December is a month rich in gemstone tradition, offering a selection of stones that have captured the hearts and imaginations of people for centuries. From the vibrant hues of turquoise to the serene beauty of zircon and the rare elegance of tanzanite, the December birthstones each carry a unique history, set of properties, and cultural significance. These gemstones have been treasured not only for their aesthetic appeal but also for the symbolic and metaphysical meanings they hold. In this article, we will explore the geological and historical background of these gemstones, their gemological properties, and their roles in various cultures and traditions.
The Modern December Birthstone Selection
Currently, the December birthstones include Turquoise, Zircon, Tanzanite, and Blue Topaz. Prior to the 1950s, Lapis Lazuli, Ruby, Chrysoprase, Onyx, and Bloodstone were also recognized as December birthstones in various cultures. This shift in the selection reflects both evolving gemological knowledge and changing cultural preferences.
The inclusion of multiple stones for a single month allows for a broader range of colors, styles, and budgets. This flexibility ensures that individuals born in December can choose a gemstone that best suits their personal style and preferences. Whether it is the deep blue of turquoise, the vibrant purple of tanzanite, or the subtle brilliance of zircon, there is a December birthstone for every taste.
History and Lore of December Birthstones
Turquoise: The Ancient Stone of Protection and Prosperity
Turquoise has been associated with December for thousands of years and is one of the oldest known gemstones. Ancient shamans and cultures across the world have revered this gemstone for its protective properties and its ability to bring prosperity and good fortune. In ancient Egypt, pharaohs adorned themselves with turquoise, believing it to be a symbol of life and protection. The Chinese have also been using turquoise for over 3,000 years, carving it into intricate artifacts and jewelry.
In Hindu tradition, turquoise is believed to stimulate self-esteem and the ability to learn, aiding in the navigation of complex ideas. It is also considered a stone for meditation, as it helps align the body's meridians and connects the wearer to spiritual sources. Additionally, turquoise is associated with the zodiac sign Sagittarius, which spans from November 22 to December 21.
Zircon: A Stone of Joy and Emotional Balance
Zircon gained recognition as a December birthstone in 1952, replacing lapis lazuli. Known for its quiet vibration and wide range of colors, zircon is particularly valued in its blue form. This gemstone is believed to encourage joy and emotional balance, making it a popular choice for those seeking inner harmony. Zircon has been used in jewelry for centuries, often admired for its brilliance and affordability.
Zircon's history is intertwined with ancient civilizations, and it has been found in archaeological sites dating back to the Roman Empire. The gemstone is also mentioned in ancient texts, where it was associated with divine protection and wisdom. In modern times, zircon has become a favorite in jewelry design due to its versatility and the ease with which it can be enhanced through heat treatment to produce vibrant blue and colorless varieties.
Tanzanite: The Rare Gemstone of Tanzania
Tanzanite was officially recognized as a December birthstone in 2002, making it one of the newest additions to the list. Discovered in the Merelani Hills near Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania in the 1960s, tanzanite is a rare and exquisite gemstone formed under intense heat and tectonic activity. It is a type of zoisite mineral that contains vanadium, which gives it its characteristic blue and violet hues.
Tanzanite exhibits a unique property called pleochroism, meaning it displays different colors when viewed from different angles. This effect is particularly striking under different lighting conditions—fluorescent lights bring out the blue tones, while incandescent light enhances the violet. Tanzanite is also believed to be a protective and soothing stone that helps individuals share spiritual information from their heart in a calm manner.
Lapis Lazuli: A Stone of Ancient Royalty
Before the 1950s, lapis lazuli was one of the primary birthstones for December. This gemstone has a long and storied history, having been used by ancient royalty and artists. Lapis lazuli is composed of lazurite, calcite, and pyrite, giving it a deep blue color with flecks of gold. It was highly prized in ancient Egypt, where it was used in jewelry and ornamental objects, including the famous funerary mask of Tutankhamun.
Lapis lazuli is known as a stone of self-mastery and protection. It is believed to clear the mind, bringing deep peace and stress relief to those who carry it. Historically, lapis lazuli was considered a stone of wisdom and truth, often used by scholars and mystics to enhance their understanding and insight.
Blue Topaz: A Stone of Clarity and Self-Esteem
Blue topaz is another modern addition to the December birthstone list. Known for its soft and gentle blue hue, blue topaz is believed to stimulate self-esteem and the ability to learn, making it a valuable stone for those seeking intellectual growth. It is also associated with aligning the body's meridians, calming emotions, and connecting to spiritual sources.
Blue topaz is a relatively affordable gemstone, making it a popular choice for everyday jewelry. It is often used in meditation and spiritual practices due to its calming properties. The gemstone's gentle energy is said to help individuals navigate complex ideas and find clarity in their thoughts and actions.
Ruby: An Ancient Stone of Passion and Power
In ancient times, ruby was associated with December and was considered a powerful gemstone. Rubies are known for their deep red color and are composed of corundum with traces of chromium. They are believed to sharpen the mind, improve concentration, and encourage courtly love. Rubies have been cherished for centuries in various cultures, often worn by royalty and nobility as symbols of power and passion.
