December, a month synonymous with festive cheer and celebration, is also uniquely distinguished in the world of gemstones. It is the only month associated with multiple birthstones, offering those born in December a choice of four officially recognized gems: Turquoise, Tanzanite, Blue Zircon, and Blue Topaz. These gemstones are not only admired for their aesthetic appeal but also for the rich historical, cultural, and symbolic meanings they carry. This article delves into the history, geological properties, symbolic significance, and care of each of these December birthstones, drawing from a diverse array of authoritative sources.
Introduction
The tradition of associating gemstones with specific months dates back to ancient times, with roots in Mesopotamia and later adopted by the Greeks and Romans. December's gemstones have evolved over the centuries, with the list expanding in the 20th century to include newly discovered stones such as Tanzanite. This expansion reflects both the dynamic nature of the birthstone tradition and the increasing appreciation for new gemstone discoveries.
Each of December's birthstones is characterized by its blue hues, symbolizing the cool tones of winter and the tranquility associated with the season. From the ancient Turquoise, revered for its protective powers, to the modern Tanzanite, celebrated for its striking violet-blue tones and association with transformation, these stones offer a rich tapestry of history and meaning.
History and Lore
Turquoise: The Ancient Gemstone
Turquoise is one of the oldest known gemstones, with a history that stretches back thousands of years. Its name derives from the French pierre turquoise, meaning "Turkish stone," due to its historical trade route through Turkey. The stone was highly valued in ancient civilizations such as Egypt, Persia, and the Americas, where it was often used in jewelry and amulets for its protective qualities.
In ancient Egypt, Turquoise was believed to bring protection and good health, often inlaid in mummy wrappings. It was also associated with the goddess Hathor, who symbolized love, music, and motherhood. In the Americas, the Aztecs and Native American tribes used Turquoise in ceremonial jewelry and as a symbol of spiritual power.
Tanzanite: The Modern Discovery
Tanzanite is the youngest of December's birthstones, discovered in the 20th century in Northern Tanzania. It was first identified in 1967 by a German mineralogist and a Tanzanian guide, and it was officially introduced to the market in 1969. The gemstone quickly gained popularity due to its unique violet-blue color and its rarity, as it is found exclusively in the Merelani Hills of Tanzania.
Tanzanite was officially recognized as a birthstone in 2002, making it the most recent addition to the December list. Its discovery and commercialization reflect the evolving nature of the birthstone tradition, incorporating new gemstones as they are discovered and appreciated.
Blue Zircon and Blue Topaz: The Classic and the Affordable
Blue Zircon and Blue Topaz, while not as ancient as Turquoise, have been recognized as December birthstones for their distinct blue hues and gemological properties. Blue Zircon, often referred to as "Star Blue Zircon," is known for its brilliance and clarity, rivaling that of diamonds. It has been used in jewelry for centuries and has been historically associated with wisdom and balance.
Blue Topaz, on the other hand, is a more affordable option with vibrant blue shades. It has been a popular choice for jewelry due to its affordability and durability. Blue Topaz has been associated with clarity of thought and love, making it a meaningful choice for December-born individuals.
Geological Formation and Sources
Turquoise
Turquoise is formed through a complex geological process involving the interaction of copper-rich groundwater with the surrounding bedrock. This process occurs over time, leading to the formation of an opaque stone with stunning shades of blue and green. The dark lines and shapes seen in Turquoise, known as matrix, are derived from the surrounding rock.
The primary sources of Turquoise include countries such as Iran, Egypt, the United States (particularly Arizona and New Mexico), and China. These regions have historically been known for their high-quality Turquoise deposits.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is found exclusively in the Merelani Hills of Tanzania, making it one of the rarest gemstones in the world. Its formation is attributed to the unique geological conditions in the region, where a combination of heat and pressure led to the transformation of the mineral zoisite into Tanzanite. This transformation results in the gemstone's distinctive violet-blue color.
The limited geographical source of Tanzanite contributes to its rarity and value. It is estimated that the deposits in Tanzania may be exhausted within a few decades, further emphasizing the gemstone's exclusivity.
Blue Zircon and Blue Topaz
Blue Zircon is a type of Zircon that has been treated to enhance its color. Zircon is a naturally occurring mineral that can be found in various colors, including colorless, yellow-gold, and blue. The blue color is typically achieved through heat treatment or irradiation. Blue Zircon is known for its brilliance and refractive index, which is higher than that of diamonds, making it a desirable gemstone for jewelry.
Blue Topaz is a naturally occurring gemstone that is often enhanced through irradiation to achieve its vibrant blue color. It is found in several countries, including Brazil, Mexico, and the United States. Blue Topaz is known for its durability and affordability, making it a popular choice for jewelry.
