December, the final month of the year, is unique in the world of birthstones in that it is the only month associated with four officially recognized gemstones: Tanzanite, Turquoise, Blue Zircon, and Blue Topaz. Among these, Tanzanite holds a particularly special place as the birthstone for those born on December 5th. Discovered relatively recently in the 20th century, Tanzanite is a marvel of both geological rarity and aesthetic beauty. Its vivid blue-violet hues, its ties to transformation and serenity, and its limited geographic origin make it a compelling subject for gemologists, jewelers, and collectors alike.
This article provides a detailed exploration of Tanzanite, focusing on its geological properties, historical context, symbolic meaning, and care requirements. By examining its scientific composition, cultural significance, and practical considerations for use in jewelry, we aim to offer a comprehensive understanding of why Tanzanite remains a cherished gemstone for December 5th birthdays.
History and Lore of Tanzanite
Tanzanite is a relatively modern gemstone in the context of human history. It was first discovered in 1967 in the Merelani Hills near Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, making it one of the newest gemstones to be added to the birthstone list. The discovery was made by Manuel de la Torre, a Spanish geologist, while he was exploring the region. The stone was initially mistaken for another gem, but its unique color and properties soon caught the attention of the gemological community.
The stone was named after Tanzania, the country in which it is found. Tanzanite was officially recognized as a birthstone for December in 2002 by the American Gem Trade Association. Its addition to the list was partly due to its striking appearance and partly due to its rarity, which made it an appealing choice for a birthstone that could stand apart from the more traditional options.
Tanzanite has since become a popular choice for jewelry, especially in rings, pendants, and earrings. Its color, which ranges from deep violet to intense blue, is known to shift depending on the light source, a property that adds to its allure. This phenomenon is due to the presence of vanadium in the stone, which is responsible for its rich and varied color palette.
In terms of cultural significance, Tanzanite is often associated with transformation, intuition, and spiritual awakening. It is believed to help individuals navigate through life changes with grace and clarity. Some sources suggest that Tanzanite encourages emotional balance and promotes a sense of calm in times of stress. These qualities have made it a favored gemstone in both modern and traditional metaphysical practices.
Geological Formation and Sources of Tanzanite
Tanzanite is a type of zoisite, a mineral that belongs to the epidote group. Its chemical composition is Ca₂Al₃(SiO₄)(Si₂O₇)O(OH), and it is often found in metamorphic rock formations. The presence of vanadium is what gives Tanzanite its distinctive blue-violet color. What makes Tanzanite particularly rare is that the geological conditions required for its formation are extremely specific and occur in only one location in the world: the Merelani Hills in Tanzania.
The Merelani Hills are located in the Manyara region of Tanzania, near the border with Kenya. The area is known for its rich deposits of Tanzanite, which are mined from alluvial deposits and open-pit mines. The mining process is relatively straightforward, but the limited geographic distribution of the gemstone means that supply is constrained, contributing to its high value in the market.
The rarity of Tanzanite is further compounded by the fact that it is a relatively soft gemstone compared to others on the Mohs scale. It has a hardness of 6 to 6.5, which makes it more susceptible to scratches and damage than harder gemstones like diamond or sapphire. This has implications for its use in jewelry, as it requires careful handling and specific cleaning methods to preserve its beauty over time.
Gemological Properties of Tanzanite
Tanzanite is known for its vibrant color, which is the result of a unique combination of factors. The presence of vanadium in its crystal structure is the primary reason for its blue-violet hue. However, the color can vary depending on the angle at which the stone is cut and the lighting conditions in which it is viewed. This color change effect is one of the most distinctive features of Tanzanite and is a key factor in its appeal.
In terms of clarity, Tanzanite is typically found with inclusions, which are natural imperfections that can be seen within the stone. These inclusions are not considered flaws but rather part of the stone’s character and can even enhance its beauty by adding depth and interest. Tanzanite is often cut in a way that minimizes the appearance of inclusions while maximizing its color and brilliance.