Chrysoprase, Onyx, and Bloodstone: Additional Historical Stones
In addition to the primary December birthstones, several other gemstones have been historically associated with the month. Chrysoprase, a green variety of chalcedony, was considered the old Russian birthstone for December. It is believed to bring good fortune, mend broken hearts, and remove feelings of inferiority.
Onyx, the Tibetan birthstone for December, offers self-mastery and protective energy. It is also associated with encouraging happiness and good fortune. Bloodstone, another traditional December birthstone, is a stone of courage that renews one’s energy and grounds their sense of vigor.
Geological Formation and Sources of December Birthstones
Turquoise: A Product of Arid Environments
Turquoise is a hydrated phosphate of aluminum and copper, forming when water interacts with copper ore deposits. This process typically occurs in arid regions where water percolates through copper-rich rocks, leading to the formation of turquoise in cavities and weathered volcanic rock. The gemstone is often found in sedimentary rock and is known for its blue-green hues, which can vary depending on the presence of impurities such as iron and chromium.
Major sources of turquoise include the United States (particularly in Arizona, New Mexico, and Nevada), as well as Iran, China, and Egypt. Turquoise from these regions is highly prized for its quality and beauty.
Zircon: A Versatile and Durable Gemstone
Zircon is a silicate mineral that occurs in a wide range of colors, including blue, colorless, red, and yellow. The gemstone is known for its brilliance and fire, often compared to diamonds. Zircon is formed in igneous rocks and is found in countries such as Sri Lanka, Australia, Myanmar, Vietnam, and Cambodia.
Zircon's versatility is due in part to its ability to be heat-treated to enhance its color. Blue zircon, the most popular variety for December birthstones, is created through this process. Zircon is also known for its durability, with a hardness ranging from 6 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale.
Tanzanite: A Unique and Rare Discovery
Tanzanite is a rare gemstone found exclusively in Tanzania, specifically in the Merelani Hills near Mount Kilimanjaro. Formed under intense heat and tectonic activity approximately 585 million years ago, tanzanite is a type of zoisite that contains vanadium, which gives it its distinctive blue and violet hues. The gemstone is known for its pleochroism, displaying different colors when viewed from different angles.
Tanzanite is a relatively new gemstone in the jewelry industry, having been discovered in the 1960s. Its rarity and unique properties have made it a highly sought-after gemstone, particularly among collectors and jewelry enthusiasts.
Lapis Lazuli: A Stone of the Ancients
Lapis lazuli is a metamorphic rock composed of lazurite, calcite, and pyrite. It is known for its deep blue color and flecks of gold, which give it a luxurious appearance. Lapis lazuli is primarily found in Afghanistan, where it has been mined for thousands of years. Other sources include Chile, Russia, and Canada.
The gemstone is formed through the metamorphism of limestone and is often found in veins and pockets within igneous and metamorphic rocks. Its use in ancient civilizations, particularly in Egypt and Mesopotamia, attests to its enduring value and beauty.
Blue Topaz: A Natural and Treated Gemstone
Blue topaz is a variety of topaz that is naturally occurring in some cases but is often enhanced through irradiation and heat treatment to produce its characteristic blue color. This process does not affect the gemstone's durability or stability, making it a popular choice for jewelry.
Blue topaz is found in several countries, including Brazil, Nigeria, and the United States. Its affordability and attractive color have made it a popular gemstone for everyday wear and special occasions alike.
Gemological Properties of December Birthstones
Turquoise
- Chemical Composition: Hydrated phosphate of aluminum and copper (CuAl6(PO4)4(OH)8·4H2O)
- Hardness (Mohs Scale): 5–6
- Color: Ranges from blue to green, often with matrix patterns
- Luster: Waxy to greasy
- Transparency: Opaque to semi-translucent
- Specific Gravity: 2.6–2.8
Turquoise is a relatively soft gemstone, making it susceptible to scratches and abrasions. It is also porous and can be easily stained by oils and pigments. To maintain its beauty, turquoise should be cleaned gently and stored separately from harder gemstones.
Zircon
- Chemical Composition: Zirconium silicate (ZrSiO4)
- Hardness (Mohs Scale): 6–7.5
- Color: Available in blue, colorless, red, yellow, and green
- Luster: Glassy
- Transparency: Transparent to translucent
- Specific Gravity: 4.6–4.8
Zircon is known for its high refractive index and dispersion, giving it a brilliant and fiery appearance. Blue zircon is the most popular variety for December birthstones, often created through heat treatment. Zircon is relatively durable but should be protected from abrasion and excessive heat.
Tanzanite
- Chemical Composition: Calcium aluminum hydroxyl sorosilicate (Ca2Al3(SiO4)3(OH))
- Hardness (Mohs Scale): 6–7
- Color: Blue and violet, with pleochroism
- Luster: Vitreous
- Transparency: Transparent to translucent
- Specific Gravity: 3.3–3.4
Tanzanite is a relatively soft gemstone that can be affected by exposure to heat and light. It is often heat-treated to enhance its color and is best suited for jewelry that is worn with care. Tanzanite's pleochroism makes it a unique and visually striking gemstone.
