December, with its frosty landscapes and festive cheer, is uniquely associated with four officially recognized birthstones: Tanzanite, Turquoise, Blue Zircon, and Blue Topaz. Unlike most months, which are typically assigned a single gemstone, December's multiple birthstones reflect a rich tapestry of history, geology, and cultural symbolism. These gemstones, all characterized by their cool blue hues, have captivated gem enthusiasts for centuries. This article explores the origins, properties, and meanings of each December birthstone, offering a detailed insight into their historical significance, gemological attributes, and contemporary appeal.
Introduction
The tradition of associating gemstones with specific months has ancient roots, with early references dating back to Mesopotamian and Greco-Roman civilizations. Over time, this practice evolved, and the list of December birthstones has undergone several changes. Originally, only Turquoise and Zircon were considered December’s gemstones, but in the 20th century, the list expanded to include Blue Topaz and Tanzanite. This expansion reflects not only the evolving nature of the birthstone tradition but also the growing appreciation for new gemstone discoveries and their commercial appeal.
December’s birthstones are all characterized by their blue hues, a nod to the cool tones of winter and the calmness associated with the season. Each gemstone brings its own unique history, properties, and symbolism, making them ideal choices for jewelry and personal adornment. This article delves into each of these gemstones, providing an in-depth exploration of their historical, geological, and cultural significance.
History and Lore
Turquoise
Turquoise has a long and storied history, with evidence of its use dating back over 6,000 years. It was highly prized by ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians, who believed it to have protective and healing properties. In the Americas, Native American tribes revered turquoise for its spiritual significance, often using it in jewelry and ceremonial objects. The stone was also highly valued by the Persians, who referred to it as "the stone of the sky."
Turquoise was traditionally considered one of December’s primary birthstones, and its significance has endured through the centuries. The stone is often associated with friendship, protection, and good fortune. Its use in jewelry and adornment has continued into modern times, with turquoise being a popular choice for rings, pendants, and bracelets.
Zircon
Zircon, another traditional December birthstone, has a history that spans thousands of years. Known for its brilliance and fire, zircon was highly valued in ancient times and was often mistaken for diamonds due to its refractive properties. The stone has been found in archaeological sites in Egypt, India, and Mesopotamia, indicating its widespread use in ancient cultures.
In the 1950s, Zircon was officially added to the list of December birthstones, recognizing its historical significance and enduring appeal. Zircon is associated with clarity, wisdom, and a sense of balance, making it a meaningful gemstone for those born in December.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is the most recent addition to the list of December birthstones, having been officially recognized in 2002. Discovered in Tanzania in 1967, tanzanite is a relatively modern gemstone that quickly gained popularity due to its striking violet-blue color and exceptional brilliance. The stone was named after its country of origin, Tanzania, and is known for its unique color-changing properties, which can shift depending on the light source.
Tanzanite is associated with transformation and new beginnings, making it a meaningful choice for those born in December. Its rarity and beauty have made it a highly sought-after gemstone, with a growing appreciation for its metaphysical properties and aesthetic appeal.
Blue Topaz
Blue Topaz, a relatively recent addition to the list of December birthstones, has become a popular choice in modern jewelry. While topaz has been known for centuries, the blue variety was not widely available until the development of heat treatment techniques in the 20th century. This treatment enhanced the natural beauty of topaz, producing a range of blue tones from pale sky blue to deep oceanic hues.
Blue Topaz is associated with calmness and serenity, making it an ideal gemstone for those seeking balance and tranquility. Its durability and affordability have contributed to its popularity, and it is now a favored choice for engagement rings and everyday jewelry.
Geological Formation and Sources
Turquoise
Turquoise is a hydrated phosphate of aluminum and copper, with the chemical formula Al₂(Cu,Al)₃(PO₄)₄(OH)₃·4H₂O. It forms in arid environments through the weathering of copper-bearing minerals. The stone is typically found in veins and pockets within volcanic and sedimentary rocks.
Major sources of turquoise include Iran, the United States, Tibet, and India. The most famous turquoise deposits are located in the southwestern United States, particularly in New Mexico and Nevada. These regions are known for producing high-quality turquoise with rich blue and greenish-blue hues.
