For those born in December, the privilege of having three distinct and vibrant birthstones offers a unique opportunity to select a gemstone that resonates with personal taste, cultural significance, and symbolic meaning. Among the December birthstones—tanzanite, turquoise, and zircon—each tells a different story, spanning centuries of history, spiritual beliefs, and geological rarity. This article explores the characteristics, origins, meanings, and care of these three blue-hued gems, offering a detailed overview of their significance in both historical and contemporary contexts.
Introduction
December is the only month in the traditional birthstone calendar to be associated with three gemstones: tanzanite, turquoise, and zircon. This unique distinction highlights the diversity of December’s options, which range from the ancient and revered turquoise to the rare and modern tanzanite, and the versatile zircon. Each of these gemstones carries a distinct color palette, history, and symbolism, making them not only beautiful but also meaningful choices for December birthdays. Whether one is drawn to the deep violet-blue of tanzanite, the sky-blue of turquoise, or the multifaceted brilliance of zircon, there is a December birthstone to match every personality and preference.
This article will explore the origins and properties of each of these gemstones, their roles in historical and cultural contexts, and their meanings and uses in modern times. Additionally, practical guidance on caring for these gems will be provided, ensuring that they remain as vibrant and valuable as the day they were set in jewelry.
History and Lore
Turquoise: The Ancient Gemstone
Turquoise is the oldest of the three December birthstones, with a history that spans thousands of years. It has been prized by ancient civilizations for its striking blue to green-blue color and has been used in jewelry, amulets, and ceremonial objects. The gemstone has been found in archaeological sites across Egypt, Mesopotamia, China, and the Americas, indicating its widespread appeal and significance.
In ancient Egypt, turquoise was considered a sacred stone and was often inlaid into jewelry worn by pharaohs and high-ranking officials. The gemstone was believed to offer protection and was associated with the gods. The famous mask of Tutankhamun, for example, features turquoise in its inlay, underscoring its importance in Egyptian culture.
In the Americas, particularly among Native American tribes, turquoise was also highly valued. It was used in jewelry, carved into pendants and beads, and was believed to bring good fortune and spiritual protection. The Apache and Navajo peoples, in particular, have long revered turquoise for its healing properties and connection to the earth.
Turquoise was also highly prized in Persia and China, where it was traded along the Silk Road. Persian turquoise, especially from the mines of Iran, is known for its vibrant blue color and minimal matrix, making it one of the most sought-after varieties in the world.
Tanzanite: The Modern Discovery
Tanzanite, in contrast to the ancient turquoise, is a relatively new gemstone. Discovered in 1967 in Tanzania, the gemstone was named after its country of origin. It is a variety of the mineral zoisite and is distinguished by its trichroic nature—meaning it can display three different colors (blue, purple, and brown) depending on the angle from which it is viewed. Tanzanite is also notable for its rarity; it is found only in a small area near Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania.
The gemstone quickly gained popularity due to its vibrant violet-blue color and its rarity. It was officially recognized as a December birthstone in the 1980s, and it has since become a symbol of exclusivity and sophistication. Its discovery is often attributed to the efforts of a local Tanzanian miner who unearthed the first stones, and it has since become a significant export for the country.
Tanzanite is not only valued for its beauty but also for its symbolism. It is associated with transformation, intuition, and spiritual growth. These meanings have made it a popular choice for those seeking a gemstone that represents personal and emotional evolution.
Zircon: The Underappreciated Blue Gem
Zircon is one of the oldest minerals on Earth, with some zircon crystals found in geological formations dating back over four billion years. However, as a gemstone, zircon has often been overshadowed by more well-known gems like zircon’s close relative, diamond. Blue zircon, in particular, has gained attention in recent decades due to its brilliance and affordability.
Zircon has been used in jewelry for centuries, though it has often been misidentified or confused with other gemstones. For example, many ancient zircons were mistaken for diamonds or topaz. The gemstone's refractive index and dispersion can produce a fire and brilliance similar to diamond, making it a popular substitute in historical jewelry.
In modern times, zircon has been heat-treated to enhance its color, with the most popular treatment producing a vibrant blue hue. This blue zircon is particularly sought after for its affordability and beauty. While it is not as rare as tanzanite or as historically significant as turquoise, zircon has a unique charm that makes it a valuable addition to the December birthstone selection.
Geological Formation and Sources
Turquoise
Turquoise is a hydrated phosphate of aluminum and copper. It forms in arid environments where copper-rich rocks are exposed to weathering and the interaction of water with minerals. The most famous sources of turquoise include Iran, the United States, and Egypt. Persian turquoise, also known as Persian Blue, is considered the most desirable due to its uniform color and minimal matrix.
In the United States, the most notable source of high-quality turquoise is the Sleeping Beauty Mine in Arizona. This mine produced some of the purest and most beautiful turquoise in the world until its closure in 2015. The turquoise from Sleeping Beauty is known for its robin's-egg blue color and lack of matrix, making it highly sought after in the jewelry market.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is a variety of the mineral zoisite and is composed of calcium aluminum silicate. It is unique in that it only occurs in a small area near Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. The gemstone forms in metamorphic rock under high-pressure conditions, and its trichroism is due to the presence of vanadium and iron in the crystal structure.
The limited geographical source of tanzanite makes it one of the rarest gemstones in the world. Unlike most other gemstones, which can be found in multiple locations around the globe, tanzanite is exclusive to Tanzania. This scarcity has contributed to its high value and status as a prized birthstone.
Zircon
Zircon is a zirconium silicate mineral that forms in a variety of geological environments, including igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic rocks. It is one of the most durable minerals and is resistant to weathering and erosion. Zircon can be found in many parts of the world, including Australia, Brazil, India, and Thailand.
