December, the final month of the year, is celebrated not only for its festive traditions but also for its association with three distinct and captivating gemstones: turquoise, blue topaz, and tanzanite. Each of these stones carries a unique history, symbolism, and set of gemological properties that have made them cherished across cultures and centuries. As December birthstones, they offer a fascinating intersection of natural beauty, cultural significance, and modern jewelry design.
This article explores the properties, origins, meanings, and practical care of these three gemstones, offering an in-depth look at their roles in history, jewelry, and personal symbolism. The information is drawn from reliable sources in the jewelry and gemological fields, ensuring accuracy and depth in understanding these December birthstones.
Introduction
December is symbolically rich, marked by the end of the year and the anticipation of a new beginning. In the world of gemstones, the month is equally notable for being represented by three distinct stones: turquoise, blue topaz, and tanzanite. While turquoise has been revered for millennia, tanzanite is a relatively modern discovery, and blue topaz is prized for its clarity and brilliance. Together, they form a diverse and meaningful collection of December birthstones.
These gemstones are often used in birthstone jewelry, which serves both as a personal adornment and as a meaningful gift. They are typically set in sterling silver, gold, or vermeil, and their blue or indigo hues reflect the winter season’s calm and serenity. The pieces range from dainty pendants to bold rings, offering versatility in style and symbolism.
This article will explore the historical and cultural origins, gemological properties, symbolism and metaphysical beliefs, and practical care of these gemstones, drawing from multiple sources that offer insights into their use and significance.
History and Lore
Turquoise: A Stone of Protection and Power
Turquoise is among the oldest gemstones known to humanity, with a history that stretches back thousands of years. It has been found in ancient Egyptian tombs, Native American artifacts, and Persian jewelry. The name "turquoise" comes from the French pierre turquoise, meaning "Turkish stone," due to its initial introduction into Europe via trade routes from the East.
Historically, turquoise was believed to have protective and healing properties. In many cultures, it was used in amulets and talismans to ward off evil, bring good fortune, and promote health. Ancient Egyptians used turquoise in jewelry and decorative objects, while Native American tribes incorporated it into ceremonial regalia and healing rituals.
The stone’s blue-green hue, reminiscent of the sky and sea, has long been associated with serenity and wisdom. It is often used in December birthstone jewelry as a symbol of calm, protection, and emotional balance.
Blue Topaz: A Stone of Clarity and Communication
Blue topaz, in its natural form, is typically colorless or pale yellow. The blue coloration is a result of irradiation and heat treatment, which are widely used in the gemstone industry to enhance the color of topaz. This process is well understood and does not compromise the gem's durability or natural composition.
Topaz has been valued since ancient times for its brilliance and clarity. The name “topaz” is derived from the Sanskrit word tapas, meaning “fire,” due to the fiery appearance of the yellow and red varieties. However, the blue variant has become especially popular in modern jewelry, particularly for December birthdays.
The gem is associated with communication, emotional balance, and mental clarity. In many traditions, it was believed to enhance intellectual abilities and promote truthfulness and honesty in speech.
Tanzanite: A Modern Discovery with Ancient Significance
Tanzanite is the newest of the three December birthstones, first discovered in 1967 in Tanzania, from which it takes its name. The gem is a trigonal variety of the mineral zoisite, and its deep blue to violet coloration is a result of trace elements and irradiation.
What makes tanzanite particularly unique is that it is found only in Tanzania, making it the only gemstone with a geographic monopoly. It is also rare, as the deposits are limited and the gemstone’s color is best displayed in a cabochon or step-cut.
Tanzanite has been associated with intuition, spiritual growth, and emotional healing. It is often used in spiritual jewelry and is believed to help open the heart and mind to new possibilities. In modern times, it has become a symbol of truth and transformation, making it a meaningful choice for December birthstone jewelry.
Geological Formation and Sources
Turquoise
Turquoise is a hydrous phosphate of aluminum and copper, with the chemical formula CuAl₆(PO₄)₄(OH)₈·4H₂O. It forms in the oxidized zones of copper deposits, typically in arid regions where groundwater rich in copper interacts with phosphate minerals. The presence of copper gives it its blue color, while iron can result in green or yellow tones.
Major sources of turquoise include Nevada (USA), Iran, China, and Egypt. The Persian turquoise from Iran is especially prized for its deep blue color and fine matrix patterns.
Blue Topaz
Topaz is a silicate mineral with the chemical formula Al₂SiO₄(F,OH)₂. It forms in pegmatite and rhyolitic volcanic rocks, where magma cools slowly, allowing crystals to grow. The blue coloration is the result of irradiation and heat treatment, which alters the crystal structure to produce a beautiful blue hue.
Natural blue topaz is rare, and most of the blue topaz available in jewelry is treated. The most common source of topaz is Brazil, though it is also found in Myanmar, Nigeria, and the United States.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is a trigonal variety of zoisite, with the chemical formula Ca₂Al₃(SiO₄)(Si₂O₇)O(OH)₂. It forms in metamorphic rocks, specifically in contact metamorphic zones where calcium-rich minerals react under high pressure and temperature.
