December, the final month of the year, is associated with a unique and rich selection of gemstones—four official birthstones that reflect the cool, wintry palette of the season. These include blue topaz, blue zircon, tanzanite, and turquoise, each with its own fascinating history, symbolic meaning, and gemological properties. The variety of options for December is not only unusual but also reflects the month’s deep cultural and geological significance.
While December has the most birthstones of any month, this diversity is not arbitrary. It stems from a combination of historical traditions, new discoveries, and the jewelry industry’s need to offer a range of durable and affordable options. The inclusion of these four gems allows for a broad spectrum of colors and styles, from the soft, sky-blue tones of turquoise to the deep, violet-blue of tanzanite. Each stone tells a different story, and collectively, they offer a compelling narrative of human fascination with the natural world.
This article will explore the origins, gemological characteristics, cultural symbolism, and care requirements of each December birthstone. By the end, you will have a comprehensive understanding of why these blue gems continue to captivate gemstone enthusiasts, jewelers, and historians alike.
A Brief History of December’s Birthstones
The concept of birthstones dates back centuries, with roots in biblical and ancient cultural traditions. The earliest known list of birthstones appears in the biblical Book of Exodus, where the twelve stones on Aaron’s breastplate were said to represent the twelve tribes of Israel. Over time, these stones were associated with months of the year and specific symbolic meanings.
December, being the last month of the year, has always held a special place in this tradition. Historically, December had only one or two designated birthstones, but the list expanded significantly in the 20th century. The first major standardization of American birthstones occurred in 1912, when the National Association of Jewelers sought to unify the various customs and make gemstone options more commercially viable. At that time, turquoise was the primary December birthstone, and blue topaz was added later.
In 1952, the Jewelry Industry Council of America updated the list and introduced blue zircon as an additional December birthstone. Finally, in 2002, tanzanite was officially recognized, bringing the total to four. This evolution reflects the changing dynamics of gemstone discovery, trade, and consumer preferences over time.
The addition of new birthstones was not driven solely by commercial interests but also by the desire to honor the unique properties and symbolism of each gem. For example, tanzanite's rarity and striking color made it a natural fit for December, while blue topaz was chosen for its durability and affordability—important factors for everyday wear.
The Four Official December Birthstones
Blue Topaz: The Modern Favorite
Blue topaz is a relatively modern addition to the December birthstone list, but it has quickly gained popularity due to its durability and vibrant color. With a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale, blue topaz is one of the hardest December birthstones, making it ideal for everyday jewelry such as rings and bracelets.
Blue topaz is typically found in countries like Brazil, Mexico, Nigeria, and the United States, particularly in Texas, where it is the official state gem. The gemstone is usually colorless in its natural state and is enhanced through irradiation or heat treatment to achieve its striking blue hue.
Symbolically, blue topaz is associated with calm, wisdom, and protection. It is also believed to promote clarity of thought and emotional stability, making it a popular choice for those seeking balance in their lives.
Blue Zircon: A Sparkling Classic
Blue zircon, another December birthstone, is known for its bright, clear blue color and brilliant sparkle. It has a hardness of 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale, which makes it relatively durable for jewelry use. However, it is more sensitive to heat and light compared to blue topaz.
Zircon is found in various parts of the world, including Australia, Brazil, and Madagascar. The gemstone is often heat-treated to enhance its color, and some of the finest specimens come from these regions.
In terms of symbolism, blue zircon is associated with mental clarity, focus, and emotional balance. It is believed to help the wearer sharpen their thinking and make better decisions. In ancient times, zircon was also thought to have protective properties, especially for travelers and those in perilous situations.
Tanzanite: The Rarest of the Four
Tanzanite is the rarest and most valuable of December’s birthstones. It was only discovered in the 1960s in a small region of Tanzania, near the base of Mount Kilimanjaro. This limited geographic source makes tanzanite one of the few gemstones that are exclusive to a single country.
Tanzanite has a hardness of 6 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively soft compared to blue topaz and zircon. It is also sensitive to heat and light, and prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause its color to fade. Therefore, it is best suited for occasional wear rather than everyday use.
Tanzanite is known for its rich violet-blue color, which can shift depending on the light. Its symbolic meaning is tied to transformation, growth, and new beginnings, making it a meaningful choice for those undergoing significant changes in their lives.
