December is the only month recognized with more than one official birthstone. Among the calendar year, it is the only month that offers three (and in some traditions, four) gemstones as birthstones: turquoise, tanzanite, and zircon, with blue topaz occasionally included in modern listings. This unique arrangement reflects both the historical evolution of birthstone traditions and the diverse appeal of blue-hued gemstones that symbolize the winter season.
Each of these gems carries its own distinct history, symbolism, and gemological properties. Together, they form a rich tapestry of meaning and beauty, appealing to both collectors and those born in December who seek a gemstone that resonates with their personal style or spiritual preferences. This article delves into the lore, properties, and cultural significance of each of these December birthstones, offering a comprehensive look at their roles in history, jewelry, and personal symbolism.
History and Lore of December Birthstones
Turquoise: The Ancient Stone of Protection
Turquoise is the oldest of the December birthstones and one of the most historically significant gemstones in human culture. Its use dates back thousands of years, with archaeological evidence showing that it was prized by the ancient Egyptians, Persians, and Native American tribes.
In ancient Egypt, turquoise was believed to have protective and healing properties. It was often inlaid into amulets, jewelry, and even the burial masks of pharaohs, such as that of Tutankhamun. The stone was associated with the goddess Hathor, who represented joy, music, and motherhood. The Egyptians also believed that turquoise was the tears of the sky gods, connecting the stone to the heavens.
Among Native American cultures, particularly the Navajo and Pueblo peoples, turquoise continues to be a symbol of protection and spiritual balance. It is frequently used in traditional jewelry and ceremonial objects. The stone is also believed to bring good fortune and is often worn to attract harmony and positive energy.
Turquoise’s popularity as a birthstone has endured through the centuries, and it remains a staple in both traditional and contemporary jewelry design. Its blue-green hues are thought to evoke the sky and sea, making it a fitting symbol for the winter month of December.
Tanzanite: The Modern Marvel of the 20th Century
In stark contrast to the ancient lineage of turquoise, tanzanite is a relatively recent discovery. It was identified as a gemstone in 1967 in Tanzania, a country from which it takes its name. Tanzanite is a variety of the mineral zoisite and is known for its striking violet-blue color and trichroism—the ability to display three different colors (blue, purple, and red-brown) depending on the angle from which it is viewed.
The discovery of tanzanite was hailed as a significant event in the gem world. It was quickly adopted as a birthstone for December due to its rarity and beauty. Found only in a small area near Mount Kilimanjaro, tanzanite is considered one of the rarest gemstones in the world. This limited geographic source adds to its allure and exclusivity.
Tanzanite is often associated with transformation and spiritual awakening. Some metaphysical beliefs suggest that it enhances emotional balance, encourages personal growth, and fosters a deeper connection to the universe. Its calming blue tones are said to promote serenity and self-reflection.
As a modern addition to the birthstone list, tanzanite represents a bridge between tradition and innovation in gemology. Its inclusion in the December birthstone lineup reflects the evolving nature of birthstone traditions and the growing appreciation for rare, newly discovered gem materials.
Zircon: The Sparkling Ancient Mineral
Zircon is among the oldest known minerals on Earth, with some zircon crystals found in geological formations that are over 4 billion years old. Despite its ancient origins, zircon was not widely recognized as a gemstone until relatively recently. Blue zircon, in particular, became popular in the 20th century after being heat-treated to enhance its color.
Zircon is known for its brilliance and fire, often rivaling that of diamonds. It is also highly valued for its dispersion, or the ability to refract light into spectral colors. Blue zircon is the most common variety used as a December birthstone, though zircon can also be found in golden, reddish, and colorless forms.
In some cultures, zircon is believed to promote wisdom, balance, and grounding. It is often associated with the ability to see clearly and make sound decisions. Its sparkling nature also makes it a symbol of clarity and insight.
Zircon’s inclusion as a December birthstone highlights the gemological world’s appreciation for stones that combine beauty with historical and geological significance. It is a testament to the fact that even ancient minerals can find new life and meaning in the modern era.
Geological Formation and Sources of December Birthstones
Turquoise: A Product of Earth and Time
Turquoise is a phosphate mineral that forms in arid regions where copper deposits are exposed to the atmosphere and groundwater. It is commonly found in cavities and veins within limestone and volcanic rock. The formation of turquoise requires a unique combination of chemical and environmental factors.
The most renowned sources of turquoise include:
- United States (especially the Southwestern states such as Arizona, New Mexico, and Nevada)
- Nigeria
- China
- Iran
- Egypt
The color of turquoise varies depending on the presence of impurities such as iron and aluminum, which create a range from deep blue to greenish-blue. The presence of matrix lines—veins of the host rock—also adds to the visual character of the stone.
Turquoise is relatively soft, with a Mohs hardness of 5–6, making it vulnerable to scratches and damage from acids and chemicals. It is often stabilized or treated with resins to enhance its durability for jewelry use.
Tanzanite: A Geological Rarity
Tanzanite is a trichroic gemstone that forms in metamorphic rock under high-pressure and high-temperature conditions. It is primarily found in a narrow area near Arusha, Tanzania, in the Merelani Hills near Mount Kilimanjaro. This region is the only source of tanzanite in the world, making it one of the rarest gemstones available.
