If you were born on December 22, your birthstone is associated with three distinct yet equally captivating gemstones: Tanzanite, Turquoise, and Zircon. These stones carry a rich history, unique geological properties, and a variety of symbolic meanings that make them more than just beautiful adornments. Whether you are a gemstone enthusiast, a jewelry buyer, or simply someone born on this date, understanding the significance of these December 22 birthstones can offer a deeper appreciation of their allure and value.
This article explores the characteristics, origins, and cultural importance of Tanzanite, Turquoise, and Zircon—three gemstones that together represent the birthstone of December 22. From their formation deep within the Earth to their roles in ancient traditions and modern spirituality, these stones have been cherished for centuries for their beauty and symbolic power.
History and Lore
The concept of birthstones—assigning specific gemstones to each month of the year—dates back to ancient civilizations. One of the earliest references to this tradition appears in the Breastplate of Aaron, a sacred artifact mentioned in the Hebrew Bible, which lists twelve gemstones representing the twelve tribes of Israel. Over time, these associations evolved, and by the 16th century, European traditions had developed a version of birthstones aligned with the months of the year.
By the 20th century, the modern list of birthstones was officially established. For December, three gemstones—Tanzanite, Turquoise, and Zircon—are recognized as the official birthstones for December 22. Each of these stones has its own unique history and has been revered in different cultures for their beauty and believed properties.
Tanzanite, in particular, is a relatively modern discovery. It was first discovered in 1967 in Tanzania, a country from which it takes its name. This gemstone quickly became a popular alternative to traditional December birthstones like Turquoise and Zircon due to its striking blue-violet color and rarity. Turquoise, on the other hand, has a much older history, with evidence of its use dating back to ancient Egypt and the Americas. It was highly valued by the Egyptians for its vibrant blue color and was often used in jewelry and amulets. Zircon, the third gemstone associated with December 22, has been known to humanity for thousands of years and is found in a wide variety of colors, though the blue and colorless varieties are most commonly used in jewelry.
These gemstones have also been associated with specific meanings and metaphysical properties. Tanzanite is often linked to emotional healing, spiritual growth, and the release of fear and anxiety. Turquoise is believed to promote protection, wisdom, and good fortune, while Zircon is associated with clarity, prosperity, and positive transformation. Together, these stones represent a powerful combination of attributes that can support individuals born on December 22 in their personal and professional lives.
Geological Formation and Sources
The formation of Tanzanite, Turquoise, and Zircon is as diverse and fascinating as the stones themselves. Each gemstone has a unique geological origin and is found in specific regions of the world, contributing to their rarity and value.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is a type of zoisite that forms under specific geological conditions. It is found only in the Merelani Hills of Tanzania, where it is mined from metamorphic rocks. The gemstone gets its distinctive blue-violet color from the presence of vanadium, a trace element that imparts its rich hue. Tanzanite is known for its pleochroism, a property that allows it to display different colors—blue, violet, and brown—depending on the angle of light. This unique characteristic makes each Tanzanite gemstone one of a kind.
Due to its limited source and the conditions required for its formation, Tanzanite is considered a rare gemstone. It has a hardness of 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale, which makes it suitable for use in jewelry but also means it requires careful handling to avoid scratches and chips.
Turquoise
Turquoise is a hydrated phosphate of aluminum and copper, and it forms in arid regions where copper-rich veins intersect with the groundwater. It is typically found in desert areas and is often mined from surface deposits. The most famous sources of high-quality turquoise include the United States (particularly Nevada and Arizona), Iran, China, and Egypt.
The color of turquoise can vary from a light blue to a deep greenish-blue, depending on the presence of copper and iron in the stone. The presence of matrix—distinct veins or patterns within the turquoise—can also affect its appearance and value. Turquoise with a rich blue color and minimal matrix is generally the most sought after.
Turquoise has a hardness of 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale, which means it is relatively soft compared to other gemstones. As a result, it requires special care to prevent damage from heat, chemicals, and physical impact.
Zircon
Zircon is a zirconium silicate that occurs in a wide range of colors, including blue, yellow, red, and colorless. The blue variety, known as "Starlite Zircon," is the most popular in jewelry. Zircon forms in metamorphic and igneous rocks and is found in several parts of the world, including Sri Lanka, Cambodia, Thailand, and the United States.