Gemological Properties
Turquoise
- Chemical Formula: CuAl₆(PO₄)₄(OH)₈·4H₂O
- Hardness (Mohs Scale): 5–6
- Refractive Index: 1.61–1.65
- Color: Ranges from sky-blue to greenish-blue
- Luster: Waxy to dull
- Transparency: Opaque
- Specific Gravity: 2.6–2.8
Turquoise is relatively soft compared to other gemstones, which makes it susceptible to scratches and damage. It is also porous, requiring careful cleaning and handling.
Tanzanite
- Chemical Formula: Ca₂Al₃(SiO₄)₃(OH)
- Hardness (Mohs Scale): 6–7
- Refractive Index: 1.694–1.704
- Color: Violet-blue to purple-blue
- Luster: Vitreous
- Transparency: Transparent to translucent
- Specific Gravity: 3.1–3.4
Tanzanite is known for its pleochroism, meaning it can display different colors when viewed from different angles. It is also relatively durable, making it suitable for jewelry.
Blue Zircon
- Chemical Formula: ZrSiO₄
- Hardness (Mohs Scale): 6–7.5
- Refractive Index: 1.925–1.984
- Color: Blue (naturally or enhanced)
- Luster: Vitreous
- Transparency: Transparent
- Specific Gravity: 4.6–4.7
Blue Zircon is known for its high refractive index, which gives it a brilliant sparkle. It is also relatively durable, making it a good choice for jewelry.
Blue Topaz
- Chemical Formula: Al₂SiO₄(F,OH)₂
- Hardness (Mohs Scale): 6–7
- Refractive Index: 1.61–1.63
- Color: Blue (naturally or enhanced)
- Luster: Vitreous
- Transparency: Transparent
- Specific Gravity: 3.0–3.2
Blue Topaz is a popular gemstone due to its affordability and durability. It is often enhanced through irradiation to achieve its vibrant blue color, making it a versatile choice for jewelry.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Turquoise
Turquoise has long been associated with protection, healing, and tranquility. In ancient times, it was believed to offer protection against evil spirits and to promote good health. It was also thought to bring success and prosperity to those who wore it. In modern times, Turquoise is still valued for its protective qualities and is believed to enhance communication and self-expression.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is associated with transformation, intuition, and spiritual growth. It is believed to enhance emotional balance and promote a sense of calm. Tanzanite is also considered a stone of healing, particularly for the throat and heart chakras, supporting clear communication and emotional well-being.
Blue Zircon and Blue Topaz
Blue Zircon is believed to promote wisdom, balance, and clarity of thought. It is also associated with protection and the enhancement of restful sleep. Blue Zircon is considered a stone of good fortune and is believed to attract wealth and abundance.
Blue Topaz is associated with clarity of thought, love, and friendship. It is believed to promote emotional stability and to help in overcoming fears and insecurities. Blue Topaz is also considered a stone of good health and is believed to support the body's natural healing processes.
Care and Cleaning
Turquoise
Due to its softness and porosity, Turquoise requires careful handling and cleaning. It should be kept away from harsh chemicals and abrasive materials. To clean Turquoise, use a soft cloth and mild soap with lukewarm water. Avoid soaking the stone in water for extended periods, as this can cause it to lose its color or become damaged.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is relatively durable but should still be handled with care. It can be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap with lukewarm water. Avoid exposure to high heat or sudden temperature changes, as this can cause the stone to crack. Tanzanite should also be stored separately from other gemstones to prevent scratches.
Blue Zircon
Blue Zircon is durable and can be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap with lukewarm water. It can also be ultrasonically cleaned, as it is not sensitive to ultrasonic vibrations. Blue Zircon should be stored separately from other gemstones to prevent scratches.
Blue Topaz
Blue Topaz is a durable gemstone that can be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap with lukewarm water. It can also be ultrasonically cleaned. Blue Topaz should be stored separately from other gemstones to prevent scratches. It is also important to avoid exposure to high heat, as this can cause the color to fade.
Conclusion
December's birthstones—Turquoise, Tanzanite, Blue Zircon, and Blue Topaz—offer a unique combination of beauty, history, and symbolism. From the ancient Turquoise, revered for its protective qualities, to the modern Tanzanite, celebrated for its rarity and transformation, these gemstones represent a rich tradition that continues to evolve. Each stone has its own distinct gemological properties, making them suitable for different types of jewelry and personal adornment. Whether chosen for their historical significance, gemological properties, or symbolic meanings, December's birthstones are a testament to the enduring appeal of gemstones in human culture.