December, a month of celebration and renewal, is uniquely marked by a rich diversity of birthstones—more than most months. The December birthstones include Turquoise, Tanzanite, Zircon, and Blue Topaz. Each of these gemstones carries its own history, symbolism, and gemological properties, offering a wide array of choices for jewelry and personal adornment. This article delves into the origins, properties, meanings, and care of these December birthstones, providing a comprehensive guide for gemstone enthusiasts, jewelry buyers, and students of gemology.
Introduction
December is associated with four gemstones: Turquoise, Tanzanite, Zircon, and Blue Topaz. These stones are all shades of blue, a color symbolic of peace, calm, and transformation. While Turquoise has been recognized for centuries as a sacred and protective stone, Tanzanite, discovered in the 20th century, is a relatively new addition to the birthstone calendar. Zircon and Blue Topaz offer additional options, each with unique characteristics and historical significance. This article explores the gemological properties, cultural lore, and practical aspects of each December birthstone, drawing on the most reliable and consistent information from the provided sources.
History and Lore
The Ancient Significance of Turquoise
Turquoise has been revered for thousands of years across various cultures. It was one of the world’s oldest known gemstones and was highly valued in ancient Egypt, China, and the Americas. The name "Turquoise" is derived from the French phrase "pierre turquoise," meaning "Turkish stone." This name originated when the stone was brought to Europe from Turkish bazaars, although the actual source was likely Persia (modern-day Iran).
In ancient Egypt, turquoise was believed to have protective properties and was often used in amulets and jewelry. It was also associated with the goddess Hathor, who was linked to music, dance, and joy. In China, turquoise was considered a symbol of immortality and was frequently used in imperial artifacts. Native American cultures, particularly those of the Southwestern United States, also held turquoise in high esteem, using it in jewelry and ceremonial objects.
The Modern Discovery of Tanzanite
Tanzanite is a relatively recent addition to the birthstone calendar, having been discovered in the 20th century. It was first found in Tanzania in 1967 by a Masai herdsman who brought a piece of the gemstone to a German mineralogist. Tanzanite was officially introduced in 1969 and quickly gained popularity due to its striking violet-blue color and the fact that it is only found in one location in the world—Tanzania.
Tanzanite is often associated with transformation and new beginnings. Its unique color, which can shift depending on the light, symbolizes adaptability and change. As a modern gemstone, Tanzanite represents the evolution of birthstone traditions and the influence of new discoveries on cultural practices.
The Timeless Appeal of Zircon
Zircon, another ancient gemstone, has been used in jewelry for centuries. It was particularly popular in the Victorian era and has been found in archaeological sites dating back to 2000 BCE. Zircon is known for its brilliance and refractive index, which is comparable to that of diamonds. This property has earned it the nickname "Diamond Substitute."
Zircon has been used in various cultures for its perceived wisdom and balance. In medieval Europe, it was believed to help with sleep and dreams. In some Eastern traditions, Zircon is associated with good fortune and spiritual enlightenment. The gemstone's ability to display different colors in different lighting conditions has made it a favorite among gemologists and jewelers alike.
The Rise of Blue Topaz
Blue Topaz, while not as ancient as Turquoise or Zircon, has become a popular December birthstone in more recent times. It is the official state gem of Texas and has been found in various parts of the world, including Sri Lanka, Brazil, Mexico, Nigeria, and the United States. Unlike other gemstones, the blue color of Topaz is often enhanced through irradiation or heat treatment, making it a more affordable option.
Blue Topaz is associated with calmness and stability. It is believed to promote mental clarity and emotional balance. As a relatively hard gemstone (with a Mohs hardness of 8), it is well-suited for everyday wear and is often used in modern jewelry designs.
Geological Formation and Sources
The Origins of Turquoise
Turquoise is formed through a unique geological process involving copper-rich groundwater and phosphorus. As groundwater seeps into the bedrock, it reacts with minerals such as aluminum and phosphorus to form turquoise over thousands of years. The resulting gemstone is opaque and can display a range of blue and greenish-blue hues. The dark lines and patterns seen in turquoise, known as matrix, are remnants of the surrounding rock.
Major sources of turquoise include Iran, the United States (particularly Arizona and New Mexico), Tibet, and India. Each of these locations produces turquoise with distinct coloration and matrix patterns. Iranian turquoise is known for its vibrant blue color, while American turquoise often features a greenish hue and visible matrix.
