December 16 is a date marked by the convergence of several unique gemstones that are recognized as birthstones for this day. Among the most notable are Tanzanite, Turquoise, and Zircon—each of which carries its own distinct history, symbolism, and gemological properties. These stones, though varied in their characteristics, are united in their association with the themes of success, protection, and inner strength, making them deeply meaningful for those born on this day.
This article explores the rich lore, scientific properties, and cultural significance of these gemstones, drawing from authoritative sources that provide insights into their origins, uses, and metaphysical beliefs. We will also examine the broader context of December’s birthstones, including their traditional and modern designations, and why December is uniquely represented by multiple gemstones.
A Brief Overview of December 16 Birthstones
For those born on December 16, the birthstone selection includes Tanzanite, Turquoise, and Zircon. These gemstones are celebrated for their vibrant colors, historical significance, and symbolic meanings. Each stone is believed to offer distinct benefits to the wearer, including enhancing loyalty, unity, and confidence, as well as providing spiritual guidance and positive energy.
Tanzanite, a relatively modern gemstone discovered in the 1960s, is known for its deep blue to violet hues and its exclusive origin in Tanzania, near Mount Kilimanjaro. Turquoise, on the other hand, has a much longer history, with archaeological evidence of its use dating back thousands of years. It has been valued across many ancient civilizations for its blue-green tones and its associations with protection, good fortune, and healing. Zircon, a gemstone with a brilliant fire and rainbow-like sparkle, is one of the oldest minerals on Earth and is often found in brown or yellow forms, though it can be heat-treated to produce vivid blue and red colors.
These stones not only represent the aesthetic diversity of December’s birthstones but also reflect the month’s cultural and spiritual richness.
History and Lore
Tanzanite: A Modern Marvel
Tanzanite was first discovered in 1967 in Merelani Hills, near Mount Kilimanjaro, in Tanzania. The gemstone was initially found as a brown-colored zircon, but when it was heat-treated, it transformed into a striking blue-violet gem. It was later named Tanzanite in honor of its country of origin. The stone was popularized by Hearts of the World, a jewelry company that partnered with the mine, and it quickly became a modern classic.
Tanzanite is known for its trichroism, a property where the stone can display three different colors (blue, violet, and red) depending on the angle of light. This phenomenon, combined with its trigonal crystal structure, gives Tanzanite a unique visual appeal. The stone was declared the December birthstone in 1969, and it quickly became a favorite for jewelry design due to its vibrant color and relative affordability.
Turquoise: A Stone of Ancient Reverence
Turquoise has one of the longest histories of any gemstone, with evidence of its use dating back to 5000 BCE in Persia (modern-day Iran). The name "turquoise" is derived from the French word "pierre turquoise", meaning Turkish stone, as it was once believed to have originated from Turkey. However, the most significant deposits of turquoise have been found in Central Asia, Mesoamerica, and the American Southwest, particularly in Arizona, New Mexico, and Nevada.
In many ancient cultures, turquoise was considered a stone of protection, healing, and spiritual communication. The Egyptians used it to adorn mummies, believing it would protect the soul in the afterlife. The Aztecs and Mayans used it in ceremonial objects, while the Navajo and Pueblo peoples of the American Southwest crafted it into jewelry and talismans for its positive energy and protective qualities.
During the Middle Ages, turquoise was also used in European jewelry, particularly in hats and rings, and it was believed to have healing properties for the lungs and throat. Today, it remains a popular gemstone, especially in Southwestern and bohemian jewelry styles.
Zircon: An Ancient and Brilliant Gem
Zircon is one of the oldest known minerals on Earth, with some zircon crystals found in Australia dating back over 4.4 billion years. Despite its ancient origins, zircon has not always been widely recognized as a gemstone. In the past, it was often mistaken for diamond or cubic zirconia, but it has since gained appreciation for its brilliant fire and color variation.
Zircon is found in a wide range of colors, including brown, yellow, red, green, and blue, with the blue variety being the most popular in jewelry. This color is achieved through heat treatment, a process that enhances the gemstone’s clarity and color. Zircon is also known for its high refractive index, which gives it a sparkling appearance that rivals that of diamond.
In ancient times, zircon was believed to have magical properties, including the ability to ward off evil spirits and bring good luck. It was also associated with dreams and visions, and it was thought to enhance intuition and spiritual insight.
