December 2nd is a day rich in symbolism, not just in historical events like Napoleon Bonaparte’s coronation in 1804, but also in gemological significance. For those born on this date, the birthstone selection offers a diverse and intriguing trio of gemstones—turquoise, tanzanite, and zircon, with bloodstone, ruby, and opal also listed as alternative options across various sources. This article will explore the official and alternative December 2nd birthstones in detail, focusing on their gemological properties, historical usage, cultural significance, and care instructions. The goal is to provide a comprehensive guide for gemstone enthusiasts, jewelry buyers, and students of gemology alike.
Introduction
The December 2nd birthstone selection is among the most varied in the birthstone calendar, offering a unique combination of traditional and modern gemstones. While turquoise is the most historically recognized and traditionally accepted December birthstone, tanzanite and zircon have emerged as significant additions in more recent decades. These gemstones are united by their cool blue tones and their symbolic association with wisdom, protection, and clarity. Additionally, alternative stones such as bloodstone, ruby, and opal provide further diversity, each with its own distinct properties and meanings.
This article will examine the gemstones associated with December 2nd, detailing their scientific attributes, historical and cultural significance, and their roles in modern gemology. It will also provide practical advice on the care and appreciation of these stones, ensuring that both collectors and casual admirers can enjoy them for years to come.
History and Lore
Turquoise: The Timeless Blue Gem
Turquoise is one of the oldest known gemstones, with evidence of its use dating back to ancient Egypt. The stone was highly valued by pharaohs and was often incorporated into ceremonial jewelry and burial artifacts. The name "turquoise" derives from the French pierre turquoise, meaning "Turkish stone," due to its introduction to Europe via Turkish merchants in the 16th century. However, the gemstone has been mined for thousands of years in regions such as Egypt, Iran, and the American Southwest.
Turquoise was considered a sacred stone by many ancient cultures. In Native American traditions, it symbolized protection, healing, and good fortune. It was often used in jewelry and amulets to ward off negative energy. In Persia and China, turquoise was believed to promote wisdom and spiritual insight. These beliefs have persisted in various forms throughout history, and today, turquoise is still revered for its calming and protective properties.
Tanzanite: A Modern Discovery
In contrast to turquoise, tanzanite is a relatively recent addition to the birthstone list. Discovered in 1967 in Tanzania near Mount Kilimanjaro, tanzanite is a variety of the mineral zoisite. Its striking violet-blue color and trichroic nature—where it appears blue, purple, and burgundy depending on the angle of view—make it a unique and highly sought-after gemstone.
Tanzanite quickly gained popularity due to its rarity and beauty. It is found only in a small area of Tanzania, making it one of the rarest gemstones in the world. Its discovery was a significant event in gemology, and it has since become a symbol of spiritual growth and transformation. Tanzanite is often associated with emotional healing and is believed to help individuals overcome fear and anxiety.
Zircon: The Versatile Blue Gem
Zircon has a long and varied history in gemology. While it is often confused with cubic zirconia—a synthetic diamond simulant—the natural gemstone zircon has a distinct history and set of properties. Zircon can occur in a wide range of colors, but the blue variety is most commonly associated with December. Known as "blue zircon," it is a popular choice for birthstone jewelry due to its brilliant sparkle and affordability.
Historically, zircon was used in ancient civilizations and was considered a powerful protective stone. In medieval Europe, it was believed to bring good luck and ward off nightmares. Today, zircon is appreciated for its high refractive index and dispersion, which give it a fire and brilliance similar to diamonds. Blue zircon is particularly popular in jewelry, as it offers a deep, rich blue color that is both elegant and eye-catching.
Alternative December 2nd Birthstones
In addition to the official December 2nd birthstones, several alternative options are recognized in various sources. These include bloodstone, ruby, and opal, each with its own unique properties and symbolism.
Bloodstone, a type of chalcedony with red spots resembling drops of blood, is associated with courage, vitality, and protection. It was used in ancient times for medicinal purposes and was believed to have healing properties.
Ruby, a red corundum gemstone, is one of the most valuable and sought-after gemstones in the world. It symbolizes passion, love, and power. Ruby is also the birthstone for Capricorn (December 22 to January 20), making it a meaningful choice for those born in late December.
Opal, a colorful and iridescent gemstone, is known for its unique play-of-color effect. It is associated with creativity, inspiration, and emotional balance. Opal is also an alternative birthstone for December and is particularly valued for its beauty and uniqueness.
While these alternative stones are not as commonly associated with December 2nd as turquoise, tanzanite, and zircon, they offer additional options for those seeking a different type of gemstone with its own distinct history and symbolism.
Geological Formation and Sources
Understanding the geological origins and sources of these gemstones provides valuable insight into their rarity, durability, and value.
Turquoise: Formation and Sources
Turquoise forms in the oxidized zones of copper deposits, where groundwater containing copper reacts with aluminum and phosphorus to create the mineral. It is typically found in arid regions with copper-rich geological formations, such as the American Southwest, Iran, Egypt, China, Mexico, and parts of Central Asia and Africa. The most significant sources of turquoise include:
United States – The American Southwest, particularly Nevada and Arizona, is known for its high-quality turquoise. This region produces some of the most famous turquoise specimens, including the spiderweb matrix and Kingman turquoise.
