December’s Varied Blues: Exploring Turquoise, Tanzanite, and Zircon

December is a unique month in the world of birthstones, distinguished by a selection of not one, but four gemstones: Tanzanite, Zircon, Turquoise, and Blue Topaz. While Blue Topaz is frequently mentioned, the most traditional and consistently highlighted gems for December are Turquoise, Tanzanite, and Zircon, each offering a distinct shade of blue and a rich history. These gemstones carry meanings associated with wisdom, protection, and new beginnings, providing a diverse range of options for those born in the final month of the year. This article will delve into the history, geological origins, gemological properties, symbolism, and care of these three December birthstones.

A History Rooted in Tradition and Discovery

Turquoise boasts the longest history of the three, with evidence of its use dating back millennia. Its name originates from the French phrase “pierre tourques,” meaning “Turkish stone,” reflecting its passage into Europe through Turkish trade routes as early as the thirteenth century. Ancient civilizations, including the Egyptians, who adorned King Tut’s burial mask with it, and various Asian cultures, prized Turquoise for its beauty and perceived protective qualities. Native American tribes, particularly those in the southwestern United States, held Turquoise in high regard, incorporating it into ceremonial practices, jewelry, and as a medium of exchange. The Apache believed following a rainbow would lead to Turquoise, and that attaching it to weapons improved accuracy. Pueblo and Hopi tribes associated the gem’s color with the sky and the movements of lizards, respectively.

Tanzanite, in contrast, is a relatively recent discovery, first unearthed in Tanzania in 1967. Initially named “Blue Zoisite,” it was later renamed Tanzanite in honor of its country of origin. Its captivating violet-blue shimmer quickly drew comparisons to sapphire, establishing it as a luxurious and elegant gemstone.

Zircon also has a long history, though its association with December as a birthstone is more recent. While it comes in a variety of colors, including golden, red, and clear, the blue variety is particularly popular.

Geological Formation and Sources

Turquoise is a semi-translucent gem formed from a combination of copper and aluminum phosphate. It is created through the chemical interaction of acidic groundwater with minerals containing aluminum and phosphorus.

Tanzanite is found in the Merelani Hills of northern Tanzania, the only known significant source of this gemstone. Its formation involved complex geological processes within the region.

Zircon, while found in various locations globally, does not have a specific primary source highlighted in the provided materials. The sources do not detail the geological processes involved in its formation.

Gemological Properties

The provided sources offer limited detailed gemological data. However, some properties can be gleaned. Turquoise is noted for its color, ranging from sky-blue to a more earthy tone. Tanzanite is characterized by its deep blue-violet color and a phenomenon called pleochroism, meaning it displays different colors when viewed from different angles, exhibiting shades of blue, violet, and red. Zircon, specifically the blue variety, is also valued for its sparkle. Sapphires, mentioned in relation to Tanzanite’s color, have a Mohs hardness of 9, indicating exceptional durability. Agate, another December birthstone, is formed by bands of mineral deposits, reflecting changes in water quality during its formation.

A table summarizing the limited available properties:

Gemstone	Color	Notable Properties
Turquoise	Sky-blue to earthy blue	Ancient gem, ceremonial significance
Tanzanite	Deep blue-violet	Pleochroism, relatively recent discovery
Zircon (Blue)	Blue	Sparkle, variety of colors

Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs

Throughout history, these December birthstones have been attributed with various symbolic meanings and metaphysical properties. Turquoise was believed to guarantee health and good fortune, protect against falls (particularly from horses), and even warn of impending disaster by breaking into pieces. Hindu mystics believed viewing Turquoise after a new moon would bring wealth.

Tanzanite is associated with wisdom, peace, and inner strength. Its vibrant color is thought to complement a dynamic and ambitious personality.

While the sources do not detail specific beliefs surrounding Zircon, the broader context of birthstone lore suggests it, like the other December stones, carries symbolic weight related to protection and positive energy. Agate is believed to harmonize mind and body.

Care and Cleaning

The provided sources do not offer specific care instructions for these gemstones. However, considering their varying hardness and composition, general guidelines can be inferred. Turquoise, being a relatively softer stone, requires gentle handling and should be protected from harsh chemicals and impacts. Tanzanite and Zircon, being more durable, can withstand more regular wear but should still be cleaned with mild soap and warm water, avoiding abrasive cleaners.

The Expanding List of December Birthstones

Historically, the concept of birthstones evolved from associating gemstones with zodiac signs and believing they conferred special powers when worn during specific times. Today, the tradition has shifted towards choosing a birthstone to honor the month of one’s birth. The list of December birthstones has expanded over time to include gems like Beryl, Sapphire, Agate, Garnet, Onyx, Ruby, and Chrysoprase, alongside the more traditional Turquoise, Tanzanite, and Zircon. This wider selection allows individuals to find a gemstone that resonates with their personal preferences and style.

Conclusion

The December birthstones – Turquoise, Tanzanite, and Zircon – represent a fascinating blend of ancient tradition and modern discovery. From the millennia-old history of Turquoise and its cultural significance to the recent emergence of Tanzanite as a prized gem, and the enduring appeal of Zircon, these stones offer a diverse range of beauty, symbolism, and meaning. While the provided sources offer a glimpse into their history and properties, further research into their geological origins and gemological characteristics would provide a more comprehensive understanding of these captivating December birthstones.