December is a month renowned for its vibrant and diverse selection of blue birthstones. Among the most notable are blue zircon, blue topaz, tanzanite, lapis lazuli, and turquoise. These gemstones, each with unique characteristics and historical significance, have captivated gemologists, jewelers, and collectors for centuries. This article explores the geological formation, gemological properties, cultural symbolism, and practical care of these remarkable December birthstones.
History and Lore
The history of December birthstones is deeply intertwined with cultural traditions and ancient beliefs. Blue zircon, for instance, has been a symbol of wisdom, confidence, and prosperity. In Western astrology, individuals with zodiac signs such as Cancer, Gemini, Virgo, Capricorn, or Aquarius are said to particularly benefit from wearing blue zircon. In Indian astrology, the gemstone is also considered beneficial for Libra and Taurus signs. Blue zircon is believed to help ward off negative energies and evil spirits, aid in achieving restful sleep, and enhance intuition and perception. It is also thought to assist with meditation practices and improve organizational abilities.
Blue topaz, another December birthstone, has a rich history that dates back over two thousand years. The Romans were the first to discover blue topaz on the Greek Island of Topazios in the Red Sea. Known as the "clarity stone," blue topaz is believed to stimulate open communication and encourage positive action. It symbolizes opportunity and possibility and is associated with deep, honest, and genuine feelings between people. Blue topaz is also believed to bring great wisdom and success and is thought to redirect positive energies to where they are most needed. Some traditional beliefs suggest it can relieve stress, ease migraines, soothe sore throats, and alleviate body aches.
Tanzanite, a relatively modern discovery, was first found in Tanzania in 1967. It is known for its striking blue to violet color and is one of the most popular December birthstones. Tanzanite is believed to enhance intuition and spiritual awareness and is associated with emotional healing and transformation.
Lapis lazuli, one of the traditional December birthstones, has a history that spans thousands of years. It has been used in ancient royal courts and is known for its bold royal blue color. Lapis lazuli is associated with wisdom, truth, and spiritual enlightenment and has been used in various cultures for its symbolic significance.
Turquoise, another traditional December birthstone, has been used by various cultures for its vibrant blue color and protective properties. It is believed to bring good fortune and is often used in jewelry for its beauty and symbolic meaning.
Geological Formation and Sources
The formation and sources of December birthstones vary, reflecting their diverse origins and properties.
Blue Zircon
Zircon is a mineral that often forms naturally with a brown color, which transforms to blue after heat treatment. These treated stones can exhibit stable and vivid blue to sky blue colors. The finest blue zircons display hues with strong green components and medium tones. Some trade names for blue zircons include "starlites" or "stremlites." Heat treatments can also produce other colors in zircon, such as green, red, colorless, and honey gold.
Blue zircon is found in various locations around the world, including the United States, Brazil, Sri Lanka, Nigeria, and China. It is a popular choice for December birthstones due to its affordability and vibrant color.
Blue Topaz
Blue topaz is a silicate mineral composed of aluminum and fluorine with a glass-like luster and deep cleavage. Its chemical formula is Al2SiO4(F,OH)4, with strong chemical bonding that makes it harder than most silicate minerals. Blue topaz is known for its affordability and availability in numerous shapes and sizes.
The color range of blue topaz spans from dark inky blues to cooler light blue shades. Depending on the depth of color, blue topaz varieties include:
- London Blue topaz, which features a deep, inky blue color.
- Swiss Blue topaz, which displays a vibrant, medium light blue.
- Sky Blue topaz, which offers a light aqua color.
- Natural blue topaz, which can sometimes be mistaken for aquamarine due to similar color profiles.
Most commercially available blue topaz is produced by irradiating naturally colorless topaz. This process gives rise to the various blue hues seen in the market today. Blue topaz is found in several countries, including the United States (particularly Texas), Russia, Brazil, Sri Lanka, Nigeria, and China.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is a relatively recent discovery, first found in Tanzania in 1967. It is a variety of the mineral zoisite and is known for its striking blue to violet color. Tanzanite's color is due to the presence of vanadium. It is a relatively soft gemstone with a hardness of 6 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale, which means it requires careful handling and setting.