Iran – Known as “Persian turquoise,” this variety is highly valued for its consistent blue color and lack of matrix. It has been mined for centuries and is considered one of the most traditional sources of turquoise.
China – Chinese turquoise is often found in a greenish-blue color and is used in a wide range of jewelry and decorative objects.
Turquoise is relatively soft, with a hardness of 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale, which means it requires careful handling to avoid scratches and damage.
Tanzanite: Formation and Sources
Tanzanite is a variety of the mineral zoisite that forms under specific geological conditions. It is found only in a small area near Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. The discovery of tanzanite in 1967 was a significant event in gemology, as it introduced a new and unique gemstone to the market.
Tanzanite is formed when zoisite is subjected to high heat and pressure, which causes the mineral to develop its characteristic violet-blue color. The stone is also known for its trichroism, a phenomenon where it appears blue, purple, and burgundy depending on the angle of view. This unique property makes tanzanite a highly sought-after gemstone.
Due to its limited source and rarity, tanzanite is one of the most exclusive gemstones in the world. It is primarily mined in the Merelani Hills in Tanzania and is exported to international markets where it is cut and polished into gemstones.
Zircon: Formation and Sources
Zircon is a silicate mineral that can occur in a wide range of colors, including blue, yellow, green, and brown. The blue variety is the most commonly associated with December and is often used in birthstone jewelry. Zircon is found in various parts of the world, including:
Sri Lanka – Known for producing high-quality zircon, particularly in the blue and yellow varieties. Sri Lankan zircon has been mined for centuries and is highly valued in the jewelry industry.
Australia – Australia is another major source of zircon, particularly in the blue and green varieties. The gemstone is often found in alluvial deposits and is mined in various regions of the country.
India – India is known for producing a wide range of zircon colors, including blue, yellow, and green. Indian zircon is often used in both jewelry and decorative objects.
Zircon has a hardness of 6 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale, making it more durable than turquoise but less durable than tanzanite. This makes it a good choice for everyday jewelry, provided it is handled with care.
Alternative December 2nd Birthstones: Formation and Sources
The alternative December 2nd birthstones—bloodstone, ruby, and opal—also have unique geological origins and sources.
Bloodstone – A type of chalcedony with red spots resembling blood, bloodstone is formed in sedimentary rocks and is often found in India, Brazil, and the United States. It is relatively hard, with a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, making it suitable for use in jewelry.
Ruby – A red corundum gemstone, ruby is formed under high heat and pressure and is found in various parts of the world, including Myanmar, Thailand, and Sri Lanka. Ruby is one of the hardest gemstones, with a hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale, and is highly valued for its brilliance and durability.
Opal – Opal is a hydrated amorphous silica that forms in the cavities of sedimentary rocks. It is known for its unique play-of-color effect and is found in Australia, Ethiopia, and Mexico. Opal is relatively soft, with a hardness of 5 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale, and requires careful handling to avoid damage.
These alternative gemstones offer additional options for those born on December 2nd, each with its own unique properties and sources.
Gemological Properties
A detailed understanding of the gemological properties of these stones is essential for both gemologists and jewelry buyers. Below is a table summarizing the key properties of the December 2nd birthstones:
| Gemstone | Color | Hardness (Mohs) | Chemical Composition | Refractive Index | Specific Gravity | Transparency | Origin |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Turquoise | Blue-green | 5–6 | Hydrated phosphate of aluminum and copper | 1.60–1.63 | 2.76–2.85 | Opaque | United States, Iran, China |
| Tanzanite | Violet-blue | 6–7 | Calcium aluminum silicate | 1.69–1.70 | 3.10–3.38 | Transparent to translucent | Tanzania |
| Zircon | Blue, yellow, green, brown | 6–7.5 | Zirconium silicate | 1.92–2.01 | 4.60–4.70 | Transparent | Sri Lanka, Australia, India |
| Bloodstone | Green with red spots | 6.5–7 | Chalcedony with iron oxide | 1.55–1.56 | 2.60–2.65 | Translucent to opaque | India, Brazil, United States |
| Ruby | Red | 9 | Aluminum oxide with chromium | 1.76–1.78 | 4.00 | Transparent | Myanmar, Thailand, Sri Lanka |
| Opal | Play-of-color | 5–6.5 | Hydrated amorphous silica | 1.46–1.47 | 1.98–2.21 | Translucent to opaque | Australia, Ethiopia, Mexico |
These properties affect the suitability of each gemstone for different types of jewelry and the care required to maintain their beauty.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Each December 2nd birthstone carries its own set of symbolic and metaphysical meanings, which have been passed down through various cultures and traditions.
