December boasts a unique distinction among the calendar months – not one, but three recognized birthstones: turquoise, blue zircon, and tanzanite. Each gem carries its own rich history, captivating beauty, and symbolic significance, offering a diverse range of choices for those born in the final month of the year. This article will delve into the origins, properties, and lore surrounding these three December birthstones, exploring their geological formation, historical usage, and modern appeal.
A Historical Tapestry of Turquoise
Turquoise, perhaps the most widely recognized of the December birthstones, possesses a history stretching back millennia. Its name originates from the French phrase ‘pierre tourques,’ meaning “Turkish stone,” reflecting its historical trade route through Turkey to Europe. However, the stone itself has been prized by cultures far beyond Europe for thousands of years. Archaeological evidence reveals that turquoise was highly valued by ancient Egyptians, with King Tutankhamun famously adorned with turquoise jewelry at his burial site. Chinese artists were also crafting masterpieces from turquoise more than 3,000 years ago.
In the ancient world, turquoise was not merely an aesthetic adornment but a powerful talisman, believed to offer protection against negative energies. This belief in its protective powers underscores its enduring appeal throughout history. Today, turquoise is found in several locations, including Iran, China, New Mexico, and Arizona. The gemstone typically exhibits a blue to green hue, often characterized by distinctive veins of matrix – remnants of the host rock in which it formed – making each piece uniquely patterned.
Zircon: An Ancient Mineral with a Modern Identity
Zircon, often overshadowed by its synthetic counterpart cubic zirconia, is a naturally occurring gemstone with a fascinating geological history. In fact, zircon is considered the oldest mineral on Earth, with a tiny crystal discovered in Western Australia dating back approximately 4.4 billion years, offering valuable insights into the planet’s early formation. The name “zircon” is believed to derive from the Persian word “zargun,” meaning “gold-hued,” or the Arabic word “zarkun,” meaning “vermillion,” referencing the gem’s range of colors.
Zircon displays a remarkable spectrum of colors, including red, orange, yellow, green, blue, and brown. The blue zircon commonly found in jewelry is typically achieved through heat treatment. Despite its long history and scientific significance, zircon is frequently confused with cubic zirconia, a laboratory-created diamond simulant. It is important to note that zircon is a natural mineral, while cubic zirconia is a synthetic stone.
Tanzanite: A Relatively Recent Discovery
Compared to turquoise and zircon, tanzanite is a relatively recent addition to the world of gemstones. Discovered in Tanzania in 1952, this captivating blue gemstone quickly gained popularity and was officially added to the birthstone list in 1952. Tanzanite’s deep blue tones make it a striking choice for jewelry, and its unique pleochroism – the ability to display different colors when viewed from different angles – adds to its allure.
Gemological Properties: A Comparative Overview
While each birthstone possesses unique characteristics, understanding their gemological properties provides a deeper appreciation for their individual qualities.
| Property | Turquoise | Blue Zircon | Tanzanite |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | CuAl6(PO4)4(OH)8·4H2O | ZrSiO4 | Ca2Al3(SiO4)3(OH) |
| Color | Blue to Green | Typically Blue (heat-treated) | Deep Blue |
| Hardness (Mohs) | 5-6 | 6.5-7.5 | 6-7 |
| Transparency | Opaque to Semi-translucent | Transparent to Translucent | Transparent |
| Crystal System | Triclinic | Tetragonal | Triclinic |
The Mohs scale of hardness indicates a gemstone’s resistance to scratching. Turquoise, with a hardness of 5-6, is relatively soft and requires careful handling. Zircon, ranging from 6.5 to 7.5, is more durable, while tanzanite, at 6-7, falls in between.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, gemstones have been imbued with symbolic meanings and metaphysical properties. Turquoise, with its soothing blue-green hue, is often associated with peace and wisdom, making it a fitting stone for the compassionate personalities of those born in December. Zircon, while less explicitly linked to specific symbolism in the provided sources, has historically been valued for its perceived protective qualities. Tanzanite, a more modern birthstone, is often associated with transformation and spiritual growth.
Alternative birthstone associations, based on astrological signs and guardian angels, further expand the possibilities for December-born individuals. According to one system, those born under the sign of Sagittarius (November 23 - December 22) are associated with Topaz, while Capricorns (December 23 - January 20) are linked to Ruby. Furthermore, December is associated with the guardian angel Humiel and the gemstone Beryl.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care is essential to maintain the beauty and longevity of any gemstone. Turquoise, due to its relative softness, is susceptible to scratching and should be protected from harsh impacts. Cleaning turquoise jewelry can be done with a soft cloth and mild soapy water. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners and harsh chemicals. Zircon and tanzanite, being more durable, can withstand gentle cleaning with warm soapy water and a soft brush. However, it is always advisable to avoid exposing gemstones to extreme temperatures or harsh chemicals.
Conclusion
December’s trio of birthstones – turquoise, zircon, and tanzanite – offers a captivating blend of history, beauty, and symbolism. From the ancient protective powers of turquoise to the geological significance of zircon and the modern elegance of tanzanite, each gem provides a unique connection to the month of December. Whether chosen for their aesthetic appeal, historical significance, or perceived metaphysical properties, these gemstones represent a lasting legacy of beauty and wonder.