The Unique Formation of Tanzanite
Tanzanite is a type of zoisite that forms under specific geological conditions. It is found only in a small region of Tanzania, near the base of Mount Kilimanjaro. The gemstone is formed when aluminum-rich rock is subjected to high heat and pressure, causing the mineral to develop its characteristic violet-blue color.
The rarity of Tanzanite is a major factor in its value. Unlike other gemstones that can be found in multiple locations around the world, Tanzanite is exclusive to Tanzania. This exclusivity has made it one of the most valuable December birthstones.
The Versatile Properties of Zircon
Zircon is a mineral that occurs in a wide range of colors, including red, orange, yellow, green, and blue. The blue variety, known as Blue Zircon, is the most common December birthstone. Zircon is formed in igneous and metamorphic rocks and is often found in beach sands and alluvial deposits.
Blue Zircon is typically created through heat treatment or irradiation, which enhances its color and clarity. Natural Zircon can also exhibit a high refractive index, giving it a brilliant sparkle that is often compared to that of diamonds. Zircon is found in various parts of the world, including Thailand, Cambodia, and Brazil.
The Durability of Blue Topaz
Blue Topaz is a silicate mineral that is formed in igneous rocks. It is known for its hardness and durability, making it an excellent choice for everyday jewelry. Blue Topaz is found in various parts of the world, including Brazil, Mexico, Nigeria, and the United States. It is the official state gem of Texas and is often used in jewelry due to its affordability and beauty.
Unlike other December birthstones, Blue Topaz is often treated to enhance its color. The blue color is achieved through irradiation and heat treatment, which do not affect the gemstone's durability or stability. This treatment makes Blue Topaz a popular choice for those looking for a durable yet affordable gemstone.
Comparative Table of December Birthstones
| Gemstone | Color Range | Hardness (Mohs Scale) | Origin Countries | Treatment (if any) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Turquoise | Sky blue, greenish-blue | 5 – 6 | Iran, USA, Tibet, India | None |
| Tanzanite | Violet-blue | 6 – 7 | Tanzania | Heat treatment |
| Zircon | Blue, yellow, red | 7.5 – 8 | Thailand, Cambodia, Brazil | Heat treatment |
| Blue Topaz | Blue | 8 | Brazil, Mexico, Nigeria, USA | Irradiation and heat |
Gemological Properties
Turquoise: A Soft but Historic Gem
Turquoise has a hardness of 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively soft compared to other gemstones. Its opacity and the presence of matrix (the surrounding rock) are distinguishing features. The color of turquoise can vary from a pale sky blue to a deep greenish-blue, depending on the concentration of copper and the presence of other minerals.
Due to its softness, turquoise requires careful handling and is best suited for jewelry that is not worn daily. It is also sensitive to heat and acidic substances, which can cause it to lose its color or become damaged. Despite these limitations, turquoise remains a beloved gemstone due to its historical significance and unique appearance.
Tanzanite: The Color-Changing Gem
Tanzanite has a hardness of 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale. One of its most distinctive properties is its pleochroism, which means it displays different colors depending on the angle of light. Tanzanite can appear violet, blue, or even reddish when viewed from different directions.
Tanzanite is typically heat-treated to enhance its color, as raw tanzanite is often brown or greenish. This treatment is stable and does not affect the gemstone's durability. Tanzanite is known for its high refractive index, which contributes to its brilliance and sparkle.
Zircon: A Sparkling Substitute for Diamonds
Zircon has a hardness of 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale, making it one of the harder December birthstones. It is known for its high refractive index and dispersion, which give it a brilliant sparkle that is often compared to that of diamonds. Zircon can be found in a variety of colors, but the blue variety is the most commonly used as a December birthstone.
Natural Zircon can be found in a range of colors, but the blue color is typically achieved through heat treatment. This treatment enhances the gemstone's color and clarity without compromising its durability. Zircon is also known for its high specific gravity, which gives it a substantial feel in jewelry.
Blue Topaz: A Durable and Affordable Option
Blue Topaz has a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale, making it the hardest of the December birthstones. It is known for its clarity and brilliance, which are enhanced through irradiation and heat treatment. Unlike other December birthstones, Blue Topaz is not typically found in nature with its blue color; it is created through laboratory treatments.
