Amethyst, the traditional birthstone for February, and zircon, one of December’s three birthstones, represent distinct yet captivating facets of the gemstone world. While amethyst is celebrated for its serene purple hues and historical significance, zircon offers a spectrum of colors, most notably a vibrant blue, and a fascinating geological story. This article delves into the history, geological origins, gemological properties, symbolism, and care of these two remarkable gemstones, drawing exclusively from available sources.
History and Lore
Amethyst boasts a rich history steeped in lore and belief. Ancient Greeks believed amethyst could prevent intoxication, crafting drinking vessels from the stone and deriving its name from the Greek word “amethystos,” meaning “non-intoxicated.” This belief persisted for centuries, with the stone being associated with sobriety and clear-headedness. Beyond this, amethyst has long been linked to properties such as stability, peace, courage, balance, sincerity, inner strength, and a calm disposition. It is also recognized as the traditional gemstone for the sixth wedding anniversary.
Zircon, while less prominently featured in ancient lore within these sources, is presented as one of the more precious stones originating from the earth. Its association with December is relatively recent, formalized in 1912 by the Jewelers of America Association, alongside turquoise and tanzanite, all sharing a common blue coloration.
Geological Formation and Sources
Amethyst is a variety of quartz, widely found in several locations globally. Key sources include Zambia, Brazil, and Uruguay. Its formation occurs within volcanic rocks, where silica-rich fluids deposit quartz crystals in cavities. The purple coloration arises from irradiation, iron impurities, and trace elements within the quartz structure.
Zircon’s origins are less detailed in the provided sources, but it is noted as one of the most precious stones formed deep within the earth. The sources highlight the December birthstones – zircon, turquoise, and tanzanite – as sharing the color blue, with zircon being a viable option for those born in December.
Gemological Properties
Amethyst
The sources primarily focus on the aesthetic qualities of amethyst. Its color ranges from pale lilac to violet and red-violet. The value of amethyst is often determined by the intensity of its color; the redder and less brown the stone, the more valuable it is, approaching the value of rubies in color. Amethyst is commonly found in cushion cuts, as exemplified by a 4-carat cushion-cut amethyst ring described in the sources.
Zircon
Zircon is presented as a gemstone available in a variety of colors, with blue being particularly prominent for December birthstone rings. The sources specifically mention a ring featuring a 10mm FARA Gem Pink Amethyst center gemstone alongside Natural White Zircon rounds. The zircon in this ring is described as having eighty star and step-cut facets, enhancing its brilliance. The ring also details the weight of the zircon: 34 pieces totaling 0.34 carats.
A table summarizing the gemological properties, as presented in the sources, is provided below:
| Gemstone | Color Range | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|
| Amethyst | Pale lilac to violet to red-violet | Valued for intense purple color |
| Zircon | Blue (primarily in December birthstones), Pink | Eighty star and step-cut facets for brilliance |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Amethyst is strongly associated with a range of positive attributes, including stability, peace, courage, balance, sincerity, inner strength, and a calm disposition. It is also known as the “Sobriety Stone” due to its historical use in attempts to prevent intoxication.
While the sources do not elaborate on the symbolism of zircon, its inclusion among December’s birthstones – alongside tanzanite and turquoise – suggests an association with qualities linked to the color blue, such as tranquility, wisdom, and serenity.
Care and Cleaning
The sources provide limited information regarding the care and cleaning of these gemstones. However, the recommendation to seek designs that provide protection to the central amethyst stone suggests that it may be susceptible to damage. Given that amethyst is a variety of quartz, general quartz care guidelines would apply: avoid harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, and extreme temperature changes.
Similarly, the sources do not provide specific care instructions for zircon. However, given its faceted cut, as described in the ring example, gentle cleaning with mild soap and warm water is advisable.
Modern Birthstone Designation and Synthetic Alternatives
The standardization of birthstones occurred in 1912 with the Jewelers of America Association, solidifying amethyst as the February birthstone and establishing zircon as one of the December birthstones. The sources also address the increasing prevalence of synthetic gemstones. A synthetic gem shares the same chemical, optical, and physical characteristics as its natural counterpart, differing only in its origin – being laboratory-grown rather than formed naturally over millions of years. The sources emphasize that a gemstone must have a genuine counterpart and match its properties to be classified as synthetic. While some may prefer the appeal of a genuine, mined gemstone, synthetic alternatives offer a more affordable option.
Ring Styles and Materials
The sources showcase amethyst and zircon in various ring settings. Amethyst is featured in both solitaire settings and halo designs, often paired with diamonds. Zircon is presented in a halo setting alongside pink amethyst, set in 18K rose gold plated sterling silver. Other materials mentioned include 925 sterling silver and CZ (cubic zirconia) stones, used in a triple-linked amethyst ring set. The triple-linked ring set features three bands: a plain band, an eternity birthstone band, and a modern gold band accented with a chosen birthstone.
Conclusion
Amethyst and zircon, though representing different months and possessing unique characteristics, both offer captivating beauty and rich symbolism. Amethyst, with its historical ties to sobriety and its serene purple hues, remains a beloved February birthstone. Zircon, as one of December’s birthstones, provides a vibrant blue alternative and showcases exceptional brilliance through its faceted cuts. Understanding their geological origins, gemological properties, and historical significance enhances the appreciation for these remarkable gemstones.