December is unique among the calendar months, boasting not one, but three recognized birthstones: turquoise, tanzanite, and zircon. All three gemstones are celebrated for their captivating shades of blue, though they differ significantly in origin, history, and gemological properties. These stones offer a diverse range of options for those born in December, catering to varying preferences in color, style, and budget.
History and Lore
The history of these December birthstones spans millennia. Turquoise, arguably the most ancient of the three, holds a particularly rich and storied past. Civilizations across the globe, including the Egyptians and Native American tribes, have prized turquoise for centuries. Archaeological evidence reveals that ancient Egyptians, including pharaohs like King Tut, adorned themselves with turquoise jewelry. The stone was a symbol of status and believed to possess protective qualities. Apache Native Americans believed turquoise was formed at the end of a rainbow and could improve accuracy when attached to weapons. Southwestern tribes utilized turquoise in jewelry, amulets, and even as a medium of exchange.
Zircon and tanzanite, in contrast, have more recent histories. While zircon has been known for a longer period, its recognition as a December birthstone is relatively modern. Tanzanite is the newest addition to the birthstone family, discovered only in 1967 in Tanzania. Consequently, it lacks the extensive lore associated with older gemstones like turquoise. However, some believe tanzanite can activate the throat, third-eye, and crown chakras, enhancing psychic abilities and facilitating communication with higher dimensions. It is also associated with healing, protection, and self-transformation.
Geological Formation and Sources
Each of these gemstones originates through distinct geological processes and is found in specific locations worldwide. Turquoise forms when rainwater interacts with copper ore deposits, specifically copper porphyry. This interaction creates an acidic solution that reacts with aluminum and potassium in surrounding rocks, precipitating turquoise into cavities within weathered volcanic and sedimentary rock, typically in arid environments.
Tanzanite’s origin is remarkably localized. It is found exclusively in the Merelani Hills of northern Tanzania. The gemstone’s formation involves complex geological processes related to the East African Rift System.
Zircon, while not limited to a single location, is found in a variety of geological settings. Its formation occurs in igneous rocks, metamorphic rocks, and sedimentary deposits. Sources include Cambodia, Sri Lanka, and Myanmar.
Gemological Properties
The gemological properties of turquoise, tanzanite, and zircon differ considerably, influencing their appearance, durability, and care requirements.
Turquoise is a copper aluminum phosphate with a Mohs hardness ranging from 5 to 6. This relatively low hardness makes it susceptible to scratching and breakage. It is typically opaque, exhibiting a range of blue to green hues, often with distinctive veins of matrix – remnants of the host rock. Turquoise is porous and can be easily discolored by oils, pigments, and even changes in water content.
Tanzanite is known for its striking pleochroism, displaying different colors depending on the viewing angle – typically blue, violet, and burgundy. It ranges from a rich sapphire blue to a vibrant violet-blue and is most valued for its intense blue color. Tanzanite’s hardness is between 6 and 7 on the Mohs scale, making it more durable than turquoise but still requiring careful handling.
Zircon exhibits a wider range of colors than the other two December birthstones, including blue, brown, red, yellow, and green. Blue zircon is the most popular variety. Its hardness ranges from 6.5 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale, offering good durability for jewelry.
The following table summarizes the key gemological properties:
| Gemstone | Chemical Composition | Hardness (Mohs) | Color | Transparency |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Turquoise | Copper Aluminum Phosphate | 5-6 | Blue to Green | Opaque |
| Tanzanite | Calcium Aluminum Silicate | 6-7 | Blue, Violet, Burgundy | Transparent to Translucent |
| Zircon | Zirconium Silicate | 6.5-7.5 | Blue, Brown, Red, Yellow, Green | Transparent |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, each of these gemstones has been attributed with various symbolic meanings and metaphysical properties. Turquoise has long been considered a stone of protection, guaranteeing health and good fortune. Medieval beliefs held that turquoise would prevent falls, particularly from horses, and would shatter to warn of impending disaster. Hindu mystics believed that viewing turquoise after a new moon would bring wealth.
Tanzanite is associated with spiritual awareness and transformation. It is believed to connect the wearer to their intuition and facilitate communication with higher realms. It is also considered a stone of healing and protection.
While less emphasized in the provided sources, zircon has historically been associated with prosperity and wisdom.
Care and Cleaning
Due to their differing properties, each of these birthstones requires specific care to maintain its beauty and integrity. Turquoise, being relatively soft and porous, requires gentle cleaning with a soft cloth and mild soap and water. Avoid harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, and prolonged exposure to sunlight.
Tanzanite should be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners and steam cleaners, as they can damage the stone.
Zircon can be cleaned similarly to tanzanite, using warm, soapy water and a soft brush. However, due to its higher hardness, zircon is generally more durable and less prone to damage.
Conclusion
Turquoise, tanzanite, and zircon represent a diverse and captivating selection of December birthstones. From the ancient lore surrounding turquoise to the modern discovery of tanzanite and the varied hues of zircon, each gemstone offers unique appeal. Whether valued for their historical significance, metaphysical properties, or sheer beauty, these three blue birthstones provide a meaningful connection to the month of December.