December is a unique month for those born within it, offering a choice of not one, but four recognized birthstones: Zircon, Turquoise, Tanzanite, and Blue Topaz. Each of these gemstones presents a distinct shade of blue, mirroring the cool tones of the winter season, and carries its own rich history and symbolism. While Turquoise holds the distinction as the most traditional choice, Tanzanite represents a more recent discovery, unearthed in Tanzania in 1967. These gems are associated with meanings of wisdom, protection, and new beginnings, providing December-born individuals with a diverse selection to express their personal identity.
A History of December’s Gems
The selection of birthstones has evolved over time, with many lists rooted in the gemstones adorning Aaron’s breastplate or those found in the foundations of the New Jerusalem as described in the Bible. Modern interpretations, however, offer a broader range of options, categorized by birth month, guardian angel association, zodiac sign, and special apostle affiliation. The tradition of associating gemstones with specific months reflects a long-held human fascination with the belief that these stones possess spiritual and mental connections beyond their aesthetic value.
Turquoise, with its ancient origins in Persia and along the Sinai Peninsula, has been prized for millennia. It arrived in Europe through the gem markets of Constantinople, Turkey, hence its name, derived from the French “turkis” and “turkeystone.” From the earliest times, turquoise was favored for creating amulets, easily shaped and inscribed with protective symbols. It was believed to ward off danger and bring good fortune, safeguarding relationships and warning wearers of impending illness or harm. Tibetan culture revered turquoise as a symbol of fortune, health, and success, even utilizing it as a form of currency. Ancient Inca and Maya civilizations offered turquoise as gifts to their gods, while Native Americans of the Southwest associated it with youth and strength, believing a combination of turquoise and gold symbolized vitality and longevity. Hindu mystics believed holding turquoise during a new moon would ensure future wealth.
Zircon also boasts a long and storied past. Its name originates from the Arabic word for “jewel,” and in Sanskrit, it’s known as ‘rahuratna,’ linked to the Nodes of the Moon and eclipses. Historically, physicians in the Middle Ages wore zircon on their left fingers, believing it aided in accurate diagnoses. Throughout ancient times, zircons were considered protective against evil spirits, even serving as an amulet against the Black Death plague in Europe. In India, the potency of zircon was thought to be enhanced when set in gold.
While Turquoise and Zircon have ancient roots, Tanzanite is a 20th-century discovery, found in Tanzania in 1967. Its relatively recent introduction to the gem world has quickly established it as a highly sought-after gemstone, favored by celebrities like Anne Hathaway, Cate Blanchett, and Sarah Jessica Parker, and famously gifted by Jay Z to Beyoncé.
Geological Origins and Sources
Australia and South Africa currently account for approximately 70% of the world’s zircon production, though it is also found in Sri Lanka and India. Turquoise originates from Persia and the Sinai Peninsula, with historical trade routes bringing it to Europe via Constantinople. The sources for Blue Topaz and Tanzanite are not explicitly detailed in the provided materials, though Tanzanite is specifically noted as being discovered in Tanzania.
Gemological Properties
The provided sources do not offer detailed gemological properties for each stone. However, they do highlight some key characteristics. Zircon, particularly colorless varieties known as “jargoon,” closely resembles diamond in appearance, though it is softer. Sri Lankan zircons have even been called ‘Maturan Diamond’ due to their diamond-like quality. Turquoise is noted for its ease of cutting and inscription, making it ideal for amulets. Tanzanite is described as having a violet-blue shimmer, often compared to sapphire, and possessing an elegant and luxurious appearance. Blue Topaz is characterized by its icy blue clarity and calming energy.
A comparison of hardness, based on general gemological knowledge (not provided in the sources, but included for context as the sources mention zircon being softer than diamond), would place diamond at 10 on the Mohs scale, zircon around 6.5-7.5, topaz around 8, and turquoise around 5-6. This difference in hardness impacts durability and suitability for different types of jewelry.
| Gemstone | Approximate Mohs Hardness | Notable Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Zircon | 6.5-7.5 | Diamond-like appearance |
| Turquoise | 5-6 | Easily cut & inscribed |
| Tanzanite | Data Not Provided | Violet-blue shimmer |
| Blue Topaz | 8 | Icy blue clarity |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, these December birthstones have been imbued with various symbolic meanings and metaphysical properties. Turquoise was considered a gemstone of protection, good fortune, and enduring relationships. It was believed to warn wearers of danger and preserve friendships. Tibetans associated it with fortune, health, and success, while ancient cultures saw it as a gift to the gods.
Zircon was believed to counteract evil spirits and was used as an amulet against disease. In India, it was thought to be more potent when set in gold. Physicians in the Middle Ages believed it aided in accurate diagnoses.
Sapphire, also listed as a special apostle birthstone for December, was regarded as a gemstone of divine and beautiful thoughts, offering protection from evil forces. Ancient Hebrews believed it represented wisdom, and some traditions claim King Solomon possessed a sapphire in his ring.
While the sources do not detail specific metaphysical beliefs associated with Tanzanite or Blue Topaz, the general association of blue gemstones with tranquility, peace, and communication is a common theme.
Care and Cleaning
The provided sources do not offer specific care instructions for these gemstones. However, considering their varying hardness levels, general guidelines can be inferred. Turquoise, being relatively soft, requires gentle handling and should be protected from scratches and harsh chemicals. Zircon, while harder, is still susceptible to damage and should be cleaned with mild soap and warm water. Blue Topaz, with its higher hardness, is more durable but should still be handled with care. Tanzanite, while beautiful, may be sensitive to heat and sudden temperature changes.
December Birthstone by Day
The provided materials include a day-by-day breakdown of birthstone assignments for December, offering a more personalized selection:
- December 4th: Blue Topaz
- December 5th: Tanzanite
- December 6th: Turquoise
- December 7th: Blue Zircon
- December 8th: Blue Topaz
- December 9th: Tanzanite
- December 10th: Turquoise
- December 11th: Blue Zircon
- December 12th: Blue Topaz
- December 13th: Tanzanite
- December 14th: Turquoise
- December 15th: Blue Zircon
- December 16th: Blue Topaz
- December 17th: Tanzanite
- December 18th: Turquoise
- December 19th: Blue Zircon
- December 20th: Blue Topaz
- December 21st: Tanzanite
- December 22nd: Turquoise
- December 23rd: Blue Zircon
- December 24th: Blue Topaz
- December 25th: Tanzanite
- December 26th: Turquoise
- December 27th: Blue Zircon
- December 28th: Blue Topaz
- December 29th: Tanzanite
- December 30th: Turquoise
- December 31st: Blue Zircon
Conclusion
December’s birthstones – Zircon, Turquoise, Tanzanite, and Blue Topaz – represent a captivating array of colors, histories, and symbolic meanings. From the ancient protective powers attributed to Turquoise and Zircon to the modern elegance of Tanzanite and the calming clarity of Blue Topaz, these gemstones offer a rich tapestry of choices for those born in the final month of the year. The diversity of these stones reflects the multifaceted nature of December itself, a time of reflection, celebration, and anticipation for the year to come.