December birthstones offer a dazzling array of colors and histories, with four distinct gemstones—tanzanite, turquoise, zircon, and blue topaz—each contributing to the rich tapestry of this month's selection. While the most common association is with the color blue, the December birthstone palette includes shades of blue, green, violet, and even brown and red, depending on the gem. This article explores the gemological properties, historical significance, cultural symbolism, and care instructions of these four stones, providing a comprehensive overview of their unique attributes.
Introduction
December is a month of celebration and reflection, and for those born during this time, it also brings a selection of birthstones that reflect the cool, serene hues of winter. The four December birthstones—tanzanite, turquoise, zircon, and blue topaz—each have distinct colors and characteristics that make them appealing for jewelry and personal adornment. While blue is the dominant color associated with these stones, their individual variations in tone and depth offer a wide range of choices. This article delves into the geological formation, historical uses, and cultural significance of each gemstone, as well as practical advice for their care and maintenance.
History and Lore
Tanzanite: A Recent Discovery
Tanzanite is a relatively new gemstone in the world of jewelry, having been discovered in the early 1960s in the Merelani Hills near Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. The gemstone is a variety of zoisite, with its striking blue and violet colors caused by the presence of vanadium. Tanzanite is unique in that it is only found in this specific region of the world, making it a rare and valuable gemstone. Historically, tanzanite was not used in jewelry until after its discovery, as the raw material was often discarded due to its brownish appearance. It was only after heat treatment that the vibrant blue and violet colors were revealed, transforming it into a sought-after gemstone.
Turquoise: A Timeless Treasure
Turquoise has a much longer history than tanzanite, with evidence of its use dating back over 3,000 years. Ancient civilizations, including the Egyptians, Chinese, and Native Americans, valued turquoise for its beauty and believed it to possess protective and healing properties. The pharaohs of ancient Egypt adorned themselves with turquoise jewelry, and Chinese artisans carved it into intricate designs. In medieval times, turquoise was believed to protect the wearer from falls and disasters, particularly when mounted on a horse. The stone was also thought to bring good fortune and health, and Hindu mystics believed that seeing turquoise after the new moon ensured wealth.
Zircon: An Ancient Gemstone
Zircon is one of the oldest known gemstones, with some specimens found to be over 4 billion years old. The name "zircon" comes from the Arabic word "zarkun," meaning "gold color," and it has been used in jewelry for centuries. Zircon is found in several countries, including Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, Nigeria, and Australia. The gemstone was believed to have protective and healing properties, with ancient beliefs suggesting it could relieve pain, increase appetite, and protect travelers from injury and disease. Zircon was also thought to welcome visitors and ensure peaceful sleep without bad dreams.
Blue Topaz: A Versatile Gemstone
Blue topaz is a modern addition to the December birthstone collection, having gained popularity in recent decades. The name "topaz" comes from the Sanskrit word "tapas," meaning "fire," and it is one of the few gemstones whose name is derived from a language other than Latin or Greek. Blue topaz is a silicate mineral composed of aluminum and fluorine, and it is often heat-treated or irradiated to produce its deep blue color. The gemstone is known for its versatility, affordability, and wide availability in various shades, including London Blue, Swiss Blue, and Sky Blue. Blue topaz is also associated with love and affection in ancient Hindu traditions.
Geological Formation and Sources
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is a metamorphic gemstone that formed approximately 585 million years ago under extreme heat and pressure during tectonic activity. The gemstone is found exclusively in the Merelani Hills of Tanzania, where it is mined from a narrow corridor of rock. The unique geological conditions in this area allowed for the formation of tanzanite, which is a type of zoisite that contains vanadium. The presence of vanadium gives tanzanite its characteristic blue and violet colors. Tanzanite is typically heat-treated to enhance its color and remove any brownish tones, resulting in the vibrant blue and violet hues seen in jewelry.
Turquoise
Turquoise is a hydrated phosphate of aluminum and copper, and it is formed through the weathering of copper minerals in arid environments. The gemstone is typically found in veins and nodules within limestone and other sedimentary rocks. Turquoise is mined in various locations around the world, including the United States, China, Iran, and Egypt. The presence of copper in the stone gives it its blue color, while iron impurities can cause the stone to appear green. The matrix, or the rock in which turquoise forms, can also influence the stone's color and appearance, creating intricate patterns and textures.
Zircon
Zircon is a zirconium silicate mineral that is found in a variety of geological settings, including metamorphic, igneous, and sedimentary rocks. The gemstone is known for its high refractive index and dispersion, which gives it a brilliant sparkle. Zircon is found in several countries, including Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, Nigeria, and Australia. The stone is often heat-treated to produce different colors, including blue, colorless, orange, yellow, and red. The most popular variety is blue zircon, which is created through a process that involves heating the stone to high temperatures. Zircon is also known for its pleochroism, a property that allows it to display different colors when viewed from different angles.
Blue Topaz
Blue topaz is a silicate mineral that is found in various geological environments, including igneous and sedimentary rocks. The gemstone is typically colorless in its natural state, and it is often treated to produce its deep blue color. The most common method of treatment involves irradiating the stone and then heating it to enhance the blue color. Blue topaz is found in several locations around the world, including Brazil, Nigeria, and the United States. The gemstone is known for its hardness, which ranges from 8 to 8.5 on the Mohs scale, making it a durable choice for jewelry. Blue topaz is also relatively affordable, which has contributed to its popularity as a birthstone.
