December boasts a unique distinction among the months: it is represented by not one, but three birthstones – tanzanite, turquoise, and zircon. Each gem carries its own rich history, geological origins, and symbolic meaning, offering a diverse range of choices for those born in the final month of the year. This article will delve into the properties, origins, and lore surrounding these captivating December birthstones.
History and Lore
Turquoise holds the longest documented history of the three, with evidence of its use dating back millennia. Adorning the funerary mask of the Egyptian King Tut, who reigned over 3,000 years ago, it demonstrates the gem’s enduring appeal and significance in ancient civilizations. More recently, turquoise featured prominently in the jewelry of Wallis Simpson, the Duchess of Windsor, showcasing its continued presence in royal collections. In European traditions, gifting a turquoise ring symbolized a plea to “forget me not,” while in Tibet, it was revered as a national treasure believed to bestow health, good fortune, and protection against evil.
Native American cultures also held turquoise in high esteem. The Apache believed one could locate turquoise by following a rainbow to its end, and incorporating it into weaponry was thought to improve accuracy. The Pueblo people associated its color with the sky, while the Hopi attributed its formation to lizards scurrying across the earth.
Tanzanite, in contrast, is a relatively recent discovery, first identified in 1967 near the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. While its historical record is shorter, it quickly gained recognition for its striking beauty. Among the Maasai people of Tanzania, tanzanite holds cultural importance, traditionally given to new mothers as a symbol of joy and celebration.
Zircon, while also ancient in origin, doesn’t have the same level of detailed historical lore as turquoise. It is noted as being found alongside sapphires in various locations.
Geological Formation and Sources
Turquoise, a hydrated phosphate of copper and aluminum, is formed through a process involving weathering of copper-rich rocks. Today, the world’s largest producer of turquoise is China, specifically the Hubei Province. Historically, Iran’s Nishapur district was prized for its intensely blue turquoise, often referred to as “robin’s egg blue,” “sky blue,” or “Persian blue.” In the United States, production shifted from New Mexico in the early 20th century to Arizona and Nevada, with notable mines including Dry Creek, Easter Blue, Emerald Valley, Fox, Kingman, and the now-closed Sleeping Beauty mine.
Tanzanite, a variety of the mineral zoisite, is exceptionally rare, found in a limited area of only 4 km long and 2 km wide in the Merelani hills of Northern Tanzania. Its formation is linked to the interaction of metamorphic rocks with fluids rich in elements like vanadium.
Zircon is found in a variety of geological settings, often alongside sapphire deposits in locations such as Sri Lanka and Australia, as well as Myanmar, Vietnam, and Cambodia.
Gemological Properties
Turquoise
Turquoise typically exhibits a hardness ranging from 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale. It is often treated to enhance its durability, appearance, and polish, with methods including dyeing, epoxy or acrylic resin impregnation, and filling cavities with metal-loaded epoxy. Turquoise is generally stable to light, but high heat can cause discoloration and breakage. It is susceptible to damage from acids, chemicals, cosmetics, and even skin oils.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite, belonging to the epidote mineral group, registers a hardness of 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale, making it suitable for various jewelry settings. It is a naturally occurring blue-violet colored stone. Some heat-treated stones may revert to their original color after prolonged exposure to bright light, and exposure to heat can alter its color.
Zircon
Zircon’s hardness ranges from 6 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale. It is commonly heat-treated to produce blue and colorless varieties, as well as orange, yellow, and red hues. While generally stable to light, prolonged exposure can sometimes cause heat-treated zircon to revert to its original color, typically a light brown. Exposure to heat can also alter its color.
The following table summarizes the key gemological properties:
| Gemstone | Chemical Composition | Hardness (Mohs) | Color | Sources |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Turquoise | Hydrated phosphate of copper and aluminum | 5-6 | Typically blue-green, but can vary | Iran, China (Hubei Province), USA (Arizona, Nevada) |
| Tanzanite | Calcium aluminum silicate (Zoisite) | 6-7 | Blue-violet | Tanzania (Merelani Hills) |
| Zircon | Zirconium silicate | 6-7.5 | Colorless, blue, orange, yellow, red | Sri Lanka, Australia, Myanmar, Vietnam, Cambodia |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Turquoise is widely associated with peace and protection. Tibetan culture considers it a source of health and good fortune. The gem is also linked to communication and self-expression.
Tanzanite is believed by some to activate the throat, third-eye, and crown chakras, facilitating psychic abilities and communication with higher dimensions. It is also associated with healing, protection, and self-transformation.
While less detailed information is provided regarding zircon’s symbolism, it is presented as a gem offering a wide range of color options, allowing individuals to choose a stone that reflects their personality.
Care and Cleaning
Due to its relatively lower hardness, turquoise requires gentle care. It should be cleaned with warm, soapy water and never subjected to steam or ultrasonic cleaners. Exposure to heat, acids, and harsh chemicals should be avoided.
Tanzanite should also be cleaned with a soft brush and mild soap in warm water. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners are not recommended.
Zircon, similarly, is best cleaned with a soft brush and mild soap in warm water. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners are also not recommended for this gem. It is advisable to avoid wearing zircon during activities that could cause abrasion.
Conclusion
December’s birthstones – turquoise, tanzanite, and zircon – each offer a unique blend of history, beauty, and symbolism. Turquoise, with its ancient roots and cultural significance, represents protection and peace. Tanzanite, a more recent discovery, embodies transformation and spiritual connection. Zircon, with its diverse color range, allows for personal expression. Whether chosen for their aesthetic appeal, historical importance, or metaphysical properties, these gems provide a meaningful connection to the month of December.