December is unique among the calendar months, boasting not one, but four recognized birthstones: Tanzanite, Turquoise, Blue Zircon, and Blue Topaz. Each of these gemstones presents a distinct shade of blue, mirroring the cool tones of the winter season and offering December-born individuals a diverse selection to represent their identity. While Turquoise holds the distinction as the most traditional choice, with a history spanning centuries, Tanzanite is the most recent addition, discovered in Tanzania in 1967. These stones are associated with meanings ranging from wisdom and protection to new beginnings.
History and Lore
The association of specific gemstones with months of the year, and subsequently with zodiac signs, has ancient roots, though the modern list of birthstones evolved over time. Turquoise, as a December birthstone, has a particularly long and storied past. However, the sources primarily focus on the more recent history of Tanzanite, alongside acknowledging the broader tradition of multiple birthstones for December.
Tanzanite’s history is relatively concise, as its discovery dates to the late 20th century. Prospectors located the primary source of this December birthstone in the Merelani Hills of Tanzania in 1967, though the mineral itself, zoisite, was identified as early as 1962. Tiffany & Co. recognized its potential and became its main distributor, launching a significant advertising campaign in 1968 that propelled the gem to international prominence. It is now also associated with the 24th wedding anniversary.
While not extensively detailed in the provided sources, Turquoise has been admired for centuries, cherished by ancient cultures for its spiritual and healing qualities. The sources do not delve into the specific historical uses or beliefs surrounding Blue Zircon or Blue Topaz.
Geological Formation and Sources
The origins of these December birthstones are geographically diverse. Turquoise, as the traditional stone, has a history rooted in various mining locations, though the sources do not specify these. Tanzanite, however, is remarkably localized. The Merelani Hills of northern Tanzania represent the only commercially viable source of this gemstone worldwide. The landscape surrounding the mines is characterized by grass-covered hillsides, rocky soil, and the distant, snow-capped peak of Mount Kilimanjaro. Mining operations range from mechanized excavations exceeding 100 meters in depth to smaller-scale recovery efforts.
Blue Topaz and Blue Zircon’s geological origins and mining locations are not detailed within the provided materials.
Gemological Properties
The defining characteristic shared by these December birthstones is their blue coloration, though the nuances of that blue vary considerably. Tanzanite is described as “velvety,” exhibiting a deep and saturated color ranging from pure rich blue to violet, with the blue shades being the most valuable.
The sources do not provide detailed gemological data such as chemical composition, refractive index, or hardness for any of the stones. However, descriptions offer insight into their visual qualities:
- Tanzanite: Known for its rich blue to violet hues and high clarity.
- Turquoise: Displays a soft, sky-blue glow with earthy charm.
- Blue Zircon: Comes in golden, red, and clear varieties, but the blue version is particularly popular for its sparkle.
- Blue Topaz: Possesses an icy blue clarity and calming energy.
The sources indicate that Tanzanite can be found in large cut stones, contributing to its appeal.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
The symbolism associated with these gemstones varies. Tanzanite, despite its recent discovery, is linked to desirable properties such as healing, protection, and self-transformation. Some believe it can activate the throat, third-eye, and crown chakras, facilitating psychic abilities and communication with higher dimensions.
Turquoise is associated with spiritual and healing qualities, reflecting its long history of use in ancient cultures. Blue Topaz is linked to calming energy, while Blue Zircon is not specifically assigned any metaphysical properties in the provided sources.
Care and Cleaning
The sources do not provide specific care and cleaning instructions for these gemstones. However, given the varying hardness levels likely present among the four stones (though not explicitly stated), general guidelines for gemstone care would apply. These include avoiding harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, and extreme temperature changes. Gentle cleaning with warm, soapy water and a soft brush is generally recommended.
December Birthstone by Day
The sources provide a day-by-day breakdown of which birthstone is associated with each date in December:
| Date | Birthstone |
|---|---|
| December 4 | Blue Topaz |
| December 5 | Tanzanite |
| December 6 | Turquoise |
| December 7 | Blue Zircon |
| December 8 | Blue Topaz |
| December 9 | Tanzanite |
| December 10 | Turquoise |
| December 11 | Blue Zircon |
| December 12 | Blue Topaz |
| December 13 | Tanzanite |
| December 14 | Turquoise |
| December 15 | Blue Zircon |
| December 16 | Blue Topaz |
| December 17 | Tanzanite |
| December 18 | Turquoise |
| December 19 | Blue Zircon |
| December 20 | Blue Topaz |
| December 21 | Tanzanite |
| December 22 | Turquoise |
| December 23 | Blue Zircon |
| December 24 | Blue Topaz |
| December 25 | Tanzanite |
| December 26 | Turquoise |
| December 27 | Blue Zircon |
| December 28 | Blue Topaz |
| December 29 | Tanzanite |
| December 30 | Turquoise |
| December 31 | Blue Zircon |
Conclusion
December’s selection of birthstones – Tanzanite, Turquoise, Blue Zircon, and Blue Topaz – offers a spectrum of blue hues and associated meanings. From the ancient allure of Turquoise to the modern discovery of Tanzanite, each gem holds a unique place in the world of gemstones. The concentration of these stones around the color blue beautifully reflects the winter season, providing December-born individuals with a meaningful and diverse range of options to express their individuality. The limited scope of the provided sources primarily highlights Tanzanite and Turquoise, leaving the detailed history and properties of Blue Zircon and Blue Topaz largely unexplored.