December is unique among the months, possessing not one, but three recognized birthstones: turquoise, tanzanite, and zircon. Each gem offers a distinct color, history, and symbolism, providing a diverse range of options for those born in the final month of the year. This article will delve into the geological origins, historical significance, and metaphysical properties of these captivating gemstones, exploring their individual characteristics and collective importance.
History and Lore
The history of December’s birthstones spans millennia and continents. Turquoise, the most traditional of the three, boasts the longest documented history of use. Ancient civilizations, including the Egyptians, Persians, and Native American cultures, prized turquoise for its beauty and perceived protective qualities. Evidence of turquoise adornment has been found in King Tutankhamun’s mask, demonstrating its significance in ancient Egyptian society. Native American tribes utilized turquoise in sacred ceremonies and believed it connected them to the spiritual world, offering protection and good fortune.
Zircon, while less widely known in modern times, also has a rich historical background. It is considered one of the oldest minerals on Earth, with specimens dating back over 4.4 billion years. During the Middle Ages, zircon was believed to ward off evil spirits and promote restful sleep. Its durability and complex composition were appreciated even then, signifying wisdom and prosperity.
Tanzanite is the newest addition to the December birthstone family, discovered in Tanzania in 1967. Its relatively recent discovery means its historical lore is less extensive than that of turquoise or zircon, but it quickly gained recognition for its stunning color and rarity. It is linked to spiritual transformation and deep meditation, reflecting its vibrant violet-blue hues.
Geological Formation and Sources
The formation of these three gemstones occurs through vastly different geological processes. Turquoise is a hydrated phosphate of copper and aluminum, forming in arid regions through the interaction of copper-rich groundwater with aluminum and phosphorus-bearing rocks. It is typically found in association with copper deposits, often as a secondary mineral filling cavities and fractures. Significant sources of turquoise include the southwestern United States, Iran, and Egypt.
Zircon forms in igneous rocks during the early stages of crystallization. Its chemical composition is zirconium silicate (ZrSiO4), and its exceptional durability allows it to survive erosion and remain present in ancient geological formations. Zircon can be found in a variety of locations worldwide, including Sri Lanka, Cambodia, and Australia.
Tanzanite, uniquely, is found in only one known location: the Merelani Hills of northern Tanzania, near Mount Kilimanjaro. It is a blue-violet variety of the mineral zoisite, formed through complex geological processes involving intense heat and pressure. The limited geographical source contributes significantly to its rarity and value.
Gemological Properties
Each December birthstone possesses distinct gemological properties that contribute to its unique appeal.
Turquoise: Its color ranges from vibrant blue-green to sky-blue, often with natural veins of matrix (the surrounding rock). Turquoise typically exhibits a waxy luster and a hardness of 5-6 on the Mohs scale.
Tanzanite: This gemstone is renowned for its trichroism, meaning it displays different colors depending on the viewing angle – blue, violet, and burgundy. Tanzanite has a hardness of 6.5-7 on the Mohs scale and a vitreous luster.
Zircon: Zircon exhibits a wide range of colors, including blue, brown, red, and colorless. It boasts a high refractive index, contributing to its brilliance and “fire.” Zircon’s hardness ranges from 6.5-7.5 on the Mohs scale.
Here's a comparative table summarizing key properties:
| Gemstone | Chemical Composition | Color | Hardness (Mohs) | Luster | Notable Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Turquoise | Hydrated phosphate of copper and aluminum | Blue-green to sky-blue | 5-6 | Waxy | Often contains matrix |
| Tanzanite | Calcium aluminum silicate (Zoisite) | Blue, violet, burgundy (trichroic) | 6.5-7 | Vitreous | Strong trichroism |
| Zircon | Zirconium silicate (ZrSiO4) | Blue, brown, red, colorless | 6.5-7.5 | Vitreous | High refractive index |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, each of these gemstones has been attributed with specific symbolic meanings and metaphysical properties.
Turquoise is widely regarded as a stone of protection, healing, and communication. Many cultures believe it wards off negative energy and brings good fortune. It is also associated with strength, success, and triumph.
Tanzanite symbolizes transformation, spiritual awakening, and clarity. Its deep blue color is thought to inspire creativity and wisdom, enhancing intuition and psychic abilities. It is believed to facilitate higher consciousness and promote a sense of inner peace.
Zircon is associated with wisdom, prosperity, and self-confidence. It is believed to bring mental clarity, good fortune, and restful sleep. Historically, it was used to ward off evil spirits, and in modern times, it is thought to develop psychic intuition and enlightenment.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care is essential to maintain the beauty and longevity of these gemstones. Turquoise is relatively soft and porous, making it susceptible to damage from harsh chemicals and impacts. It should be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soapy water. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners and harsh cleaning agents.
Tanzanite is more durable than turquoise but still requires careful handling. It can be cleaned with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid sudden temperature changes, as they can cause fractures.
Zircon is relatively durable but can be brittle. It should be cleaned with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid harsh chemicals and ultrasonic cleaners. Due to its potential for cleavage, avoid strong impacts.
December’s Zodiac Connections
While each gemstone is associated with December, there are also connections to the zodiac signs that fall within the month. Blue Topaz is the main Zodiac birthstone for Sagittarius (November 23 - December 21), while Turquoise is one of the secondary stones. Ruby is the primary birthstone for Capricorn (December 22 - January 20). This provides further options for individuals seeking a gemstone aligned with their astrological sign.
Conclusion
Turquoise, tanzanite, and zircon represent the diverse beauty and rich symbolism of December’s birthstones. From the ancient protective qualities of turquoise to the modern spiritual significance of tanzanite and the enduring wisdom of zircon, these gemstones offer a unique connection to history, nature, and the metaphysical world. Whether chosen for their aesthetic appeal, historical significance, or perceived energetic properties, these December birthstones continue to captivate and inspire.