December is the month of holiday cheer and gift-giving, but it also holds a special place in the world of gemstones. For those born in December, the month is associated with a variety of beautiful and meaningful birthstones. These include turquoise, tanzanite, blue topaz, and blue zircon, each with its own unique characteristics, historical significance, and cultural symbolism. The December birthstone necklace, in particular, has become a popular and cherished piece of jewelry that showcases the beauty and significance of these gemstones.
In this article, we will explore the December birthstone necklace in detail, examining the properties, history, and cultural significance of each of the month's birthstones. We will also look at the design and craftsmanship of December birthstone necklaces, as well as the care and maintenance of these precious pieces of jewelry.
History and Lore of December Birthstones
The tradition of associating gemstones with specific months of the year dates back centuries. While the exact origins of birthstones are unclear, their use in jewelry and as symbols of personal identity can be traced to ancient civilizations. The concept of birthstones was particularly prominent in medieval Europe, where gemstones were believed to have protective and healing properties.
For December, the selection of birthstones reflects a blend of ancient traditions and more modern discoveries. Turquoise, one of the traditional December birthstones, has been used for thousands of years in jewelry and decorative arts. It is known for its striking blue-green color and was highly valued in ancient Egypt, Persia, and the Americas. The other traditional December birthstone, lapis lazuli, is similarly ancient and has been used in art and jewelry for millennia.
The modern December birthstones—blue topaz, tanzanite, and blue zircon—were added more recently. Blue topaz, a color-treated variety of topaz, became a popular alternative to diamonds in the 20th century due to its vibrant blue color and affordability. Tanzanite, a relatively new gemstone discovered in Tanzania in the 1960s, is known for its intense blue-violet hues and has quickly become a favorite in high-end jewelry. Blue zircon, a gemstone that can mimic the appearance of diamonds, has also gained popularity as a cost-effective yet beautiful alternative.
Geological Formation and Sources of December Birthstones
Each of the December birthstones has a unique geological origin and is found in specific regions around the world. Understanding the formation and sources of these gemstones provides insight into their rarity and value.
Turquoise
Turquoise is a hydrated phosphate of aluminum and copper. It forms in arid regions where the weathering of copper deposits leads to the leaching of copper into the surrounding rock. Over time, this process results in the formation of turquoise, which is often found in veins or nodules within limestone. The most famous sources of turquoise include the American Southwest, particularly Arizona and New Mexico, as well as Iran (Persia) and Egypt. The color of turquoise can vary from a deep blue to a more greenish-blue, depending on the concentration of copper and iron in the stone.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is a variety of the mineral zoisite that is found almost exclusively in Tanzania. It is known for its pleochroism, meaning that it displays different colors when viewed from different angles. Tanzanite can appear blue, purple, or even brown, but the most desirable and valuable color is the intense blue-violet. The gemstone was first discovered in 1967 near Mount Kilimanjaro and was introduced to the market in the 1970s. Its limited geographic source and the specific geological conditions required for its formation make tanzanite a rare and sought-after gemstone.
Blue Topaz
Blue topaz is a color-treated variety of the mineral topaz. Natural topaz is typically colorless or golden, but it can be irradiated and heated to produce a range of blue colors, from pale blue to deep blue. The most popular color is known as "London blue," which has a rich, deep blue hue. Blue topaz is found in several countries, including Brazil, Nigeria, and the United States. Its affordability and vibrant color make it a popular choice for jewelry, especially as a more budget-friendly alternative to blue diamonds.
Blue Zircon
Blue zircon is a color-treated variety of zircon, a mineral that occurs in a wide range of colors, including colorless, yellow, brown, and red. To produce blue zircon, the gemstone is irradiated and then heated to stabilize the color. The resulting blue color can range from a pale blue to a deep, vivid blue. Zircon is found in many parts of the world, including Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Australia. Blue zircon is often used as a diamond substitute due to its brilliance and affordability.
Gemological Properties of December Birthstones
Each of the December birthstones has unique gemological properties that contribute to their beauty and value. These properties include hardness, refractive index, color, and clarity, all of which are important factors in determining a gemstone's suitability for jewelry and its overall appeal.
Turquoise
Turquoise has a hardness of 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale, which means it is relatively soft and can be easily scratched or damaged. Because of its lower hardness, turquoise is often set in protective settings or used in pieces of jewelry that are not subject to frequent wear, such as pendants or earrings. Turquoise has a refractive index of 1.61 to 1.65 and is typically opaque, with a waxy or greasy luster. The color of turquoise is caused by the presence of copper and iron, and it can range from a deep blue to a more greenish-blue.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite has a hardness of 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale, making it more durable than turquoise but still relatively soft. It has a refractive index of 1.69 to 1.70 and is typically translucent to transparent. Tanzanite is known for its pleochroism, which means that it displays different colors when viewed from different angles. This property gives tanzanite a unique and dynamic appearance that is highly desirable in jewelry. Tanzanite is also known for its excellent brilliance and fire, making it a popular choice for rings, pendants, and earrings.
