December, the final month of the year, is rich with symbolism and tradition—especially in the world of gemstones. Those born in December are celebrated for having the privilege of choosing from a selection of beautiful blue gemstones as their birthstones. These include Turquoise, Tanzanite, Blue Zircon, and Blue Topaz—each offering a unique shade of blue, distinct geological background, and rich historical and cultural significance. This article explores the color and significance of December birthstones, delving into the science, history, and symbolism of each gemstone, as outlined in the most authoritative sources available.
Introduction
December’s birthstones are all blue-hued, reflecting the cool tones of winter and the serene beauty of the sky and sea. While Turquoise has been revered for thousands of years as the traditional December gemstone, Tanzanite, Blue Zircon, and Blue Topaz have also become recognized in modern times. The color blue is a common thread through all these stones, but the shades and meanings vary widely. Understanding the nuances of each December birthstone helps gemstone lovers, jewelry buyers, and collectors appreciate their individual beauty and value.
This article is organized to explore the various aspects of December’s blue gemstones: their historical significance, geological formation and sources, gemological properties, symbolic and metaphysical meanings, and care instructions. Each section is grounded in the information from reliable sources, ensuring a factual and well-researched presentation.
History and Lore of December Birthstones
Turquoise: The Ancient Gem of Power and Protection
Turquoise is the oldest and most traditional of December’s birthstones. Historically, it was prized for its vibrant blue-green hues and its perceived powers of protection and prosperity. Ancient civilizations across the world, from Egypt to China and the Native American tribes, revered turquoise for its spiritual and protective qualities.
In ancient Egypt, pharaohs and other high-ranking officials wore turquoise as a symbol of power and divine favor. The gemstone was often inlaid in jewelry, amulets, and even in the construction of sacred artifacts. The Chinese have also used turquoise for over 3,000 years, carving it into intricate pendants and figurines.
Among Native American cultures, especially the Apache, Navajo, and Zuni, turquoise was considered sacred. It was believed to be a gift from the gods and was used in rituals and ceremonies. The Apache believed that turquoise could be found at the end of a rainbow, while the Navajo considered it a symbol of life and protection.
The name Turquoise comes from the French pierre turquoise, meaning “stone of Turkey”. This name arose when the gemstone was first introduced to Europe through Turkish bazaars, even though the stone’s origins often trace back to Persia (modern-day Iran) or the American Southwest.
Tanzanite: The Modern Discovery
In stark contrast to the ancient history of turquoise, Tanzanite is a relatively new gemstone. It was discovered in 1967 in Merelani Hills, near Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania—the only place on Earth where it is found. Tanzanite was named and marketed by Tiffany & Co. in 1968, emphasizing its exclusive geographic origin.
Tanzanite is prized for its pleochroism, the ability to display multiple colors—primarily blue and violet—depending on the viewing angle. This unique characteristic, along with its relatively high refractive index, gives it a striking brilliance.
In Hindu tradition, it was believed that seeing a turquoise (a common misnomer for the blue-green hues of the gem) after observing the new moon would bring wealth and prosperity. While this is not directly connected to tanzanite, the idea of turquoise as a symbol of fortune has been extended to its modern cousin in many cultural interpretations.
Tanzanite is also known as the 24th anniversary gemstone, marking a milestone in relationships and commitment.
Blue Zircon: A Gem of the Ancient World
Zircon is a gemstone with a long and fascinating history. It is considered one of the oldest known minerals on Earth, with some zircon crystals found in Australia dating back 4.4 billion years—nearly as old as the Earth itself. The blue variety of zircon is the one most commonly associated with December.
Zircon comes from the Arabic word zarkun (meaning “vermillion”) or the Persian word zargun (meaning “gold-colored”), reflecting the many colors it can take on. Blue zircon, in particular, is highly prized for its brilliance and fire, which is due to its high refractive index and dispersion.
Historically, zircon was believed to bring wisdom, honor, and restful sleep, especially in the Middle Ages. In Ancient Rome, zircon was worn to promote good health and vitality.
