December is a month rich in tradition, celebration, and the symbolic beauty of its birthstones: turquoise, tanzanite, and blue topaz. These gemstones are not only admired for their vibrant colors but also for their deep cultural and historical significance. In the realm of fine jewelry, December birthstone rings offer a perfect way to honor these gemstones, whether as a personal keepsake or a meaningful gift.
This article explores the characteristics, historical significance, and cultural symbolism of the three December birthstones, focusing on their use in ring design. We will also examine the practical aspects of caring for these gems and the considerations for selecting a birthstone ring. By the end, you will have a comprehensive understanding of what makes December birthstone rings a cherished part of the gemstone world.
History and Lore
The history of December birthstones is woven with legends and traditions that date back centuries. While the practice of assigning gemstones to specific months has ancient roots, the modern concept of birthstones gained widespread popularity in the 20th century.
Turquoise
Turquoise has one of the longest histories among birthstones. It is believed that ancient Egyptians referred to it as "the stone of the gods," and it was even used in the funeral mask of Pharaoh Tutankhamun. In ancient Persia and the Middle East, turquoise was considered a protective stone. It was often used in amulets and talismans to ward off evil and bring good fortune.
The stone’s name comes from the French word "turquoise," which means "Turkish," as it was originally brought to Europe via Turkey. Native American cultures also hold turquoise in high regard, using it in jewelry and ceremonial objects. They believe it promotes health, happiness, and spiritual protection.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is a relatively modern discovery, first identified in Tanzania in the 1960s. It was officially named in 1967 to coincide with Tanzania’s independence. Unlike many other gemstones, tanzanite is unique to one location in the world—Serengeti, near Mount Kilimanjaro.
Tanzanite is known for its vivid blue and violet hues, which can appear to shift depending on the light. It has become a symbol of transformation and spiritual growth. Some cultures believe that tanzanite enhances intuition and emotional clarity.
Blue Topaz
Blue topaz has been appreciated for its beauty and clarity for centuries. The name "topaz" comes from the Greek island of Topazios, where the first topaz was discovered. However, blue topaz in its natural form is extremely rare, and most blue topaz is created through irradiation or heat treatment.
In ancient times, blue topaz was thought to bring wisdom and honesty to those who wore it. It was also believed to protect its wearer from poisoning and to promote good health. Blue topaz is associated with calmness and serenity, making it a fitting gemstone for December, a month often associated with reflection and renewal.
Geological Formation and Sources
Each of the December birthstones has a unique geological story, shaped by the Earth's natural processes over millions of years.
Turquoise
Turquoise is a hydrated phosphate of aluminum and copper. It forms in the weathering zones of copper deposits, often in arid regions where the water table is shallow. The presence of copper gives turquoise its characteristic blue and green colors, while the presence of iron can result in a more greenish hue.
Major sources of turquoise include the United States (especially Arizona, New Mexico, and Nevada), China, Egypt, Iran, Mexico, and Turkey. Each source produces turquoise with slightly different colors and patterns, making it possible to identify the origin of a stone based on its appearance.
Turquoise is typically found in association with other minerals such as quartz, halite, and calcite. It is a relatively soft gemstone, with a hardness of 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale. This makes it more prone to scratches and damage, so it is often stabilized with resins or waxes to improve its durability.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is a variety of the mineral zoisite, a calcium aluminum silicate. It forms in metamorphic rocks, particularly in regions where high-grade metamorphism has occurred. The unique blue and violet colors of tanzanite are due to the presence of trace amounts of vanadium and the gemstone’s ability to absorb light in the yellow and green parts of the spectrum.
As previously mentioned, tanzanite is found only in Tanzania, in the area surrounding Mount Kilimanjaro. This exclusivity makes tanzanite one of the most valuable and sought-after gemstones in the world. Tanzanite is a relatively soft gemstone, with a hardness of 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale. It is also pleochroic, meaning it can display different colors when viewed from different angles.
Blue Topaz
Blue topaz is a silicate mineral composed primarily of aluminum and fluorine. It forms in igneous rocks, particularly in pegmatites and granites. The blue color of blue topaz is typically the result of irradiation or heat treatment, which alters the crystal structure and creates the desired color.
Natural blue topaz is extremely rare, so most blue topaz available in the market is treated to enhance its color. Brazil is the primary source of topaz, followed by Nigeria, Russia, and the United States. Blue topaz is a relatively hard gemstone, with a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale, making it more durable than turquoise or tanzanite.
Gemological Properties
Understanding the gemological properties of the December birthstones is essential for appreciating their beauty and value.
Turquoise
- Chemical Composition: Hydrated phosphate of aluminum and copper.
- Color: Blue to green, depending on the presence of copper and iron.
- Hardness: 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale.
- Refractive Index: 1.61 to 1.65.
- Specific Gravity: 2.6 to 2.8.
- Luster: Waxy to subvitreous.