As the name suggests, Tanzania is the only source of tanzanite. The deposits are located in the Merelani Hills, and the gemstone is mined in small quantities due to the complexity of its formation and the limited size of the deposit.
Gemological Properties
| Gemstone | Color | Hardness (Mohs) | Luster | Refractive Index | Transparency | Cut | Chemical Composition |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Turquoise | Blue-green | 5–6 | Waxy to greasy | 1.61–1.65 | Translucent | Cabochon | CuAl₆(PO₄)₄(OH)₈·4H₂O |
| Blue Topaz | Blue | 8 | Vitreous | 1.61–1.63 | Transparent | Faceted | Al₂SiO₄(F,OH)₂ |
| Tanzanite | Blue-violet | 6–7 | Vitreous | 1.694–1.699 | Transparent | Cabochon or Step | Ca₂Al₃(SiO₄)(Si₂O₇)O(OH)₂ |
Turquoise
- Hardness: 5–6 on the Mohs scale
- Luster: Waxy to greasy
- Refractive Index: 1.61–1.65
- Transparency: Translucent to opaque
- Cut: Cabochon
- Chemical Formula: CuAl₆(PO₄)₄(OH)₈·4H₂O
Turquoise is relatively soft and porous, making it sensitive to heat, chemicals, and scratches. It is best suited for cabochon cuts and is often set in sterling silver to enhance its color and protect it from damage.
Blue Topaz
- Hardness: 8 on the Mohs scale
- Luster: Vitreous
- Refractive Index: 1.61–1.63
- Transparency: Transparent
- Cut: Faceted (often brilliant or emerald cut)
- Chemical Formula: Al₂SiO₄(F,OH)₂
Blue topaz is a very durable gemstone, making it suitable for a wide range of jewelry styles. Its high hardness and clarity allow for sparkling, faceted cuts that showcase its brilliance.
Tanzanite
- Hardness: 6–7 on the Mohs scale
- Luster: Vitreous
- Refractive Index: 1.694–1.699
- Transparency: Transparent
- Cut: Cabochon or Step (for best color display)
- Chemical Formula: Ca₂Al₃(SiO₄)(Si₂O₇)O(OH)₂
Tanzanite is relatively soft and sensitive to heat and light, so it requires careful handling. It is often cut as a cabochon or in step cuts to enhance its vibrant blue and violet hues.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Turquoise
- Symbolism: Protection, healing, calmness, wisdom
- Metaphysical Beliefs: Turquoise is often used in spiritual jewelry and is believed to promote emotional balance, protect the wearer from harm, and enhance communication. In many cultures, it is considered a stone of good fortune and divine protection.
Blue Topaz
- Symbolism: Clarity, communication, emotional balance
- Metaphysical Beliefs: Blue topaz is associated with mental clarity and truthful communication. It is believed to enhance speech, promote emotional stability, and support intellectual pursuits. In some traditions, it is used to calm the mind and reduce stress.
Tanzanite
- Symbolism: Intuition, transformation, spiritual growth
- Metaphysical Beliefs: Tanzanite is believed to stimulate intuition and spiritual insight. It is associated with emotional healing, truth, and personal transformation. It is also used in energy healing practices to open the heart and mind to new possibilities.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care is essential to maintain the beauty and longevity of December birthstone jewelry. Here are some specific care tips for each gemstone:
Turquoise
- Avoid exposure to heat, sunlight, and harsh chemicals
- Clean gently with mild soap and a soft cloth
- Store in a cool, dry place, ideally separated from other metals
- Avoid wearing during activities that may cause friction or impact
Blue Topaz
- Can be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush
- Avoid steam cleaning or ultrasonic cleaners
- Store in a soft pouch to prevent scratches
- Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight
Tanzanite
- Clean with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth
- Avoid steam and ultrasonic cleaners, which may damage the gemstone
- Store in a soft pouch or separate compartment
- Avoid exposure to heat and direct sunlight for extended periods
Conclusion
The December birthstones—turquoise, blue topaz, and tanzanite—are not only beautiful gemstones but also rich in history, symbolism, and gemological significance. Each carries a unique set of properties that make it suitable for jewelry, healing, and personal adornment.
Turquoise, with its deep blue-green hues and protective qualities, has been a symbol of wisdom and calm for thousands of years. Blue topaz, known for its clarity and brilliance, represents communication and emotional balance. Tanzanite, a modern gemstone with ancient energy, is associated with intuition and transformation, making it a powerful choice for spiritual and personal growth.
When crafted in sterling silver, gold, or vermeil, these gemstones make timeless and meaningful jewelry. Whether as a personal birthstone, a gift, or a spiritual tool, December birthstone jewelry offers both aesthetic beauty and symbolic depth.