Geological Formation and Sources
Tanzanite: A Unique Origin
Tanzanite is a type of zircon that contains trigonal crystal structures and is only found in Tanzania, near Mount Kilimanjaro. The gemstone is formed under high pressure and temperature conditions, where it undergoes metamorphic changes that result in its blue-violet coloration.
The Merelani Hills in Tanzania are the only known source of natural tanzanite. The gemstone is typically found in granitic rocks, and it is often mined in small-scale operations. Due to its limited geographic source, tanzanite is considered a rare gemstone, and its value has increased significantly since its discovery in the 1960s.
Turquoise: A Sedimentary Gem
Turquoise is a phosphide mineral that forms in sedimentary environments, particularly in arid regions where copper deposits are present. The stone is formed through a chemical reaction between copper and aluminum, which occurs in the presence of phosphoric acid and water.
The most famous sources of turquoise include:
- Nevada, USA
- Arizona, USA
- New Mexico, USA
- Iran
- Mongolia
- China
Each of these locations produces turquoise with distinct colors and patterns, influenced by the mineral composition and impurities in the surrounding rock. For example, Persian turquoise is known for its deep blue color and white matrix, while American turquoise often has a greener hue and brown or black veins.
Zircon: A Versatile Mineral
Zircon is a zirconium silicate mineral that is found in igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks around the world. It is a hard and durable gemstone, with a Mohs hardness of 6 to 7.5, making it suitable for jewelry use.
Zircon is found in a variety of geographic locations, including:
- Australia
- Brazil
- Madagascar
- India
- Myanmar
- Thailand
- United States
The blue zircon used in jewelry is typically heat-treated to enhance its color and clarity. Natural zircon can also occur in yellow, red, and green hues, though these are less common in the jewelry market.
Gemological Properties
The gemological properties of Tanzanite, Turquoise, and Zircon are as varied as their histories, and they each possess unique characteristics that make them valuable in both jewelry and collectibles.
| Gemstone | Color | Hardness (Mohs) | Chemical Composition | Origin | Transparency | Refractive Index | Specific Gravity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tanzanite | Blue to violet | 6 – 7 | CaAl₂(PO₄)₂(OH)₂ | Tanzania | Transparent | 1.69 – 1.72 | 3.1 – 3.4 |
| Turquoise | Blue-green | 5 – 6 | CuAl₆(PO₄)₄(OH)₈·4H₂O | USA, Iran, China | Opaque to translucent | 1.61 – 1.65 | 2.7 – 2.8 |
| Zircon | Brown, yellow, blue, red | 6 – 7.5 | ZrSiO₄ | Australia, Brazil, Thailand | Transparent to translucent | 1.92 – 2.01 | 4.0 – 4.7 |
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is a trichroic gemstone, meaning it can display three different colors depending on the angle of light. It has a trigonal crystal system and a specific gravity of 3.1 to 3.4. Its refractive index ranges from 1.69 to 1.72, giving it a moderate brilliance. Tanzanite is relatively soft, with a Mohs hardness of 6 to 7, so it requires careful handling to avoid scratching or chipping.
Turquoise
Turquoise is an opaque to translucent mineral with a waxy luster. It is relatively soft, with a Mohs hardness of 5 to 6, and it is susceptible to damage from heat, chemicals, and moisture. Its specific gravity is 2.7 to 2.8, and its refractive index is 1.61 to 1.65. The color of turquoise can vary depending on the amount of copper and iron in the stone.
Zircon
Zircon is a highly refractive gemstone, with a refractive index of 1.92 to 2.01, and a specific gravity of 4.0 to 4.7. It is available in a wide range of colors, including brown, yellow, red, green, and blue, with the blue variety being the most popular in jewelry. Zircon is heat-treated to enhance its color and clarity, and it has a Mohs hardness of 6 to 7.5, making it suitable for daily wear.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
The gemstones associated with December 16—Tanzanite, Turquoise, and Zircon—are not only admired for their aesthetic appeal, but also for their symbolic meanings and metaphysical properties, which have been passed down through generations.
Tanzanite: A Stone of Transformation and Intuition
Tanzanite is often associated with transformation, intuition, and spiritual growth. It is believed to open the heart and mind to new possibilities, helping the wearer to embrace change and find inner peace. In spiritual practices, Tanzanite is used to enhance meditation, activate the third eye chakra, and promote emotional healing.
