December, the last month of the year, is distinguished not only by the cold winter air and holiday festivities but also by the rich and varied collection of gemstones associated with it. Unlike many other months, December boasts multiple birthstones, each with its own color, history, and symbolic meaning. These gemstones—Turquoise, Tanzanite, Zircon, and Blue Topaz—embody the diversity and depth of December's gemological tradition. The December birthstone color palette is predominantly blue, a hue that reflects the serene and transformative nature of the end of the year.
This article explores the history, properties, cultural significance, and practical aspects of the December birthstones, offering a detailed guide for gemstone enthusiasts, jewelry buyers, and students of gemology. We will examine each of these gemstones in turn, uncovering the reasons for their inclusion in December's birthstone tradition and how they have come to symbolize protection, transformation, and clarity.
The Historical Evolution of December’s Birthstone Tradition
The practice of assigning gemstones to each month of the year dates back to ancient times. One of the earliest records of this tradition is found in the Breastplate of Aaron, a sacred garment described in the Old Testament, which lists twelve gemstones representing the twelve tribes of Israel. Though the specific stones in the Breastplate are debated, they laid the foundation for the later association of gemstones with months and zodiac signs.
By the 19th and early 20th centuries, the modern birthstone tradition began to take shape, with various organizations and jewelers attempting to standardize the list. The National Association of Jewelers in the United States standardized the birthstone list in 1912, and the Jewelry Industry Council of America updated it in 1952. In 2002, Tanzanite was added to December’s list, and the list has continued to evolve as new gemstones are discovered and commercialized.
December is unique in that it has more than one official birthstone. This multiplicity serves multiple purposes: it offers more color and style options for jewelry, accommodates new gemstone discoveries, and provides alternatives that vary in hardness, durability, and price. The inclusion of multiple birthstones reflects the evolving nature of gemology and the jewelry trade, as well as the cultural and aesthetic preferences of different eras.
The December Birthstones and Their Colors
December is associated with four gemstones: Turquoise, Tanzanite, Blue Zircon, and Blue Topaz. All four of these gemstones are blue or have a blue component to their color, which aligns with the month’s association with winter and the calming, introspective qualities of the season.
| Gemstone | Color Description | Origin of Color | Traditional Symbolism |
|---|---|---|---|
| Turquoise | Sky blue to greenish blue | Copper and aluminum | Protection, friendship, good fortune |
| Tanzanite | Rich violet-blue with color change | Trace elements | Transformation, new beginnings |
| Blue Zircon | Bright, clear blue | Natural or heat-treated | Clarity, wisdom, balance |
| Blue Topaz | Deep to light blue | Irradiation or natural | Strength, clarity, and calmness |
Each of these gemstones brings its own unique color and properties to the December birthstone tradition, making it one of the most diverse and versatile in the calendar year.
The Geological Formation and Sources of December’s Birthstones
Turquoise
Turquoise is a hydrated phosphate of aluminum and copper. It is formed by the interaction of copper and aluminum in the presence of water, often in arid regions where the chemical reactions can occur over long periods. The blue color of turquoise comes from the presence of copper, while the greenish tones are due to iron. The dark lines and patterns seen in turquoise are the result of the surrounding rock, known as the matrix, which can include minerals like pyrite or quartz.
Turquoise is found in several countries, including the United States (especially Arizona and New Mexico), Iran (historically known for producing high-quality turquoise), Tibet, India, and Egypt. The United States is one of the primary sources of turquoise today, and the gemstone has a long history of use in Native American and Middle Eastern cultures.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is a variety of the mineral zoisite that is found only in a small region of Tanzania, near Mount Kilimanjaro. It is one of the rarest gemstones in the world, as its geological conditions are unique and not found anywhere else. Tanzanite gets its rich violet-blue color from trace amounts of vanadium, and it exhibits a phenomenon known as pleochroism, where the gemstone displays different colors depending on the angle from which it is viewed.
Tanzanite was first discovered in the 1960s and was introduced as a birthstone in 2002. It quickly gained popularity due to its striking color and rarity. Because it is only mined in Tanzania, it has strong cultural and economic significance for the region.
Blue Zircon
Zircon is a mineral composed of zirconium silicate, and it occurs in a variety of colors, including blue, red, yellow, and green. Blue zircon is typically the result of natural or artificial heat treatment, which changes the color of the stone. The blue coloration is due to the way the mineral absorbs and reflects light.
Zircon is found in many parts of the world, including Australia, Thailand, Cambodia, and Brazil. High-quality blue zircon is often sourced from these regions, and it is prized for its brilliance and clarity. Zircon is also one of the oldest minerals on Earth, with some zircon crystals dating back over 4 billion years.