Blue Topaz: A Modern Addition
Blue topaz is a relatively new addition to the list of December birthstones. Unlike turquoise or zircon, it is not found naturally in blue form. Instead, blue topaz is created by irradiating naturally colorless topaz. This process gives it the beautiful blue hues we associate with the gem today.
The name topaz comes from the Sanskrit word for “fire”, which is a stark contrast to its modern blue appearance. However, the gem is known for its glass-like luster and deep cleavage, making it a delicate but durable gemstone when cut and polished properly.
Blue topaz is popular in modern jewelry due to its affordability, durability, and vibrant color. It is often used in engagement rings, earrings, and pendants, and is available in a range of blue shades, including London Blue, Swiss Blue, and Sky Blue.
Geological Formation and Sources
Understanding the geological origins and sources of each gemstone gives insight into why they are as rare and beautiful as they are. Below is an overview of how and where each December birthstone is formed.
Turquoise
Turquoise forms in the oxidized zones of copper deposits, typically in sedimentary rocks. It is created when groundwater rich in copper seeps into porous rock, reacting with phosphorus and aluminum to form the characteristic blue and green hues. The dark veins or matrix seen in turquoise are remnants of the surrounding rock.
Persian Turquoise is considered the most valuable and historically significant, coming from Iran. It is known for its even, vivid blue color and minimal matrix. Another highly prized variety is Sleeping Beauty Turquoise, which comes from a now-closed mine in Arizona, USA. It is known for its uniform robin’s-egg blue color and smooth texture.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is a rare mineral found only in the Merelani Hills near Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. It is a columbite-zircon mineral that is heat-treated to enhance its blue-violet color. The heat treatment is essential, as raw tanzanite is typically brown or violet in color.
Due to its limited geographic source, tanzanite is considered a rare and exclusive gemstone, making it highly sought after in the jewelry market.
Blue Zircon
Zircon is found in a variety of igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic rocks across the world. It is particularly abundant in Australia, Brazil, and Thailand, where it is often mined in alluvial deposits. The blue variety of zircon is created through heat treatment, which removes impurities and enhances the gem’s brilliance and color.
Zircon is known for its exceptional brilliance and refractive index, making it a popular substitute for diamonds in jewelry.
Blue Topaz
Topaz is a silicate mineral that is commonly found in granite and pegmatite rocks. It is mined in Brazil, Nigeria, and the United States, among other countries. However, naturally occurring blue topaz is extremely rare.
To create the blue topaz used in jewelry, colorless topaz is irradiated and then heated, which causes chromatic changes that result in the beautiful blue colors we see today.
Gemological Properties of December Birthstones
To fully appreciate the beauty and durability of each December birthstone, it's important to understand their gemological properties. These include hardness, chemical composition, refractive index, and cleavage, all of which influence how a gemstone is cut, worn, and cared for.
| Gemstone | Hardness (Mohs Scale) | Chemical Formula | Refractive Index | Cleavage | Color Stability |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Turquoise | 5–6 | CuAl₆(PO₄)₄(OH)₈·4H₂O | 1.61–1.65 | None | Stable |
| Tanzanite | 6–7 | Ca₂Al₃(SiO₄)₃(OH) | 1.69–1.70 | Poor | Sensitive |
| Blue Zircon | 6–7.5 | ZrSiO₄ | 1.90–2.00 | Perfect | Sensitive |
| Blue Topaz | 8 | Al₂SiO₄(F,OH)₂ | 1.62–1.63 | Perfect | Sensitive |
Turquoise
- Hardness: 5–6 on the Mohs scale.
- Chemical Formula: CuAl₆(PO₄)₄(OH)₈·4H₂O
- Refractive Index: 1.61–1.65
- Cleavage: None
- Color Stability: Stable
- Durability: Moderate. Due to its low hardness and porosity, turquoise requires careful handling and cleaning.
Tanzanite
- Hardness: 6–7 on the Mohs scale.
- Chemical Formula: Ca₂Al₃(SiO₄)₃(OH)
- Refractive Index: 1.69–1.70
- Cleavage: Poor
- Color Stability: Sensitive to heat and light.
- Durability: Moderate. Tanzanite is relatively durable but should be protected from sudden temperature changes.
Blue Zircon
- Hardness: 6–7.5 on the Mohs scale.