Zircon has a hardness of 6.5 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale, making it durable enough for everyday wear. However, it is sensitive to heat and can be damaged during the cutting and polishing process. As a result, zircon gemstones are often heat-treated to enhance their color and stability.
The geological diversity of these three gemstones highlights their unique characteristics and the importance of understanding their sources and properties for proper care and appreciation.
Comparison of Tanzanite, Turquoise, and Zircon
| Gemstone | Chemical Composition | Color | Hardness (Mohs) | Origin | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tanzanite | Calcium aluminum silicate with vanadium | Blue-violet | 6–7 | Tanzania | Pleochroism, rarity |
| Turquoise | Hydrated phosphate of aluminum and copper | Blue to greenish-blue | 5–6 | United States, Iran, China, Egypt | Matrix patterns, historical significance |
| Zircon | Zirconium silicate | Blue, yellow, red, colorless | 6.5–7.5 | Sri Lanka, Cambodia, Thailand, USA | Heat-treated for color, high refractive index |
Gemological Properties
Understanding the gemological properties of Tanzanite, Turquoise, and Zircon is essential for anyone interested in these gemstones, whether for personal collection, jewelry design, or academic study. These properties include color, clarity, cut, carat, hardness, and refractive index, all of which contribute to the beauty and value of each stone.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is known for its vibrant blue-violet color, which is a result of the presence of vanadium. The gemstone exhibits pleochroism, meaning it can display different colors depending on the angle of light. This property makes Tanzanite a unique and captivating gemstone. The most desirable Tanzanite stones are those with a rich blue color and minimal brown tones.
In terms of hardness, Tanzanite has a rating of 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale, which makes it relatively durable but still susceptible to scratches and chips. As a result, Tanzanite is best suited for use in jewelry that is worn with care. It has a refractive index of 1.69 to 1.70, which contributes to its brilliance and luster.
Tanzanite is often cut into cushion, oval, or emerald shapes to enhance its color and maximize its brilliance. The carat weight of Tanzanite can vary widely, with larger stones being rarer and more valuable. Clarity is also an important factor, with the most valuable Tanzanite stones being free of inclusions.
Turquoise
Turquoise is a semi-translucent gemstone that ranges in color from light blue to greenish-blue. The presence of copper and iron in the stone determines its hue. The most valuable turquoise has a rich blue color and minimal matrix, which refers to the dark veins or patterns within the stone.
Turquoise has a hardness of 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively soft compared to other gemstones. As a result, it requires special care to prevent damage from heat, chemicals, and physical impact. Turquoise is often stabilized with resins to improve its durability and enhance its color.
The refractive index of turquoise is relatively low, ranging from 1.61 to 1.63, which gives it a waxy luster rather than a glassy one. Turquoise is typically cut into cabochons or beads to showcase its color and patterns. The carat weight of turquoise can vary depending on the size and shape of the stone.
Zircon
Zircon is a zirconium silicate that occurs in a wide range of colors, including blue, yellow, red, and colorless. The blue variety, known as "Starlite Zircon," is the most popular in jewelry. Zircon has a hardness of 6.5 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale, making it durable enough for everyday wear. However, it is sensitive to heat and can be damaged during the cutting and polishing process.
Zircon has a high refractive index, ranging from 1.92 to 1.98, which gives it a brilliant, fire-like appearance. This property makes zircon a popular alternative to diamonds in jewelry. Zircon is often heat-treated to enhance its color and stability, and the most valuable stones are those with a deep blue color and minimal inclusions.
Zircon is typically cut into round, cushion, or emerald shapes to maximize its brilliance and color. The carat weight of zircon can vary widely, with larger stones being more valuable. Clarity is also an important factor, with the most valuable zircon stones being free of inclusions.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Each of the December 22 birthstones—Tanzanite, Turquoise, and Zircon—has its own unique symbolism and metaphysical properties that have been attributed to it across different cultures and time periods. These beliefs, while not scientifically proven, have contributed to the enduring popularity and significance of these gemstones.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is often associated with emotional healing, spiritual growth, and the release of fear and anxiety. It is believed to help individuals overcome past traumas and negative emotions, promoting a sense of peace and serenity. Tanzanite is also linked to intuition and psychic development, making it a popular choice for those seeking to enhance their spiritual awareness.