Blue Topaz
Topaz is a silicate mineral composed of aluminum and fluorine. Blue topaz is typically produced by irradiating naturally colorless topaz, which changes the atomic structure of the gemstone and gives it a blue hue. The most common varieties of blue topaz include London Blue, Swiss Blue, and Sky Blue, each with its own distinct shade.
Natural blue topaz is rare, and most blue topaz available on the market today is treated to enhance or alter its color. Blue topaz is found in several countries, including the United States, Brazil, Mexico, Nigeria, and Sri Lanka. It is the official state gem of Texas and is valued for its durability and affordability compared to other December birthstones.
The Symbolism and Metaphysical Properties of December’s Birthstones
Each of the December birthstones carries its own symbolic meaning and metaphysical properties, which have been attributed to them in various cultures and historical periods.
Turquoise
Turquoise has long been associated with protection, wisdom, and good fortune. In ancient Egypt, it was believed to have healing properties and was used in amulets and jewelry to ward off evil spirits. In Native American cultures, turquoise is considered a sacred stone that connects the earth and sky, and it is often used in ceremonies and rituals.
Metaphysically, turquoise is said to promote calmness, communication, and emotional balance. It is also believed to enhance intuition and help the wearer feel more connected to their surroundings.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is associated with transformation, new beginnings, and emotional healing. Its color change property is symbolic of the ability to see things from different perspectives and to embrace change. Because it is only found in Tanzania, it is often viewed as a symbol of individuality and uniqueness.
In the metaphysical realm, tanzanite is said to help with emotional clarity, reduce stress, and promote a sense of inner peace. It is also believed to enhance spiritual awareness and connection to the divine.
Blue Zircon
Zircon is a stone of wisdom, clarity, and balance. In ancient times, it was believed to be a powerful protective stone that could ward off negative energy and promote good health. Blue zircon, in particular, is associated with mental clarity, emotional stability, and the ability to make sound decisions.
Metaphysically, blue zircon is said to enhance focus, memory, and concentration. It is also believed to help the wearer stay grounded and centered, especially during times of change or uncertainty.
Blue Topaz
Blue topaz is a stone of strength, calmness, and clarity. In ancient times, it was believed to have the power to strengthen the heart and bring about emotional stability. It is also associated with the power of the sun and was often used in protective amulets and talismans.
Metaphysically, blue topaz is said to promote emotional balance, reduce stress, and enhance confidence. It is also believed to help with communication and the ability to express one’s thoughts and feelings clearly.
Caring for December’s Birthstones
Proper care is essential for maintaining the beauty and longevity of December’s birthstones, as each of these gemstones has its own specific care requirements.
Turquoise
Turquoise is a relatively soft gemstone with a hardness of 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale, and it is also porous and sensitive to moisture and chemicals. It should be kept away from water, harsh detergents, and direct sunlight, which can cause it to fade or crack. It is best to store turquoise in a dry, cool place and to clean it with a soft, dry cloth only.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite has a hardness of 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale and is sensitive to heat and strong chemicals. It should be cleaned with a soft cloth and warm, soapy water, and it should be stored separately from harder gemstones to prevent scratches. Tanzanite should also be kept away from direct sunlight for long periods, as this can cause the color to fade.
Blue Zircon
Blue zircon has a hardness of 6 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale and is relatively durable, but it is still sensitive to heat and chemicals. It should be cleaned with a soft cloth and warm, soapy water, and it should be stored in a cool, dry place. Blue zircon is not recommended for use in jewelry that will be worn during physical activities or exposed to harsh conditions.
Blue Topaz
Blue topaz has a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale, making it one of the hardest December birthstones. It is also quite durable and can be worn in everyday jewelry. Blue topaz can be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth or brush, and it can be stored with other gemstones without fear of scratching.
Conclusion
The December birthstones—Turquoise, Tanzanite, Blue Zircon, and Blue Topaz—offer a rich and diverse collection of gemstones that reflect the color, character, and symbolism of the final month of the year. Each of these gemstones has its own unique history, geological properties, and cultural significance, making them not only beautiful but also deeply meaningful.
Whether you are a gemstone enthusiast, a jewelry buyer, or a student of gemology, the December birthstones provide a fascinating study of the intersection of geology, culture, and symbolism. From the ancient traditions of turquoise and zircon to the modern discoveries of tanzanite and blue topaz, the December birthstone tradition continues to evolve and inspire. By understanding the properties and meanings of these gemstones, we gain a greater appreciation for the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the world around us.