December is a month rich in gemstone diversity, offering a collection of five birthstones—Blue Zircon, Tanzanite, Blue Topaz, Lapis Lazuli, and Turquoise—each with unique properties, historical roots, and cultural significance. These gemstones have been cherished for centuries, not only for their aesthetic appeal but also for the symbolic meanings and metaphysical properties they embody. This article delves into the geological, historical, and cultural aspects of each of these December birthstones, providing a comprehensive understanding for gemstone enthusiasts, jewelry buyers, and students of gemology.
History and Lore
The tradition of assigning gemstones to specific months of the year dates back to ancient times. One of the earliest references can be found in the High Priest’s Breastplate described in the Biblical Book of Exodus, which lists twelve stones representing the twelve tribes of Israel. While these stones were not explicitly linked to months, they laid the foundation for the later development of birthstone lore.
By the Middle Ages, the concept of birthstones had evolved into a more structured system. The Jewish Kabbalah and Germanic traditions contributed to the development of modern birthstone lists, which were further refined in the 19th and 20th centuries by organizations such as the American National Association of Jewelers and the Gemmological Institute of America (GIA). Today, December is uniquely associated with five gemstones, a reflection of the diversity and complexity of gemstone history and culture.
Lapis Lazuli and Turquoise: The Traditional December Birthstones
Among the five December birthstones, Lapis Lazuli and Turquoise are considered the traditional gems for this month. Both have ancient histories and were highly valued in early civilizations.
Lapis Lazuli has been used since Neolithic times, with evidence of its use in Mesopotamia, Egypt, and Minoan Crete. In ancient Egypt, it was ground into powder to make cosmetics and used in jewelry and art. Pharaohs and royalty wore lapis lazuli, believing it to be a stone of truth and enlightenment. It was also associated with the goddess Hathor, who symbolized joy, music, and motherhood.
Turquoise, with its distinctive blue-green hue, has been revered in Central and South America, the Middle East, and Asia for thousands of years. The Aztecs and Egyptians both used turquoise in amulets and jewelry, believing it to offer protection and good fortune. In Persian and Chinese cultures, turquoise was also associated with healing and spiritual communication.
These traditional December birthstones were often worn not just for their beauty, but for their symbolic and metaphysical properties, making them highly desirable for engagement rings, wedding bands, and pendants.
Geological Formation and Sources
The geological characteristics of December’s birthstones are as diverse as their historical uses. Understanding how these gemstones form and where they are found can enhance appreciation for their rarity and beauty.
Blue Zircon
Blue Zircon is a variety of zircon, a mineral composed of zirconium silicate. The blue color is achieved through heat treatment of the natural brown or reddish zircon. Zircon is a high refractive index gemstone, which gives it a sparkling, diamond-like appearance.
Zircon is found in various parts of the world, including Brazil, Cambodia, India, and Tanzania. It is relatively hard (6.5–7.5 on the Mohs scale), making it suitable for jewelry, although it requires careful handling to avoid chipping.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is a trigonal mineral composed of calcium aluminum silicate. It is one of the rarest gemstones in the world and is found only in Tanzania, near the Serengeti National Park and Mount Kilimanjaro. The gemstone was discovered in 1967 and was named Tanzanite in honor of its country of origin.
Tanzanite is known for its vibrant blue to violet hues, which are achieved through heat treatment of the natural brownish zoisite. It has a Mohs hardness of 6–7, making it sensitive to impact and sudden temperature changes. Tanzanite is also vulnerable to acidic solutions, requiring careful cleaning methods to preserve its beauty.
Blue Topaz
Blue Topaz is a silicate mineral with a hexagonal crystal structure. It is one of the most affordable and popular gemstones, largely due to its availability and affordability. The blue color is achieved through irradiation and heat treatment of colorless topaz.
Blue Topaz is found in Brazil, Nigeria, and the United States, with Brazil being the largest source. It has a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale, making it ideal for daily wear, including rings and earrings. Its brilliant color and clarity make it a popular alternative to diamonds in engagement rings.
Lapis Lazuli
Lapis Lazuli is a metamorphic rock composed of lazurite, calcite, and pyrite. It is known for its deep blue color, often with white veins and golden flecks of pyrite. Lapis lazuli is not a single mineral, but rather a stone composed of multiple minerals, which gives it a rich, complex appearance.
The most high-quality lapis lazuli comes from Afghanistan, where it has been mined for thousands of years. Other sources include Russia, Canada, and the United States. Lapis lazuli has a Mohs hardness of 5–6, making it more suitable for pendants and earrings than for rings, which are subject to daily wear and tear.
Turquoise
Turquoise is a phosphorus mineral composed of copper and aluminum. It forms in arid regions where copper deposits are exposed to water and surface weathering. This process leads to the formation of turquoise in veins and cracks in the surrounding rock.
The most prized turquoise comes from Nevada (USA), Iran, and China. Nevada turquoise is known for its vibrant blue color and minimal matrix (the dark veins that often appear in the stone). Iranian turquoise, also known as Persian turquoise, is highly valued for its deep blue color and fine texture.
