For those born on December 19th, the birthstone tradition offers a unique and multifaceted selection: tanzanite, turquoise, and zircon. These gemstones are more than just decorative stones—they carry symbolic, historical, and spiritual significance, reflecting the rich tapestry of December’s birthstone lore. This article explores the geological, cultural, and metaphysical dimensions of these three gemstones, offering a comprehensive look at their properties, origins, and the roles they play in both modern and ancient traditions.
Introduction
December is one of the few months in the birthstone calendar that features multiple gemstones, a decision made to provide a broader range of aesthetic and symbolic options for December-born individuals. Specifically, December 19th is associated with tanzanite, turquoise, and zircon, each of which contributes its own unique color, history, and meaning to the birthstone tradition.
Tanzanite, a relatively modern discovery from Tanzania, is prized for its vibrant blue to violet hues and its symbolic association with success. Turquoise, one of the oldest known gemstones in human history, has been used for millennia as a protective and spiritual talisman. Zircon, with its brilliance and rainbow-like fire, is one of the oldest minerals on Earth and is revered for its clarity and historical significance.
This article will explore each of these gemstones in detail, covering their geological properties, historical significance, metaphysical attributes, and care instructions. The discussion is grounded in the information found in the provided sources, ensuring accuracy and consistency in the presentation of each stone’s role in the December 19th birthstone tradition.
History and Lore
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is the most recent of the three December birthstones to be officially recognized. Discovered in the late 1960s in the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, tanzanite was first identified as a rare variety of the mineral columbite. The stone was later reclassified as a type of zoisite, and its striking blue to violet coloration is due to trace amounts of vanadium within its crystal structure.
Despite its modern origins, tanzanite quickly gained popularity due to its color and the fact that it is found only in Tanzania, making it one of the rarest gemstones in the world. The limited geographic source of tanzanite has also contributed to its status as a symbol of rarity and exclusivity. As a December birthstone, tanzanite is associated with success, prosperity, and personal growth, making it a meaningful choice for those born on December 19th.
Turquoise
Turquoise is one of the oldest known gemstones, with evidence of its use dating back to 4000 BCE in Mesopotamia, Egypt, and China. Ancient cultures believed that turquoise had protective and healing properties, and it was often used to craft amulets, jewelry, and ritual objects. In Egypt, turquoise was associated with the goddess Hathor, and it was believed to protect the wearer from harm and bring good fortune.
In Native American cultures, particularly among the Navajo and Hopi tribes, turquoise is considered a spiritual stone that connects the sky and earth, symbolizing fertility, protection, and vitality. Turquoise is also associated with clarity of thought and emotional balance, making it a popular choice for those seeking emotional harmony and spiritual insight.
For December 19th, turquoise is one of the traditional December birthstones and is often chosen for its historical significance and deep blue color, which mirrors the winter skies and symbolizes calm and peace.
Zircon
Zircon is one of the oldest minerals on Earth, with some zircon crystals found in Australia dating back 4.4 billion years, making them among the oldest known materials on the planet. The gemstone has been known and used for centuries, though it was often confused with other gemstones due to its similar appearance.
Historically, zircon has been used in jewelry and religious artifacts, and it was particularly valued in Persia and ancient Rome for its brilliance and refractive fire. Zircon is also known for its wide range of colors, from golden yellow to deep red and blue, making it a versatile gemstone.
As a December birthstone, zircon is especially valued for its sparkling fire and clarity, and it is often associated with wisdom, clarity, and spiritual insight. For those born on December 19th, zircon is considered a stone of transformation, helping to illuminate new paths and foster personal growth.
Geological Formation and Sources
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is a variety of zoisite, a calcium aluminum silicate with the chemical formula Ca₂Al₃(SiO₄)₃(OH). The gemstone is formed under high-pressure, low-temperature conditions in the metamorphic rocks of the Uluguru Mountains in northern Tanzania. The presence of vanadium in the crystal structure is responsible for the stone’s vibrant blue to violet coloration.
Due to its limited geographic origin, tanzanite is considered rare and valuable, and its supply is expected to diminish over time as mining operations continue. Tanzanite is typically cut into cabochons or faceted stones, depending on the desired aesthetic and clarity of the material.
