December boasts a trio of captivating birthstones – Tanzanite, Turquoise, and Blue Zircon – each offering unique beauty and historical significance. While Tanzanite and Turquoise often take center stage, Blue Zircon possesses a rich heritage and a brilliance that deserves recognition. This article delves into the history, geological origins, gemological properties, and symbolism of Blue Zircon, specifically as it relates to its designation as a December birthstone.
The concept of birthstones has evolved over centuries. Originating in biblical times with the twelve gemstones adorning the breastplate of Aaron, these stones were initially linked to the twelve tribes of Israel. Later, connections were made between gemstones and the signs of the zodiac, with the belief that wearing a stone corresponding to one’s birth month offered special powers or therapeutic benefits. The modern practice of assigning a single gemstone to each month emerged between the 16th and 18th centuries, with a standardized list of “modern birthstones” published by the National Association of Jewelers in 1912. Blue Zircon’s inclusion as a December birthstone reflects this more recent tradition, offering a beautiful alternative to the more commonly known Tanzanite and Turquoise.
A History Rooted in Tradition
While the precise historical use of zircon is difficult to pinpoint, the name “turquoise” itself reveals a fascinating journey through trade routes. The term originates from the 13th-century French phrase “pierre tourques,” meaning “Turkish stone,” as the gem was brought to Europe via Turkey. This highlights the historical importance of trade in disseminating gemstones across cultures. Though the provided sources do not detail the early history of zircon itself, the context of turquoise’s journey illustrates the broader historical patterns of gemstone distribution and appreciation.
The association of specific gemstones with December is relatively recent, solidifying in the 20th century. The availability of multiple birthstones for December – Blue Topaz, Tanzanite, Turquoise, and Blue Zircon – provides wearers with a choice reflecting personal preference and aesthetic inclination. The sources indicate that Blue Zircon is a recognized, though perhaps less prominent, option for those born in December, particularly on the 7th, 11th, 15th, 19th, 23rd, and 27th of the month.
Geological Formation and Sources
The provided sources do not detail the geological formation or specific mining locations of Blue Zircon. However, they do mention that Turquoise, a fellow December birthstone, has been sourced from Persia (modern-day Iran) and the Sinai Peninsula in Egypt for millennia. The Persian turquoise, known as “Persian blue,” is particularly esteemed. This illustrates that December birthstones have historically been sourced from diverse geographical locations, each with its own unique geological context. Further research beyond the provided sources would be necessary to detail the specific geological origins of Blue Zircon.
Gemological Properties
The sources offer limited information regarding the gemological properties of Blue Zircon. It is noted that Tanzanite, another December birthstone, typically begins as brownish zoisite and requires heat treatment to achieve its characteristic blue to violet hues. This heat treatment is permanent and does not introduce any additional durability concerns. While this information pertains to Tanzanite, it highlights the importance of understanding gemstone treatments and their impact on a stone’s properties.
The sources mention that Tanzanite has a hardness of 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale, making it susceptible to abrasion and potential cracking from sudden temperature changes. This information, while specific to Tanzanite, suggests that December birthstones, in general, may require careful handling and protective settings, particularly when worn in rings.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
The provided sources do not explicitly detail the symbolism or metaphysical beliefs associated with Blue Zircon. However, they do emphasize the beauty and unique qualities of each December birthstone. Tanzanite is linked to the charismatic energy of Sagittarius, while Turquoise is celebrated for its long-standing appeal and association with the color turquoise itself – a testament to its cultural impact. The sources suggest that choosing a birthstone is a personal decision, reflecting individual preferences and aesthetic sensibilities.
The emphasis on the color blue as representative of December births further suggests a symbolic connection between the month and qualities associated with the color, such as tranquility, stability, and wisdom. While not specific to Blue Zircon, this broader association provides a contextual understanding of the symbolism surrounding December birthstones.
Care and Cleaning
The sources provide specific care instructions for Tanzanite, advising warm, soapy water for cleaning and cautioning against ultrasonic and steam cleaners. This suggests that December birthstones, in general, may require gentle cleaning methods to avoid damage. The information regarding Tanzanite’s susceptibility to cracking from sudden temperature changes also underscores the importance of protecting these gemstones from extreme conditions.
While specific care instructions for Blue Zircon are not provided, the general guidance for Tanzanite – a fellow December birthstone – suggests that similar precautions should be taken. Setting Blue Zircon in earrings or pendants, rather than rings, is recommended for Tanzanite to minimize exposure to wear and tear. This advice could also be applicable to Blue Zircon, particularly for those seeking a long-lasting and well-maintained gemstone.
Affordability and Accessibility
A significant advantage of December’s birthstones, as noted in the sources, is their relative affordability. Compared to some other precious stones, Tanzanite, Turquoise, and Blue Zircon offer a more accessible option for those seeking beautiful and meaningful jewelry. This affordability makes it easier to acquire a stunning gemstone without exceeding budgetary constraints, whether as a gift or a personal indulgence.
Conclusion
Blue Zircon, alongside Tanzanite and Turquoise, represents a captivating choice for those born in December. While the provided sources offer limited detail regarding its specific history and gemological properties, they establish its recognition as a legitimate December birthstone. Its association with the month, coupled with the broader symbolism of blue, makes it a meaningful and aesthetically pleasing option. The emphasis on affordability and the importance of careful handling further contribute to its appeal. While further research is needed to fully explore the unique characteristics of Blue Zircon, its inclusion among December’s birthstones underscores the diversity and beauty of the gem world.