Turquoise has a Mohs hardness of 5–6, which makes it delicate and prone to scratching and cracking. For this reason, it is often set in protective mountings and used in jewelry that is worn less frequently, such as pendants and earrings.
Gemological Properties
Each of December’s birthstones has unique gemological properties that influence their appearance, durability, and suitability for jewelry. Understanding these properties can help in choosing the right gemstone for a specific jewelry design or purpose.
| Gemstone | Chemical Formula | Color | Hardness (Mohs) | Clarity | Cut | Refractive Index |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Blue Zircon | ZrSiO₄ | Blue | 6.5–7.5 | Often included | Round, princess | 1.92–2.00 |
| Tanzanite | CaAl₆SiO₁₁(OH)₂ | Blue to violet | 6–7 | Medium to included | Radiant, cushion | 1.69–1.70 |
| Blue Topaz | Al₂SiO₆ | Blue | 8 | Usually clear | Round, princess | 1.62–1.63 |
| Lapis Lazuli | Lazurite + Calcite + Pyrite | Deep blue | 5–6 | Included | Cabochon | 1.50–1.70 |
| Turquoise | CuAl₆(PO₄)₄(OH)₈·4H₂O | Blue-green | 5–6 | Included | Cabochon | 1.61–1.65 |
These properties determine how each gemstone is cut, set, and cared for. For example, Blue Topaz is often cut into brilliant shapes to enhance its sparkle, while Lapis Lazuli and Turquoise are typically cut into cabochons to highlight their rich colors and patterns.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
The symbolism and metaphysical beliefs associated with December’s birthstones have been passed down through generations. While these beliefs are not scientifically proven, they are deeply rooted in cultural traditions and spiritual practices.
Blue Zircon is believed to enhance spiritual awareness, promote wisdom, and encourage clarity of thought. It is also associated with protection and good fortune.
Tanzanite is often linked to emotional healing and balance. It is believed to soothe the mind, relieve stress, and enhance emotional stability. In some traditions, it is also used for spiritual transformation and enlightenment.
Blue Topaz is known as the stone of courage and strength. It is said to calm the mind, enhance intuition, and bring clarity to difficult situations. It is also believed to attract positive energy and good luck.
Lapis Lazuli has long been associated with wisdom, truth, and enlightenment. In ancient times, it was believed to stimulate intellectual growth and enhance communication. It is also considered a stone of spiritual awakening and divine connection.
Turquoise is one of the most well-known protective stones. It is believed to ward off negative energy, promote healing, and bring good fortune. In many cultures, it is also associated with fertility, love, and prosperity.
These metaphysical properties make December’s birthstones highly symbolic and meaningful, especially in engagement rings, wedding bands, and pendants, where they are believed to enhance the bond between individuals and bring positive energy to the relationship.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care and cleaning are essential to maintaining the beauty and durability of December’s birthstones. Given their varying hardness and chemical sensitivity, each gemstone requires specific care instructions.
Blue Zircon
- Cleaning: Use warm, soapy water and a soft cloth to clean Blue Zircon. Avoid ultrasonic and steam cleaners, as they can cause damage.
- Storage: Store Blue Zircon in a soft pouch or separate compartment to prevent scratching.
- Wear: Avoid exposure to high heat and sudden temperature changes, as Blue Zircon can crack or fracture under extreme conditions.
Tanzanite
- Cleaning: Clean Tanzanite with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth. Avoid ultrasonic and steam cleaners due to the risk of cracking or abrasion.
- Storage: Store Tanzanite separately from harder gemstones to prevent scratching.
- Wear: Avoid exposure to acidic solutions and protect Tanzanite from impact.
Blue Topaz
- Cleaning: Blue Topaz can be cleaned with ultrasonic and steam cleaners, making it easier to maintain.
- Storage: Store Blue Topaz with other gemstones, as it is relatively hard and resistant to scratching.
- Wear: Blue Topaz is ideal for daily wear, including rings and earrings.
Lapis Lazuli
- Cleaning: Clean Lapis Lazuli with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth. Avoid ultrasonic and steam cleaners, as they can damage the stone.
- Storage: Store Lapis Lazuli separately from harder gemstones to prevent scratching.
- Wear: Lapis Lazuli is better suited for pendants and earrings due to its lower hardness and sensitivity to damage.
Turquoise
- Cleaning: Clean Turquoise with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth. Avoid ultrasonic and steam cleaners, as they can dry out the stone.
- Storage: Store Turquoise in a cool, dry place to prevent drying and cracking.
- Wear: Turquoise is best suited for pendants and earrings, and should be avoided in rings due to its delicate nature.
Conclusion
December’s birthstones—Blue Zircon, Tanzanite, Blue Topaz, Lapis Lazuli, and Turquoise—represent a rich tapestry of history, symbolism, and gemological beauty. From the rare and radiant Tanzanite to the traditional and timeless Lapis Lazuli, each gemstone has a unique story and significance that makes it a valuable addition to any jewelry collection.
Whether chosen for its metaphysical properties, historical importance, or aesthetic appeal, December’s birthstones offer a versatile and meaningful way to express individuality. Understanding their geological properties, cultural symbolism, and care requirements allows for a more informed and thoughtful selection, ensuring that these beautiful gems are enjoyed and preserved for generations to come.