Turquoise
Turquoise is a phosphate mineral with the chemical formula CuAl₆(PO₄)₄(OH)₈·4H₂O. It forms in arid regions where copper-rich rocks are exposed to the surface and interact with phosphate-bearing water. This process leads to the formation of turquoise deposits in cavities, cracks, and veins in the rock.
Major sources of turquoise include the United States (Arizona, New Mexico), Iran, China, and Egypt. The American Southwest is particularly famous for its high-quality turquoise, which has been used by Native American tribes for centuries in jewelry and ceremonial objects.
Turquoise is typically opaque to translucent and is often treated with oil or wax to enhance its color and durability. It is most commonly cut into cabochons, as its uneven surface and porosity make it unsuitable for faceting.
Zircon
Zircon is a zirconium silicate with the chemical formula ZrSiO₄. It forms in igneous and metamorphic rocks and is known for its high refractive index and dispersion, which give it a sparkling, fire-like appearance. Zircon is found in a wide range of colors, from golden yellow (known as cushion zircon) to blue, red, and green.
Major sources of zircon include Australia, Brazil, Cambodia, and Thailand. The blue variety of zircon, in particular, is popular in jewelry and is often heat-treated to enhance its color.
Zircon is relatively hard, with a Mohs hardness of 6.5 to 7.5, making it suitable for daily wear in jewelry. It is often cut into brilliant-cut stones to showcase its fire and brilliance, and it is considered a budget-friendly alternative to diamonds in certain settings.
Gemological Properties
| Gemstone | Color | Hardness (Mohs) | Refractive Index | Transparency | Chemical Formula | Source Country |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tanzanite | Blue to violet | 6–7 | 1.69–1.70 | Transparent to translucent | Ca₂Al₃(SiO₄)₃(OH) | Tanzania |
| Turquoise | Blue to green | 5–6 | 1.61–1.63 | Opaque to translucent | CuAl₆(PO₄)₄(OH)₈·4H₂O | USA, Iran, China |
| Zircon | Multicolored (golden, blue, red, etc.) | 6.5–7.5 | 1.92–2.00 | Transparent to translucent | ZrSiO₄ | Australia, Brazil, Thailand |
Tanzanite
- Color: Tanzanite is known for its vibrant blue to violet hues, which are caused by the presence of vanadium in the crystal structure.
- Hardness: With a Mohs hardness of 6–7, tanzanite is relatively hard and durable, but it is still susceptible to scratches and impacts.
- Refractive Index: Tanzanite has a refractive index of 1.69–1.70, which contributes to its brilliance and depth of color.
- Transparency: Tanzanite is typically transparent to translucent, and it is often cut into cabochons or faceted stones to enhance its color and clarity.
- Chemical Composition: Tanzanite is a zoisite mineral with the chemical formula Ca₂Al₃(SiO₄)₃(OH).
Turquoise
- Color: Turquoise ranges from light blue to deep green, depending on the concentration of copper and iron in the stone.
- Hardness: With a Mohs hardness of 5–6, turquoise is relatively soft and porous, making it susceptible to scratches and chemical damage.
- Refractive Index: Turquoise has a refractive index of 1.61–1.63, which contributes to its translucent and waxy appearance.
- Transparency: Turquoise is opaque to translucent, and it is often treated with oil or wax to enhance its color and durability.
- Chemical Composition: Turquoise is a phosphate mineral with the chemical formula CuAl₆(PO₄)₄(OH)₈·4H₂O.
Zircon
- Color: Zircon is known for its wide range of colors, from golden yellow to blue, red, and green. The blue variety is particularly popular in jewelry.
- Hardness: Zircon has a Mohs hardness of 6.5–7.5, making it durable and suitable for daily wear in jewelry.
- Refractive Index: Zircon has a high refractive index of 1.92–2.00, which gives it a sparkling, fire-like appearance.
- Transparency: Zircon is transparent to translucent, and it is often cut into brilliant-cut stones to showcase its brilliance and fire.