Turquoise: The Oldest and Most Traditional
Turquoise is the oldest and most traditional December birthstone, with a history that dates back thousands of years. It has been prized by ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians, Persians, and Native Americans for its beautiful blue and green hues.
Turquoise is a relatively soft gemstone, with a hardness of 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale. This makes it more fragile than the other December birthstones, and it requires careful handling and protection from harsh chemicals and physical impacts.
There are several notable varieties of turquoise, including Persian turquoise and Sleeping Beauty turquoise. Persian turquoise, sourced from ancient mines in Iran, is highly prized for its vivid blue color and minimal matrix. Sleeping Beauty turquoise, mined in Arizona, is known for its smooth, robin’s-egg blue appearance.
Symbolically, turquoise is associated with protection, good fortune, and spiritual connection. It has long been used in protective amulets and talismans, and many cultures believe it can ward off negative energies and promote peace.
Symbolism and Cultural Significance
Each of December’s four birthstones carries its own set of symbolic meanings and cultural associations, reflecting the diverse traditions and beliefs of different societies.
Turquoise: The Stone of Protection
Turquoise has long been revered for its protective properties. In ancient Persia, it was believed to offer protection to travelers and warriors, while in Native American cultures, it was used in ceremonies and as a symbol of spiritual guidance. It is also associated with calm, wisdom, and emotional stability, making it a popular choice for those seeking balance and harmony in their lives.
Tanzanite: A Gem of Transformation
Tanzanite’s deep, shifting blue and violet tones symbolize change, growth, and new beginnings. It is often associated with personal evolution and spiritual awakening. Given its rarity and limited source, tanzanite is also seen as a symbol of exclusivity and individuality.
Blue Zircon: Clarity and Focus
Blue zircon is believed to enhance mental clarity, focus, and decision-making. In ancient times, it was thought to help travelers find their way and protect them from danger. Today, it is valued for its ability to bring emotional balance and promote a sense of inner peace.
Blue Topaz: Wisdom and Emotional Stability
Blue topaz is associated with wisdom, calm, and emotional stability. It is believed to help the wearer maintain a clear and balanced mind, especially during times of stress or uncertainty. Its durability also makes it a symbol of strength and resilience.
Gemological Properties and Care
Understanding the gemological properties of December’s birthstones is essential for proper care and maintenance. Each gem has its own unique characteristics that affect its durability and suitability for different types of jewelry.
Hardness and Durability
| Gemstone | Hardness (Mohs Scale) | Durability Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Blue Topaz | 8 | Very durable, suitable for daily wear |
| Blue Zircon | 7.5–8 | Durable but sensitive to heat and light |
| Tanzanite | 6–6.5 | Relatively soft and sensitive to heat |
| Turquoise | 5–6 | Soft and requires gentle handling |
Given their varying hardness levels, some December birthstones are better suited for certain types of jewelry. For example, blue topaz is ideal for rings and bracelets due to its high durability, while tanzanite is better suited for pendants or earrings where it is less likely to be exposed to physical stress.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Each gemstone requires specific care to maintain its beauty and longevity:
- Blue Topaz: Can be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners and steamers.
- Blue Zircon: Should be cleaned with a mild solution and a soft brush. Avoid exposure to high heat and direct sunlight.
- Tanzanite: Requires gentle cleaning with a damp cloth and mild soap. Avoid heat, light, and harsh chemicals.
- Turquoise: Needs to be handled with care. Avoid exposure to water, chemicals, and physical impact. Use a soft cloth and mild soap for cleaning.
Proper care ensures that these beautiful gemstones retain their color, clarity, and brilliance for years to come.
Conclusion
December’s four official birthstones—blue topaz, blue zircon, tanzanite, and turquoise—offer a stunning array of blue hues and symbolic meanings. Each gemstone brings its own unique story, from the ancient traditions of turquoise to the modern discovery of tanzanite. Their varied gemological properties make them suitable for different types of jewelry and occasions, from daily wear to special collections.
Understanding the history, symbolism, and care requirements of these gemstones allows for a deeper appreciation of their beauty and significance. Whether you are a gemstone enthusiast, a jewelry buyer, or a student of gemology, December’s birthstones provide a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of nature, culture, and human creativity.