December boasts a remarkable array of birthstones, offering a spectrum of blue hues and rich histories. While blue topaz is a popular choice, the traditional and more recently recognized December birthstones include turquoise, blue zircon, and tanzanite. Each gem carries its own unique symbolism, geological origins, and appeal, making December a particularly vibrant month for gemstone enthusiasts. This article will delve into the characteristics, history, and significance of these captivating stones.
History and Lore
The history of December birthstones is layered, evolving over time and across cultures. Turquoise holds the longest-standing claim, cherished for millennia by civilizations across the globe. Ancient Egyptians adorned themselves with turquoise, believing it possessed protective qualities and guaranteed good health and fortune. Chinese artisans were carving turquoise over 3,000 years ago. From the 13th century onward, Europeans believed turquoise safeguarded against falls, particularly from horses, and would even fracture to warn of impending disaster. In Hindu traditions, viewing turquoise after a new moon was thought to bring immense wealth. Turquoise is specifically linked to the zodiac sign Sagittarius (November 21 to December 21) and is believed to promote good health.
Blue zircon, while also a traditional December birthstone, has a history intertwined with its resemblance to diamond. For centuries, colorless zircon was used as a diamond substitute due to its high refractive index and brilliance. More recently, the discovery of tanzanite in the 1960s and its subsequent marketing by Tiffany & Co. established it as a significant December birthstone.
Zircon itself has historical associations with good luck, improved sleep, and protection during medieval times. Greek mythology connects zircon to the story of Hyacinth, symbolizing rebirth. Different colors of zircon carry distinct meanings; white zircon represents purity, while yellow zircon is known as the “Stone of Prosperity.”
Geological Formation and Sources
The origins of these December birthstones are geographically diverse. Turquoise forms in relatively dry, arid regions, often in the vicinity of copper deposits. Its formation involves a chemical reaction between copper, aluminum, and other minerals in the presence of water.
Blue zircon is found in several locations, with primary mining areas in Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam. Interestingly, zircon contains trace amounts of uranium and thorium, making it valuable in radiometric dating and revealing some specimens to be up to 4.4 billion years old – among the oldest minerals on Earth.
Tanzanite, however, is exceptionally rare, found in a limited geographical area near Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. It is not known to exist anywhere else in the world, contributing to its exclusivity and value.
Gemological Properties
Each December birthstone possesses distinct gemological properties. Turquoise is a semi-translucent to opaque gem, ranging in color from blue to green, often displaying veins of matrix – remnants of the rock in which it formed. Its quality is graded based on color, matrix, and texture, with dense textures exhibiting better polish luster. The most valuable turquoise displays a bright “robin’s egg” or “sky” blue color with even distribution.
Zircon boasts a very high refractive index, contributing to its brilliance. While found in a variety of colors, blue zircon is the most prized.
Tanzanite is a transparent gemstone exhibiting colors ranging from blue to purple. It is known for its strong pleochroism, displaying different colors when viewed from different angles and under varying lighting conditions. The most valuable tanzanite displays vibrant pure blue, but bright purplish-blue and violet-blue are also highly sought after.
Here's a comparative overview of color grading:
| Gemstone | Most Valuable Color | Other Desirable Colors |
|---|---|---|
| Turquoise | Bright “robin’s egg” or “sky” blue | Green or greenish-blue |
| Tanzanite | Vibrant pure blue | Bright purplish-blue, violet-blue |
| Zircon | Blue | Browns, reddish-browns, vivid greens, reds |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Beyond their aesthetic appeal, these December birthstones are imbued with symbolic meaning. Turquoise is often associated with protection, spirituality, and good luck. Tibetan Buddhists incorporate turquoise into malas (meditation beads) representing spirituality and fortune. Crystal healers recommend turquoise for treating inflammation, deflecting negativity, and fostering friendship.
Tanzanite’s symbolism centers around transformation and communication. It is believed to facilitate wise and compassionate communication, particularly in resolving relationship conflicts. Often called the “Stone of Transformation” and “Stone of Magic,” tanzanite is considered a third eye or crown chakra stone, enhancing intuition and spiritual awareness.
Zircon symbolizes success, wisdom, and positivity. The Greek myth of Hyacinth links zircon to rebirth, while white zircon represents purity and yellow zircon embodies prosperity.
Care and Cleaning
The care required for each December birthstone varies based on its hardness and other properties. Turquoise, being relatively soft, requires gentle handling and should be protected from scratches and harsh chemicals. Cleaning can be done with a soft cloth and mild soapy water.
Zircon, with its good hardness, is more durable but can still be chipped with a sharp blow. It can be cleaned using warm, soapy water and a soft brush.
Tanzanite, while relatively durable, is susceptible to damage from heat and sudden temperature changes. It should be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush, avoiding ultrasonic cleaners and steam cleaners.
Conclusion
December’s birthstones – turquoise, blue zircon, and tanzanite – represent a captivating blend of history, geological wonder, and symbolic meaning. From the ancient protective powers attributed to turquoise to the modern allure of tanzanite and the diamond-like brilliance of zircon, these gemstones offer a diverse range of options for those born in the final month of the year. Each stone carries a unique story, making the selection of a December birthstone a deeply personal and meaningful experience.