December boasts a remarkable array of birthstones – Turquoise, Zircon, Tanzanite, and Blue Topaz – offering a diverse spectrum of color, history, and meaning for those born in the final month of the year. While Turquoise and Zircon have traditionally held prominence, Tanzanite and Blue Topaz have gained recognition as equally significant December birthstones, providing a wealth of choices for personal expression and adornment. This article will delve into the origins, properties, and symbolism of each of these captivating gemstones.
History and Lore
The association of gemstones with specific months dates back to ancient civilizations, including Egypt, Greece, and Rome, where stones were believed to possess mystical and healing properties. Turquoise, one of the oldest known birthstones, has a particularly rich history. Its name originates from the French phrase “pierre turquoise,” meaning “stone of Turkey,” reflecting the historical trade routes through which the stone first arrived in Europe from Turkish bazaars. Zircon, too, has ancient roots, being one of the oldest minerals on Earth, and historically valued for its strength and protective qualities.
More recently, Tanzanite and Blue Topaz have entered the realm of December birthstones. Tanzanite is a relatively recent discovery, first identified in Tanzania near Mount Kilimanjaro, making it a unique and geographically specific gemstone. Blue Topaz, while Topaz in various colors has a long history, gained prominence as a December birthstone in the United States as a modern alternative. The inclusion of multiple birthstones for December reflects a desire to offer a variety of options in color, price, and personal meaning, catering to diverse tastes and histories.
Geological Formation and Sources
The origins of these December birthstones are as varied as the stones themselves. Turquoise forms in relatively shallow deposits, often in arid regions, as a secondary mineral formed through the weathering of copper-rich rocks. Its characteristic blue-green color is due to the presence of copper. Zircon, a silicate mineral, is found in a wide range of geological settings, including igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks.
Tanzanite, uniquely, is found in only one known location: the Merelani Hills of northern Tanzania, near Mount Kilimanjaro. This limited source contributes to its rarity and value. Blue Topaz, while naturally occurring blue Topaz is rare, is most commonly created through heat treatment of colorless Topaz. Topaz itself is found in igneous and metamorphic rocks, often in association with granite and rhyolite.
Gemological Properties
Each December birthstone possesses distinct gemological properties that contribute to its unique appeal.
Turquoise: This opaque gemstone typically ranges in color from sky blue to greenish-blue, though it can also be found in shades of green and even black. Its hardness on the Mohs scale is relatively low, ranging from 5 to 6, requiring careful handling.
Zircon: Zircon exhibits a remarkable brilliance and fire, often mistaken for diamond. It boasts a hardness of 6.5 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale and occurs in a rainbow of colors, though the blue variety is particularly associated with December.
Tanzanite: This gemstone is prized for its unique pleochroism, displaying different colors depending on the viewing angle – typically blue, violet, and burgundy. Its hardness is between 6 and 7 on the Mohs scale.
Blue Topaz: Blue Topaz is known for its clear, sky-blue to deep London Blue shades. It has a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively durable. Most blue Topaz available today is created by heat-treating colorless Topaz.
The following table summarizes key properties:
| Gemstone | Chemical Formula | Hardness (Mohs) | Color(s) | Transparency |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Turquoise | CuAl6(PO4)4(OH)8·4H2O | 5-6 | Blue, Green, Blue-Green | Opaque |
| Zircon | ZrSiO4 | 6.5-7.5 | Colorless, Blue, Brown, etc. | Transparent |
| Tanzanite | Ca2Al3(SiO4)3(OH) | 6-7 | Blue, Violet, Burgundy | Transparent |
| Blue Topaz | Al2SiO4(OH,F)2 | 8 | Blue | Transparent |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, each of these gemstones has been attributed with specific meanings and powers. Turquoise symbolizes success, happiness, and prosperity. It is often associated with protection and good fortune. Zircon is celebrated for its brilliance and is believed to promote wisdom, honor, and prosperity.
Tanzanite is highly prized for its unique color and rarity, and is thought to enhance intuition and spiritual awareness. Blue Topaz represents calmness, love, and clarity, and is often given as a gift to symbolize fidelity. The association of these stones with December reflects the season’s themes of hope, joy, and renewal.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care is essential to maintain the beauty of December birthstones. Turquoise, due to its relative softness, is susceptible to scratches and should be protected from harsh impacts. It is best cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap and water. Zircon, with its good hardness, can be cleaned with warm soapy water and a soft brush.
Tanzanite requires gentle cleaning with warm soapy water and a soft cloth, as it can be damaged by ultrasonic cleaners. Blue Topaz, being a durable gemstone, can be cleaned with warm soapy water, a soft brush, and ultrasonic cleaners, though caution should still be exercised. Avoiding harsh chemicals and extreme temperature changes is recommended for all these gemstones.
Conclusion
December’s birthstones – Turquoise, Zircon, Tanzanite, and Blue Topaz – represent a captivating blend of history, geological wonder, and symbolic meaning. From the ancient allure of Turquoise and Zircon to the modern appeal of Tanzanite and Blue Topaz, these gemstones offer a diverse palette of choices for those born in the final month of the year. Each stone reflects a unique facet of December’s chill beauty, providing a personal and meaningful connection to the month’s rich cultural heritage. When choosing between these gemstones, individuals can select a stone that resonates with their personality and preferences, embracing the vibrant colors and deep cultural roots that define December’s dazzling birthstone selection.