Lapis Lazuli
- Chemical Composition: Lazurite, calcite, and pyrite
- Hardness (Mohs Scale): 5–6
- Color: Deep blue with flecks of gold
- Luster: Waxy to greasy
- Transparency: Opaque
- Specific Gravity: 2.4–2.9
Lapis lazuli is a metamorphic rock composed of lazurite, calcite, and pyrite. It is known for its deep blue color and flecks of gold, which give it a luxurious appearance. Lapis lazuli is relatively soft and porous, requiring gentle cleaning and proper storage to maintain its beauty.
Blue Topaz
- Chemical Composition: Aluminum silicate (Al2SiO4)
- Hardness (Mohs Scale): 8
- Color: Blue, often enhanced through irradiation and heat treatment
- Luster: Vitreous
- Transparency: Transparent to translucent
- Specific Gravity: 3.4–3.6
Blue topaz is a durable gemstone that is suitable for everyday wear. Its blue color is often enhanced through irradiation and heat treatment, making it a popular and affordable gemstone for jewelry.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Turquoise
Turquoise has long been associated with protection, prosperity, and good fortune. In ancient times, it was believed to offer protection to the wearer, particularly in battle and travel. It was also considered a stone of wisdom and was used in meditation and spiritual practices. In modern times, turquoise is believed to enhance self-esteem, improve learning, and promote emotional balance.
Zircon
Zircon is considered a stone of joy and emotional balance. It is believed to bring a sense of calm and stability, helping individuals navigate their emotions and find inner peace. Zircon is also associated with wisdom and clarity, making it a popular stone for meditation and spiritual growth.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is believed to be a protective and soothing stone that helps individuals connect with their spiritual side. It is associated with the heart chakra and is believed to help individuals express their emotions in a calm and compassionate manner. Tanzanite is also believed to enhance intuition and spiritual insight.
Lapis Lazuli
Lapis lazuli has been associated with wisdom, truth, and protection for centuries. It is believed to enhance intellectual abilities, promote self-awareness, and encourage emotional balance. Lapis lazuli is also associated with the third eye and throat chakras, making it a valuable stone for meditation and communication.
Blue Topaz
Blue topaz is believed to enhance self-esteem, improve concentration, and promote emotional calm. It is associated with the throat chakra and is believed to help individuals express their thoughts and feelings clearly. Blue topaz is also believed to enhance spiritual awareness and promote a sense of inner peace.
Ruby
Ruby is associated with passion, power, and love. It is believed to sharpen the mind, improve concentration, and encourage courtly love. Ruby is also associated with the heart and root chakras, making it a valuable stone for emotional and physical well-being.
Chrysoprase, Onyx, and Bloodstone
Chrysoprase is believed to bring good fortune, mend broken hearts, and remove feelings of inferiority. Onyx is associated with self-mastery and protective energy, while bloodstone is a stone of courage that renews energy and grounds one's sense of vigor.
Care and Cleaning of December Birthstones
Turquoise
- Cleaning: Gently clean with a soft brush and mild soap in warm water. Avoid ultrasonic and steam cleaners.
- Storage: Store separately from harder gemstones to prevent scratches. Keep in a cool, dry place to prevent discoloration.
- Avoid: Exposure to oils, perfumes, and chemicals.
Zircon
- Cleaning: Clean with a soft brush and mild soap in warm water. Avoid ultrasonic and steam cleaners, especially for heat-treated stones.
- Storage: Store in a soft cloth or padded jewelry box to prevent scratches.
- Avoid: Excessive heat and abrasive materials.
Tanzanite
- Cleaning: Clean with a soft brush and mild soap in warm water. Avoid ultrasonic and steam cleaners.
- Storage: Store in a cool, dry place to prevent color fading. Keep away from direct sunlight.
- Avoid: Exposure to heat and abrasive materials.
Lapis Lazuli
- Cleaning: Gently clean with a soft brush and mild soap in warm water. Avoid ultrasonic and steam cleaners.
- Storage: Store in a cool, dry place to prevent discoloration. Keep separate from harder gemstones.
- Avoid: Exposure to oils, perfumes, and chemicals.
Blue Topaz
- Cleaning: Clean with a soft brush and mild soap in warm water. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners can be used with caution.
- Storage: Store in a jewelry box to prevent scratches.
- Avoid: Exposure to harsh chemicals and abrasive materials.
Conclusion
December birthstones offer a rich tapestry of history, symbolism, and gemological properties that have captivated people for centuries. From the ancient traditions of turquoise and lapis lazuli to the modern discoveries of zircon and tanzanite, these gemstones each carry a unique story and meaning. Whether chosen for their aesthetic beauty, spiritual significance, or historical value, December birthstones continue to be cherished and celebrated around the world. Understanding their properties and care requirements ensures that these precious gems can be enjoyed for generations to come.