December, the final month of the year, is celebrated not only for its festive traditions and winter charm but also for the rare and beautiful gemstones it claims as its birthstones. Unlike many other months, December is uniquely graced with multiple birthstones, each possessing its own distinct color, character, and history. These stones—tanzanite, turquoise, blue topaz, and even blue zircon—have captivated jewelry lovers and collectors for decades. In the UK, where the gemstone tradition is deeply rooted in both historical and cultural practices, December’s birthstones are especially revered for their rarity, symbolism, and aesthetic appeal.
This article explores the gemological properties, historical significance, and cultural meanings of December’s birthstones, with a particular focus on their relevance in the UK jewelry market. Drawing from a range of sources, including online guides, gemstone retailers, and jewelry boutiques, we will uncover the allure of tanzanite, turquoise, and blue topaz—three of the most prominent December birthstones—and their enduring place in both traditional and contemporary jewelry design.
December’s birthstone tradition has its roots in ancient civilizations, where gemstones were believed to hold protective and symbolic powers. In modern times, the concept has evolved into a cherished practice of gifting birthstone jewelry to mark birthdays, anniversaries, and other meaningful occasions. For those born in December, the choice of birthstone is not limited to one option but includes a selection of blue-hued gems that reflect the cool elegance of the season. While the exact list of December’s birthstones varies slightly across different traditions and regions, the UK commonly recognizes tanzanite, turquoise, and blue topaz as the primary December birthstones. Some sources also include blue zircon, though it is less commonly used in high-end jewelry.
The significance of these gemstones extends beyond their aesthetic appeal. Each has a rich history, unique geological properties, and distinct cultural associations. Tanzanite, for instance, is one of the rarest gemstones in the world, found only in a small area of Tanzania. Turquoise, on the other hand, is one of the oldest known gemstones, used by ancient civilizations for both adornment and spiritual purposes. Blue topaz, with its vibrant sky-blue color, is popular for its affordability and versatility in jewelry design.
The UK jewelry market has embraced these December birthstones, offering a wide range of options from vintage-inspired designs to contemporary pieces that highlight the beauty of these stones. Whether as a personal keepsake or a meaningful gift, December’s birthstones continue to enchant and inspire, reflecting the month’s spirit of celebration and renewal.
History and Lore
The tradition of birthstones dates back thousands of years, with roots in ancient civilizations such as the Babylonians and the Hebrews. These early societies believed that gemstones held protective and symbolic powers, and they associated each month of the year with a specific stone. Over time, the practice of assigning gemstones to months evolved, influenced by cultural, religious, and commercial factors. In the modern era, the birthstone calendar was standardized in the 20th century, with various organizations, including jewelers and gemological institutions, contributing to its popularization.
For December, the selection of gemstones reflects the month’s unique position at the end of the year. The UK’s recognition of December’s birthstones includes tanzanite, turquoise, blue topaz, and in some cases, blue zircon. Each of these stones has a distinct history and cultural significance, making them ideal representations of the month’s final chapter.
Tanzanite, the most recent addition to the December birthstone list, was discovered in the 1960s in Tanzania. It was initially known as blue zoisite before being renamed in honor of its country of origin. This relatively new gemstone quickly gained popularity for its striking violet-blue color and its rarity, as it is found only in a small region in Tanzania. The UK jewelry market has embraced tanzanite as a symbol of luxury and exclusivity, often featuring it in high-end designs.
Turquoise, on the other hand, is one of the oldest known gemstones, with a history that spans millennia. It has been used by ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians, Persians, and Native Americans for both decorative and spiritual purposes. The UK has a long-standing appreciation for turquoise, particularly in jewelry that reflects its rich cultural heritage. Turquoise is often associated with protection, wisdom, and good fortune, making it a meaningful choice for those born in December.
Blue topaz, another December birthstone, has a more modern appeal. While topaz has been known since ancient times, the blue variety was not widely available until the 1980s, when irradiation techniques were developed to enhance its color. This process made blue topaz more accessible and affordable, leading to its popularity in the UK jewelry market. Blue topaz is often chosen for its vibrant color and versatility, as it can be used in a variety of jewelry styles, from casual to formal.
The inclusion of blue zircon in some December birthstone lists adds another layer of complexity to the tradition. Zircon is a versatile gemstone that can occur in various colors, including blue. While it is less commonly used in UK jewelry compared to tanzanite, turquoise, and blue topaz, it still holds a place in the December birthstone repertoire for those who prefer its icy sparkle and affordability.
The history and lore of December’s birthstones highlight the month’s unique position in the annual cycle. These gemstones not only reflect the winter season but also carry with them a sense of continuity, bridging the past with the future. Whether chosen for their rarity, beauty, or symbolic meaning, December’s birthstones continue to captivate and inspire, making them a fitting tribute to the month’s spirit of celebration and renewal.
