December is a unique month in the world of birthstones, offering not one, but four distinct gemstones to those born within its span: blue topaz, blue zircon, tanzanite, and turquoise. However, for someone born on December 21st, the primary birthstones associated with this date are Tanzanite and Blue Topaz, with Turquoise also being a significant option. This article will delve into the history, geological origins, gemological properties, and symbolism of these three December birthstones, providing a comprehensive overview for enthusiasts and those seeking to understand their significance.
A History Rooted in Tradition and Modern Discovery
Turquoise holds the longest history of the December birthstones, having been admired for centuries. Its use dates back to ancient civilizations, where it was valued for its spiritual and healing qualities. While specific historical details regarding its early use are not provided in the available sources, its enduring presence in various cultures suggests a long-held reverence.
Tanzanite, in contrast, is a relatively recent discovery, first unearthed in Tanzania in 1967. Its introduction as a birthstone is therefore more modern, yet it quickly gained popularity due to its striking violet-blue shimmer, often compared to that of sapphire.
Blue Topaz, while not always listed among the traditional three, is a beloved choice for its icy blue clarity and calming energy. Its history is intertwined with that of Topaz in general, with blue varieties becoming particularly favored in modern times.
Geological Formation and Sources
The sources do not provide detailed geological formation processes for each stone. However, they do indicate specific origins. Tanzanite is exclusively found at the base of Mount Kilimanjaro, making it a remarkably rare gemstone. Turquoise’s origins are not specified, but its historical use suggests it was sourced from various locations throughout ancient trade routes. Blue Topaz, like other varieties of topaz, forms in igneous rocks and is found in several locations globally, though specific mining locations are not detailed in the provided sources.
Gemological Properties: A Comparative Overview
Each of these December birthstones possesses unique gemological properties that contribute to its distinct appeal.
Turquoise: The sources do not provide specific details regarding Turquoise’s chemical composition or refractive index. However, it is described as having a soft, sky-blue glow with earthy charm.
Tanzanite: The sources highlight Tanzanite’s violet-blue shimmer, often likened to sapphire. It is associated with elegance and luxury.
Blue Topaz: Blue Topaz is noted for its icy blue clarity and calming energy. The sources differentiate between shades of blue topaz, identifying sky blue, Swiss blue, and London blue as distinct variations.
A comparison of hardness, as provided by one source, is shown below:
| Gemstone | Mohs Hardness |
|---|---|
| Blue Topaz | 8 |
This indicates that Blue Topaz is a relatively durable gemstone, suitable for everyday wear. The hardness of Turquoise and Tanzanite is not provided in the sources.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
The symbolism associated with each of these gemstones varies significantly. Turquoise is linked to wisdom, protection, and new beginnings. Tanzanite symbolizes change and new beginnings, aligning with the adventurous spirit often associated with Sagittarius, the zodiac sign for many born in December. Blue Topaz is believed to soothe and calm the mind and soul, promoting good communication and a peaceful night’s sleep. It was historically used to cool hot-tempered individuals or those with fevers, reflecting its perceived cooling properties.
For those born on December 21st, falling under the Sagittarius zodiac sign, Tanzanite is particularly resonant, embodying the spirit of adventure and transformation. Blue Topaz offers a complementary energy, promoting tranquility and clear communication. Turquoise, while not directly tied to Sagittarius, provides a grounding element of wisdom and protection.
Care and Cleaning
The sources offer limited guidance on the care and cleaning of these gemstones. However, given Blue Topaz’s Mohs hardness of 8, it is likely relatively resistant to scratching and can be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. The sources do not provide specific cleaning instructions for Turquoise or Tanzanite, but general gemstone care guidelines – avoiding harsh chemicals and ultrasonic cleaners – would be prudent.
December Birthstone Variations and Zodiac Associations
The sources emphasize that December is unique in offering multiple birthstone options. While Turquoise is considered the most traditional choice, Tanzanite and Blue Zircon have gained prominence in recent years. Blue Topaz, though not always listed among the traditional three, remains a popular selection.
The zodiac signs associated with December – Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21) and Capricorn (December 22 – January 19) – further influence birthstone choices. Tanzanite is specifically identified as the Sagittarius birthstone, resonating with their adventurous and intuitive nature. Ruby is noted as the primary birthstone for Capricorn, though this is outside the scope of the December 21st focus.
Frequently Asked Questions
The sources address common questions regarding December birthstones. One frequent inquiry concerns whether the December gemstone is Blue Topaz or Turquoise – the answer being both, as December boasts multiple birthstones. The official color of December is, unsurprisingly, blue, reflecting the dominant hue of these gemstones.
Conclusion
The December birthstones – Turquoise, Tanzanite, and Blue Topaz – offer a captivating range of colors, histories, and symbolic meanings. For those born on December 21st, Tanzanite and Blue Topaz stand out as particularly significant choices, embodying transformation, tranquility, and a connection to the adventurous spirit of Sagittarius. While Turquoise provides a grounding element of wisdom and protection, the diversity of December’s birthstones allows individuals to select a gemstone that resonates with their personal preferences and beliefs. These gemstones are not merely beautiful adornments; they are tangible links to history, geology, and the enduring power of symbolism.