The December birthstone ring is a unique and meaningful piece of jewelry that celebrates the rich diversity of gemstones associated with the final month of the year. Unlike other months that have a single birthstone, December boasts four: blue topaz, tanzanite, turquoise, and zircon. Each of these gemstones has its own distinct color palette, gemological properties, and historical significance, making the December birthstone ring a versatile and deeply symbolic choice for both personal wear and gifting.
This article explores the December birthstone in detail, focusing on its gemological properties, cultural and historical significance, care instructions, and its role in modern jewelry design. The information is drawn exclusively from the provided sources, ensuring accuracy and relevance for gemstone enthusiasts, jewelry buyers, and students of gemology alike.
History and Lore of December Birthstones
Turquoise: A Stone of Ancient Significance
Turquoise is perhaps the most historically significant of the December birthstones. It has been cherished for millennia, with evidence of its use dating back to ancient Egypt. Pharaohs and other rulers adorned themselves with turquoise, believing it to possess protective and beneficial properties. One of the most famous examples of its use is the funerary mask of King Tut, which features turquoise inlays.
In Native American cultures, turquoise was considered a sacred stone. The Apache believed that following a rainbow to its end would lead one to the location of turquoise. They also thought that attaching turquoise to a bow or firearm improved one’s accuracy. The Pueblo people believed that turquoise derived its color from the sky, while the Hopi believed it was created by lizards scurrying across the earth.
Beyond the Americas and the Middle East, turquoise played a role in European traditions. In some cultures, the gifting of a turquoise ring symbolized “forget me not.” In Tibet, turquoise is considered a national treasure, believed to bring health, good fortune, and protection from evil. It is also associated with peace and spiritual well-being.
Turquoise has also appeared in the jewelry of modern royalty. Wallis Simpson, the Duchess of Windsor and the woman for whom King Edward VIII gave up his throne, wore a famous amethyst and turquoise necklace made by Cartier. This highlights the gemstone’s enduring appeal across generations and cultures.
Tanzanite: A Modern Discovery with Ancient Roots
Tanzanite is a relatively recent discovery in the world of gemstones. It was first identified in Tanzania in the 1960s and quickly became popular due to its striking blue to violet colors. Tanzanite is a variety of zoisite, a mineral that is usually brown in its natural state. The blue and violet hues are achieved through heat treatment, a process that is now widely accepted and standardized in the gemstone industry.
Tanzanite is often described as having a velvety appearance due to its pleochroism—its ability to display different colors depending on the angle of view. This makes it a unique and visually captivating gemstone, ideal for statement jewelry such as pendants and earrings.
While tanzanite is a modern discovery, it has quickly become a symbol of elegance and rarity. It is also associated with emotional healing and spiritual transformation, making it a meaningful choice for December birthstone jewelry.
Zircon: A Rainbow of Colors and a Dazzling History
Zircon is another gemstone with a long and fascinating history. While it is best known for its blue variety, zircon can occur in a wide range of colors, including red, yellow, green, and brown. Some zircons are even colorless, making them a popular alternative to diamonds.
Zircon has been used in jewelry for centuries, with some of the earliest known examples dating back to ancient Egypt and Rome. In medieval Europe, zircon was believed to possess protective properties, especially for travelers. It was thought to prevent falls from horses and would break into pieces to warn the wearer of approaching danger.
Zircon is also notable for its high refractive index, which gives it a brilliant, fire-like sparkle. This makes it a popular choice for simulated diamond jewelry, especially in rings and pendants.
Geological Formation and Sources
Blue Topaz: A Gem of the Americas
Blue topaz is a relatively common gemstone that is often found in Brazil, United States, and Nepal. In its natural state, topaz is typically colorless, but the blue variety is created through irradiation and heat treatment, processes that are well understood and widely used in the gemstone industry.
Blue topaz is prized for its clarity and brilliance, making it an ideal gemstone for a wide range of jewelry styles, including rings, earrings, and pendants. It is also relatively affordable, which makes it an accessible option for those looking to celebrate the December birthstone.
Tanzanite: A Unique African Treasure
As the name suggests, tanzanite is found only in Tanzania, where it is mined from the Merelani Hills in the Shinyanga region. This limited source gives tanzanite its rarity and exclusivity, making it a highly sought-after gemstone.
Tanzanite is formed under specific geological conditions, involving the heat treatment of brown zoisite to produce the blue and violet colors that are now synonymous with the gemstone. While the natural color of tanzanite can vary, the most desirable stones exhibit a deep blue with hints of violet.
Turquoise: A Stone of the East and the West
Turquoise has been mined for over 1,000 years in the Nishapur district of Iran, where it is known for its intense blue color, often referred to as “Persian blue.” Other notable sources include the United States, particularly in Arizona and New Mexico, where turquoise has played a significant role in Native American culture and jewelry.
Turquoise is a soft, porous gemstone, which means it is best suited for earrings, pendants, and brooches rather than rings or bracelets that are more likely to be subjected to daily wear.
Zircon: A Global Gem
Zircon is found in numerous locations around the world, including Sri Lanka, Australia, Myanmar, Vietnam, and Cambodia. It is often found in areas that also produce sapphires, which is one of the reasons it is sometimes referred to as a sapphire substitute.
Zircon is known for its high refractive index and fire, which gives it a sparkling appearance similar to that of a diamond. However, zircon is more fragile than diamond, so it requires careful handling and proper setting to avoid damage.