Geological Formation and Sources
The geological formation and sources of December’s birthstones are as fascinating as the gemstones themselves. Each of these stones—tanzanite, turquoise, blue topaz, and blue zircon—has a unique origin story, shaped by the Earth’s geological processes and the specific locations where they are found.
Tanzanite is one of the most geologically rare gemstones in the world. It is found exclusively in a small area of Tanzania, specifically in the Simanjiro District of the Manyara Region. The mining area for tanzanite is incredibly limited, measuring only 4.3 miles by 1.2 miles. This extreme rarity is due to the unique geological conditions required for the formation of tanzanite. The gemstone is a variety of zoisite, a mineral that typically forms in metamorphic rocks. However, tanzanite’s distinctive violet-blue color is the result of trace amounts of vanadium, which is only present in the specific geological environment of Tanzania. The formation of tanzanite involves high-pressure and high-temperature conditions, which are relatively uncommon, further contributing to its scarcity.
Turquoise, in contrast, has a much longer and more widespread geological history. It is formed in the oxidation zones of copper deposits, typically in arid regions where water percolates through the ground and reacts with copper minerals. This process results in the formation of turquoise, which is composed of a hydrated phosphate of copper and aluminum. Turquoise is found in various parts of the world, including the Middle East, North Africa, and the Americas. In the UK, turquoise has been historically sourced from countries such as Egypt, Iran, and the United States, particularly from the famous mines in Arizona and New Mexico. The gemstone’s blue-green color is due to the presence of copper, while the yellow or brown veins that often appear in turquoise are caused by the presence of iron.
Blue topaz, another December birthstone, has a more modern geological story. While topaz is a naturally occurring mineral, the blue variety was not widely available until the 1980s. This was due to the development of irradiation techniques that could enhance the color of topaz. Natural blue topaz is relatively rare, and most of the blue topaz available in the market today is the result of this treatment. The process involves heating and irradiating the stone, which alters the color from yellow to blue. Topaz is found in various parts of the world, including Brazil, Mexico, and the United States. The blue topaz used in the UK jewelry market is typically sourced from these regions, with Brazil being a major supplier.
Blue zircon, though less commonly used in December birthstone jewelry in the UK, is another gemstone with a unique geological origin. Zircon is a mineral that is found in various parts of the world, including Australia, Madagascar, and Thailand. The blue color of zircon is achieved through heat treatment, which enhances the natural color of the stone. Zircon has a high refractive index and dispersion, which gives it a brilliant sparkle similar to diamonds. The UK jewelry market has a growing appreciation for blue zircon, particularly in budget-friendly jewelry collections, where its affordability and beauty make it a popular choice.
The geological formation and sources of December’s birthstones highlight the natural processes that create these gemstones and the specific conditions required for their formation. Whether it is the rare and exclusive tanzanite, the ancient and timeless turquoise, the vibrant and versatile blue topaz, or the sparkling blue zircon, each of these stones has a unique story that adds to their allure and value. The UK jewelry market continues to embrace these December birthstones, offering a wide range of options that reflect their geological heritage and cultural significance.
Gemological Properties
The gemological properties of December’s birthstones—tanzanite, turquoise, blue topaz, and blue zircon—play a crucial role in their appeal and suitability for jewelry. Each of these gemstones has distinct physical and optical characteristics that define their appearance, durability, and value. Understanding these properties is essential for jewelers, gemologists, and consumers who wish to make informed decisions when selecting or purchasing December birthstone jewelry.
Tanzanite, one of the most unique and rare gemstones in the world, is known for its striking violet-blue color and its pleochroic nature. Pleochroism is the phenomenon in which a gemstone exhibits different colors when viewed from different angles. Tanzanite displays three colors: violet, blue, and red, depending on the viewing angle. This property adds to its visual complexity and makes it a highly sought-after gemstone. Tanzanite has a hardness of 6 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale, which means it is relatively soft compared to other gemstones. This low hardness makes tanzanite more susceptible to scratches and damage, so it is best suited for jewelry that is not worn daily, such as pendants and earrings. Its refractive index ranges from 1.694 to 1.704, and it has a specific gravity of 3.10 to 3.38. Tanzanite is also sensitive to heat, and exposure to high temperatures can cause it to lose its color.
Turquoise, on the other hand, is a relatively soft gemstone with a hardness of 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale. It is composed of a hydrated phosphate of copper and aluminum, which gives it its characteristic blue-green color. The presence of copper is responsible for the blue color, while the yellow or brown veins that often appear in turquoise are caused by the presence of iron. Turquoise is also porous, which means it can absorb oils and other substances, making it prone to discoloration if not cared for properly. This porosity also means that turquoise is best suited for jewelry that is not exposed to harsh chemicals or excessive moisture. Its refractive index ranges from 1.61 to 1.65, and it has a specific gravity of 2.76 to 2.85. Due to its softness and porosity, turquoise is often stabilized with resins or other agents to enhance its durability and stability.