- Transparency: Opaque to translucent.
Turquoise is often stabilized with resins or waxes to improve its durability and appearance. It can also be dyed to enhance its color. The presence of matrix, or the surrounding rock, can affect the value and appearance of the stone.
Tanzanite
- Chemical Composition: Calcium aluminum silicate with vanadium.
- Color: Blue to violet, with pleochroism (displaying different colors from different angles).
- Hardness: 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale.
- Refractive Index: 1.69 to 1.70.
- Specific Gravity: 3.1 to 3.4.
- Luster: Vitreous.
- Transparency: Transparent to translucent.
Tanzanite is a relatively soft gemstone, but it is durable enough for everyday wear when properly cut and set. Its pleochroism makes it a unique and visually interesting gemstone.
Blue Topaz
- Chemical Composition: Silicate of aluminum and fluorine.
- Color: Blue, typically enhanced by irradiation or heat treatment.
- Hardness: 8 on the Mohs scale.
- Refractive Index: 1.62 to 1.64.
- Specific Gravity: 3.5 to 3.6.
- Luster: Vitreous.
- Transparency: Transparent.
Blue topaz is a relatively hard and durable gemstone, making it suitable for a wide range of jewelry applications. Its clarity and brilliance make it a popular choice for rings, necklaces, and earrings.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Each of the December birthstones carries its own unique symbolism and metaphysical properties, which have been passed down through generations.
Turquoise
Turquoise has long been associated with protection, healing, and good fortune. It is believed to promote physical health, mental clarity, and emotional balance. In many cultures, turquoise is considered a sacred stone that connects the earthly and spiritual realms.
In Native American traditions, turquoise is often used in ceremonies and rituals to promote healing and spiritual protection. It is also believed to enhance communication and self-expression. In ancient Egypt, turquoise was used in amulets and talismans to ward off evil and bring good fortune.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is a relatively new gemstone, but it has quickly become associated with transformation, spiritual growth, and emotional clarity. It is believed to enhance intuition, promote emotional balance, and support personal growth.
Some cultures believe that tanzanite helps to open the heart and mind, allowing for greater understanding and compassion. It is also believed to promote creativity and imagination, making it a popular choice for artists and writers.
Blue Topaz
Blue topaz is associated with calmness, serenity, and wisdom. It is believed to promote mental clarity, emotional balance, and spiritual growth. It is also believed to protect against negative energy and promote good health.
In ancient times, blue topaz was thought to bring wisdom and honesty to those who wore it. It was also believed to protect its wearer from poisoning and to promote good health. Today, blue topaz is often used in meditation and healing practices to promote calmness and inner peace.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care and cleaning are essential for maintaining the beauty and longevity of December birthstone rings.
Turquoise
Turquoise is a relatively soft gemstone, with a hardness of 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale. It is also porous and can absorb oils and other substances, which can affect its appearance and durability.
To clean turquoise, use a soft cloth and mild soap with lukewarm water. Gently wipe the stone and avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials. After cleaning, dry the stone with a soft cloth. Avoid exposing turquoise to extreme heat or prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, as this can cause it to lose moisture and become brittle.
It is also important to avoid exposing turquoise to perfumes, lotions, and other chemicals, as these can penetrate the stone and cause discoloration or damage.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is a relatively soft gemstone, with a hardness of 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale. It is also sensitive to heat and can be damaged by high temperatures.
To clean tanzanite, use a soft cloth and mild soap with lukewarm water. Gently wipe the stone and avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials. After cleaning, dry the stone with a soft cloth. Avoid exposing tanzanite to extreme heat or prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, as this can cause the color to fade or change.
It is also important to avoid exposing tanzanite to harsh chemicals, as these can damage the stone or affect its color.
Blue Topaz
Blue topaz is a relatively hard gemstone, with a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale. It is also durable and resistant to scratches and abrasions.
To clean blue topaz, use a soft cloth and mild soap with lukewarm water. Gently wipe the stone and avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials. After cleaning, dry the stone with a soft cloth. Blue topaz can also be cleaned with an ultrasonic cleaner or steam cleaner, as long as the stone is not heat-sensitive.
Avoid exposing blue topaz to prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, as this can cause the color to fade or change.
Conclusion
December birthstone rings offer a beautiful way to celebrate the unique qualities of turquoise, tanzanite, and blue topaz. Each of these gemstones has a rich history, deep cultural significance, and unique gemological properties that make them highly valued in the world of fine jewelry.
Whether you are looking for a personal keepsake or a meaningful gift, a December birthstone ring is a perfect choice. These rings not only showcase the beauty of the gemstones but also carry the symbolism and history associated with them.
By understanding the characteristics, history, and care requirements of these gemstones, you can make an informed decision when selecting a December birthstone ring. Whether you choose turquoise, tanzanite, or blue topaz, you can be confident that you are selecting a gemstone with a rich legacy and enduring beauty.