December is a month of celebration and tradition, and for those born in this season, the gemstone world offers a unique gift: a choice of four captivating birthstones. These gemstones—turquoise, zircon, tanzanite, and blue topaz—each possess distinct characteristics, rich histories, and cultural significances that make them more than just decorative stones. Whether you are a gemstone enthusiast, a jewelry buyer, or simply curious about the symbolic meaning behind these stones, this guide provides an in-depth exploration of each December birthstone, based on the latest gemological and historical research.
History and Lore of December Birthstones
The concept of birthstones has a long and fascinating history, with roots in ancient traditions. In fact, the earliest references to birthstones can be traced back to the breastplate of the High Priest Aaron in the biblical Book of Exodus, which contained twelve gemstones representing the twelve tribes of Israel. Over time, the idea evolved, and by the 19th century, the modern list of birthstones was established and popularized.
In the case of December, the month is uniquely blessed with four birthstones. This variety offers wearers and jewelers a broader palette of colors and meanings to choose from. The inclusion of multiple stones reflects both practical and symbolic considerations. According to some sources, this allows for a range of affordability and availability while still maintaining the cultural and spiritual significance of the stones.
Turquoise: A Stone of Antiquity and Power
Turquoise is one of the most ancient gemstones in human history. Its use dates back thousands of years, with archaeological evidence showing that it was prized by ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians, Chinese, and Native Americans. In ancient Egypt, turquoise was considered a sacred stone and was often used in amulets, jewelry, and inlays in royal artifacts. Pharaohs and high-ranking officials adorned themselves with turquoise to symbolize protection, health, and divine favor.
The stone’s blue-green hues were thought to bridge the earth and the heavens, and its porous, opaque structure made it ideal for carving. In the 13th century, Europeans began to believe that turquoise could protect the wearer from falls, especially from horses. This belief persisted for centuries, and some legends even suggest that turquoise would break apart before a disaster struck, acting as a warning to the wearer.
In Native American cultures, particularly among the Apache, Pueblo, and Hopi tribes, turquoise was considered a powerful talisman. The Apache believed that following a rainbow to its end would lead to a source of turquoise. They also believed that attaching the stone to a bow or firearm would improve one’s aim. The Pueblo people associated turquoise with the sky, while the Hopi believed it was created by lizards scurrying over the earth.
Tanzanite: A Modern Marvel from the Earth
Discovered in 1967 in the Merelani Hills of Tanzania, tanzanite is one of the youngest gemstones to be officially recognized as a birthstone. Its name is derived from its country of origin, and it has since gained international recognition for its striking blue and violet hues. Tanzanite is a type of zoisite (calcium aluminum hydroxyl sorosilicate) that contains vanadium, which gives it its characteristic color.
What makes tanzanite unique is its pleochroism—a property that allows it to display different colors depending on the angle at which it is viewed. Under different lighting conditions, it can appear blue, violet, or even green. Most tanzanite used in jewelry is heat-treated to enhance its blue and violet tones and to remove the brownish color that occurs naturally in the rough stone.
Tanzanite is believed to have formed over 585 million years ago under extreme heat and tectonic activity near Mount Kilimanjaro. Its rarity and beauty have made it a highly sought-after gemstone, especially in December birthstone jewelry.
Zircon: A Rainbow of Colors
Zircon is a gemstone that comes in a wide range of colors, from colorless to yellow, red, green, and blue. The blue variety, known as blue zircon, is the most popular as a December birthstone. Zircon has been used in jewelry for centuries, though it is often overlooked in favor of more well-known gemstones like sapphires and emeralds.
One of the most fascinating properties of zircon is its high refractive index, which gives it a brilliant, fiery appearance. This makes it an excellent choice for jewelry that is meant to sparkle. Zircon is also known for its pleochroism, similar to tanzanite, meaning that it can display different colors depending on the angle of light.
Historically, zircon has been associated with hope, joy, and purity. In some cultures, it is believed to bring good fortune and enhance spiritual awareness. Today, it is gaining popularity as a December birthstone, particularly among those who appreciate its vibrant color and affordability.
Blue Topaz: A Modern Classic
Blue topaz is a relatively recent addition to the list of December birthstones, but it has quickly become a favorite among jewelers and collectors. Its name comes from the Sanskrit word for "fire," which is fitting given its brilliant, fiery luster. Blue topaz is a silicate mineral composed of aluminum and fluorine, and it is known for its glass-like luster and deep cleavage.
The most common varieties of blue topaz include London Blue, Swiss Blue, and Sky Blue, each distinguished by the depth and tone of its blue color. Most commercially available blue topaz is produced by irradiating naturally colorless topaz, a process that enhances its color and makes it more desirable in jewelry.