Blue topaz, a popular and affordable December birthstone, has a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale, making it significantly more durable than tanzanite and turquoise. It is composed of aluminum silicate and is known for its vibrant sky-blue color. The blue color of topaz is due to a combination of trace elements and irradiation treatments. Natural blue topaz is relatively rare, and most of the blue topaz available in the market today is the result of irradiation and heat treatment. Blue topaz has a refractive index of 1.61 to 1.63 and a specific gravity of 3.53. Its high hardness and durability make it an excellent choice for a wide range of jewelry, including rings, bracelets, and necklaces. Blue topaz is also resistant to scratches and is less prone to damage from everyday wear, making it a practical and versatile option for December birthstone jewelry.
Blue zircon, while less commonly used in December birthstone jewelry in the UK, is another gemstone with notable gemological properties. Zircon is a mineral that is found in various parts of the world, including Australia, Madagascar, and Thailand. The blue color of zircon is achieved through heat treatment, which enhances the natural color of the stone. Blue zircon has a hardness of 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale, making it more durable than turquoise but slightly less durable than blue topaz. It has a high refractive index of 1.92 to 2.00 and a high dispersion, which gives it a brilliant sparkle similar to diamonds. This makes blue zircon a popular choice for those who desire a gemstone with a high level of brilliance and fire. Its specific gravity ranges from 4.6 to 4.7, and it is relatively heavy for its size, which can affect the overall weight and feel of the jewelry.
The gemological properties of December’s birthstones—tanzanite, turquoise, blue topaz, and blue zircon—highlight the unique characteristics that make each of these gemstones suitable for jewelry. Whether it is the rare and pleochroic tanzanite, the soft and porous turquoise, the durable and vibrant blue topaz, or the brilliant and sparkling blue zircon, each of these stones has its own distinct qualities that contribute to its appeal and value. The UK jewelry market continues to embrace these December birthstones, offering a wide range of options that reflect their gemological heritage and cultural significance.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
The symbolism and metaphysical beliefs associated with December’s birthstones add another layer of depth to their appeal. These gemstones have long been regarded not only for their beauty but also for their perceived spiritual and emotional properties. From ancient times to the present day, tanzanite, turquoise, blue topaz, and blue zircon have been believed to hold protective, healing, and transformative powers, making them meaningful choices for those born in December.
Tanzanite, with its rare and striking violet-blue color, is often associated with emotional healing and spiritual transformation. It is believed to help individuals release emotional pain and negative energy, promoting a sense of peace and inner balance. In some traditions, tanzanite is also associated with the third eye and crown chakras, making it a popular gemstone for meditation and spiritual practices. This stone is said to enhance intuition and psychic abilities, helping individuals connect with higher realms of consciousness. Its rarity and deep color also make it a symbol of exclusivity and uniqueness, reflecting the individuality of those born in December.
Turquoise, one of the oldest known gemstones, has a rich history of symbolism and spiritual significance. It is often associated with protection, wisdom, and good fortune. In many ancient cultures, including the Egyptians, Persians, and Native Americans, turquoise was believed to have protective qualities that could ward off evil spirits and negative energies. It was also used as a symbol of divine favor and was often worn by royalty and warriors for protection in battle. In modern metaphysical practices, turquoise is believed to promote emotional stability, enhance communication, and support the throat chakra, which is associated with self-expression and truth. Its blue-green color is thought to harmonize the heart and throat, helping individuals express their emotions and thoughts more clearly.
Blue topaz, with its vibrant sky-blue color, is often associated with calming energy and emotional clarity. It is believed to help reduce stress, anxiety, and negative emotions, promoting a sense of peace and tranquility. In some traditions, blue topaz is also associated with the throat and heart chakras, helping individuals express their feelings and emotions in a healthy and constructive way. It is also believed to enhance intuition and psychic abilities, making it a popular gemstone for those seeking spiritual growth. The affordability and versatility of blue topaz make it a popular choice for those who wish to incorporate the gemstone’s metaphysical properties into their daily lives.
Blue zircon, while less commonly used in December birthstone jewelry in the UK, is also associated with a range of symbolic and metaphysical properties. It is believed to enhance intuition, promote spiritual growth, and provide protection against negative energies. In some traditions, blue zircon is also associated with the crown chakra, which is believed to be the center of spiritual connection and higher consciousness. The high refractive index and dispersion of blue zircon give it a brilliant sparkle, which is thought to reflect the light of the divine and enhance the wearer’s connection to higher realms. Its affordability and beauty make it a popular choice for those who wish to incorporate the gemstone’s metaphysical properties into their jewelry collections.