Gemological Properties
Tanzanite
Tanzanite has a hardness of 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale, which makes it relatively soft compared to other gemstones. The gemstone is pleochroic, meaning it can display different colors when viewed from different angles. Tanzanite is also sensitive to heat and light, and prolonged exposure to these elements can cause the stone to fade or change color. The gemstone has a refractive index of 1.69 to 1.70 and a specific gravity of 3.10 to 3.35. Tanzanite is typically cut into oval, cushion, or emerald shapes to enhance its color and brilliance.
Turquoise
Turquoise has a hardness of 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale, which makes it a relatively soft gemstone. The stone is often stabilized or treated with resins to improve its durability and appearance. Turquoise has a refractive index of 1.61 to 1.65 and a specific gravity of 2.6 to 2.8. The gemstone is typically cut into cabochons or beads to highlight its color and pattern. Turquoise is also sensitive to heat and chemicals, and it should be cleaned with care to avoid damage.
Zircon
Zircon has a hardness of 6 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale, which makes it a durable gemstone. The stone is known for its high refractive index and dispersion, which gives it a brilliant sparkle. Zircon has a refractive index of 1.92 to 2.00 and a specific gravity of 4.6 to 4.7. The gemstone is pleochroic, meaning it can display different colors when viewed from different angles. Zircon is often cut into brilliant or emerald shapes to enhance its color and brilliance. The stone is also sensitive to heat and light, and some heat-treated varieties may revert to their original color after prolonged exposure to bright light.
Blue Topaz
Blue topaz has a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale, which makes it a durable gemstone. The stone is known for its high refractive index and low dispersion, which gives it a glass-like luster. Blue topaz has a refractive index of 1.62 to 1.64 and a specific gravity of 3.53. The gemstone is often cut into brilliant or emerald shapes to enhance its color and brilliance. Blue topaz is also relatively resistant to heat and chemicals, making it a versatile choice for jewelry.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is believed to have a calming and soothing effect on the wearer, promoting emotional balance and inner peace. The gemstone is also associated with intuition and spiritual growth, making it a popular choice for meditation and healing practices. Tanzanite is thought to enhance creativity and imagination, making it a valuable tool for artists and writers. The stone is also believed to promote transformation and change, helping the wearer to let go of the past and embrace new opportunities.
Turquoise
Turquoise has long been associated with protection, healing, and good fortune. The gemstone is believed to have a protective effect, shielding the wearer from negative energy and harmful influences. Turquoise is also associated with health and vitality, and it is often used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments. The stone is thought to promote happiness and optimism, making it a popular choice for those seeking to improve their mood and outlook. Turquoise is also believed to enhance communication and self-expression, helping the wearer to articulate their thoughts and feelings more effectively.
Zircon
Zircon is believed to have a purifying effect, helping to cleanse the body and mind of negative energy. The gemstone is also associated with healing and protection, and it is often used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments. Zircon is thought to promote clarity and focus, making it a valuable tool for those seeking to improve their mental and emotional well-being. The stone is also believed to enhance intuition and spiritual awareness, helping the wearer to connect with their inner self and the world around them.
Blue Topaz
Blue topaz is believed to have a calming and soothing effect on the wearer, promoting emotional balance and inner peace. The gemstone is also associated with love and affection, making it a popular choice for romantic jewelry. Blue topaz is thought to enhance communication and self-expression, helping the wearer to articulate their thoughts and feelings more effectively. The stone is also believed to promote confidence and self-esteem, making it a valuable tool for those seeking to improve their personal and professional lives.
Care and Cleaning
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is a relatively soft gemstone, and it should be handled with care to avoid scratches and damage. The stone is sensitive to heat and light, and prolonged exposure to these elements can cause it to fade or change color. To clean tanzanite, use a soft brush and mild soap in warm water. Avoid using ultrasonic or steam cleaners, as these can damage the stone. Tanzanite should also be stored separately from other gemstones to prevent scratches and abrasions.
Turquoise
Turquoise is a relatively soft gemstone, and it should be handled with care to avoid scratches and damage. The stone is sensitive to heat and chemicals, and it should be cleaned with a soft brush and mild soap in warm water. Avoid using ultrasonic or steam cleaners, as these can damage the stone. Turquoise should also be stored separately from other gemstones to prevent scratches and abrasions. It is also important to avoid exposing turquoise to harsh chemicals or extreme temperatures, as these can cause the stone to crack or discolor.
Zircon
Zircon is a relatively durable gemstone, but it can still be scratched or damaged if handled carelessly. The stone is sensitive to heat and light, and some heat-treated varieties may revert to their original color after prolonged exposure to bright light. To clean zircon, use a soft brush and mild soap in warm water. Avoid using ultrasonic or steam cleaners, as these can damage the stone. Zircon should also be stored separately from other gemstones to prevent scratches and abrasions.
Blue Topaz
Blue topaz is a relatively durable gemstone, and it can be cleaned using a soft brush and mild soap in warm water. The stone is resistant to heat and chemicals, making it a versatile choice for jewelry. Blue topaz can also be cleaned using ultrasonic or steam cleaners, as these are unlikely to cause damage. The stone should be stored separately from other gemstones to prevent scratches and abrasions. Blue topaz is also relatively resistant to fading or discoloration, making it a low-maintenance gemstone.
Conclusion
December birthstones offer a rich and diverse selection of gemstones, each with its own unique characteristics and history. From the deep blue hues of tanzanite and turquoise to the vibrant colors of zircon and blue topaz, these stones provide a wide range of choices for jewelry and personal adornment. Whether you are drawn to the ancient traditions of turquoise or the modern elegance of blue topaz, there is a December birthstone to suit every taste and style. With proper care and maintenance, these gemstones can be enjoyed for a lifetime, serving as beautiful and meaningful symbols of December birthdays.