Gemological Properties of December Birthstones
| Gemstone | Color Range | Hardness (Mohs Scale) | Clarity | Refractive Index | Special Properties |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Blue Topaz | Blue, colorless | 8 | Clear | 1.62–1.64 | Irradiation-treated; high clarity |
| Tanzanite | Blue, violet, brown (natural) | 6–7 | Medium | 1.69–1.70 | Heat-treated; pleochroic; rare |
| Turquoise | Blue, green, with matrix patterns | 5–6 | Opaque | 1.61–1.65 | Porous; requires special care |
| Zircon | Blue, colorless, red, yellow, green | 6–7.5 | Clear | 1.92–2.00 | High refractive index; heat-treated |
Blue Topaz
Blue topaz is a silicate mineral (Al₂SiO₆) that is typically colorless in its natural form. The blue color is achieved through irradiation and heat treatment, which stabilize the gemstone and enhance its color. Blue topaz is known for its clarity and brilliance, making it a popular choice for engagement rings and fashion jewelry.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is a zinc aluminum silicate (Ca₂Al₃(SiO₄)(OH)₆) that is naturally brown in color. Through heat treatment, it is transformed into the blue to violet hues that make it so desirable. Tanzanite has a pleochroic nature, meaning it can display different colors depending on the viewing angle. This makes it a unique and visually dynamic gemstone.
Turquoise
Turquoise is a phosphate mineral (CuAl₆(PO₄)₄(OH)₈·4H₂O) that is typically opaque or semi-translucent. It is known for its distinctive blue and green colors, often with matrix patterns—veins of the host rock that add to its charm. Due to its porous nature, turquoise requires special care and is best suited for statement pieces rather than everyday wear.
Zircon
Zircon is a zirconium silicate (ZrSiO₄) that occurs in a wide range of colors. The blue variety is the most well-known and is produced through heat treatment. Zircon has a high refractive index and fire, making it a sparkling alternative to diamond. However, it is relatively fragile, so it must be handled with care to avoid damage.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Blue Topaz: A Stone of Clarity and Calm
Blue topaz is often associated with clarity of thought and emotional calm. In ancient times, it was believed to have protective properties, especially for travelers. In modern gemstone lore, blue topaz is said to promote inner peace and balance, making it a popular choice for those seeking mental and emotional stability.
Tanzanite: A Stone of Transformation and Healing
Tanzanite is often associated with emotional healing and spiritual transformation. It is believed to help individuals release negative emotions and embrace new perspectives. In some cultures, tanzanite is also associated with love and compassion, making it a meaningful choice for engagement rings and wedding jewelry.
Turquoise: A Stone of Protection and Good Fortune
Turquoise has long been associated with protection, good fortune, and spiritual well-being. In Native American cultures, it was believed to guard the wearer from harm and bring health and prosperity. In Tibet, turquoise is considered a national treasure and is believed to bring good luck and spiritual protection.
Zircon: A Stone of Clarity and Intuition
Zircon is often associated with clarity, intuition, and emotional balance. In ancient times, it was believed to help travelers avoid danger and stay safe. In modern gemstone lore, zircon is said to enhance mental clarity and spiritual awareness, making it a popular choice for those seeking inner wisdom and insight.
Care and Cleaning of December Birthstone Rings
Blue Topaz
Blue topaz is relatively durable and can be cleaned with warm, soapy water. It is safe to use ultrasonic and steam cleaners, making it one of the easiest December birthstones to care for. However, because blue topaz is irradiation-treated, it should be cleaned with care to avoid exposing it to extreme heat or radiation.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is somewhat fragile and should be cleaned with warm, soapy water. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners are not recommended, as they can potentially damage the gemstone. Tanzanite is also sensitive to heat and sudden temperature changes, so it should be stored in a cool, dry place.
Turquoise
Turquoise is a porous gemstone that requires special care. It should be cleaned with mild soap and warm water, but ultrasonic and steam cleaners should be avoided. Turquoise should also be stored separately from other gemstones to prevent scratching and abrasion. It is best to wear turquoise in earrings or pendants rather than rings or bracelets.
Zircon
Zircon is relatively durable, but it is prone to abrasion. It should be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners are not recommended for zircon, as they can potentially damage the gemstone. Zircon should also be stored in a cool, dry place, away from extreme heat or light.
December Birthstone Ring Designs and Popularity
The December birthstone ring is a versatile and meaningful piece of jewelry that can be designed in a variety of styles to suit different tastes and preferences. Some of the most popular designs include:
- 14 Karat White Gold Blue Topaz & Diamond Halo Ring
- 14 Karat White Gold Tanzanite & Diamond Pendant Necklace
- Vintage 1980’s 14 Karat Yellow & White Gold Blue Topaz, Green Sapphire, Amethyst & Diamond Statement Bracelet
- 10 Karat Hugs And Kisses Blue Topaz & Diamond Tennis Bracelet
- Sterling Silver Blue Topaz Ring from Lafonn
These designs highlight the versatility and beauty of December birthstone jewelry, from simple and elegant solitaires to elaborate and ornate statement pieces. The use of blue topaz, tanzanite, turquoise, and zircon in these designs allows for a wide range of colors, styles, and price points, making the December birthstone ring a popular choice for both personal wear and gifting.
Conclusion
The December birthstone ring is a celebration of the rich diversity of gemstones associated with the final month of the year. With four distinct birthstones—blue topaz, tanzanite, turquoise, and zircon—December offers a wide range of colors, gemological properties, and symbolic meanings. Each of these gemstones has its own unique history and significance, making the December birthstone ring a meaningful and versatile piece of jewelry.
From the ancient traditions of turquoise to the modern discovery of tanzanite, the December birthstone ring tells a story of beauty, rarity, and cultural significance. Whether worn as a personal keepsake or a gift for a loved one, the December birthstone ring is a timeless and elegant symbol of the month’s rich heritage.