Turquoise: Wisdom and Protection
Turquoise has long been associated with wisdom, protection, and good fortune. In ancient Egypt, it was believed to provide protection in the afterlife and was often used in burial masks and amulets. In Native American cultures, turquoise is considered a sacred stone that promotes healing, balance, and spiritual growth. It is also believed to enhance communication and attract positive energy.
Modern metaphysical practitioners continue to value turquoise for its calming and protective properties. It is often used in meditation and healing practices and is believed to help individuals overcome fear and anxiety.
Tanzanite: Emotional Healing and Transformation
Tanzanite is associated with emotional healing, spiritual growth, and transformation. Its trichroic nature is often interpreted as a symbol of inner strength and adaptability. Tanzanite is believed to help individuals overcome fear and anxiety and to promote emotional balance and clarity.
Due to its rarity and unique properties, tanzanite is also considered a symbol of exclusivity and personal empowerment. It is often used in jewelry as a reminder of one’s inner strength and resilience.
Zircon: Clarity and Prosperity
Zircon is associated with clarity, prosperity, and protection. In medieval Europe, it was believed to ward off nightmares and bring good luck. Today, zircon is used in jewelry to promote mental clarity and focus. Blue zircon, in particular, is believed to enhance intuition and spiritual insight.
Zircon is also associated with prosperity and is often used in business and financial contexts. It is believed to attract abundance and success, making it a popular choice for those seeking to enhance their professional or financial life.
Alternative December 2nd Birthstones
The alternative December 2nd birthstones also carry their own unique symbolic and metaphysical meanings.
Bloodstone – Known as the "stone of courage," bloodstone is believed to promote vitality, protection, and healing. It was used in ancient times for medicinal purposes and is still valued for its grounding and protective properties. Bloodstone is also associated with physical strength and endurance.
Ruby – As one of the most valuable gemstones in the world, ruby is associated with passion, love, and power. It is believed to enhance confidence, courage, and vitality. Ruby is also a symbol of protection and is often used in jewelry to ward off negative energy.
Opal – Opal is known for its unique play-of-color effect and is associated with creativity, inspiration, and emotional balance. It is believed to enhance intuition and spiritual awareness. Opal is also associated with transformation and is often used in healing and meditation practices.
These alternative gemstones provide additional options for those born on December 2nd, each with its own set of symbolic and metaphysical meanings.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care and cleaning are essential to maintaining the beauty and longevity of these gemstones. Each gemstone has its own specific requirements due to its hardness, composition, and sensitivity to heat and chemicals.
Turquoise
Turquoise is relatively soft and requires careful handling to avoid scratches and damage. It is also sensitive to heat and chemicals and should not be exposed to harsh cleaning agents or extreme temperatures. To clean turquoise jewelry, use a soft cloth and mild soap and water. Avoid using ultrasonic or steam cleaners, as these can damage the stone. Store turquoise jewelry in a cool, dry place to prevent discoloration and fading.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is relatively hard but still requires careful handling. It is sensitive to heat and should not be exposed to high temperatures. To clean tanzanite jewelry, use a soft cloth and mild soap and water. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the stone. Tanzanite jewelry should be stored in a cool, dry place to maintain its brilliance and color.
Zircon
Zircon is relatively durable and can be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap and water. However, it should not be exposed to high heat or harsh chemicals, as these can damage the stone. Zircon jewelry should be stored in a cool, dry place to maintain its brilliance and color.
Alternative December 2nd Birthstones
The alternative December 2nd birthstones also require specific care and cleaning instructions.
Bloodstone – Bloodstone is relatively hard and can be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap and water. It should not be exposed to harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners. Bloodstone jewelry should be stored in a cool, dry place to prevent discoloration and fading.
Ruby – Ruby is one of the hardest gemstones and is relatively durable. It can be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap and water. Ruby jewelry should be stored in a cool, dry place to maintain its brilliance and color.
Opal – Opal is relatively soft and requires careful handling. It is sensitive to heat and should not be exposed to high temperatures. To clean opal jewelry, use a soft cloth and mild soap and water. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners. Opal jewelry should be stored in a cool, dry place to prevent cracking and fading.
By following these care and cleaning instructions, collectors and jewelry owners can ensure that their December 2nd birthstone jewelry remains beautiful and valuable for years to come.
Conclusion
The December 2nd birthstone selection offers a rich and diverse array of gemstones, each with its own unique properties, history, and symbolism. Turquoise, tanzanite, and zircon are the official December 2nd birthstones, while bloodstone, ruby, and opal are also recognized as alternative options. These gemstones are united by their cool blue tones and their symbolic association with wisdom, protection, and clarity.
From the ancient use of turquoise in Egyptian burial masks to the modern discovery of tanzanite in Tanzania, these gemstones have played a significant role in human history and culture. They continue to be valued for their beauty, rarity, and symbolic meanings, making them popular choices for jewelry and personal adornment.
Whether you are a gemstone enthusiast, a jewelry buyer, or a student of gemology, the December 2nd birthstones offer a fascinating glimpse into the world of gemology and its rich traditions. By understanding their properties, history, and symbolism, you can appreciate these gemstones on a deeper level and enjoy their beauty for years to come.