Zircon
Zircon is a zirconium silicate with the chemical formula ZrSiO₄. It is a naturally occurring mineral that is found in a variety of geological settings, including igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks. Zircon is known for its high refractive index and dispersion, which give it a brilliant, fiery appearance.
Zircon is found in several countries around the world, including Australia, Sri Lanka, India, and Brazil. The gemstone has been mined for centuries, with some of the oldest known zircon specimens dating back to the early Earth's formation.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is a variety of the mineral zoisite, with the chemical formula Ca₂Al₃(SiO₄)(Si₂O₇)O(OH)₁·H₂O. It forms in metamorphic rocks and is only found in a specific region of Tanzania near the base of Mount Kilimanjaro. The discovery of tanzanite in 1967 was a significant event in the gemstone world, as it is one of the few gemstones that is exclusive to a single country.
The rarity of tanzanite is due to the limited geographical area in which it is found. The stone is known for its intense blue-violet color and its pleochroism, which means it can display different colors depending on the angle of light.
Blue Topaz
Blue Topaz is a silicate mineral with the chemical formula Al₂SiO₄(F,OH)₂. It forms in igneous rocks, particularly in pegmatites and granites. The blue color of topaz is typically achieved through heat treatment, which enhances the natural color of the stone.
Blue Topaz is found in several countries, including Brazil, Mexico, Nigeria, and the United States. Brazil is one of the largest producers of topaz, and the country is known for its high-quality blue topaz deposits. The stone is often mined and treated to produce a range of blue hues, from pale sky blue to deep oceanic blue.
Gemological Properties
Turquoise
Turquoise is a relatively soft gemstone with a hardness of 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale. This low hardness means that it is prone to scratches and should be handled with care. The stone has a waxy to greasy luster and is typically opaque, with a fine-grained structure.
Turquoise is known for its distinct blue and greenish-blue colors, which can vary depending on the presence of copper and iron. The most valuable turquoise is a deep, even blue with minimal veining or matrix. The stone is also porous, which means it can absorb liquids and oils, making it important to clean it with care.
Zircon
Zircon is a relatively hard gemstone with a hardness of 6.5 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale. It has a vitreous luster and is typically transparent to translucent. Zircon is known for its high refractive index and dispersion, which give it a brilliant, fiery appearance.
The most valuable zircon is a bright, clear blue with a high degree of clarity. The stone can display a range of colors, including red, yellow, and green, but the blue variety is the most popular. Zircon is also known for its pleochroism, which means it can display different colors depending on the angle of light.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is a relatively soft gemstone with a hardness of 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale. It has a vitreous luster and is typically transparent to translucent. Tanzanite is known for its intense blue-violet color and its pleochroism, which means it can display different colors depending on the angle of light.
The most valuable tanzanite is a deep, even blue-violet with minimal inclusions. The stone is also known for its high refractive index and dispersion, which give it a brilliant, fiery appearance. Tanzanite is a relatively rare gemstone, and its value is influenced by factors such as color, clarity, and cut.
Blue Topaz
Blue Topaz is a relatively hard gemstone with a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale. It has a vitreous luster and is typically transparent to translucent. Blue Topaz is known for its calm, serene blue color and its high refractive index, which gives it a brilliant, fiery appearance.
The most valuable blue topaz is a deep, even blue with minimal inclusions. The stone is also known for its durability, making it an ideal choice for everyday jewelry. Blue Topaz is a relatively affordable gemstone, and its popularity has increased due to its beauty and affordability.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Turquoise
Turquoise has long been associated with protection, good fortune, and spiritual significance. In many ancient cultures, it was believed to have protective and healing properties. The stone is often used in jewelry and adornment to ward off negative energies and to promote peace and tranquility.
In Native American culture, turquoise is considered a sacred stone and is often used in ceremonial objects and jewelry. It is believed to bring good luck and to protect the wearer from harm. Turquoise is also associated with communication and self-expression, making it a meaningful gemstone for those who value clarity and truth.