- Chemical Composition: Zircon is a zirconium silicate with the chemical formula ZrSiO₄.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Tanzanite
In metaphysical traditions, tanzanite is associated with spiritual growth, emotional healing, and transformation. It is believed to help the wearer release negative emotions, open the heart and mind, and connect with higher spiritual realms. Tanzanite is also considered a stone of success, helping individuals achieve their goals and manifest their desires.
Tanzanite is associated with the third eye and crown chakras, which are linked to intuition, spiritual insight, and cosmic consciousness. As a December birthstone, tanzanite is believed to help December 19th born individuals navigate life's challenges with grace and wisdom, and to embrace new opportunities with confidence and clarity.
Turquoise
Turquoise is one of the most widely used metaphysical gemstones in history, and it is associated with protection, healing, and emotional balance. It is believed to absorb negative energy, promote calm and tranquility, and enhance communication and self-expression.
In Native American traditions, turquoise is considered a spiritual stone that connects the sky and earth, and it is often used in ceremonies and rituals to promote healing and balance. Turquoise is also associated with the thymus gland and the throat chakra, making it a popular choice for those seeking emotional and spiritual harmony.
As a December birthstone, turquoise is believed to help December 19th born individuals connect with their inner wisdom, navigate life's challenges with grace and clarity, and embrace new opportunities with courage and confidence.
Zircon
Zircon is associated with clarity, wisdom, and spiritual insight in metaphysical traditions. It is believed to enhance mental clarity, stimulate the intellect, and promote self-awareness and personal growth. Zircon is also considered a stone of transformation, helping individuals release old patterns and embrace new possibilities.
Zircon is associated with the third eye and crown chakras, and it is believed to enhance spiritual insight, intuition, and cosmic consciousness. As a December birthstone, zircon is believed to help December 19th born individuals connect with their higher self, navigate life's challenges with wisdom and clarity, and embrace new opportunities with confidence and courage.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care is essential to maintain the beauty and longevity of your December birthstones—tanzanite, turquoise, and zircon. Each of these gemstones has different care requirements, and understanding these will help you preserve their brilliance and color for years to come.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is relatively durable with a Mohs hardness of 6–7, but it is still susceptible to scratches and impacts. To care for tanzanite:
- Avoid exposure to harsh chemicals, as they can damage the stone's surface and color.
- Clean the stone with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth to remove dirt and oils.
- Store tanzanite separately from other gemstones to prevent scratches and abrasions.
- Avoid exposing tanzanite to extreme temperatures, as this can cause internal stress and cracking.
Turquoise
Turquoise is relatively soft and porous, with a Mohs hardness of 5–6, making it susceptible to scratches and chemical damage. To care for turquoise:
- Avoid exposure to harsh chemicals, as they can damage the stone's surface and color.
- Clean turquoise with a soft cloth and mild soap, and avoid using ultrasonic cleaners, which can damage the stone.
- Avoid exposing turquoise to water for extended periods, as this can cause the stone to absorb water and lose its color.
- Store turquoise in a dry, cool place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
Zircon
Zircon is relatively hard and durable, with a Mohs hardness of 6.5–7.5, making it suitable for daily wear in jewelry. To care for zircon:
- Avoid exposure to harsh chemicals, as they can damage the stone's surface and color.
- Clean zircon with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth to remove dirt and oils.
- Avoid using ultrasonic cleaners, as they can damage the stone.
- Store zircon in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
Conclusion
For those born on December 19th, the birthstone tradition offers a rich and diverse selection of gemstones—tanzanite, turquoise, and zircon. Each of these stones carries its own unique history, symbolism, and properties, and they are all deeply connected to the themes of growth, transformation, and success.
Tanzanite is a modern gemstone that is rare and valuable, and it is associated with spiritual growth and personal success. Turquoise is an ancient gemstone that has been used for thousands of years in protective and spiritual practices, and it is believed to promote emotional balance and harmony. Zircon is one of the oldest minerals on Earth, and it is renowned for its brilliance and fire, making it a popular choice for jewelry and spiritual practices.
Together, these three gemstones form a triad of meaning and beauty, offering December 19th born individuals a rich and meaningful connection to the world of gemstones and jewelry. Whether worn for their aesthetic appeal, symbolic significance, or spiritual properties, these stones are a testament to the enduring power and beauty of gemstones in human history.