Blue Topaz
Blue topaz has a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale, making it one of the harder December birthstones. It has a refractive index of 1.62 to 1.64 and is typically colorless or golden in its natural state. The blue color is achieved through irradiation and heat treatment, and the resulting color can range from a pale blue to a deep, rich blue. Blue topaz is highly durable and is suitable for a wide range of jewelry applications, including rings, pendants, and earrings. Its affordability and vibrant color make it a popular choice for both everyday and special occasion jewelry.
Blue Zircon
Blue zircon has a hardness of 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale, making it a relatively hard and durable gemstone. It has a refractive index of 1.92 to 1.98 and is known for its high dispersion, which means that it displays a significant amount of fire and brilliance. Blue zircon is often used as a diamond substitute due to its brilliance and affordability. The blue color is achieved through irradiation and heat treatment, and the resulting color can range from a pale blue to a deep, vivid blue. Blue zircon is found in many parts of the world and is a popular choice for jewelry, especially as a more budget-friendly alternative to diamonds.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs of December Birthstones
In addition to their physical properties and beauty, December birthstones are also associated with various symbolic meanings and metaphysical beliefs. These associations have been passed down through generations and continue to influence the way people choose and wear these gemstones.
Turquoise
Turquoise has long been associated with protection, good fortune, and spiritual power. In many cultures, it was believed to provide protection from harm and to bring good luck to the wearer. Turquoise was also considered a sacred stone in many ancient civilizations, including the Egyptians, Persians, and Native Americans. It was believed to have healing properties and was used in amulets and talismans to ward off evil spirits and negative energies. In modern times, turquoise is still associated with protection, communication, and emotional balance.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is associated with transformation, intuition, and spiritual insight. It is believed to help the wearer connect with their higher self and to enhance their ability to see the bigger picture. Tanzanite is also associated with emotional healing and is believed to help release negative emotions and promote a sense of peace and well-being. Because of its rarity and beauty, tanzanite is also considered a symbol of exclusivity and luxury.
Blue Topaz
Blue topaz is associated with calmness, clarity, and emotional stability. It is believed to help the wearer find inner peace and to promote a sense of tranquility. Blue topaz is also associated with love and friendship and is believed to strengthen relationships and foster harmony between people. Because of its vibrant blue color, blue topaz is also associated with the sky and the sea and is believed to bring a sense of freedom and adventure.
Blue Zircon
Blue zircon is associated with prosperity, wisdom, and spiritual growth. It is believed to help the wearer gain insight and to make wise decisions. Blue zircon is also associated with protection and is believed to help ward off negative energies and promote a sense of security. Because of its brilliance and beauty, blue zircon is also considered a symbol of luxury and elegance.
Care and Maintenance of December Birthstone Necklaces
Proper care and maintenance are essential to preserving the beauty and longevity of a December birthstone necklace. Each of the gemstones has specific care requirements based on their hardness, sensitivity to heat and chemicals, and other factors.
Turquoise
Turquoise is a relatively soft gemstone and is sensitive to heat, chemicals, and moisture. To care for a turquoise necklace, it is important to avoid exposing it to harsh chemicals, such as household cleaners, perfumes, and lotions. Turquoise should also be kept away from direct sunlight and heat sources, as these can cause the stone to fade or lose its color. It is best to store turquoise in a cool, dry place and to clean it gently with a soft, dry cloth.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is more durable than turquoise but still requires careful handling. It is sensitive to heat and should not be exposed to high temperatures, as this can cause the color to fade. Tanzanite is also sensitive to certain chemicals, so it is important to avoid exposing it to household cleaners, perfumes, and lotions. To clean a tanzanite necklace, use a soft, damp cloth and mild soap. Avoid using ultrasonic cleaners, as they can damage the stone.
Blue Topaz
Blue topaz is a relatively hard gemstone and is more resistant to scratches and damage. However, it is still important to take care of a blue topaz necklace to ensure its longevity. Blue topaz should be cleaned with a soft, damp cloth and mild soap. It is not necessary to use ultrasonic cleaners, as blue topaz is durable enough to withstand regular cleaning. Blue topaz can be exposed to sunlight and heat without causing damage, but it is best to avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures for prolonged periods.
Blue Zircon
Blue zircon is a relatively hard gemstone and is more resistant to scratches and damage than turquoise or tanzanite. However, it is still important to take care of a blue zircon necklace to ensure its longevity. Blue zircon should be cleaned with a soft, damp cloth and mild soap. It is not necessary to use ultrasonic cleaners, as blue zircon is durable enough to withstand regular cleaning. Blue zircon can be exposed to sunlight and heat without causing damage, but it is best to avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures for prolonged periods.
Conclusion
December birthstone necklaces are a beautiful and meaningful way to celebrate the month of December and the gemstones associated with it. Whether you choose a necklace featuring turquoise, tanzanite, blue topaz, or blue zircon, each of these gemstones has a unique history, symbolism, and beauty that makes it a cherished piece of jewelry. By understanding the properties, history, and care requirements of these gemstones, you can ensure that your December birthstone necklace remains a treasured part of your jewelry collection for years to come.