Tanzanite is also believed to enhance communication, both with others and with higher spiritual forces. It is said to help the wearer understand their true self, release negative emotions, and connect with their higher purpose. These properties make it a valuable stone for those seeking personal transformation and spiritual awakening.
Turquoise: A Stone of Protection and Positive Energy
Turquoise has long been regarded as a stone of protection, healing, and positive energy. In many cultures, it is used as a protective talisman, believed to ward off negative influences, promote good health, and attract good fortune.
Turquoise is also associated with emotional balance, inner calm, and spiritual insight. It is believed to enhance communication, foster creativity, and promote self-expression. In Native American traditions, Turquoise is considered a stone of the sky, symbolizing connection to the divine and harmony with nature.
Turquoise is also used in healing practices, particularly for the thymus and respiratory system. It is believed to support the immune system, calm the mind, and encourage emotional healing. These properties make it a popular stone for those seeking emotional and physical well-being.
Zircon: A Stone of Clarity and Abundance
Zircon is known for its brilliant fire and sparkling appearance, and it is often associated with clarity, abundance, and positive energy. In metaphysical practices, Zircon is believed to enhance intuition, stimulate creativity, and bring forth new opportunities.
Zircon is also associated with prosperity and good fortune, and it is often used in jewelry and talismans to attract abundance and success. It is believed to help the wearer make wise decisions, increase confidence, and enhance personal power.
In spiritual practices, Zircon is used to cleanse the aura, remove negative energy, and promote emotional healing. It is also associated with dreams and visions, and it is believed to enhance spiritual insight and connect the wearer with higher realms.
Care and Cleaning
To maintain the beauty and longevity of Tanzanite, Turquoise, and Zircon, it is important to follow appropriate care and cleaning procedures, based on their individual properties and sensitivities.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is relatively soft and fragile, with a Mohs hardness of 6 to 7, so it is susceptible to scratches and chipping. It is also sensitive to heat and sunlight, which can cause color fading or damage.
To clean Tanzanite, use mild soap and warm water with a soft cloth or brush. Avoid using steam, ultrasonic cleaners, or harsh chemicals, as these can damage the stone. Store Tanzanite in a soft pouch or separate compartment to prevent scratches from other jewelry.
Turquoise
Turquoise is relatively soft, with a Mohs hardness of 5 to 6, and it is highly sensitive to heat, chemicals, and moisture. Prolonged exposure to sunlight, perfumes, lotions, and cleaning agents can cause the color to fade or the stone to become brittle.
To clean Turquoise, use a soft cloth with mild soap and water. Avoid submerging the stone in water for long periods, and never use steam or ultrasonic cleaners. Store Turquoise in a cool, dry place, and avoid wearing it during activities that involve exposure to chemicals or moisture.
Zircon
Zircon is relatively hard, with a Mohs hardness of 6 to 7.5, making it suitable for daily wear. However, it can be sensitive to heat, especially the blue variety, which may fade or change color when exposed to high temperatures.
To clean Zircon, use mild soap and warm water with a soft cloth or brush. Avoid steam and ultrasonic cleaners, and never expose Zircon to direct sunlight for extended periods. Store Zircon in a separate compartment to prevent scratching, and avoid using harsh chemicals that may damage the stone.
Conclusion
December 16 is uniquely associated with Tanzanite, Turquoise, and Zircon, three gemstones that reflect the rich diversity of December’s birthstone tradition. Each of these stones has a distinct history, gemological profile, and symbolic meaning, making them meaningful choices for jewelry and spiritual practices.
Tanzanite, a modern gemstone from Tanzania, is prized for its vibrant blue-violet color and trichroism. Turquoise, an ancient gemstone with thousands of years of history, is valued for its blue-green hues and protective properties. Zircon, a brilliant and versatile mineral, is known for its sparkling fire and wide range of colors.
These gemstones not only offer aesthetic beauty, but also deep symbolic significance, connecting the wearer to cultural traditions, spiritual beliefs, and personal transformation. Whether worn as jewelry, talismans, or collectibles, these stones serve as powerful reminders of the natural world’s beauty and the human spirit’s resilience.
For those born on December 16, these gemstones are more than just symbols of birth—they are tokens of protection, success, and inner strength, guiding the wearer on their journey through life.