The provided source offers extremely limited information, consisting solely of a product listing from Walmart for a sterling silver ring featuring a water-drop shaped gemstone marketed as a December birthstone. Consequently, a 2000-word comprehensive article on the gemstone is impossible. This article will focus on the information available within the single source, expanding where possible with generally accepted knowledge about birthstones and ring settings, while explicitly acknowledging the limitations of the source material. The primary focus will be on the ring described and the implications of its design and material choices.
December Birthstones and Ring Design
December is traditionally associated with three birthstones: Tanzanite, Zircon, and Turquoise. The Walmart listing does not specify which of these gemstones is featured in the ring, only describing it as a “December birthstone.” This ambiguity is common in commercially marketed jewelry, where aesthetic appeal and price point often outweigh strict adherence to traditional birthstone associations. The “water-drop” shape is a popular cut for gemstones in rings, offering a visually appealing and often flattering silhouette. This cut is frequently used for stones that aren’t exceptionally hard, as it doesn’t require the precise faceting of harder stones like diamonds.
Sterling Silver as a Ring Metal
The ring is constructed from S925 sterling silver. Sterling silver is an alloy containing 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals, usually copper. This alloy is used in jewelry because pure silver is too soft for durable wear. Sterling silver is a relatively affordable metal, making it a popular choice for fashion jewelry and birthstone rings. However, it is susceptible to tarnishing, requiring regular cleaning to maintain its luster. The choice of sterling silver suggests the ring is positioned as a fashion piece rather than a high-end investment.
The "Couple Ring" Designation
The product description includes the term “Couple Ring,” indicating it is marketed as a matching set for partners. This is a common marketing tactic, particularly for relatively inexpensive jewelry items. The design likely features identical or complementary rings, appealing to consumers seeking a coordinated look. The emphasis on “temperament” in the description suggests the ring is intended to reflect the wearer’s personality or style.
Limitations of the Source and General Gemstone Information
The provided source lacks any information regarding the gemstone’s geological origin, chemical composition, hardness, or historical significance. Therefore, a detailed discussion of these aspects is impossible. However, we can briefly outline general information about the three December birthstones:
- Turquoise: A hydrated phosphate of copper and aluminum, turquoise is known for its opaque blue-green color. It has been used in jewelry for thousands of years, with significant historical sources in Persia (Iran) and the American Southwest. Its hardness is relatively low (around 5-6 on the Mohs scale), making it susceptible to scratching.
- Zircon: A zirconium silicate mineral, zircon comes in a variety of colors, including colorless, brown, red, and blue. Blue zircon is the most common variety used as a December birthstone. It has a hardness of 6.5-7.5 on the Mohs scale and can be quite brilliant when cut. Historically, zircon has been confused with diamond due to its high refractive index.
- Tanzanite: A relatively recent discovery (1967), tanzanite is a blue-violet variety of the mineral zoisite. It is found only in a small area near Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. Tanzanite is known for its trichroism, meaning it displays different colors depending on the viewing angle. Its hardness is 6-7 on the Mohs scale.
Given the “water-drop” shape and the likely price point of the ring, turquoise or a lower grade of zircon are the most probable gemstones used. Tanzanite is significantly more valuable and would likely be marketed more explicitly.
Ring Care and Maintenance
Regardless of the specific gemstone, the ring requires careful handling and maintenance. Sterling silver should be cleaned regularly with a silver polishing cloth to remove tarnish. The gemstone itself should be protected from harsh chemicals, extreme temperatures, and abrasive materials. Given the likely lower hardness of the gemstone, avoiding impacts and scratches is crucial. Ultrasonic cleaners should be used with caution, as they can loosen stones in less secure settings.
Mohs Hardness Scale Comparison
To illustrate the relative hardness of the potential gemstones and the ring’s metal, the following table provides a comparison using the Mohs Hardness Scale:
| Material | Mohs Hardness |
|---|---|
| Talc | 1 |
| Gypsum | 2 |
| Calcite | 3 |
| Fluorite | 4 |
| Apatite | 5 |
| Turquoise | 5-6 |
| Orthoclase | 6 |
| Zircon | 6.5-7.5 |
| Tanzanite | 6-7 |
| Topaz | 8 |
| Corundum | 9 |
| Diamond | 10 |
| Sterling Silver | 2.5-3 |
This table highlights that sterling silver is significantly softer than all three December birthstones, making the setting more vulnerable to wear and tear than the stone itself.
The Marketing of Birthstones
The concept of birthstones has a long and complex history, evolving over time and varying across cultures. The modern association of specific gemstones with each month is largely a result of 20th-century marketing efforts by jewelers. While the historical roots of birthstone associations are often linked to astrological beliefs and ancient traditions, the current system is heavily influenced by commercial interests. The Walmart listing exemplifies this, focusing on the “birthstone” aspect as a key selling point rather than providing detailed information about the gemstone itself.
Conclusion
The provided source offers a limited glimpse into the world of December birthstone rings. The ring described – a sterling silver “couple ring” featuring a water-drop shaped “December birthstone” – is likely a fashion-oriented piece targeted towards consumers seeking an affordable and coordinated jewelry option. The lack of specific information about the gemstone necessitates reliance on general knowledge about the three traditional December birthstones: turquoise, zircon, and tanzanite. Proper care and maintenance are essential to preserve the ring’s appearance and durability, particularly given the softness of sterling silver and the potential for scratching the gemstone. The marketing of birthstones, as exemplified by this product listing, highlights the interplay between historical tradition and commercial promotion in the jewelry industry.