December is a month rich in tradition and celebration, and its birthstones are equally diverse and captivating. While historically linked to single gems, December now boasts a trio of recognized birthstones: turquoise, zircon, and tanzanite. These gemstones, each with unique properties and a fascinating history, offer a wide range of choices for those born in the final month of the year. This article will explore the origins, characteristics, and significance of these December birthstones, drawing upon historical lore and modern gemological understanding.
A History of Changing Traditions
The designation of birthstones has evolved over time. Early associations, inspired by biblical texts, initially linked ruby to December. However, as birthstone lists were formalized in the 19th and 20th centuries, the selection of December stones underwent significant changes. In 1870, Tiffany & Co.’s “Gregorian Birthstone Poems” pamphlet featured turquoise. By 1912, the National Association of Jewellers (now Jewellers of America) listed turquoise as the primary December birthstone, with lapis lazuli as an alternative. Zircon was added to the list in 1952 by the Jewelry Industry Council of America, and tanzanite was the most recent addition in 2002. This evolution reflects changing tastes, discoveries of new gemstones, and the desire to offer a broader spectrum of options. The consistent presence of turquoise throughout much of this history underscores its enduring appeal as a December birthstone.
Turquoise: A Stone of Protection and Good Fortune
Turquoise has been admired for millennia, its vivid blue-green color instantly recognizable and highly prized. The stone’s name itself derives from the French phrase “pierre turquoise,” meaning “Turkish stone,” as it often entered Europe through Turkey. Historically, turquoise was believed to possess beneficial powers, providing good health and fortune to its wearer. Different shades of blue within turquoise have been given specific names, including “robin’s egg blue,” “Persian blue,” and “sky blue,” reflecting the desirability of intense, vibrant hues.
Mining locations for turquoise are diverse, with significant sources including the Nishapur district of Iran, where it has been extracted for over 1,000 years, as well as Mexico, Nevada, Arizona, and China. Ancient civilizations, including the Egyptians and Native American tribes, held turquoise in high regard. Egyptians adorned their pharaohs with the gemstone, while Native American tribes incorporated it into ceremonial jewelry. This long-standing reverence speaks to the stone’s enduring beauty and perceived mystical properties.
Zircon: Brilliance and a Rainbow of Colors
Zircon is celebrated for its exceptional brilliance and the wide range of colors in which it appears. As one of the oldest minerals on Earth, zircon holds significant geological and historical value. While often associated with blue hues as a December birthstone, zircon can be found in a rainbow of colors, including red, yellow, orange, brown, and green. Blue zircon, in particular, is favored for its serene and calming color.
The sources for zircon are not specifically detailed in the provided materials, but its geological age suggests widespread formation across various regions. Its brilliance and clarity make it a popular choice for jewelry, offering a dazzling alternative to diamonds.
Tanzanite: A Modern Gem with a Unique Origin
Tanzanite is a relatively recent discovery, adding to its allure and exclusivity. Highly prized for its unique blue to violet color, tanzanite is found in only one known location: a small area near Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. This limited source contributes to its rarity and value. The gemstone’s captivating color and singular origin have quickly established it as a sought-after December birthstone.
The provided sources do not detail the geological formation of tanzanite, but its association with the Mount Kilimanjaro region suggests a specific geological environment conducive to its formation. Its relatively recent discovery in the 20th century distinguishes it from the more historically established birthstones like turquoise and zircon.
Gemological Properties: A Comparative Overview
While a detailed gemological analysis is limited by the provided sources, some key properties can be summarized.
| Gemstone | Color | Hardness (Mohs Scale) | Notable Properties |
|---|---|---|---|
| Turquoise | Blue-Green | 5-6 | Opaque, often with matrix (veins of other minerals) |
| Zircon | Blue, Red, Yellow, Orange, Brown, Green | 6.5-7.5 | High brilliance, strong dispersion (fire) |
| Tanzanite | Blue to Violet | 6-7 | Pleochroism (displays different colors from different angles) |
The Mohs scale of hardness indicates a gemstone’s resistance to scratching. Turquoise, being the softest of the three, requires more careful handling. Zircon and tanzanite, with higher hardness values, are more durable and suitable for everyday wear.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Each of these December birthstones carries its own symbolic weight. Turquoise is often associated with protection, good fortune, and tranquility. Lapis Lazuli, also a traditional December stone, is linked to wisdom and royalty, believed to enhance intellectual abilities. Zircon is valued for its clarity and is thought to promote prosperity and wisdom. Tanzanite, with its vibrant color, is often associated with transformation and spiritual growth. These symbolic meanings add depth and personal significance to the gemstones, making them more than just beautiful adornments.
Care and Cleaning
Maintaining the beauty of December birthstones requires specific care based on their individual properties. Turquoise, being relatively soft, is susceptible to scratching and should be protected from harsh impacts. Cleaning turquoise involves using only mild soap and warm water, avoiding ultrasonic cleaners or harsh chemicals. Zircon and tanzanite, being more durable, can be cleaned with warm soapy water and a soft brush. However, it is always advisable to avoid harsh chemicals and ultrasonic cleaners, as these can potentially damage the gemstones. Regular cleaning will help preserve their brilliance and vibrancy over time.
Conclusion
December’s birthstones—turquoise, zircon, and tanzanite—offer a rich blend of history, symbolism, and aesthetic appeal. From the ancient reverence for turquoise to the modern allure of tanzanite and the enduring brilliance of zircon, these gemstones provide a diverse selection for those born in the final month of the year. Each stone reflects a unique connection to the earth and a legacy of cultural significance, making them not only beautiful adornments but also meaningful symbols of individuality and personal connection. When choosing among these gemstones, careful consideration of color, price, and personal meaning will ensure a selection that resonates with the wearer for years to come.