December is a unique month in the world of birthstones, offering not one, but four recognized gems: Turquoise, Zircon, Tanzanite, and Blue Topaz. While Turquoise holds the distinction as the most traditional December birthstone, the inclusion of Zircon and the more recent discovery of Tanzanite provide a diverse range of options for those born in the final month of the year. These gemstones, each with its own history, properties, and symbolism, reflect the cool, crisp tones of the winter season.
A History of December’s Gems
The history of December birthstones is varied and spans numerous cultures. Turquoise, with its ancient origins, was prized for its protective qualities and association with good fortune. Found in Persia and along the Sinai Peninsula, it reached Europe through the gem markets of Constantinople, earning its name – “turkis” or “turkeystone.” From the earliest times, turquoise was favored for creating amulets, easily cut into shapes and inscribed with protective symbols. It was believed to safeguard relationships, warn of illness or danger through changes in color, and bring health and success, particularly in Tibetan culture where it was even used as currency. Native American tribes of the Southwest associated the gem with youth and strength, often combining it with gold to symbolize vitality and longevity.
Zircon, with a name originating from the Arabic word for “jewel” and the Sanskrit “rahuratna,” also boasts a long and storied past. Ancient physicians wore zircon on their left fingers, believing it aided in accurate diagnoses. It was considered a powerful amulet against evil spirits and even used during the Black Death plague in Europe. In India, zircon was thought to be more potent when set in gold.
Tanzanite, the newest addition to the December birthstone family, was discovered in Tanzania in 1967. Its relatively recent discovery contrasts sharply with the millennia-spanning histories of Turquoise and Zircon. However, its beauty quickly captured attention, with notable figures like Anne Hathaway, Cate Blanchett, and Sarah Jessica Parker seen wearing tanzanite jewelry, and a ring gifted by Jay Z to Beyoncé celebrating the birth of their daughter.
Geological Formation and Sources
Zircon is found in a variety of locations, with Australia and South Africa accounting for approximately 70% of the world’s production. Additional sources include Sri Lanka and India. The gem forms in igneous rocks and alluvial deposits.
Turquoise, historically sourced from Persia and the Sinai Peninsula, continues to be mined in these regions, as well as in the United States (particularly in the Southwest), China, and Iran. Its formation occurs in arid regions, often in the vicinity of copper deposits.
Tanzanite is exclusively found in the Merelani Hills of northern Tanzania, making it a geographically unique gemstone. Its formation is linked to the complex geological processes within the East African Rift Valley.
Gemological Properties
December’s birthstones exhibit a range of gemological properties. Zircon comes in a variety of colors, including colorless (jargoon), orange-red (jacinth or hyacinth), golden, red, and blue. Colorless zircon, known as jargoon, closely resembles diamond in appearance, though it is significantly softer. The French term “jargoon” derives from the Italian “giacone.”
Turquoise is known for its opaque, sky-blue to greenish-blue color, often with matrix patterns. Its color is influenced by the presence of copper and iron.
Tanzanite displays a striking violet-blue shimmer, often compared to sapphire. Its pleochroism – the ability to display different colors when viewed from different angles – is a notable characteristic.
While specific hardness and refractive index data are not provided in the sources, the text notes that zircon is softer than diamond. Further gemological data would require additional sources.
Here's a table summarizing the available information:
| Gemstone | Color(s) | Notable Properties | Primary Sources |
|---|---|---|---|
| Zircon | Colorless (Jargoon), Orange-Red (Jacinth/Hyacinth), Golden, Red, Blue | Resembles diamond (colorless variety), softer than diamond | Australia, South Africa, Sri Lanka, India |
| Turquoise | Sky-blue to greenish-blue | Opaque, often with matrix patterns | Persia, Sinai Peninsula, USA, China, Iran |
| Tanzanite | Violet-blue | Pleochroism, resembles sapphire | Tanzania (Merelani Hills) |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, these December birthstones have been imbued with symbolic meaning. Turquoise was considered a stone of protection, good fortune, and enduring relationships. It was believed to warn its wearer of danger and promote health.
Zircon was historically used to counteract evil spirits and was believed to aid in accurate medical diagnoses. In India, its potency was thought to be enhanced when set in gold.
While the sources do not detail specific metaphysical beliefs associated with Tanzanite, its association with wisdom, protection, and new beginnings, as stated in the provided materials, suggests a positive and empowering symbolism.
Other gems associated with December birthdays also carry symbolic weight. Beryl, a guardian angel birthstone, was considered a “stone of power” by Scottish Highlanders and was believed to reconcile enemies and promote youthfulness. Sapphire, a special apostle birthstone, was regarded as a gem of divine and beautiful thoughts, offering protection from evil forces and representing wisdom. Emerald, linked to the Sagittarius zodiac sign, symbolized undying youth and was associated with love, safe childbirth, and family comfort. Chalcedony, associated with Capricorn, was also linked to Sagittarius for those born near the sign transition.
Care and Cleaning
The sources do not provide specific care and cleaning instructions for these gemstones. However, given that zircon is softer than diamond, it would likely require more careful handling to avoid scratches. Turquoise, often porous, may be susceptible to damage from harsh chemicals and should be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap. Tanzanite, while durable, should also be protected from harsh chemicals and extreme temperatures.
Conclusion
The December birthstones – Turquoise, Zircon, and Tanzanite – offer a captivating array of colors, histories, and symbolic meanings. From the ancient protective powers of Turquoise to the diamond-like brilliance of Zircon and the modern elegance of Tanzanite, these gems provide a meaningful connection to the month of December. The variety of options allows individuals to choose a birthstone that resonates with their personality and beliefs, celebrating the unique spirit of the winter season. The inclusion of Beryl, Sapphire, Emerald, and Chalcedony as additional birthstone options further enriches the possibilities for those born in December, offering a diverse and fascinating selection of gems with deep cultural and historical significance.