The refractive index of Tanzanite ranges from 1.694 to 1.708, which gives it a moderate level of brilliance. It is also pleochroic, meaning that it exhibits different colors when viewed from different angles. This property is particularly noticeable in Tanzanite, as it can appear blue, violet, or even brown depending on the direction of light.
Tanzanite is commonly faceted to enhance its color and brilliance. The most popular cut for Tanzanite is the oval cut, which helps to showcase its deep, rich color. Other popular cuts include the cushion, emerald, and round cuts, each of which offers a different aesthetic appeal.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Tanzanite is often associated with emotional and spiritual transformation. It is believed to help individuals navigate through change with greater ease and confidence. Some sources suggest that Tanzanite encourages self-reflection and helps individuals to understand their emotions more deeply. This makes it a popular choice for those who are undergoing major life transitions or seeking personal growth.
In terms of metaphysical properties, Tanzanite is thought to promote inner peace and calmness. It is believed to help reduce stress and anxiety, making it an ideal gemstone for those who are dealing with difficult situations. Some sources also suggest that Tanzanite can help enhance intuition and spiritual awareness, making it a valuable tool for meditation and self-discovery.
Tanzanite is also associated with the throat and third eye chakras. These chakras are believed to govern communication, self-expression, and spiritual insight. By wearing or meditating with Tanzanite, individuals may be able to enhance their ability to communicate effectively and access higher levels of consciousness.
In terms of cultural significance, Tanzanite is often used in jewelry as a symbol of transformation and renewal. It is believed to bring positive energy and support to those who are going through a period of change in their lives. This makes it a meaningful choice for December 5th birthdays, as it aligns with the themes of growth, renewal, and self-discovery.
Care and Cleaning of Tanzanite
Due to its relatively low hardness on the Mohs scale, Tanzanite requires special care to maintain its beauty and integrity. It is important to avoid exposing Tanzanite to harsh chemicals, extreme temperatures, or abrasive materials, as these can cause damage to the stone. Tanzanite should also be stored separately from other gemstones to prevent scratches or chips.
When it comes to cleaning Tanzanite, it is best to use a gentle approach. A mild soap solution and a soft cloth or brush can be used to remove dirt and debris. It is important to avoid using ultrasonic or steam cleaners, as these can cause the stone to crack or become discolored. After cleaning, Tanzanite should be rinsed with warm water and dried with a soft cloth.
Tanzanite should also be protected from prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, as this can cause the color to fade over time. It is best to store Tanzanite in a dark, dry place when it is not being worn. If Tanzanite is to be worn in jewelry, it should be handled with care to avoid impacts or pressure that could damage the stone.
In terms of jewelry design, Tanzanite is best suited for pieces that are not subject to constant wear or impact. It is ideal for pendants, earrings, and brooches, which can be worn with care and preserved for many years. For rings, Tanzanite is best suited for those who can take extra precautions to protect it from scratches and damage.
Conclusion
Tanzanite is a remarkable gemstone that holds a special place as the birthstone for December 5th. Its unique color, geological rarity, and symbolic significance make it a compelling choice for those who were born on this date. Discovered relatively recently in the Merelani Hills of Tanzania, Tanzanite has quickly become a beloved gemstone due to its striking appearance and meaningful properties.
The gemological properties of Tanzanite, including its vivid blue-violet color, pleochroism, and moderate hardness, make it a fascinating subject for study and appreciation. Its association with transformation, intuition, and emotional balance has made it a popular choice in both traditional and modern metaphysical practices.
Despite its beauty and allure, Tanzanite requires careful handling and maintenance to preserve its quality and appearance. With proper care, Tanzanite can be enjoyed for many years and passed down through generations as a treasured heirloom.
As the only month with four officially recognized birthstones, December offers a unique opportunity to explore a diverse range of gemstones, each with its own history, properties, and symbolism. Tanzanite, with its captivating color and meaningful properties, stands out as a particularly special choice for those born on December 5th.