Blue Topaz is highly durable and suitable for everyday wear. It is also relatively affordable, making it a popular choice for those looking for a durable and stylish gemstone. Its color is stable and does not fade over time, even when exposed to light or heat.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Turquoise: Protection and Calm
Turquoise has long been associated with protection, good fortune, and calmness. In ancient cultures, it was believed to ward off evil and bring luck to the wearer. It was also thought to enhance communication and promote emotional balance.
In Native American cultures, turquoise was considered a sacred stone and was used in ceremonies and rituals. It was believed to connect the earth and sky and to bring harmony between the two. Today, turquoise is still valued for its calming properties and is often used in meditation and spiritual practices.
Tanzanite: Transformation and New Beginnings
Tanzanite is associated with transformation and new beginnings. Its unique color-changing properties are symbolic of adaptability and change. It is believed to help individuals navigate difficult transitions and to support personal growth.
Tanzanite is also associated with emotional healing and spiritual awakening. It is often used in crystal healing to promote emotional balance and to help individuals release negative emotions. Its rarity and exclusivity make it a powerful symbol of individuality and self-discovery.
Zircon: Clarity and Wisdom
Zircon is associated with clarity, wisdom, and a sense of balance. It is believed to enhance mental clarity and to help individuals make sound decisions. Zircon is also associated with spiritual enlightenment and is often used in meditation and energy work.
In medieval Europe, Zircon was believed to help with sleep and to promote restful dreams. It was also thought to protect against nightmares and to enhance dream interpretation. Today, Zircon is valued for its ability to promote mental focus and emotional stability.
Blue Topaz: Calm and Stability
Blue Topaz is associated with calmness and stability. It is believed to promote mental clarity and emotional balance, making it a popular choice for those seeking to reduce stress and anxiety. It is also associated with good fortune and is often used in jewelry to bring positive energy to the wearer.
Blue Topaz is believed to enhance communication and to help individuals express their thoughts and emotions more clearly. It is also associated with loyalty and friendship, making it a meaningful choice for jewelry that is worn close to the heart.
Care and Cleaning
Caring for Turquoise
Due to its softness and sensitivity to heat and acidic substances, turquoise requires special care. It should not be exposed to harsh chemicals, including household cleaners and perfumes. It is also sensitive to heat, so it should not be worn in hot environments or exposed to direct sunlight for extended periods.
When cleaning turquoise, it is best to use a soft cloth and mild soap. Avoid using ultrasonic cleaners or steamers, as these can damage the stone. Turquoise should be stored in a cool, dry place to prevent it from losing its color or becoming brittle.
Caring for Tanzanite
Tanzanite should be cleaned with mild soap and warm water. Avoid using ultrasonic cleaners or steamers, as these can cause the stone to crack or lose its color. Tanzanite is sensitive to heat, so it should not be exposed to high temperatures or direct sunlight for long periods.
Tanzanite should be stored in a soft pouch or a jewelry box to prevent scratches and damage. It is also important to avoid wearing tanzanite in high-impact activities, as it can chip or break if struck.
Caring for Zircon
Zircon is relatively durable and can be cleaned with mild soap and warm water. It can also be cleaned with an ultrasonic cleaner, but it is best to avoid using steamers, as these can cause the stone to become brittle.
Zircon should be stored in a jewelry box or a soft pouch to prevent scratches and damage. It is also important to avoid exposing zircon to harsh chemicals or abrasive materials, as these can affect its appearance.
Caring for Blue Topaz
Blue Topaz is the hardest of the December birthstones and is relatively easy to care for. It can be cleaned with mild soap and warm water or with an ultrasonic cleaner. It is also safe to use a steamer for cleaning.
Blue Topaz is resistant to heat and chemicals, making it a good choice for everyday wear. It should be stored in a jewelry box or a soft pouch to prevent scratches and damage.
Conclusion
December's birthstones offer a rich diversity of colors, meanings, and gemological properties. From the ancient significance of turquoise to the modern discovery of tanzanite, each December birthstone carries its own unique history and symbolism. Zircon and Blue Topaz provide additional options, each with distinct characteristics and cultural significance.
Whether you are drawn to the calming properties of turquoise, the transformative energy of tanzanite, the brilliance of zircon, or the stability of blue topaz, there is a December birthstone to suit every taste and need. These gemstones not only add beauty to jewelry but also carry deep historical and metaphysical significance, making them a meaningful choice for those born in December.