December is a unique month in the world of birthstones, offering not one, but four distinct gems to those born within its span: Blue Topaz, Blue Zircon, Tanzanite, and Turquoise. Among these, Turquoise holds a particularly significant place as the most traditional December birthstone, steeped in history and revered across numerous cultures. This article will delve into the origins, properties, symbolism, and enduring appeal of Turquoise, drawing exclusively from available sources.
History and Lore
Turquoise has been cherished for millennia, its history interwoven with the traditions of ancient civilizations. As early as the 13th century, it was believed to offer protection from falls, particularly while riding horses, and was thought to shatter as a warning of impending disaster. Ancient Egyptians adorned themselves with Turquoise, recognizing its beauty and perceived protective qualities. Chinese artisans were carving this gemstone more than 3,000 years ago, demonstrating its early importance in artistic expression.
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, Turquoise was believed to possess beneficial powers, guaranteeing health and good fortune to its wearer. Hindu mystics held the belief that viewing Turquoise after observing the new moon would ensure substantial wealth. This long-standing association with prosperity and well-being has cemented Turquoise’s place in folklore and spiritual practices. The stone’s enduring popularity is a testament to the power of these ancient beliefs.
Geological Formation and Sources
Turquoise is an opaque, blue-to-green gemstone, often characterized by distinctive veining. These veins are not flaws, but rather remnants of the host rock from which it formed. The veining can appear in shades of black, silver, tan, or gold, adding to the stone’s unique character. Geologically, Turquoise is a copper aluminum phosphate, formed when chemicals seep from surrounding rocks through rainwater and groundwater in semi-humid and dry environments where rock is present.
The distinctive sky-blue hue of Turquoise is primarily attributed to the presence of copper, while the green coloration results from the presence of iron. This formation process explains why Turquoise is typically found near water tables. While specific mining locations are not detailed in the provided sources, the formation process suggests a dependence on specific geological conditions.
Gemological Properties
Turquoise is a semi-translucent to opaque gem, meaning light cannot pass through it completely. Its color ranges from a vibrant blue to a softer green, with variations influenced by the presence of copper and iron. The stone’s appearance is often marked by the presence of matrix, the remnants of the host rock, which create unique patterns and veining.
The sources do not provide a specific hardness rating for Turquoise, nor its refractive index or chemical formula beyond its composition of copper aluminum phosphate. However, it is noted that Turquoise is somewhat delicate due to its strong cleavage, meaning it can be prone to breakage along certain planes. This characteristic requires careful handling and consideration when crafting jewelry.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, Turquoise has been imbued with profound symbolism. It is widely associated with protection, good fortune, and health. The belief in its protective qualities extends to physical safety, as evidenced by the ancient practice of believing it would prevent falls. Beyond physical protection, Turquoise is also considered a stone of spiritual healing and well-being.
The stone’s connection to the natural world, stemming from its formation process, further enhances its symbolic significance. Its blue-green hues evoke images of the sky and water, representing tranquility, peace, and connection to the earth. These symbolic associations contribute to Turquoise’s enduring appeal as a meaningful and cherished gemstone.
Care and Cleaning
While the provided sources do not offer detailed care instructions, the mention of Turquoise’s strong cleavage suggests it requires careful handling. Given its relative softness compared to other gemstones, it is advisable to avoid harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, and abrasive materials when cleaning Turquoise jewelry. Gentle cleaning with a soft cloth and mild soapy water is recommended to preserve its luster and prevent damage.
December Birthstone Variations
December offers a unique selection of birthstones, including Blue Topaz, Blue Zircon, and Tanzanite, alongside Turquoise. While Turquoise is considered the most traditional choice, each gem offers a distinct shade of blue and unique characteristics. Blue Topaz, a silicate mineral composed of aluminum and fluorine, is available in various shades, including London Blue, Swiss Blue, and Sky Blue. Tanzanite, discovered in Tanzania in 1967, displays a violet-blue shimmer reminiscent of sapphire. Blue Zircon offers a range of colors, including golden, red, and clear varieties.
The availability of multiple birthstones allows individuals born in December to choose a gem that resonates with their personal preferences and style. The sources indicate that December 6th, 10th, 14th, 18th, 22nd, 26th, 30th are all associated with Turquoise as the birthstone. The sources also provide a calendar listing the birthstone for each day of December, showing a rotation between Tanzanite, Turquoise, and Blue Zircon.
A Gem for Every December-Born
The question of whether December’s gemstone is Blue Topaz or Turquoise is answered by the fact that December boasts multiple birthstones. Blue Topaz and Turquoise are both popular choices, but Tanzanite and Blue Zircon also represent the month. Each gem offers a unique shade of blue, allowing individuals to select a stone that best reflects their personality and preferences.
Conclusion
Turquoise stands as a captivating December birthstone, rich in history, symbolism, and geological intrigue. From its ancient origins as a protective amulet to its modern-day appeal as a beautiful gemstone, Turquoise continues to enchant and inspire. Its unique formation process, distinctive veining, and association with health, good fortune, and spiritual well-being solidify its place as a treasured gem for those born in December and beyond. The availability of multiple December birthstones further enhances the opportunity for personalization and meaningful expression.