Blue topaz is not only beautiful but also relatively hard, with a Mohs hardness of 8, making it durable and suitable for everyday wear. Its affordability and versatility have made it a popular choice for rings, pendants, and earrings.
Geological Formation and Sources of December Birthstones
Understanding how gemstones are formed and where they are found provides insight into their rarity, value, and geological significance. Each of the four December birthstones has a unique origin story and is sourced from specific regions around the world.
Turquoise: Formed in Arid Environments
Turquoise is a copper aluminum phosphate that forms when acidic, copper-rich water percolates through copper ore deposits. This process typically occurs in arid regions where weathering and chemical reactions are more pronounced. The resulting gemstone is found in weathered volcanic rock and sedimentary rock, often with visible matrix patterns—remnants of the surrounding rock that add character to the stone.
Major sources of turquoise include the United States (especially Nevada and Arizona), Iran, China, and Egypt. The quality and color of turquoise vary depending on the location. American turquoise, particularly from the Southwestern U.S., is highly prized for its vibrant blue color and minimal matrix.
Tanzanite: A Unique Geological Phenomenon
Tanzanite is found only in the Merelani Hills of Tanzania, near the foot of Mount Kilimanjaro. It formed over 585 million years ago during intense tectonic activity, when high heat and pressure transformed the mineral zoisite into its blue and violet form. The presence of vanadium in the crystal structure is responsible for the stone’s color.
Because tanzanite is found in only one location in the world, it is considered a rare and valuable gemstone. The limited supply and the specific geological conditions required for its formation make it one of the most exclusive December birthstones.
Zircon: A Diverse and Ancient Gemstone
Zircon is a zirconium silicate that has been found in geological formations dating back billions of years. It is a metamorphic mineral that forms under high temperature and pressure, often in igneous rocks. Zircon is known for its high refractive index, which gives it a brilliant, glassy luster.
Blue zircon, in particular, is found in Cambodia, Sri Lanka, and parts of East Africa. It is often heat-treated to enhance its blue color and remove any brownish tint. Zircon is also known for its pleochroism, which means it can display different colors depending on the angle of light.
Blue Topaz: A Versatile Silicate
Blue topaz is a silicate mineral composed of aluminum and fluorine. It is typically found in granite and rhyolite rocks, where it forms in cavities and cracks. Most blue topaz used in jewelry is irradiated to enhance its color, a process that is safe and stable.
The world’s largest deposits of topaz are found in Brazil, Nigeria, and the United States. Blue topaz is known for its glass-like luster and deep cleavage, which means it can be prone to chipping if not handled carefully. Despite this, its hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale makes it suitable for most types of jewelry.
Gemological Properties of December Birthstones
When evaluating gemstones, gemologists consider a range of properties that determine their beauty, durability, and suitability for jewelry. These include hardness, color, clarity, refractive index, and chemical composition. Below is an overview of the gemological properties of each December birthstone.
| Gemstone | Color | Hardness (Mohs Scale) | Chemical Composition | Refractive Index | Clarity | Special Properties |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Turquoise | Blue to green with matrix | 5–6 | Copper aluminum phosphate (CuAl6(PO4)4(OH)8·4H2O) | 1.61–1.65 | Opaque | Porous, easily discolored |
| Tanzanite | Blue to violet (pleochroic) | 6–7 | Calcium aluminum hydroxyl sorosilicate (Ca2Al3(AlSiO7)(OH)5) | 1.69–1.70 | Translucent | Pleochroism, heat-treated |
| Zircon | Blue, green, yellow, red | 6–7.5 | Zirconium silicate (ZrSiO4) | 1.92–2.00 | Transparent | High refractive index, pleochroism |
| Blue Topaz | Blue (varieties include London Blue, Swiss Blue, Sky Blue) | 8 | Aluminum silicate fluorine (Al2SiO4(F,OH)4) | 1.62 | Transparent | Deep cleavage, irradiated for color |
Turquoise: A Soft and Porous Gemstone
Turquoise has a Mohs hardness of 5–6, making it relatively soft compared to other gemstones. It is also porous and opaque, which means it can be easily discolored by oils, perfumes, and other substances. To preserve its color and appearance, turquoise is often treated with resins or oils to enhance its durability.
Tanzanite: A Delicate Yet Striking Stone
Tanzanite has a Mohs hardness of 6–7, which means it is relatively soft and can be scratched by harder gemstones. It is also known for its pleochroism, a property that allows it to display different colors depending on the angle of light. This makes it a visually dynamic gemstone, though it also requires careful handling to avoid damage.
Zircon: A High-Refractive Index Gemstone
Zircon has a Mohs hardness of 6–7.5 and a high refractive index of 1.92–2.00, which gives it a brilliant, fiery appearance. It is also pleochroic, meaning it can display different colors depending on the angle of light. Blue zircon is particularly popular as a birthstone due to its vibrant color and affordability.
