December, the final month of the year, is marked by a unique distinction in the world of birthstones: it is associated with not one, but four gemstones. These include Turquoise, Tanzanite, Blue Topaz, and Zircon—each with its own color, history, and symbolism. These gemstones reflect the cool, wintery hues of December and offer a range of options for jewelry, from the soft sky blues of turquoise to the deep violet-blue of tanzanite.
This article explores the four official December birthstones in detail, covering their geological formation, historical significance, gemological properties, and the cultural meanings they carry. Whether you are a gemstone enthusiast, a jewelry buyer, or simply curious about the stones that mark the end of the year, this guide provides an in-depth look at what makes these stones special.
Introduction
December birthstone lore is rich and varied. Unlike many months, which are associated with a single gemstone, December is linked to multiple stones, offering a wider range of choices for those seeking to celebrate a December birthday. The inclusion of multiple birthstones is a nod to the diversity of blue hues and the different symbolic meanings that each stone carries.
Each of the four December birthstones—Turquoise, Tanzanite, Blue Topaz, and Zircon—has a distinct appearance and history. Turquoise, the most ancient of the group, has been used for thousands of years in jewelry and ceremonial objects. Tanzanite, the rarest, was discovered in the 20th century and is found only in one location on Earth. Blue Topaz is prized for its durability and affordability, while Zircon, though not always listed among the official December stones, is often included due to its striking brilliance and affordability.
This guide will explore the history, properties, symbolism, and care for each of these gemstones, based on information drawn from a variety of sources.
History and Lore
Turquoise
Turquoise has one of the longest and most storied histories of any gemstone. It has been used for thousands of years in jewelry, amulets, and ceremonial objects. Ancient cultures across the world, including the Egyptians, Persians, Chinese, and Native Americans, valued turquoise for its beauty and believed it to possess protective and healing properties.
In ancient Egypt, turquoise was used to adorn the mummies of pharaohs and was considered a sacred stone that connected the divine and the earthly. The Egyptians believed it brought protection and was a symbol of life and immortality. In the Americas, turquoise was used by Native American tribes such as the Navajo and Zuni for jewelry and ceremonial items. These tribes believed that turquoise could bring good fortune, health, and protection from evil.
Turquoise was also highly valued in the East, particularly in China and Persia, where it was used in inlay work and jewelry. It was often associated with royalty and was considered a symbol of power and divine favor.
The name "turquoise" is derived from the French word "pierre turquoise," meaning "Turkish stone," as the stone was once imported through Turkey from mines in Persia and Central Asia.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is the newest of the four December birthstones and is notable for being one of the rarest gemstones in the world. It was discovered in 1967 in Tanzania by a Masai herdsman and was later identified as a new variety of the mineral zoisite. Tanzanite was added to the list of December birthstones in 2002.
What makes tanzanite unique is its vibrant violet-blue color, which can shift depending on the light. This phenomenon is due to the presence of vanadium in the stone. Tanzanite is only found in the Merelani Hills in Tanzania, making it a gemstone with limited availability. Because of its rarity and beauty, tanzanite is considered a symbol of exclusivity and luxury.
Tanzanite is often associated with transformation and spiritual growth. Some believe that it can help individuals connect with their higher selves and enhance their intuition.
Blue Topaz
Blue Topaz, the hardest of the four December birthstones, was added to the list in the 20th century. Unlike tanzanite and turquoise, blue topaz is not a naturally occurring blue gemstone. Instead, most blue topaz is created through irradiation and heat treatment of colorless topaz. This process allows for a wide range of blue shades, from pale sky blue to deep London blue.
Topaz has been known and valued since ancient times. The name "topaz" comes from the Greek word "topazos," referring to an island in the Red Sea where the stone was once believed to be found. In ancient times, topaz was thought to have healing and protective properties. It was also believed to be a stone of strength and vitality.
Blue Topaz is associated with communication, calmness, and wisdom. It is a durable gemstone, with a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale, making it suitable for everyday wear in jewelry.
Zircon
Zircon is not officially listed as one of the four December birthstones, but it is often included as an alternative. Zircon, particularly in its blue form, is known for its brilliance and fire, often rivaling diamonds. It was added to the December birthstone list in 1952.
Zircon has a long history of use in jewelry and was once mistaken for diamonds due to its refractive properties. The name "zircon" is derived from the Arabic word "zarkun," meaning "gold-colored," though zircon comes in a variety of colors, including red, green, brown, and blue.
Blue zircon is especially popular and is often used as an affordable alternative to other blue gemstones. It is known for its clarity and sparkle, making it a popular choice for engagement rings and other fine jewelry.
Geological Formation and Sources
Each of the December birthstones has a unique geological origin and is found in specific locations around the world.
Turquoise
Turquoise is a hydrated phosphate of aluminum and copper, with the chemical formula CuAl₆(PO₄)₄(OH)₈·4H₂O. It forms in the oxidized zones of copper deposits and is often found in arid regions. The color of turquoise can vary depending on the presence of copper (which gives it blue tones) and iron (which can give it green tones).
Major sources of turquoise include Iran, the United States (particularly Arizona and Nevada), Tibet, and India. Each of these locations produces turquoise with distinct characteristics, such as the famous Persian turquoise from Iran, which is known for its intense blue color and minimal matrix.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is a variety of the mineral zoisite, with the chemical formula Ca₂Al₃(SiO₄)(Si₂O₇)O(OH) and the presence of vanadium, which gives it its characteristic violet-blue color. It is only found in the Merelani Hills of Tanzania, making it one of the rarest gemstones in the world.