- Chemical Formula: ZrSiO₄
- Refractive Index: 1.90–2.00
- Cleavage: Perfect in one direction
- Color Stability: Sensitive to heat and light.
- Durability: High brilliance but requires care due to cleavage.
Blue Topaz
- Hardness: 8 on the Mohs scale.
- Chemical Formula: Al₂SiO₄(F,OH)₂
- Refractive Index: 1.62–1.63
- Cleavage: Perfect
- Color Stability: Sensitive to heat and light.
- Durability: High hardness but requires careful handling due to cleavage.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Each December birthstone carries unique symbolic meanings and metaphysical properties that have been passed down through generations.
Turquoise
Turquoise is often associated with prosperity, happiness, and success. It is believed to bring good luck, health, and protection to the wearer. In many cultures, it is also considered a stone of wisdom and communication, helping people express their thoughts more clearly and confidently.
The Apache believed that following a rainbow to its end would lead to a source of turquoise, symbolizing the union of the earth and sky. This belief underscores the gem’s connection to spiritual and emotional balance.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is associated with transformation, intuition, and spiritual growth. It is believed to help individuals release emotional blockages and promote inner peace. Due to its pleochroic nature, it is also thought to represent different aspects of the self, helping the wearer understand and embrace their multifaceted nature.
As a 24th-anniversary gemstone, tanzanite symbolizes enduring love and commitment, making it a meaningful choice for engagement rings and anniversary jewelry.
Blue Zircon
Blue zircon is known as the stone of wisdom and clarity. It is believed to enhance mental focus and promote restful sleep. In the Middle Ages, zircon was thought to bring honor and wisdom to those who wore it.
Due to its exceptional brilliance and fire, blue zircon is also associated with success and achievement, making it a popular gemstone for ambitious individuals.
Blue Topaz
Blue topaz is often associated with calm, clarity, and emotional balance. It is believed to soothe the mind and promote inner peace, making it an excellent stone for stress relief and meditation. It is also associated with honesty and communication, helping individuals speak their truth with confidence.
Due to its glass-like luster and vibrant blue color, blue topaz is also linked to spiritual awakening and personal growth, making it a popular gemstone for spiritual seekers and healers.
Care and Cleaning of December Birthstones
Proper care is essential to maintaining the beauty and longevity of December birthstones. The following guidelines are based on the physical and chemical properties of each gemstone:
Turquoise
- Hardness: 5–6 (moderate)
- Cleaning: Use warm soapy water and a soft cloth. Avoid steam and ultrasonic cleaners.
- Storage: Store separately in a dry, cool place to prevent hydration and cracking.
Tanzanite
- Hardness: 6–7 (moderate)
- Cleaning: Use warm soapy water. Avoid steam and ultrasonic cleaners.
- Storage: Keep in a soft pouch to prevent scratches. Avoid sudden temperature changes.
Blue Zircon
- Hardness: 6–7.5 (moderate to high)
- Cleaning: Use warm soapy water. Avoid steam and ultrasonic cleaners.
- Storage: Store in a separate compartment to prevent cleavage damage.
Blue Topaz
- Hardness: 8 (high)
- Cleaning: Use warm soapy water. Avoid steam and ultrasonic cleaners.
- Storage: Store in a soft cloth or pouch to prevent cleavage damage.
Conclusion
December’s birthstones—Turquoise, Tanzanite, Blue Zircon, and Blue Topaz—each offer a unique blend of beauty, history, and symbolism. While they all share the common color of blue, their origins, properties, and meanings differ significantly. From the ancient traditions of turquoise to the modern discovery of tanzanite, these gemstones reflect the rich tapestry of human history and culture.
Whether you choose Turquoise for its ancient wisdom, Tanzanite for its spiritual transformation, Blue Zircon for its brilliance, or Blue Topaz for its calming energy, each gemstone carries a story worth telling. Understanding their scientific properties and cultural significance allows us to appreciate not only their aesthetic beauty, but also their deeper meanings and values.
For jewelry buyers, gemstone enthusiasts, and students of gemology, the December birthstones serve as a beautiful reminder of the enduring allure of blue gemstones and their timeless significance across cultures and centuries.