December boasts a unique distinction among the birthstone months: it has not one, but three recognized 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 explore the characteristics, origins, and significance of these December birthstones, drawing upon available information to provide a comprehensive overview.
History and Lore
Turquoise holds the longest history of the three, with evidence of its use dating back millennia. In ancient Egypt, the gem was associated with the sun god Ra, representing growth and sincerity. Native American cultures, particularly the Apache, held turquoise in high regard, believing it could be found by following a rainbow and that it improved accuracy with bows and firearms. The Pueblo people connected its color to the sky, while the Hopi attributed its creation to lizards moving across the earth. In European traditions, gifting a turquoise ring symbolized remembrance, carrying the sentiment of “forget me not.” Tibetan culture considers turquoise a national treasure, believing it bestows health, good fortune, and protection from evil.
Tanzanite, in contrast, is a relatively recent discovery. Identified as the mineral zoisite in 1962, its primary source in the Merelani Hills of Tanzania was located in 1967, leading to its naming in honor of the country. Tiffany & Co. played a pivotal role in popularizing tanzanite, launching a major advertising campaign in 1968 that highlighted its vivid colors and clarity.
Zircon’s history is less detailed within the provided sources, but it is noted as a gem that has been around for centuries.
Geological Formation and Sources
The origins of these three birthstones are geographically distinct. Turquoise has been mined in the Nishapur district of Iran for over 1,000 years, with the most prized blue variety known as “Persian blue” regardless of its current source.
Tanzanite is uniquely sourced, with the Merelani Hills of northern Tanzania being the only commercial mining location worldwide. The landscape surrounding the mines is characterized by grass-covered hills, rocky soil, and the backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro. Mining operations in the area are extensive, with thousands of workers extracting the gem from depths exceeding 100 meters.
Zircon is often found in proximity to sapphire deposits, with sources including Sri Lanka and Australia, as well as Myanmar, Vietnam, and Cambodia.
Gemological Properties
Tanzanite is described as “velvety” due to its deep, saturated color, which ranges from rich blue to violet, with blue being the most valuable hue.
Turquoise’s historical significance is linked to its color, with the most desirable shade being an even, intense blue, often referred to as “robin’s egg blue,” “sky blue,” or “Persian blue.”
Zircon ranges from 6 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale of hardness. It is commonly heat-treated to produce blue and colorless varieties, as well as orange, yellow, and red colors. Prolonged exposure to bright light can sometimes cause heat-treated zircon to revert to its original color, typically a light brown. It is generally stable when exposed to chemicals.
The sources provide a table summarizing the properties:
| Birthstone | Color |
|---|---|
| Turquoise | Blue |
| Tanzanite | Blue |
| Zircon | Blue |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Turquoise is associated with peace and is believed to impart this quality to its wearer. It also symbolizes faithfulness and confidence.
Blue topaz is seen to symbolize love and affection and is believed to promote a happy life full of joy, as well as peace and relaxation, potentially preventing headaches and other ailments.
While specific metaphysical beliefs regarding zircon are not detailed in the provided sources, garnets are noted to represent protection, energy, perseverance, and confidence.
Care and Cleaning
Zircon, with a hardness of 6 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale, is susceptible to abrasion and should be protected from rough conditions. Cleaning should be performed with a soft brush and mild soap in warm water; ultrasonic and steam cleaners are not recommended.
The sources do not provide specific care instructions for Tanzanite or Turquoise.
Conclusion
December’s birthstones – Tanzanite, Turquoise, and Zircon – offer a captivating array of colors, histories, and symbolic meanings. From the ancient reverence for turquoise to the modern discovery of tanzanite and the enduring appeal of zircon, these gems represent a diverse and fascinating selection for those born in the twelfth month. Each stone carries a unique story, making the choice of a December birthstone a personal and meaningful one.