The color of tanzanite is due to the presence of vanadium in the crystal structure. The stone is typically heat-treated to improve its color and clarity, a process that is both common and accepted in the gem trade. Tanzanite is relatively soft, with a Mohs hardness of 6–7, and is sensitive to heat and light, which can cause fading if not properly cared for.
Zircon: An Ancient Mineral with Modern Appeal
Zircon is a zirconium silicate mineral that is found in a wide range of geological environments, including granite, basalt, and metamorphic rocks. It is one of the most durable minerals on Earth, with some zircon crystals found in 3.5-billion-year-old rock formations.
Blue zircon, the most popular variety used as a December birthstone, is created through heat treatment, which removes impurities and enhances the blue color. Zircon is found in several countries, including:
- Australia
- Brazil
- Madagascar
- Vietnam
- India
Zircon has a Mohs hardness of 6–7.5, making it relatively durable for jewelry use. However, it is cleavable, meaning it can be fractured along certain planes if struck with force.
Gemological Properties of December Birthstones
| Gemstone | Chemical Composition | Color | Mohs Hardness | Refractive Index | Origin | Treatments Commonly Used |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Turquoise | CuAl₆(PO₄)₄(OH)₈ · 4H₂O | Sky blue, greenish-blue | 5–6 | 1.61–1.65 | United States, Iran, China | Stabilization with resins |
| Tanzanite | Ca₂Al₃(SiO₄)(PO₄)O | Violet-blue, trichroic | 6–7 | 1.694–1.702 | Tanzania (only source) | Heat treatment to enhance color |
| Zircon | ZrSiO₄ | Blue, golden, colorless | 6–7.5 | 1.92–2.01 | Australia, Brazil, Madagascar | Heat treatment for blue color |
These properties highlight the diversity of December birthstones. While turquoise is soft and delicate, tanzanite and zircon offer greater durability and brilliance. Each gemstone has a unique refractive index and chemical composition, contributing to its distinct visual and gemological characteristics.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
The symbolic meanings of December birthstones are deeply rooted in history and culture. Each stone is associated with specific energies and virtues:
Turquoise: Protection, Healing, and Wisdom
Turquoise has long been considered a protective stone, believed to ward off illness and misfortune. In many ancient cultures, it was used as a healing amulet, worn or placed in homes to promote physical and emotional well-being.
It is also associated with wisdom and truth, encouraging open and honest communication. Turquoise is often exchanged as a token of friendship and loyalty, especially in Native American traditions. Its calming blue-green hues are thought to promote inner peace and emotional balance.
Tanzanite: Transformation and Spiritual Growth
Tanzanite is often linked to spiritual awakening and emotional healing. It is believed to help individuals process deep emotions, release negativity, and embrace personal transformation. In some metaphysical practices, tanzanite is used to open the heart and throat chakras, promoting compassion, communication, and inner clarity.
Its rare and fleeting nature also makes it a symbol of rarity and preciousness, encouraging people to cherish the present moment and appreciate life’s beauty.
Zircon: Clarity and Balance
Zircon is associated with mental clarity and emotional balance. It is believed to enhance the ability to think clearly and make wise decisions. Zircon is also said to help individuals stay grounded and connected to the earth, providing a sense of stability and security.
Its brilliant sparkle is symbolic of insight and inspiration, making it a popular stone for those seeking motivation and direction in life.
Care and Cleaning for December Birthstones
Proper care is essential to maintaining the beauty and longevity of December birthstones. Here are some guidelines for each gemstone:
Turquoise
- Avoid exposure to chemicals, acids, and cleaning agents that can damage the stone.
- Keep it away from heat and sunlight, as it can cause fading.
- Store it separately from harder gemstones to prevent scratches.
- Clean with a soft cloth and warm water, avoiding harsh abrasives.
Tanzanite
- Avoid high heat as it can cause the stone to fade or lose its color.
- Minimize exposure to light, especially prolonged UV exposure.
- Clean gently with a soft cloth and mild soap and water.
- Store in a soft pouch or box to prevent scratches.
Zircon
- Avoid high heat and sudden temperature changes, which can cause the stone to fracture.
- Do not use ultrasonic or steam cleaners, as these can damage the gemstone.
- Clean with a soft cloth and warm water, avoiding harsh chemicals.
- Store separately from harder gemstones to prevent scratches.
Conclusion
December is a month of celebration, and those born during this time are uniquely blessed with a selection of three (or four) beautiful and meaningful birthstones. Turquoise, tanzanite, and zircon each offer their own distinct beauty, history, and symbolism. From the ancient wisdom of turquoise to the modern rarity of tanzanite and the sparkling brilliance of zircon, these gems reflect the richness of human culture and the enduring allure of gemstones.
Whether worn for personal resonance, spiritual meaning, or simply for their aesthetic appeal, December birthstones continue to captivate and inspire. Their inclusion in birthstone traditions is a testament to their enduring value and the timeless connection between humans and the natural world.