Blue zircon is typically created through heat treatment, which stabilizes the color and enhances the gemstone’s brilliance. The most valuable zircons are those that display a deep blue color with high dispersion, often referred to as "star" zircons. While zircon is not as rare as tanzanite or as historically significant as turquoise, its affordability and beauty make it a popular choice for those seeking a December birthstone.
Gemological Properties
| Gemstone | Color | Hardness (Mohs Scale) | Chemical Composition | Origin | Unique Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tanzanite | Violet-blue to blue | 6–7 | Calcium aluminum silicate | Tanzania | Trichroism (displays three colors) |
| Turquoise | Blue to green-blue | 5–6 | Hydrated phosphate of aluminum and copper | Iran, U.S., Egypt | Matrix patterns, historical significance |
| Zircon | Blue (after heat treatment) | 6–7.5 | Zirconium silicate | Worldwide | High refractive index, dispersion similar to diamond |
Tanzanite
Tanzanite has a hardness of 6–7 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively durable but still susceptible to scratches from harder materials. Its trichroism is a unique optical property that allows it to display three different colors—blue, purple, and brown—depending on the angle of view. This feature is due to the presence of vanadium in its crystal structure.
Tanzanite is also pleochroic, meaning that it can appear different colors in different light conditions. This property makes it a visually dynamic gemstone, especially when cut and polished to emphasize its color.
Turquoise
Turquoise has a hardness of 5–6 on the Mohs scale, which makes it relatively soft and prone to damage if not cared for properly. It is a hydrated mineral, which means it can absorb water and oils, making it sensitive to changes in temperature and humidity.
Turquoise is often stabilized with resins or waxes to enhance its durability and prevent it from drying out. The presence of matrix—veins of the surrounding rock—can add character to a turquoise stone, though highly prized varieties have minimal to no matrix.
Zircon
Zircon has a hardness of 6–7.5 on the Mohs scale, making it one of the more durable gemstones among the December birthstones. Its high refractive index (1.9–2.0) and dispersion (0.030–0.040) give it a brilliance and fire that is often compared to that of a diamond.
Blue zircon is typically heat-treated to stabilize its color and enhance its beauty. This treatment is permanent and does not affect the gemstone's durability. Zircon is also pleochroic, meaning it can display different colors depending on the angle of view.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is associated with transformation, intuition, and spiritual growth. It is believed to enhance emotional awareness and promote inner peace. In metaphysical traditions, tanzanite is thought to help the wearer open the third eye and crown chakras, facilitating a deeper connection to higher consciousness.
Tanzanite is also associated with the concept of letting go of the past and embracing change. It is believed to support emotional healing and encourage the release of old patterns that no longer serve the wearer. These properties make it a popular choice for those undergoing personal or spiritual transformation.
Turquoise
Turquoise has long been regarded as a stone of protection, healing, and tranquility. In ancient cultures, it was believed to offer spiritual protection and was often used in amulets and talismans. It was also thought to bring good luck and ward off negative energy.
In Native American traditions, turquoise is considered a sacred stone that connects the earth and the sky. It is believed to bring clarity of thought, promote calmness, and support communication with the divine. In some traditions, turquoise is also associated with the heart and throat chakras, helping to open the channels of communication and emotional expression.
Zircon
Zircon is often associated with clarity, wisdom, and emotional balance. It is believed to help the wearer gain insight into their emotions and make wise decisions. In metaphysical traditions, zircon is thought to enhance the connection between the mind and body, promoting a sense of well-being.
Blue zircon, in particular, is associated with the throat chakra and is believed to support clear communication and self-expression. It is also thought to help with memory and mental clarity, making it a popular choice for those seeking mental focus and creativity.
Care and Cleaning
Tanzanite
Tanzanite should be cleaned gently using a soft cloth and mild soap and water. Avoid using ultrasonic or steam cleaners, as these can cause damage to the gemstone. Tanzanite is sensitive to heat and should not be exposed to high temperatures, as this can cause it to lose color or become brittle.
When storing tanzanite, keep it in a soft pouch or lined jewelry box to prevent scratches. It should also be kept away from other gemstones that may cause abrasion.
Turquoise
Turquoise is a relatively soft and porous gemstone that requires careful handling. It should be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap and water. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials, as these can damage the surface of the stone.
Turquoise should not be exposed to direct sunlight or high heat, as this can cause it to dry out and lose its color. It is also sensitive to oils and lotions, so it should be removed before applying skincare products.
When storing turquoise, keep it in a cool, dry place, and avoid placing it in direct contact with other gemstones that may scratch its surface.
Zircon
Zircon is a durable gemstone that can be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap and water. It can also be cleaned using ultrasonic cleaners, though it is best to avoid steam cleaners, which can cause thermal shock.
Zircon is relatively resistant to heat and is not as sensitive as turquoise or tanzanite. However, it should still be stored carefully to avoid scratches and abrasions.
When cleaning zircon jewelry, avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials. A gentle polish will help maintain its brilliance and luster.
Conclusion
December birthstones—tanzanite, turquoise, and zircon—offer a unique combination of beauty, history, and symbolism. Each gemstone has its own story to tell, from the ancient and revered turquoise to the rare and modern tanzanite, and the versatile zircon. Whether one is drawn to the deep violet-blue of tanzanite, the sky-blue of turquoise, or the multifaceted brilliance of zircon, there is a December birthstone to match every personality and preference.
These gemstones not only serve as beautiful adornments but also carry deep cultural and spiritual significance. Their meanings and properties have been cherished for centuries, and they continue to be valued in modern jewelry and personal collections. With the right care and attention, these December birthstones can be treasured for generations to come.