December boasts a remarkable trio of birthstones: zircon, blue topaz, and tanzanite. While garnet, turquoise, and lapis lazuli represent traditional choices, the modern list offers a spectrum of blue hues alongside the brilliance of zircon. This article will delve into the characteristics, history, and care of these December birthstones, drawing exclusively from available sources.
A Historical Overview of December Birthstones
Historically, December was associated with several gemstones. Turquoise and lapis lazuli held prominence as traditional birthstones for this month. However, the modern birthstone list expanded the options to include zircon, blue topaz, and tanzanite, offering a wider range of color and appeal. The continued use of traditional gems alongside modern additions reflects a personal preference in selecting stones that resonate with individuals. Some traditional gems, like turquoise, remain popular due to their lower cost and accessibility compared to some modern counterparts.
Zircon: A Gem of Many Colors
Zircon is a gem often confused with cubic zirconia, a common diamond simulant. However, natural zircon is a distinct mineral with a rich history and a range of colors. Ranging from 6 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale of hardness, zircon is commonly heat-treated to produce blue and colorless varieties, as well as orange, yellow, and red hues. This heat treatment, while enhancing color, can sometimes be unstable, causing the stone to revert to its original light brown color after prolonged exposure to bright light.
Zircon is generally stable when exposed to chemicals, but its tendency to abrade makes it unsuitable for rough wear, such as during gardening or sports. Cleaning should be performed with a soft brush and mild soap in warm water; ultrasonic and steam cleaners are not recommended.
Historically, zircon has been found alongside sapphire deposits in locations such as Sri Lanka, Australia, Myanmar, Vietnam, and Cambodia.
Blue Topaz: A Symbol of Calm and Clarity
Blue topaz, a popular choice for December, is often created through irradiation and heat treatment of colorless topaz. While naturally occurring blue topaz exists, it is significantly rarer. Topaz, in general, is associated with November as a traditional birthstone, but its blue variety has gained prominence as a December option.
Tanzanite: A Recent and Remarkable Addition
Tanzanite is the newest addition to the December birthstone family, gaining recognition relatively recently. This gem is prized for its vibrant blue and violet hues. It is found in a very limited geographical area, making it a particularly valuable gemstone.
Gemological Properties Compared
The following table summarizes the key gemological properties of the three modern December birthstones:
| Gemstone | Mohs Hardness | Color(s) | Treatment(s) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Zircon | 6 - 7.5 | Blue, Colorless, Orange, Yellow, Red | Heat Treatment |
| Blue Topaz | 8 | Blue | Irradiation, Heat |
| Tanzanite | 6.5 - 7 | Blue, Violet | Heat Treatment |
The Significance of Color in December Birthstones
The prevalence of blue in the modern December birthstone selection is noteworthy. Blue is often associated with tranquility, wisdom, and stability. The varying shades of blue found in topaz and tanzanite, alongside the potential for blue zircon, offer a range of options to suit individual preferences. The color change exhibited by alexandrite, a June birthstone, is also a fascinating phenomenon, showcasing the dynamic nature of gemstones.
Moonstone and Alexandrite: June’s Enchanting Gems
While this article focuses on December birthstones, it is worth noting the unique properties of June birthstones, moonstone and alexandrite. Moonstone, renowned for its adularescence – a shimmering, billowy light – has been associated with lunar deities in Roman and Greek mythology and is believed to bring luck and passion. It is found in locations including the United States (New Mexico, North Carolina, and Virginia), India, Sri Lanka, Brazil, Madagascar, Myanmar, and Tanzania. Moonstone’s hardness is 6–6.5 on the Mohs scale, making it susceptible to cracking with high heat, and requiring gentle cleaning with warm, soapy water.
Alexandrite, a rare variety of chrysoberyl, is famed for its color-changing ability, displaying green to bluish-green in daylight and intense red to purplish-red in incandescent light. Discovered in Russia’s Ural Mountains in 1830, it was named after the future Tsar Alexander II, mirroring the Russian military colors. Alexandrite can also exhibit chatoyancy, or the cat’s-eye effect, when certain inclusions align.
Care and Cleaning Recommendations
Proper care is essential to maintain the beauty of any gemstone. As noted previously, zircon requires gentle handling and cleaning with mild soap and water, avoiding ultrasonic and steam cleaners. Moonstone also necessitates gentle cleaning with warm, soapy water and a soft brush, as it is susceptible to cracking with heat. Blue topaz, being a harder stone, is more durable but should still be protected from harsh chemicals and abrasive materials. Tanzanite, while beautiful, requires careful handling due to its potential for cleavage.
Conclusion
December’s birthstones – zircon, blue topaz, and tanzanite – offer a diverse and captivating selection for those born in the final month of the year. From the historical significance of zircon to the modern appeal of blue topaz and the recent discovery of tanzanite, these gemstones represent a spectrum of color, beauty, and enduring value. Understanding their unique properties and providing proper care will ensure these gems continue to sparkle for generations.