrated for its brilliant fire and rainbow of colors, symbolizing the beauty of the natural world. It is also associated with the passage of time, given its status as one of the oldest minerals on earth. Blue zircon is believed to promote clarity and enhance one's ability to make wise decisions.
Blue Topaz
Blue topaz is associated with calmness and serenity, making it a popular choice for those seeking emotional balance. It is also believed to promote healing and is often used in meditation practices. The blue coloration is thought to enhance communication and self-expression.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is highly prized for its unique blue to violet color and its association with transformation and personal growth. It is believed to enhance intuition and promote emotional healing. Tanzanite is also associated with the concept of duality, given its trichroism, which allows it to appear in different colors depending on the crystal orientation and lighting conditions.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care and cleaning are essential for maintaining the beauty and value of December birthstones. Each gemstone has specific requirements based on its hardness, cleavage, and sensitivity to heat and chemicals.
Lapis Lazuli
Lapis lazuli should be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap and water. It is important to avoid harsh chemicals and ultrasonic cleaners, as these can damage the stone. Lapis lazuli is relatively soft, so it should be stored separately from harder gemstones to prevent scratches.
Turquoise
Turquoise should be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap and water. It is important to avoid exposure to sunlight and heat, as these can cause the stone to fade. Turquoise is relatively soft, so it should be stored separately from harder gemstones to prevent scratches.
Blue Zircon
Blue zircon can be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap and water. It is relatively durable and can withstand ultrasonic cleaning. However, it is important to avoid exposure to heat and chemicals, as these can affect the color and clarity of the stone.
Blue Topaz
Blue topaz can be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap and water. It is one of the hardest December birthstones and can withstand ultrasonic cleaning. However, it is important to avoid exposure to heat and chemicals, as these can affect the color and clarity of the stone.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite should be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap and water. It is relatively durable and can withstand ultrasonic cleaning. However, it is important to avoid exposure to heat and chemicals, as these can affect the color and clarity of the stone.
Conclusion
The December birthstones—blue zircon, blue topaz, tanzanite, lapis lazuli, and turquoise—offer a rich mix of history and symbolism, making each unique for those born in this month. These gemstones are more than just beautiful; they reflect the wearer's personality and bring a variety of cultural significances. The inclusion of multiple birthstones for December allows for a diverse selection of options, catering to different tastes and preferences. Whether one prefers the traditional choices of lapis lazuli and turquoise or the modern alternatives of blue zircon, blue topaz, and tanzanite, each gemstone carries its own unique story and significance. By understanding the geological properties, historical significance, and cultural importance of these gemstones, individuals can make informed choices when selecting December birthstone jewelry.