The symbolism and metaphysical beliefs associated with December’s birthstones highlight the spiritual and emotional significance of these gemstones. Whether it is the rare and transformative tanzanite, the protective and wise turquoise, the calming and clear blue topaz, or the brilliant and spiritual blue zircon, each of these stones carries with it a unique set of properties that make them meaningful choices for those born in December. These beliefs continue to influence the way these gemstones are used in jewelry, making them not only beautiful but also deeply symbolic and meaningful.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care and cleaning are essential for maintaining the beauty and longevity of December’s birthstones—tanzanite, turquoise, blue topaz, and blue zircon. Each of these gemstones has unique physical and chemical properties that determine the best practices for cleaning and storing them. Understanding these properties is crucial for ensuring that the gemstones remain in optimal condition and retain their brilliance and color over time.
Tanzanite, with its relatively low hardness of 6 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale, requires special care to prevent scratches and damage. It is also sensitive to heat and exposure to direct sunlight, which can cause it to lose its color. To clean tanzanite, it is recommended to use a soft cloth and mild soapy water. A soft-bristled brush can be used gently to remove any dirt or debris, but it should be avoided on any gemstone jewelry that has intricate settings or delicate components. Tanzanite should be stored separately from harder gemstones to prevent scratches, and it should be kept away from high-temperature environments to preserve its color.
Turquoise, a relatively soft gemstone with a hardness of 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale, requires even more careful handling. It is porous and can absorb oils, lotions, and other substances, which can cause discoloration and damage. To clean turquoise, a soft cloth and mild soapy water are recommended. It should be avoided using harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners, as these can cause the gemstone to lose its color or become damaged. Turquoise should also be stored in a cool, dry place to prevent moisture from entering the porous structure of the stone, which can lead to cracking or discoloration over time.
Blue topaz, with its high hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale, is more durable and easier to clean than tanzanite and turquoise. It is resistant to scratches and can withstand regular wear and tear. To clean blue topaz, a soft cloth and mild soapy water are sufficient. A soft-bristled brush can be used to remove any dirt or debris, and an ultrasonic cleaner can also be used, as blue topaz is generally safe for this type of cleaning. However, it is important to avoid exposing blue topaz to extreme temperatures, as this can affect its color and clarity. Storing blue topaz separately from other gemstones is also recommended to prevent any potential damage.
Blue zircon, with a hardness of 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale, is relatively durable and can be cleaned using similar methods to blue topaz. A soft cloth and mild soapy water are sufficient for cleaning, and an ultrasonic cleaner can be used for more thorough cleaning. Blue zircon should be stored in a cool, dry place to prevent any damage from moisture or heat. It is also important to avoid exposing blue zircon to harsh chemicals, as this can affect its brilliance and color.
The care and cleaning of December’s birthstones—tanzanite, turquoise, blue topaz, and blue zircon—are crucial for maintaining their beauty and value. Each of these gemstones has unique properties that determine the best practices for cleaning and storing them. By following these guidelines, individuals can ensure that their December birthstone jewelry remains in optimal condition and retains its brilliance and color for years to come.
Conclusion
The December birthstones—tanzanite, turquoise, blue topaz, and blue zircon—each hold a unique place in the world of gemstones, distinguished by their rare beauty, historical significance, and cultural symbolism. These gemstones not only reflect the cool elegance of the winter season but also carry with them a rich heritage of meaning and tradition. From the deep violet-blue of tanzanite, found only in a small region of Tanzania, to the timeless blue-green hues of turquoise, used by ancient civilizations for both adornment and spiritual purposes, these stones have captivated the hearts and minds of gemstone enthusiasts for centuries.
In the UK, the appreciation for December’s birthstones is evident in the wide range of jewelry options available, from vintage-inspired designs to contemporary pieces that highlight the stones’ natural beauty. Whether chosen for their rarity, durability, or symbolic meaning, these gemstones continue to be a popular choice for those born in December and for those who wish to incorporate their unique qualities into their personal jewelry collections. The UK jewelry market offers a variety of options that reflect the versatility and enduring appeal of these December birthstones, making them a meaningful and cherished addition to any jewelry collection.
The significance of December’s birthstones extends beyond their aesthetic appeal. They are believed to hold protective, healing, and transformative properties, making them not only beautiful but also deeply meaningful. Whether it is the emotional healing properties of tanzanite, the protective qualities of turquoise, the calming energy of blue topaz, or the spiritual connection of blue zircon, these gemstones continue to inspire and enchant. Their presence in jewelry serves as a reminder of the month’s spirit of celebration and renewal, bridging the past with the future.
As the tradition of birthstones continues to evolve, the December birthstones remain a testament to the enduring appeal of gemstones and their ability to connect us with nature’s beauty and cultural heritage. Whether worn as a personal keepsake or a meaningful gift, these gemstones continue to hold a special place in the hearts of those who cherish them, reflecting the unique spirit of the month in which they are born.