December is unique among the calendar months, boasting not one, but three primary birthstones: zircon, tanzanite, and turquoise. These gemstones, all variations of blue, offer a diverse range of aesthetic and historical significance for those born in the final month of the year. Alongside these, blue topaz and lapis lazuli are also recognized as traditional December birthstones, providing an even wider selection for personal preference and meaning. This article will delve into the history, geological origins, gemological properties, and symbolism of these captivating December birthstones.
History and Lore
The tradition of associating specific gemstones with birth months stretches back to ancient times, with roots in medieval practices. While the modern list of birthstones evolved over centuries, the practice of wearing colored gems for their perceived benefits dates back to ancient civilizations. December’s birthstones, both traditional and modern, have been valued for their beauty and believed metaphysical properties for generations.
Turquoise and zircon have long been considered the main birthstones for December, representing the chill of winter with their varying shades of blue. Lapis lazuli, with its deep azure tones, was associated with wisdom and royalty in ancient civilizations, considered a stone of truth and enlightenment. It was believed to enhance intellectual abilities and stimulate a quest for knowledge. Turquoise, revered for centuries across various cultures, has often been seen as a talisman for protection and a symbol of good fortune.
Tanzanite is a more recent addition to the December birthstone family, discovered in Tanzania in 1967. Its relatively recent discovery has quickly propelled it to worldwide acclaim, with demand consistently exceeding supply.
Geological Formation and Sources
The origins of these December birthstones are as diverse as the stones themselves. Turquoise, as its name suggests, is formed in relatively young sedimentary rocks, often in arid regions. Its color comes from the presence of copper.
Zircon is one of the oldest minerals on Earth, forming in igneous rocks and metamorphic rocks. It’s found in a variety of geological settings, and its color can range from colorless to brown, red, yellow, green, and blue.
Tanzanite, a variety of the mineral zoisite, is exceptionally rare, found in only one area near Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. This limited geographical source contributes to its high value and desirability. It forms within metamorphic rocks, created by intense heat and pressure.
Gemological Properties
Each of December’s birthstones possesses unique gemological properties that contribute to its beauty and value.
Turquoise: Turquoise is not a crystalline gemstone, but rather a hydrated phosphate of copper and aluminum. It typically ranges from opaque to translucent. Its color varies from sky blue to greenish-blue, depending on the amount of iron and copper present. It is relatively soft, with a Mohs hardness of 5-6, making it susceptible to scratching.
Zircon: Zircon is a silicate mineral with a chemical formula of ZrSiO4. It boasts a high refractive index, contributing to its brilliance and “fire,” or dispersion of light. Its hardness ranges from 6.5 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale, making it more durable than turquoise. Zircon exhibits a rainbow of colors, but the blue varieties are most commonly associated with December.
Tanzanite: Tanzanite is a calcium aluminum silicate with a chemical formula of Ca2Al3(SiO4)3(OH). It exhibits strong trichroism, meaning it displays three different colors – blue, violet, and burgundy – depending on the viewing angle. Its hardness is between 6 and 7 on the Mohs scale. The most highly coveted color is a deep blue with a purple shimmer.
Here's a table summarizing the key properties:
| Gemstone | Chemical Formula | Hardness (Mohs) | Color(s) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Turquoise | CuAl6(PO4)4(OH)8·4H2O | 5-6 | Sky blue to greenish-blue |
| Zircon | ZrSiO4 | 6.5-7.5 | Colorless, brown, blue, etc. |
| Tanzanite | Ca2Al3(SiO4)3(OH) | 6-7 | Blue, violet, burgundy |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, each of these gemstones has been attributed with various symbolic meanings and metaphysical properties. Turquoise is believed to instill a sense of inner calm and foster creativity, mirroring the wintry landscapes with its warmth and optimism. It is often seen as a talisman for protection and a symbol of good fortune.
Zircon is celebrated for its brilliant fire and rainbow of colors, and its historical and geological value as one of the oldest minerals on Earth.
Tanzanite is prized for its unique blue to violet color and rarity, believed to enhance psychic abilities and promote spiritual awareness. Its connection to Tanzania and Mount Kilimanjaro adds to its mystique.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care is essential to maintain the beauty of December birthstones. Turquoise, being relatively soft, requires gentle handling and should be protected from scratches and harsh chemicals. Cleaning can be done with a soft cloth and mild soapy water.
Zircon and Tanzanite, with their higher hardness, are more durable but still require care. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners and harsh chemicals. Cleaning can be done with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. It is advisable to have these gemstones professionally cleaned and inspected periodically.
Synthetic vs. Mined Gemstones
It’s important to be aware of the difference between mined and synthetic gemstones. Many gems available today are lab-created, chemically identical to their natural counterparts but grown in a laboratory. Synthetic gemstones match genuine gemstones in crystal structure, chemical composition, and hardness. Genuine mined gemstones, however, take millions of years to form within the Earth, and no two are exactly alike. The appeal of a genuine mined gemstone varies from person to person.
Conclusion
December’s birthstones—zircon, topaz, tanzanite, lapis lazuli, and turquoise—offer a rich mix of history and symbolism, making each unique for those born in this month. These stones are more than just beautiful; they reflect the wearer's personality and bring a variety of cultural significances. When choosing between these gemstones, December’s stones stand out with their vibrant colors and deep cultural roots, providing a distinct way to express individuality. Purchasing these gemstones requires careful research and consultation with experts to ensure quality and authenticity. Their unique traits demand thoughtful handling and care to maintain their beauty over time.