December boasts a remarkable array of birthstones – turquoise, blue topaz, zircon, and, more recently, tanzanite – offering a spectrum of colors and histories for those born in the final month of the year. While traditionally associated with turquoise and zircon, the list expanded in the 20th and 21st centuries to include blue topaz and tanzanite, providing a wider selection to suit individual preferences. Each gem carries its own unique symbolism and lore, reflecting a rich tapestry of cultural beliefs and historical usage.
A History of December’s Gems
The association of gemstones with specific months dates back to ancient times, with astrological influences playing a significant role. Originally, zodiac stones and birthstones were often one and the same, reflecting a belief in the direct connection between celestial bodies and earthly gems. Turquoise holds a particularly long-standing connection to December, having been considered a birthstone for thousands of years. Ancient Egyptians prized turquoise, adorning themselves with it and believing it possessed protective qualities. Chinese artisans were also early adopters, carving the stone over 3,000 years ago.
Ruby was also historically linked to December in ancient times, believed to sharpen the mind and encourage courtly love. However, by the mid-20th century, zircon began to gain prominence as a December birthstone, officially replacing lapis lazuli in 1952. The addition of tanzanite in 2002 further broadened the options, reflecting a growing appreciation for this relatively recent discovery. Blue topaz, while a November birthstone in some charts, is also frequently listed as a December stone, particularly as a modern alternative.
Gemological Properties and Characteristics
The December birthstones exhibit a diverse range of gemological properties. Turquoise is a semi-translucent to opaque gem, typically ranging in color from blue to green, often displaying distinctive veins of matrix – remnants of the host rock in which it formed.
Blue topaz, a popular modern choice, presents a bright blue hue and registers an 8 on the Mohs scale of hardness. It is often heat-treated to achieve its vibrant color, though prolonged exposure to bright light can sometimes cause a reversion to a lighter shade.
Zircon, available in a variety of colors, most commonly appears as a December birthstone in its blue form. It ranges from 6 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale, making it less durable than topaz. Heat treatment is also common for zircon, producing blue and colorless varieties, as well as orange, yellow, and red hues. Exposure to heat can alter the color of some zircon stones.
Tanzanite, a more recent addition to the December birthstone family, is known for its bluish-purple color.
The following table summarizes key properties:
| Gemstone | Color(s) | Mohs Hardness | Transparency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Turquoise | Blue to Green | Not Specified | Semi-translucent to Opaque |
| Blue Topaz | Bright Blue | 8 | Transparent |
| Blue Zircon | Blue | 6-7.5 | Transparent to Translucent |
| Tanzanite | Bluish-Purple | Not Specified | Not Specified |
Sources and Geological Formation
Turquoise is found in arid regions, often near copper deposits. Historically significant sources include Egypt and China, with more recent production occurring in the United States, Iran, and Tibet.
Blue topaz is sourced from various locations, including Sri Lanka and Australia. These locations often overlap with sapphire deposits. Myanmar, Vietnam, and Cambodia are also known sources.
Zircon is found globally, with significant deposits in Sri Lanka, Australia, and other regions.
Tanzanite is unique in that it is found in only one location: the Merelani Hills of northern Tanzania. This limited source contributes to its relative rarity and value.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, each of these December birthstones has been attributed with specific meanings and powers. Turquoise was believed to guarantee health and good fortune, and was thought to protect against falls, even breaking into pieces to warn of impending disaster. Hindu mystics believed that viewing turquoise after a new moon would bring wealth.
Blue topaz is associated with peace and calmness. It is believed to stimulate self-esteem and the ability to learn, aligning meridians and calming emotions, making it suitable for meditation.
Zircon is thought to encourage joy and emotional balance, bestowing wisdom, prestige, and wealth upon its wearer.
Tanzanite is considered a protective and soothing stone, facilitating the sharing of spiritual insights with calm clarity.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care is essential to maintain the beauty of December birthstones. Zircon, being relatively soft, should be protected from abrasion and is best avoided in rough conditions. Topaz, with its higher hardness, is more durable but can be affected by prolonged light exposure and should not be subjected to ultrasonic or steam cleaning. Turquoise, while beautiful, is porous and can be damaged by harsh chemicals or impacts. Gentle cleaning with a soft brush and mild soap in warm water is recommended for all these gems.
Zodiac Connections
The concept of zodiac birthstones links gemstones to astrological signs, further personalizing their significance. While modern birthstones are often chosen based on the month of birth, the tradition of assigning gems to zodiac signs remains popular. The provided sources indicate a chart linking zodiac signs to birthstones, with Aries associated with red jasper, Taurus with rose quartz, and so on. This system offers an alternative way to select a gemstone based on individual astrological alignment.
Conclusion
The December birthstones – turquoise, blue topaz, zircon, and tanzanite – represent a diverse and fascinating collection of gems. From the ancient lore surrounding turquoise to the modern appeal of tanzanite, each stone offers a unique blend of beauty, history, and symbolism. Whether chosen for their aesthetic qualities, their perceived metaphysical properties, or their connection to a specific zodiac sign, these gems provide a meaningful and personal connection for those born in the twelfth month of the year.