December is one of the most unique months in the birthstone calendar, offering not one, but three distinct gemstones: tanzanite, turquoise, and zircon. Each of these stones is celebrated for its own distinct characteristics, color variations, and historical significance. This article delves into the rich lore, geological properties, cultural symbolism, and practical care of these December birthstones, offering a comprehensive guide for collectors, jewelry lovers, and students of gemology alike.
Introduction
December’s selection of birthstones reflects the month’s own diversity—both in color and in meaning. From the deep, velvety blue of tanzanite to the ancient and earthy tones of turquoise and the vibrant rainbow hues of zircon, December’s gemstones offer something for every taste and personality. These stones have been treasured across cultures and centuries, not only for their aesthetic appeal but also for their symbolic and metaphysical properties.
This article will explore the history, formation, and cultural significance of each of December’s birthstones, as well as their gemological properties and care instructions. Whether you are a jewelry buyer looking to choose the perfect December birthstone for a loved one, or a gemology enthusiast seeking to deepen your understanding of these stones, this guide will provide you with the insights you need.
History and Lore
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is the newest of the December birthstones, having been discovered in the 20th century. Its journey to fame began in 1967 in the Merelani Hills of Tanzania, where it was first identified as a new mineral form of zoisite. The blue to violet hues of tanzanite were achieved through heat treatment, and the stone was quickly recognized for its beauty and rarity.
Tanzanite was named in honor of its country of origin, and its international popularity was largely driven by the efforts of Tiffany & Co., which launched a major advertising campaign in 1968. The gemstone quickly became a sensation and was soon added to the list of December birthstones. Today, tanzanite is also the gemstone for the 24th wedding anniversary.
Despite its modern origins, tanzanite is considered a relative newcomer in the world of colored gemstones. Its rarity, combined with its striking color and high clarity, has made it a highly sought-after stone in both jewelry and gem collections.
Turquoise
Turquoise, on the other hand, is one of the oldest known gemstones in human history. It has been cherished for millennia by various cultures, from the pharaohs of ancient Egypt to the Native American tribes of North America.
In ancient Egypt, turquoise was a symbol of life and protection. Pharaohs and other rulers adorned themselves with turquoise jewelry, believing it to bring health, good fortune, and divine favor. The gemstone was also used in religious ceremonies and was often placed in tombs to protect the deceased in the afterlife.
In Native American cultures, turquoise held deep spiritual significance. The Apache believed that the end of a rainbow marked the location of turquoise, and that attaching it to a weapon or bow would improve one’s aim. The Pueblo people associated turquoise with the sky, while the Hopi believed it was formed by lizards moving across the earth.
Turquoise also played an important role in European traditions. In Victorian times, blue zircon was favored, and fine specimens can be found in English estate jewelry from the 1880s. In Europe, the gift of a turquoise ring symbolized “forget me not,” a sentiment of enduring love and remembrance.
Zircon
Zircon has a long and varied history, with records of its use dating back to ancient times. Known for its brilliant luster and a wide range of colors, zircon has been appreciated for its beauty and optical properties.
One of the notable historical uses of zircon was in Victorian-era jewelry, where it was prized for its blue tones. The gemstone’s popularity was further enhanced by its availability in countries such as Sri Lanka and Australia, which are known for producing high-quality zircon.
Zircon is also notable for its geological origins. It is often found near sapphire sources in countries like Myanmar, Vietnam, and Cambodia. This association has made zircon a popular choice for those who appreciate both its beauty and its connection to other precious gemstones.
Geological Formation and Sources
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is a rare gemstone that is found exclusively in the Merelani Hills of northern Tanzania. The mining operations there involve thousands of workers who excavate the gem from mines that extend over 100 meters deep into the earth. The surrounding landscape is characterized by grass-covered hillsides, scrub brush, rocky soil, and the distant snow-covered slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro.
The gemstone begins as brownish zoisite, which is heat-treated to produce the blue to violet hues that are characteristic of tanzanite. The resulting color is permanent and does not fade with time or light exposure. Tanzanite’s rarity, combined with its striking color and high clarity, has made it a highly sought-after gemstone in the jewelry industry.
Turquoise
Turquoise has been mined for centuries in various parts of the world. The most famous source is the Nishapur district of Iran, where turquoise has been extracted for more than 1,000 years. The intense blue turquoise from this region is often referred to as “robin’s egg blue,” “sky blue,” or “Persian blue.” These terms are now used to describe turquoise of similar color, regardless of its source.
In the United States, turquoise is commonly found in the Southwest, particularly in Arizona, New Mexico, and Nevada. Native American artisans have long used turquoise from these regions to create jewelry and other decorative items. The gemstone is also found in Tibet, where it is considered a national treasure and is believed to bring health, good fortune, and protection from evil.
