December, the last month of the year, is symbolically linked with the cold hues of winter and the promise of renewal. This symbolic association is reflected in its selection of birthstones, all of which share a common color theme—blue or blue-green. December is unique in that it boasts four officially recognized birthstones: Turquoise, Tanzanite, Zircon, and Blue Topaz. These gemstones offer a rich palette of blue tones, each with its own distinct origin, gemological properties, and cultural significance.
This article explores the historical, geological, and symbolic aspects of these December birthstones, with a particular emphasis on their shared color theme—blue. We will examine the reasons behind the selection of blue as the dominant color for December, and how each of the four gemstones contributes to the month’s unique identity in the world of gemology and jewelry.
Historical Origins and the Emergence of Blue as December’s Color
The association of blue with December is both practical and symbolic. Historically, December had a smaller selection of designated birthstones, but as the jewelry industry expanded and new gemstone discoveries were made, the list grew to include additional options. This expansion was driven not only by practical considerations—such as availability, durability, and affordability—but also by evolving cultural and commercial trends.
By the early 20th century, the National Association of Jewelers had standardized the list of unofficial American birthstones, and in 1912, they combined traditional customs with gemstones that were practical for jewelry production. In 1952, the Jewelry Industry Council of America updated the list, adding Zircon to December’s lineup. Then, in 2002, Tanzanite was added to the roster, becoming the rarest and most valuable of the four.
The addition of these blue-toned gemstones reflects both the esthetic appeal of blue and its cultural symbolism. Blue is associated with serenity, wisdom, and protection, qualities that resonate with the winter season and the transition into a new year. In many ancient cultures, blue was considered a sacred color, often linked to the divine or the spiritual.
Geological Formation and Sources of Blue December Birthstones
Each of the four December birthstones—Turquoise, Tanzanite, Zircon, and Blue Topaz—has a distinct geological origin and is found in different parts of the world. Understanding how and where these gemstones are formed and mined provides insight into their rarity, durability, and value.
Turquoise
Turquoise is a phosphate mineral formed by groundwater containing copper seeping into bedrock. Over time, the copper reacts with other minerals, forming an opaque stone with stunning shades of blue and green. The presence of matrix—the surrounding rock—gives each piece of turquoise a unique pattern, making it a highly individualized gemstone.
- Mohs Hardness: 5–6
- Chemical Formula: CuAl₆(PO₄)₄(OH)₈·4H₂O
- Color: Sky blue to greenish-blue
- Major Origin Countries: Iran, United States, Tibet, India
Turquoise is most commonly found in desert regions, where the right combination of minerals and environmental conditions allows for its formation. It has been mined and used for thousands of years in cultures such as Ancient Egypt, the Americas, and Central Asia.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is a trigonal zircon that was first discovered in Tanzania in 1967. What makes it unique is its trichroism—it can appear as blue, violet, and brown depending on the angle of light. Tanzanite is considered the rarest of the December birthstones, as it is only found in a small area of northern Tanzania, near the base of Mount Kilimanjaro.
- Mohs Hardness: 6–7
- Chemical Formula: ZrSiO₄
- Color: Rich violet-blue
- Major Origin Country: Tanzania
Because of its limited source and striking color, tanzanite is the most valuable of the four December birthstones. It is also one of the most fragile, requiring careful handling.
Zircon
Zircon is a zirconium silicate that occurs in various colors, but the blue zircon used as a December birthstone is typically heat-treated to achieve its vibrant blue hue. Zircon is one of the oldest minerals on Earth, with some crystals dating back over 4 billion years.
- Mohs Hardness: 6–7.5
- Chemical Formula: ZrSiO₄
- Color: Blue (heat-treated)
- Major Origin Countries: Cambodia, Myanmar, Thailand, Australia
Zircon is known for its brilliance and fire, making it a popular alternative to diamonds in jewelry. It is also more durable than turquoise or tanzanite, though it can still be brittle if not handled properly.
Blue Topaz
Blue topaz is a silicate mineral that naturally occurs in colorless or pale yellow forms. The blue color is achieved through irradiation and heat treatment, making it a treated gemstone. Despite this, blue topaz remains one of the most affordable and durable of the December birthstones.
- Mohs Hardness: 8
- Chemical Formula: Al₂SiO₆
- Color: Blue (treated)
- Major Origin Countries: Brazil, Sri Lanka, Mexico, Nigeria, United States
Blue topaz is the hardest of the four December birthstones, making it ideal for everyday wear. It is also the most versatile, with a range of blue shades from sky blue to deep London blue.
| Gemstone | Color | Hardness | Origin | Treatment |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Turquoise | Blue, greenish-blue | 5–6 | Iran, USA, Tibet, India | None |
| Tanzanite | Violet-blue | 6–7 | Tanzania | None |
| Zircon | Blue | 6–7.5 | Cambodia, Thailand | Heat treatment |
| Blue Topaz | Blue | 8 | Brazil, Mexico, U.S. | Irradiation and heat |
Symbolism and Cultural Significance of Blue December Birthstones
Each of the four December birthstones has its own symbolic meaning, but they are all united by their blue color and the positive associations it carries. In many cultures, blue is seen as a color of protection, wisdom, and calmness, making it an ideal choice for December, a month of reflection and transition.
