December is a unique month in the world of birthstones, boasting not one, but four recognized gems: turquoise, blue zircon, blue topaz, and tanzanite. This abundance offers those born in December a diverse palette of beautiful blue hues and a rich tapestry of historical and metaphysical associations to choose from. The selection of December birthstones has evolved over time, reflecting changing traditions and the discovery of new gemstones. While turquoise holds the longest-standing association with the month, zircon, topaz, and the more recent addition of tanzanite all contribute to the December birthstone legacy.
A History of Changing Traditions
The earliest known birthstone lists, inspired by Biblical texts, designated ruby as the stone for December. However, this association gradually shifted. By 1870, turquoise had become the recognized December birthstone, as documented in Tiffany & Co.’s “Gregorian Birthstone Poems.” The National Association of Jewellers (now Jewellers of America) initially listed turquoise as the primary stone in 1912, with lapis lazuli as an alternative. In 1952, blue zircon was added to the list, and most recently, in 2002, tanzanite joined the ranks of December birthstones. This evolution demonstrates how birthstone traditions are not static, but rather reflect cultural shifts and gemological discoveries. The question of the “real” December birthstone is therefore complex, with turquoise maintaining the most consistent historical presence, but each gem offering its own unique appeal.
The Allure of Turquoise
Turquoise, a stone steeped in history and cultural significance, remains a popular choice for December birthdays. For centuries, the most prized turquoise originated from Iran (formerly Persia), though contemporary specimens from the southwestern United States now rival its quality. Significant mining locations within the U.S. include Arizona, California, and Nevada, with historical mining also occurring in New Mexico by the Aztecs. Turquoise is frequently treated to enhance its color and durability, often being dyed and stabilized with resins to produce a harder, more polished stone. It is considered the traditional birthstone for December and is also associated with the 11th wedding anniversary. As one of the first gems to be mined, turquoise holds a prominent place in the history of jewelry and adornment.
Blue Zircon: A Sparkling Alternative
Blue zircon emerged as a December birthstone in 1952, adding another dimension to the month’s gemological offerings. While often confused with cubic zirconia, natural zircon is a distinct gemstone with a quiet vibration and a range of colors, though blue zircon is most commonly associated with December. Zircon’s appeal lies in its brilliance and fire, sometimes even rivaling that of a diamond.
Blue Topaz: A Gem of Calm and Clarity
Blue topaz, the state gemstone of Texas, is another frequently cited December birthstone. While orange topaz is the conventional birthstone for November, the blue variety has gained prominence as a December gem. Topaz is found in various locations worldwide, including Brazil, Afghanistan, Australia, Myanmar (Burma), China, Germany, Japan, Madagascar, Mexico, Namibia, Nigeria, Pakistan, Russia, Zimbabwe, Sri Lanka, Ukraine, and the USA. Natural light-blue topaz is even found in Northern Ireland and the UK. Blue topaz is valued for its icy blue clarity and calming energy.
Tanzanite: A Modern December Gem
The newest addition to the December birthstone family, tanzanite, was officially recognized in the United States in 2002. Discovered in Tanzania in 1967, this relatively recent find quickly gained popularity for its captivating violet-blue shimmer, often compared to that of sapphire. Tanzanite is considered a protective and soothing stone, believed to facilitate the calm and clear communication of spiritual insights.
Gemological Properties: A Comparative Overview
While each December birthstone possesses unique characteristics, they share a common thread of beautiful blue coloration. Here’s a brief overview of their key gemological properties:
| Gemstone | Chemical Formula | Hardness (Mohs) | Color(s) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Turquoise | CuAl6(PO4)4(OH)8·4H2O | 5-6 | Blue to Green |
| Blue Zircon | ZrSiO4 | 6.5-7.5 | Blue |
| Blue Topaz | Al2SiO4(OH,F)2 | 8 | Blue |
| Tanzanite | Ca2Al3(SiO4)3(OH) | 6.5-7 | Violet-Blue |
Note: Hardness values are approximate and can vary.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Each of the December birthstones carries its own set of symbolic meanings and metaphysical properties. Turquoise has long been associated with protection, prosperity, and luck, revered by ancient shamans as a talisman. Blue topaz is believed to stimulate self-esteem and learning, aligning meridians and calming emotions, making it ideal for meditation. Lapis lazuli, historically a December birthstone, is a stone of self-mastery and protection, clearing the mind and promoting peace. Blue zircon is thought to encourage joy and emotional balance. Tanzanite is considered a highly protective and soothing stone, aiding in the sharing of spiritual information. Ruby, an ancient December birthstone, is believed to sharpen the mind, improve concentration, and inspire courtly love. Chrysoprase, the old Russian birthstone for December, is associated with good fortune and healing broken hearts. Onyx, the Tibetan birthstone, offers self-mastery and protective energy, while bloodstone is a stone of courage and revitalization.
Care and Maintenance
Proper care is essential to maintain the beauty and longevity of December birthstones. Given their varying hardness levels, different gemstones require different levels of attention. Turquoise, being relatively soft, is susceptible to scratches and should be protected from harsh impacts. Blue topaz and zircon, being harder, are more durable but can still be chipped or damaged with improper handling. Tanzanite, while beautiful, is relatively soft and requires careful handling to avoid scratches. All gemstones benefit from regular cleaning with mild soap and warm water. It is also recommended to bathe crystals in full moonlight regularly to energize them and cleanse them by placing them on selenite or moving them through sage smoke. Removing jewelry daily to allow it to rest is also a good practice.
Conclusion
December’s selection of birthstones – turquoise, blue zircon, blue topaz, and tanzanite – offers a remarkable range of beauty, history, and metaphysical properties. From the ancient traditions surrounding turquoise to the modern allure of tanzanite, each gem holds a unique significance for those born in the final month of the year. The evolving list of December birthstones reflects a dynamic interplay between cultural beliefs, gemological discoveries, and personal preferences, providing a rich and meaningful choice for individuals seeking a gemstone that resonates with their identity and spirit.