Tanzanite forms in metamorphic rocks under high-pressure conditions. The unique geological conditions in Tanzania allow for the formation of this gemstone, and no other location in the world produces tanzanite.
Blue Topaz
Blue Topaz is a silicate mineral with the chemical formula Al₂SiO₆. Most blue topaz is created through irradiation and heat treatment of colorless topaz. This process allows for a wide range of blue colors, from pale sky blue to deep London blue.
Topaz is found in a variety of locations around the world, including Brazil, Mexico, Russia, and the United States. Brazil is one of the largest producers of topaz, particularly blue topaz.
Zircon
Zircon is a zirconium silicate with the chemical formula ZrSiO₄. It is found in a variety of colors, including red, green, brown, and blue. Blue zircon is the most popular and is created through heat treatment.
Zircon is found in many locations around the world, including Australia, Cambodia, and Madagascar. Blue zircon is particularly popular due to its affordability and brilliance.
Gemological Properties
Each of the December birthstones has its own set of gemological properties, including hardness, color, and refractive index.
| Gemstone | Color | Hardness (Mohs) | Chemical Formula | Refractive Index | Transparency |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Turquoise | Sky blue, greenish-blue | 5 – 6 | CuAl₆(PO₄)₄(OH)₈·4H₂O | 1.61 – 1.65 | Opaque |
| Tanzanite | Violet-blue | 6 – 7 | Ca₂Al₃(SiO₄)(Si₂O₇)O(OH) | 1.694 – 1.704 | Transparent |
| Blue Topaz | Icy blue | 8 | Al₂SiO₆ | 1.619 – 1.627 | Transparent |
| Zircon | Blue, colorless, etc. | 6 – 7.5 | ZrSiO₄ | 1.92 – 2.01 | Transparent |
Turquoise
Turquoise is a relatively soft gemstone with a hardness of 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale. It is opaque and has a waxy to greasy luster. Because of its softness, it is not recommended for everyday wear and can be easily scratched or damaged.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite has a hardness of 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale. It is a transparent gemstone with a vitreous luster. Tanzanite is known for its strong pleochroism, meaning it can display different colors when viewed from different angles.
Blue Topaz
Blue Topaz is one of the hardest December birthstones, with a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale. It is a transparent gemstone with a glassy luster. Because of its durability, it is suitable for everyday wear.
Zircon
Zircon has a hardness of 6 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale. It is a transparent gemstone with a vitreous to adamantine luster. Blue zircon is particularly popular due to its brilliance and fire.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Each of the December birthstones is associated with specific symbolic meanings and metaphysical properties.
Turquoise
Turquoise has long been associated with protection, healing, and good fortune. In many ancient cultures, it was believed to have protective powers and was used as an amulet to ward off evil and bring good luck.
In Native American cultures, turquoise is considered a sacred stone that connects the earth and sky. It is also believed to promote calmness, wisdom, and clarity.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is associated with transformation, spiritual awareness, and emotional healing. It is believed to help individuals connect with their higher selves and enhance their intuition. Because of its rarity, it is also seen as a symbol of exclusivity and luxury.
Blue Topaz
Blue Topaz is associated with communication, calmness, and wisdom. It is believed to help individuals express themselves clearly and confidently. It is also thought to promote inner peace and emotional balance.
Zircon
Zircon is associated with clarity, wisdom, and a sense of balance. It is believed to help individuals make clear and rational decisions. Blue zircon is particularly popular for its brilliance and is often used as a substitute for diamonds.
Care and Cleaning
Each of the December birthstones requires specific care to maintain its beauty and longevity.
| Gemstone | Care Instructions |
|---|---|
| Turquoise | Avoid exposure to chemicals, oils, and direct sunlight. Clean with a soft cloth and mild soap. Store separately to prevent scratches. |
| Tanzanite | Handle with care as it is a softer gemstone. Avoid exposure to harsh chemicals and heat. Clean with warm soapy water and a soft cloth. |
| Blue Topaz | Clean with warm soapy water and a soft cloth. Avoid exposure to sudden temperature changes. |
| Zircon | Clean with warm soapy water and a soft cloth. Avoid exposure to harsh chemicals. |
Each December birthstone should be stored separately to prevent scratches and damage. It is also recommended to avoid wearing turquoise or tanzanite in situations where the gemstone may be exposed to impact or abrasion.
Conclusion
The December birthstones—Turquoise, Tanzanite, Blue Topaz, and Zircon—offer a rich and diverse selection of gemstones that reflect the cool, wintery hues of the season. Each stone has its own unique history, properties, and symbolism, making them a meaningful choice for those born in December.
Turquoise, with its ancient history and protective qualities, has been cherished for thousands of years. Tanzanite, the rarest and most exclusive of the group, is known for its vibrant violet-blue color and spiritual significance. Blue Topaz, the hardest of the four, is a durable and affordable gemstone that is perfect for everyday wear. Zircon, though not officially listed as a December birthstone, is often included due to its brilliance and affordability.
Whether you are a gemstone enthusiast, a jewelry buyer, or simply curious about the stones that mark the end of the year, the December birthstones offer a fascinating glimpse into the world of gemology and their enduring appeal.
Sources
- December Birthstones: Turquoise & Blue Topaz Jewelry Ideas
- The December birthstone offers a dazzling array of blue-hued gemstones that reflect the cool beauty of winter
- December shines with vibrant and cool-toned birthstones that reflect serenity and wisdom
- Celebrate every month with a piece from our curated birthstone jewelry collection
- If you were born in December, you’re lucky enough to have not one, but three stunning birthstones to choose from: turquoise, blue topaz, and tanzanite
- The true December birthstones: A guide to their history, properties, and symbolism