December boasts a remarkable selection of birthstones – blue zircon, blue topaz, and turquoise – each with a rich history, unique geological origins, and captivating symbolism. While traditionally, turquoise held prominence as the sole December birthstone, modern lists include the vibrant blues of zircon and topaz, offering a spectrum of choices for those born in the final month of the year. These gemstones have been treasured for millennia, adorning royalty, safeguarding against misfortune, and inspiring artistic expression across diverse cultures. This article will delve into the fascinating world of these December birthstones, exploring their history, geological formation, gemological properties, and enduring significance.
History and Lore
The history of December birthstones is a tapestry woven with threads from ancient civilizations. Turquoise, the oldest of the three, has a documented history stretching back to 3000 BCE in ancient Egypt. It was not merely ornamental; Egyptians embedded turquoise in burial masks and tombs, believing it offered protection and ensured good fortune in the afterlife. This belief in turquoise’s protective qualities extended to Persia (modern-day Iran), where it was considered a safeguard against unnatural activities and a conduit for spiritual enhancement. Among Native American cultures, particularly the Navajo, Zuni, and Pueblo peoples, turquoise held sacred status, embodying the spirit of the sky and water, and featuring prominently in intricate silver jewelry.
Blue topaz also has a long history, first discovered over two thousand years ago by Romans on the Greek Islands of Topazios in the Red Sea. While early references don’t specifically mention blue topaz, the gem itself was known and valued.
Blue zircon’s history is somewhat less documented in the provided sources, though it is noted that zircons often form naturally brown and are then heat-treated to achieve a blue hue. The association of blue zircon with wisdom, confidence, and prosperity is a more recent attribution, though its use in jewelry for centuries is implied.
The practice of associating specific gemstones with birth months evolved over time, with roots in medieval times. These colored gems were believed to be blessed, offering benefits to those who wore them in rings, pendants, and other jewelry.
Geological Formation and Sources
Each of these December birthstones originates through distinct geological processes and is sourced from various locations worldwide. Turquoise, a copper aluminum phosphate, forms in semi-humid and dry environments where rainwater and groundwater seep through rock, depositing chemicals that create the gemstone. The blue color is derived from copper, while iron contributes to green hues.
Blue topaz forms in igneous rocks and is found in several locations, including Texas in the United States, the Ural Mountains in Russia, Brazil, Sri Lanka, Nigeria, and China. It’s important to note that much of the commercially available blue topaz is created by irradiating naturally colorless topaz.
Zircon, often initially brown in color, is transformed to blue through heat treatment. Sources for zircon are not explicitly detailed in the provided materials beyond the implication that heat treatment is a common practice to achieve the desired blue coloration.
Gemological Properties
The gemological properties of these three birthstones differ significantly, contributing to their unique characteristics and appeal.
Blue Topaz: With a chemical formula of Al2SiO4(F,OH)4, blue topaz possesses a glass-like luster and deep cleavage, making it somewhat delicate despite its hardness. It registers an 8 on the Mohs scale, making it harder than many silicate minerals, and more durable than tanzanite. Variations in color include London Blue (deep inky blue), Swiss Blue (vibrant medium light blue), and Sky Blue (light aqua).
Blue Zircon: Blue zircon exhibits hues ranging from blue to sky blue, often with green components. It is created through heat treatment of naturally brown zircons. The sources do not provide a specific Mohs hardness for blue zircon, but it is implied to be durable.
Turquoise: Turquoise is a semi-translucent to opaque gem, ranging in color from blue to green, often displaying veins of matrix – remnants of the rock in which it formed. These veins can be black, silver, tan, or gold. Its composition is described as copper aluminum phosphate.
Here's a table summarizing key gemological properties:
| Gemstone | Chemical Formula | Color Range | Mohs Hardness | Luster | Transparency |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Blue Topaz | Al2SiO4(F,OH)4 | Deep inky blue to light aqua | 8 | Glass-like | Transparent |
| Blue Zircon | Not specified | Blue to sky blue, often with green tones | Not specified | Not specified | Not specified |
| Turquoise | Copper Aluminum Phosphate | Blue to green, often with matrix veins | Not specified | Not specified | Semi-translucent to opaque |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, these December birthstones have been imbued with symbolic meanings and metaphysical properties. Turquoise, for example, was believed to guarantee health and good fortune, protect against falls (particularly from horses), and even break into pieces at the approach of disaster. Hindu mystics believed viewing turquoise after a new moon would bring wealth.
Blue topaz is known as the “clarity stone,” believed to stimulate open communication and encourage positive action. It symbolizes opportunity, genuine feelings, wisdom, and success. Some traditions suggest it can relieve stress, ease migraines, and soothe sore throats. It is associated with the throat chakra and believed to aid in throat-related ailments.
Blue zircon is traditionally associated with wisdom, confidence, and prosperity. It is believed to ward off negative energies, aid restful sleep, enhance intuition, and create a protective aura. It is also thought to assist with meditation and improve organizational abilities. Astrologically, it is considered beneficial for those born under Cancer, Gemini, Virgo, Capricorn, or Aquarius, and in Indian astrology, for Libra and Taurus. It is particularly recommended for creative professionals.
Care and Cleaning
Due to their differing hardness levels, each of these gemstones requires specific care. Blue topaz, with a Mohs hardness of 8, is relatively durable but can be brittle and should be handled with care to avoid impacts. Turquoise, being softer, is more susceptible to scratches and damage from chemicals. The sources do not provide specific cleaning instructions for blue zircon, but given its potential for heat treatment to achieve its color, caution should be exercised when cleaning. Generally, all three stones can be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid harsh chemicals and ultrasonic cleaners, especially for turquoise.
Conclusion
Blue zircon, blue topaz, and turquoise represent a captivating trio of December birthstones, each steeped in history, symbolism, and geological wonder. From the ancient protective powers attributed to turquoise to the clarity and wisdom associated with blue topaz and zircon, these gemstones continue to resonate with meaning and beauty. Whether chosen for their aesthetic appeal, astrological significance, or historical connection, these December birthstones offer a vibrant and enduring legacy.