In many cultures, Tanzanite is considered a stone of transformation and renewal. It is believed to support individuals during times of change, helping them to adapt and grow. Tanzanite is also associated with the throat chakra, which governs communication and self-expression. As such, it is thought to help individuals express themselves more clearly and confidently.
Turquoise
Turquoise has long been associated with protection, wisdom, and good fortune. In ancient Egypt, turquoise was believed to have protective powers and was often used in amulets and jewelry to ward off evil spirits and negative energies. It was also associated with the gods and was considered a sacred stone.
In Native American cultures, turquoise is considered a sacred stone that represents the sky and the spirit world. It is believed to promote harmony, balance, and spiritual connection. Turquoise is also associated with the heart chakra, which governs love, compassion, and emotional healing. As such, it is thought to help individuals cultivate deeper emotional connections and enhance their ability to give and receive love.
Turquoise is also believed to have a calming effect on the mind and body, promoting mental clarity and emotional stability. It is often used in meditation and spiritual practices to enhance focus and inner peace.
Zircon
Zircon is associated with clarity, prosperity, and positive transformation. It is believed to help individuals overcome obstacles and achieve their goals by enhancing their ability to think clearly and make sound decisions. Zircon is also associated with the crown chakra, which governs spiritual connection and higher consciousness. As such, it is thought to help individuals connect with their higher selves and access their inner wisdom.
In many cultures, zircon is considered a stone of good fortune and prosperity. It is believed to attract wealth, abundance, and success, making it a popular choice for those seeking to enhance their financial and personal goals. Zircon is also associated with the power of transformation, helping individuals shed old patterns and beliefs to embrace new beginnings.
Zircon is also believed to have a grounding effect, helping individuals stay connected to the present moment and find balance in their lives. It is often used in meditation and spiritual practices to promote inner strength and resilience.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care and cleaning are essential for maintaining the beauty and longevity of Tanzanite, Turquoise, and Zircon. Each gemstone has unique properties that require specific handling and maintenance to prevent damage and ensure its continued brilliance.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite has a hardness of 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively durable but still susceptible to scratches and chips. It is important to handle Tanzanite with care to avoid damaging the stone. Tanzanite should not be exposed to harsh chemicals, as it can be sensitive to acids and other corrosive substances.
To clean Tanzanite, use a soft cloth and mild soap with warm water. Gently wipe the stone and avoid using abrasive materials that can scratch the surface. Tanzanite should also be kept away from high temperatures, as it can be sensitive to heat. Store Tanzanite separately from other gemstones to prevent scratches.
Turquoise
Turquoise is a relatively soft gemstone with a hardness of 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale, making it susceptible to scratches and damage. It is also sensitive to heat, chemicals, and prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, which can cause it to fade or crack.
To clean Turquoise, use a soft cloth and mild soap with warm water. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials, as they can damage the stone. Turquoise should also be kept away from heat and direct sunlight to prevent fading. Store Turquoise separately from other gemstones to prevent scratches.
Zircon
Zircon has a hardness of 6.5 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively durable but still sensitive to heat. It can be damaged during the cutting and polishing process, so it is important to handle Zircon with care.
To clean Zircon, use a soft cloth and mild soap with warm water. Avoid using ultrasonic or steam cleaners, as they can cause the stone to become cloudy or damaged. Zircon should also be kept away from high temperatures to prevent damage.
Conclusion
The December 22 birthstones—Tanzanite, Turquoise, and Zircon—each offer a unique combination of beauty, history, and symbolism that makes them highly valued in the world of gemstones. From their geological origins and gemological properties to their cultural significance and metaphysical beliefs, these gemstones have been cherished for centuries for their aesthetic and symbolic value.
Whether you are a gemstone enthusiast, a jewelry buyer, or simply someone born on December 22, understanding the significance of these birthstones can deepen your appreciation of their beauty and meaning. By learning about their properties and proper care, you can ensure that these gemstones remain a cherished part of your collection for years to come.