December is unique among months in its association with not one, but three recognized birthstones: turquoise, blue zircon, and tanzanite. While historically ruby and bloodstone held this designation for centuries, modern gemological authorities, including the American Gem Trade Association and Jewelers of America, have broadened the selection to include these vibrant and distinct gems. This shift reflects evolving traditions and the increasing availability of these beautiful stones. The history of December’s birthstones is marked by change, moving from traditional red hues to cooler blue and grey-veined tones, mirroring the colors often associated with the December sky.
A History of Shifting Traditions
For much of the twelfth century through the twentieth, ruby and bloodstone were the designated birthstones for December. The ruby, with its fiery red color, symbolized passion, protection, and prosperity. Bloodstone, a dark green chalcedony with red inclusions, was linked to the sacrifice of Christ and believed to possess healing properties. However, the early twentieth century saw a divergence in accepted birthstone lists. In 1912, the United States designated lapis lazuli and turquoise as December birthstones, while England officially recognized turquoise and tanzanite in 2013. This demonstrates a gradual evolution in the assignment of birthstones, influenced by cultural preferences, gemstone availability, and the marketing efforts of the jewelry industry. The current consensus, as represented by leading gemological organizations, favors turquoise, blue zircon, and tanzanite as the primary December birthstones.
Turquoise: A Stone of Protection and Good Fortune
Turquoise, a mineraloid rather than a true crystal, has a long and rich history. Its name is derived from the French phrase “pierre turquoise,” meaning “Turkish stone,” as the material often entered Europe through Turkey. However, the origins of the name itself are debated, with some tracing it back to the Ancient Greek “opallios,” meaning “to see a change in color,” and others suggesting the Sanskrit “upala,” meaning “precious stone.” Regardless of its etymological roots, turquoise has been prized for millennia.
Currently, turquoise is recognized as a December birthstone, and its association with the month reflects its cool, calming colors reminiscent of winter skies. It is characterized by its opaque nature and varying shades of blue, often with distinctive grey or greenish veins.
Blue Zircon: A Brilliant Alternative
Blue zircon is another of the modern birthstones for December. While zircon is often confused with cubic zirconia, a synthetic diamond simulant, natural zircon is a distinct gemstone with its own unique properties. Zircon exhibits a strong refractive index of 1.762-1.770 (+.009, -.005) and a specific gravity of 4.00 (+.10,-.05), contributing to its brilliance and fire. Its hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale places it just below diamond, making it a durable choice for everyday wear.
Zircon occurs in a variety of colors, but the blue variety is particularly popular as a birthstone. The availability of blue zircon has contributed to its rise in prominence as a December gem, offering a vibrant alternative to turquoise and tanzanite.
Tanzanite: A Relatively Recent Discovery
Tanzanite is the newest addition to the December birthstone family, and its discovery is a relatively recent event in gemological history. First identified in Tanzania in 1967, tanzanite quickly gained popularity for its exceptional pleochroism – the ability to display different colors when viewed from different angles. It typically exhibits shades of blue, violet, and burgundy.
Tanzanite’s limited geographic origin – it is found in only one small area of Tanzania – contributes to its rarity and value. Its inclusion among the December birthstones reflects its growing recognition as a beautiful and desirable gemstone.
Gemological Properties: A Comparative Overview
The three December birthstones possess distinct gemological properties. The following table summarizes key characteristics:
| Gemstone | Mohs Hardness | Refractive Index | Specific Gravity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Turquoise | Not Listed | Not Listed | Not Listed |
| Blue Zircon | 9 | 1.762-1.770 | 4.00 (+.10,-.05) |
| Tanzanite | Not Listed | Not Listed | Not Listed |
It is important to note that the provided sources do not include hardness, refractive index, or specific gravity for turquoise and tanzanite.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
While the sources do not detail specific metaphysical beliefs associated with December birthstones, opal, another October birthstone, is believed to bring confidence and hope to the wearer. It is reasonable to assume that similar positive attributes are associated with the December stones, given their historical and cultural significance. Turquoise has long been considered a protective stone, believed to ward off negative energy and bring good fortune. Blue zircon is often associated with wisdom, honor, and prosperity. Tanzanite, as a relatively new gem, is increasingly linked to transformation, intuition, and spiritual growth.
Care and Cleaning
The durability of each gemstone dictates its care requirements. Zircon, with a Mohs hardness of 9, is relatively resistant to scratching and can be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Turquoise, being a softer material, requires more gentle handling. Avoid harsh chemicals and ultrasonic cleaners, as these can damage the stone. Cleaning turquoise with a soft cloth and mild soap is recommended. Specific care instructions for tanzanite are not provided in the sources.
Notable Anniversaries and Historical Events
The provided sources also link December to several significant historical events and anniversaries, including Theodore Roosevelt winning the Nobel Peace Prize (December 1, 1906), Rosa Parks’ refusal to give up her seat on a bus (December 1, 1953), the announcement of the Monroe Doctrine (December 2, 1823), and the United States entering World War II (December 8, 1941). These events, while not directly related to the gemstones themselves, provide a broader context for the month of December and its cultural significance.
Conclusion
December’s birthstones – turquoise, blue zircon, and tanzanite – represent a diverse and captivating selection of gems. From the ancient origins of turquoise to the recent discovery of tanzanite, each stone carries its own unique history and symbolism. The evolution of December’s birthstone list reflects changing traditions and the enduring appeal of these beautiful and cherished gemstones. The shift from traditional red stones like ruby and bloodstone to the cooler tones of turquoise, blue zircon, and tanzanite offers a wider range of choices for those born in the final month of the year, each gem embodying its own distinct beauty and significance.