Turquoise: Protection and Harmony
Turquoise has been used for thousands of years in protective amulets and talismans, especially in Ancient Egypt, the Americas, and Central Asia. It was believed to offer protection from illness and misfortune, as well as to bring good fortune. In some cultures, turquoise was also associated with healing, and was used in ceremonial rituals and medicine.
In modern times, turquoise is often associated with friendship and harmony, and it is considered a stone of truth. It is especially popular among those born under the zodiac signs of Sagittarius and Capricorn, as it is believed to enhance wisdom and inner strength.
Tanzanite: Transformation and New Beginnings
Tanzanite is relatively new as a recognized birthstone, but it has quickly gained popularity for its vibrant violet-blue color and symbolic meaning. It is associated with transformation and new beginnings, making it a powerful stone for those going through life changes or seeking personal growth.
Because of its rarity and uniqueness, tanzanite is also seen as a stone of individuality. It is believed to help people connect with their inner wisdom and tap into their spiritual potential. This makes it especially meaningful for those who are looking to renew themselves in the new year.
Zircon: Clarity and Wisdom
Zircon has long been associated with clarity, wisdom, and balance. In ancient times, it was used in spiritual rituals and meditation, and it was believed to help clarify the mind and bring inner peace. It is also associated with healing, and was used in ceremonial practices to promote emotional stability and mental clarity.
Zircon is especially popular among those who are looking to gain perspective on their lives or to find a sense of direction. It is believed to help balance the emotions and the mind, making it a powerful stone for those who are going through transitions or difficult periods.
Blue Topaz: Strength and Positivity
Blue topaz is a stone of strength and positivity, and it is believed to help boost confidence and self-esteem. It is associated with good fortune and success, and it is often used as a stone of protection in jewelry and amulets.
Blue topaz is also believed to help soothe the mind and reduce stress, making it a popular choice for those who are looking to maintain a sense of calm and balance during the winter months. It is especially popular among those who are seeking new opportunities and fresh beginnings, as it is believed to attract positive energy and abundance.
Choosing and Caring for Blue December Birthstone Jewelry
When choosing December birthstone jewelry, it is important to consider the durability and care requirements of each gemstone. While all four December birthstones are beautiful and meaningful, they vary in hardness and fragility, which affects how they should be worn and cleaned.
Turquoise
- Durability: Low to moderate
- Cleaning: Avoid exposure to water, heat, and chemicals.
- Jewelry Tips: Best suited for statement pieces or occasional wear. Avoid wearing in hot environments or when swimming.
Tanzanite
- Durability: Low
- Cleaning: Use a soft cloth and warm, soapy water. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners and steamers.
- Jewelry Tips: Best suited for special occasions. Handle with care to avoid scratches and chips.
Zircon
- Durability: Moderate
- Cleaning: Use a soft cloth and warm, soapy water. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners if the stone is heat-treated.
- Jewelry Tips: Zircon is more durable than turquoise or tanzanite, making it a better option for everyday wear. Handle with care to avoid chipping.
Blue Topaz
- Durability: High
- Cleaning: Safe to clean with mild soap and warm water. Can also be ultrasonically cleaned.
- Jewelry Tips: Blue topaz is the hardest of the December birthstones, making it ideal for everyday wear. It is less sensitive to heat and chemicals, making it a practical choice for rings, bracelets, and necklaces.
Conclusion
December’s selection of birthstones—Turquoise, Tanzanite, Zircon, and Blue Topaz—offers a rich and diverse array of blue tones, each with its own geological history, cultural significance, and symbolic meaning. While the choice of blue as December’s color may seem coincidental, it is in fact a deliberate and meaningful selection that reflects the winter season, the promise of renewal, and the universal appeal of blue.
Each of the four December birthstones has its own unique properties and appeal, making them suitable for different styles, budgets, and purposes. Whether you are looking for a rare and valuable gem like tanzanite, or a durable and affordable option like blue topaz, there is a December birthstone to suit every taste and need.
Understanding the history, symbolism, and care requirements of these gemstones allows you to make an informed and meaningful choice when selecting December birthstone jewelry. Whether you are a gemstone enthusiast, a jewelry buyer, or a student of gemology, the December birthstones offer a fascinating and rewarding subject of study.
Sources
- December Birthstone Guide: Meaning, Colours, Zodiac Signs, and Alternatives
- What Is December’s Birthstone?
- December Birthstone
- December Birthstone: A Guide to Meaning, History, and Jewelry
- December Birthstones: A Comprehensive Guide to Blue Turquoise, Tanzanite, Zircon and Blue Topaz
- Complete List of December Birthstones