Zircon
Zircon is found in several countries around the world, with some of the most notable sources being Sri Lanka, Australia, and Myanmar. In Sri Lanka, zircon is mined in the Elahera region, known for its rich deposits of gemstones. The landscape is marked by mountains, jungles, and restless streams.
Australia is another major source of zircon, particularly in the Harts Range, where zircon is mined in a variety of colors including yellow-brown, orangy brown, pink, and purple. The nearby city of Alice Springs is known for its outback culture and unique geological features.
Zircon is also commonly found near sapphire sources in countries such as Myanmar, Vietnam, and Cambodia. This coexistence has contributed to the gemstone’s popularity, especially among collectors and jewelry designers who appreciate its versatility and brilliance.
Gemological Properties
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is a relatively soft gemstone, with a hardness of 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale. While it is durable enough for jewelry, it is susceptible to damage from sudden temperature changes and exposure to strong acids such as hydrochloric and hydrofluoric acids. It is also prone to abrasion and should be handled with care to avoid scratches.
Tanzanite is a doubly refractive gemstone, meaning it has two refractive indices. This property gives it a unique play of light and a velvety appearance. The gemstone is often cut into faceted shapes to enhance its brilliance and color.
Turquoise
Turquoise is a semi-translucent to opaque gemstone that ranges in color from blue to green. It often contains veins of matrix, which are remnants of the rock in which it formed. These matrix patterns can add character and uniqueness to each piece of turquoise.
Turquoise is a relatively soft gemstone, with a hardness of 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale. It is also porous and can absorb oils and other substances, which can affect its color and appearance. This makes it important to store and clean turquoise properly to maintain its beauty.
Zircon
Zircon is a versatile gemstone with a hardness of 6 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale. It is known for its brilliance and dispersion, which can rival that of diamonds. Zircon can be found in a wide range of colors, including blue, colorless, orange, yellow, and red.
Zircon is often heat-treated to enhance its color and stability. While most zircon is stable under normal conditions, some heat-treated stones may revert to their original colors after prolonged exposure to bright light. It is also important to avoid exposing zircon to rough conditions, such as gardening or sports, to prevent abrasion and damage.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is believed to possess a range of beneficial properties, including the ability to promote emotional healing and spiritual growth. It is often used in meditation and is said to enhance intuition and inner peace. Tanzanite is also associated with the crown chakra, which is linked to higher consciousness and spiritual awakening.
In addition to its spiritual properties, tanzanite is believed to offer protection and good fortune. It is often worn as a talisman to ward off negative energy and to bring clarity and confidence to the wearer.
Turquoise
Turquoise has long been associated with protection, health, and good fortune. In ancient Egypt, it was believed to provide protection from harm and to bring prosperity to the wearer. In Native American traditions, turquoise is seen as a stone of power and is used in rituals to connect with the spirit world.
Turquoise is also believed to promote calmness and emotional balance. It is often used in jewelry and decorative objects to bring a sense of peace and harmony to the home or workplace. In Tibet, turquoise is considered a national treasure and is believed to grant health, good fortune, and protection from evil.
Zircon
Zircon is known for its energizing properties and is believed to enhance vitality and mental clarity. It is often used in meditation and is said to help the wearer access higher states of consciousness. Zircon is also associated with the heart chakra, which is linked to love, compassion, and emotional healing.
In addition to its spiritual properties, zircon is believed to promote success and creativity. It is often worn by artists and professionals to enhance their inspiration and productivity.
Care and Cleaning
Tanzanite
Tanzanite requires gentle care to maintain its beauty and durability. It should be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid using ultrasonic or steam cleaners, as they can damage the gemstone.
Tanzanite should also be protected from exposure to strong acids and sudden temperature changes. It is best to store tanzanite in a soft cloth or jewelry box to prevent scratches and abrasion.
Turquoise
Turquoise is a delicate gemstone that requires special care. It should be cleaned with a soft brush and mild soap in warm water. Avoid using harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners, as they can damage the gemstone.
Turquoise is also porous and can absorb oils and other substances, which can affect its color and appearance. It is best to store turquoise in a dry, cool place and to avoid exposing it to direct sunlight or heat.
Zircon
Zircon is relatively durable, but it can still be damaged by rough conditions. It should be cleaned with a soft brush and mild soap in warm water. Avoid using ultrasonic or steam cleaners, as they can cause damage to the gemstone.
Zircon should also be protected from exposure to rough conditions such as gardening, sports, or heavy manual labor. It is best to store zircon in a soft cloth or jewelry box to prevent scratches and abrasion.
Conclusion
December’s birthstones—tanzanite, turquoise, and zircon—each offer a unique combination of beauty, history, and symbolism. Whether you are drawn to the deep blue of tanzanite, the ancient charm of turquoise, or the vibrant colors of zircon, these gemstones have something to offer for every taste and personality.
From their geological origins to their cultural significance, these stones continue to captivate and inspire. Whether worn as jewelry or collected as gems, they serve as a testament to the enduring allure of December’s birthstones.