Zircon
Zircon is associated with clarity, wisdom, and a sense of balance. In ancient times, it was believed to have the power to enhance memory and to promote mental clarity. The stone is often used in jewelry to support intellectual pursuits and to encourage a balanced approach to life.
Zircon is also associated with transformation and new beginnings. It is believed to help the wearer let go of old patterns and to embrace new opportunities. The stone is often used in meditation and spiritual practices to promote inner peace and harmony.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is associated with transformation, new beginnings, and emotional healing. It is believed to help the wearer release old emotional patterns and to embrace new opportunities. The stone is often used in jewelry and adornment to support emotional growth and to promote inner peace.
Tanzanite is also associated with intuition and spiritual awareness. It is believed to enhance the wearer’s ability to listen to their intuition and to trust their inner guidance. The stone is often used in meditation and spiritual practices to promote emotional healing and transformation.
Blue Topaz
Blue Topaz is associated with calmness, serenity, and emotional balance. It is believed to help the wearer release stress and anxiety and to promote a sense of peace and tranquility. The stone is often used in jewelry and adornment to support emotional well-being and to encourage a balanced approach to life.
Blue Topaz is also associated with wisdom and clarity. It is believed to enhance the wearer’s ability to think clearly and to make wise decisions. The stone is often used in meditation and spiritual practices to promote mental clarity and emotional balance.
Care and Cleaning
Turquoise
Due to its relatively low hardness and porosity, turquoise requires special care to maintain its beauty. It should be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap, and it should be kept away from harsh chemicals and direct sunlight. Turquoise can be damaged by oils and lotions, so it is important to remove it before applying these products.
Turquoise should also be stored in a cool, dry place to prevent it from drying out. It is important to handle turquoise with care, as it can be easily scratched and damaged. Regular inspection and cleaning will help ensure that the stone remains in good condition.
Zircon
Zircon is a relatively hard gemstone, but it should still be handled with care to avoid damage. It can be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap, and it should be kept away from harsh chemicals and direct sunlight. Zircon can be sensitive to heat, so it is important to avoid exposing it to high temperatures.
Zircon should be stored in a cool, dry place to prevent it from becoming brittle. It is important to handle zircon with care, as it can be easily scratched and damaged. Regular inspection and cleaning will help ensure that the stone remains in good condition.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is a relatively soft gemstone and should be handled with care to avoid damage. It can be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap, and it should be kept away from harsh chemicals and direct sunlight. Tanzanite is sensitive to heat and should be kept away from high temperatures.
Tanzanite should be stored in a cool, dry place to prevent it from becoming brittle. It is important to handle tanzanite with care, as it can be easily scratched and damaged. Regular inspection and cleaning will help ensure that the stone remains in good condition.
Blue Topaz
Blue Topaz is a relatively hard gemstone and is suitable for everyday wear. It can be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap, and it should be kept away from harsh chemicals and direct sunlight. Blue Topaz is not sensitive to heat and can be worn in a variety of settings.
Blue Topaz should be stored in a cool, dry place to prevent it from becoming brittle. It is important to handle blue topaz with care, as it can be easily scratched and damaged. Regular inspection and cleaning will help ensure that the stone remains in good condition.
Conclusion
December's four birthstones—Tanzanite, Turquoise, Blue Zircon, and Blue Topaz—each offer a unique blend of history, beauty, and symbolism. These gemstones, all characterized by their cool blue hues, have captivated gem enthusiasts for centuries. From the ancient reverence for turquoise to the modern discovery of tanzanite, each stone carries a rich legacy that continues to inspire. Whether used in jewelry or as a personal talisman, these gemstones offer a connection to the past and a symbol of the month's enduring charm.
Sources
- The True December Birthstones: A Guide to Their History, Properties, and Symbolism
- What is December’s Birthstone?
- December Birthstones: Blue Topaz, Blue Zircon, Tanzanite and Turquoise
- Complete List of December Birthstones
- December Birthstone Guide: Meaning, Colours, Zodiac Signs & Alternatives
- December Birthstone