Blue Topaz: A Hard and Versatile Gemstone
Blue topaz has a Mohs hardness of 8, making it one of the hardest December birthstones. It is also known for its glass-like luster and deep cleavage, which means it can be prone to chipping if struck at the right angle. Despite this, it is a durable and versatile gemstone that is suitable for most types of jewelry.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Each of the December birthstones carries its own set of symbolic meanings and metaphysical properties, which have been passed down through generations and cultures.
Turquoise: A Stone of Protection and Healing
Turquoise has long been associated with protection, healing, and good fortune. In ancient Egypt, it was believed to bring health and prosperity to the wearer. In the 13th century, Europeans thought it could protect the wearer from falling, especially off a horse. Some legends even suggest that turquoise would break into pieces before a disaster, acting as a warning.
In Native American cultures, turquoise was considered a powerful talisman. The Apache believed it could be found at the end of a rainbow, while the Pueblo and Hopi tribes associated it with the sky and the earth. Today, turquoise is still believed to promote calmness, balance, and spiritual clarity.
Tanzanite: A Stone of Transformation and Intuition
Tanzanite is often associated with transformation, intuition, and emotional healing. Its blue and violet hues are thought to represent the third eye and crown chakras, which are linked to spiritual insight and higher consciousness. Many believe that tanzanite enhances emotional balance, intuition, and spiritual growth.
Because it is found in only one location in the world, tanzanite is also considered a stone of rarity and exclusivity, making it a powerful symbol of individuality and self-expression.
Zircon: A Stone of Hope and Clarity
Zircon is associated with hope, joy, and clarity. In some cultures, it is believed to bring good fortune and protection to the wearer. Its vibrant colors and fiery luster are thought to enhance creativity, energy, and emotional stability.
Blue zircon, in particular, is believed to promote inner peace, confidence, and self-awareness. It is also associated with love and harmony, making it a popular choice for couples and those seeking to strengthen their relationships.
Blue Topaz: A Stone of Calm and Strength
Blue topaz is believed to bring calm, strength, and wisdom to the wearer. Its blue color is associated with serenity and clarity, and it is often used in meditation and spiritual practices. Blue topaz is also thought to enhance communication, self-expression, and emotional healing.
In some cultures, blue topaz is considered a stone of protection, believed to ward off negative energies and promote a sense of inner peace. It is also associated with loyalty and friendship, making it a meaningful gift for loved ones.
Care and Cleaning of December Birthstones
Proper care and cleaning are essential to maintaining the beauty and longevity of any gemstone. Each December birthstone has different care requirements based on its hardness, porosity, and chemical properties.
Turquoise
Turquoise is a soft and porous gemstone, making it sensitive to oils, perfumes, and other substances. To clean turquoise, use a soft cloth and mild soap and water. Avoid using harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners, as they can damage the stone or remove its protective treatments.
Turquoise should also be stored separately from other gemstones to prevent scratches. It is best to keep it in a cool, dry place to avoid excessive moisture or heat, which can cause it to crack or lose its color.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is relatively delicate and should be handled with care. It can be cleaned with mild soap and water using a soft cloth or brush. Avoid using harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, or steam cleaners, as they can cause the stone to crack or lose its color.
Tanzanite should also be stored separately from other gemstones to avoid scratches. Due to its pleochroism, it is best to display it in a way that allows it to catch light from different angles.
Zircon
Zircon has a high refractive index, which means it can reflect light beautifully, but it is also sensitive to heat and chemicals. To clean zircon, use mild soap and water with a soft cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, or steam cleaners, as they can damage the stone.
Zircon should also be stored separately from other gemstones to prevent scratches. Because of its pleochroism, it is best to display it in a way that allows it to catch light from different angles.
Blue Topaz
Blue topaz is a relatively hard gemstone, making it suitable for everyday wear. It can be cleaned with mild soap and water using a soft cloth or brush. It is also safe to use ultrasonic and steam cleaners, though caution should be taken with pieces that have inclusions or fractures.
Because blue topaz has deep cleavage, it is best to avoid striking it with hard objects or dropping it from a height. It should also be stored separately from other gemstones to prevent scratches.
Conclusion
The December birthstones—turquoise, zircon, tanzanite, and blue topaz—each offer a unique combination of beauty, history, and symbolism. Whether you are drawn to the ancient allure of turquoise, the rare elegance of tanzanite, the vibrant fire of zircon, or the calm brilliance of blue topaz, these gemstones have captivated people for centuries.
Understanding the geological formation, gemological properties, and cultural significance of each stone allows us to appreciate their value and beauty on a deeper level. Whether worn as a piece of jewelry or simply admired as a work of nature, December birthstones continue to inspire and enchant, making them a perfect symbol of the month’s spirit.