Tanzanite is exclusively found in Tanzania, making it a unique and valuable gemstone. It is often cut into cabochons or faceted stones to enhance its color and brilliance.
Lapis Lazuli
Lapis lazuli is a metamorphic rock composed mainly of lazurite, a feldspathoid mineral. It is known for its bold royal blue color, which is due to the presence of the mineral lazurite. Lapis lazuli is relatively tough despite its moderate hardness (5-6 on the Mohs scale). It is found in various regions around the world, including Afghanistan, Russia, and the United States.
Lapis lazuli is often used in jewelry and decorative items due to its vibrant color and historical significance. It is also used in art and as an ornamental stone.
Turquoise
Turquoise is a hydrated phosphate of aluminum and copper. It is known for its vibrant blue color, which can range from deep blue to greenish-blue. Turquoise is a relatively soft gemstone with a hardness of 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale, making it prone to scratching and requiring careful handling.
Turquoise is found in various locations around the world, including the United States (particularly in the Southwestern states), Iran, China, and Egypt. It is often stabilized or treated to enhance its color and durability before being used in jewelry.
Gemological Properties
Understanding the gemological properties of December birthstones is essential for appreciating their beauty and durability.
Blue Zircon
Blue zircon is a zirconium silicate mineral with a hardness of 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale. It has a refractive index ranging from 1.92 to 2.00, which contributes to its brilliance and fire. Blue zircon is known for its strong dispersion, which gives it a diamond-like sparkle. It is also known for its high refractive index, which makes it an attractive option for jewelry.
Blue Topaz
Blue topaz has a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale, making it a relatively durable gemstone. It has a refractive index of 1.61 to 1.63 and is known for its glass-like luster. Blue topaz is also known for its strong chemical bonding, which makes it harder than most silicate minerals.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite has a hardness of 6 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale, which means it is a relatively soft gemstone that requires careful handling. It has a refractive index of 1.694 to 1.701 and is known for its striking blue to violet color. Tanzanite is also known for its pleochroism, which means it can display different colors when viewed from different angles.
Lapis Lazuli
Lapis lazuli has a hardness of 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale and is composed of lazurite, which gives it its bold royal blue color. It has a refractive index of 1.62 to 1.64 and is known for its relative toughness despite its moderate hardness. Lapis lazuli is often used in jewelry and decorative items due to its vibrant color and historical significance.
Turquoise
Turquoise has a hardness of 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale and is known for its vibrant blue color. It has a refractive index of 1.61 to 1.65 and is often stabilized or treated to enhance its color and durability. Turquoise is a popular gemstone used in jewelry due to its beauty and symbolic meaning.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
December birthstones are not only valued for their beauty and durability but also for their symbolic and metaphysical properties.
Blue Zircon
Blue zircon is traditionally associated with wisdom, confidence, and prosperity. When worn as jewelry, it is believed to ward off negative energies and evil spirits, aid in achieving restful sleep, and enhance intuition and perception. Blue zircon is also believed to assist with meditation practices and help improve organizational abilities. It is especially recommended for creative professionals.
Blue Topaz
Blue topaz is known as the "clarity stone" and is believed to stimulate open communication and encourage positive action. It symbolizes opportunity and possibility and is associated with deep, honest, and genuine feelings between people. Blue topaz is also believed to bring great wisdom and success and is thought to redirect positive energies to where they are most needed. Some traditional beliefs suggest it can relieve stress, ease migraines, soothe sore throats, and alleviate body aches.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is associated with emotional healing and transformation. It is believed to enhance intuition and spiritual awareness and is a popular choice for those seeking emotional balance and personal growth.
Lapis Lazuli
Lapis lazuli is associated with wisdom, truth, and spiritual enlightenment. It has been used in various cultures for its symbolic significance and is believed to enhance intellectual abilities and promote inner peace.
Turquoise
Turquoise is believed to bring good fortune and is often used in jewelry for its protective properties. It is also associated with communication and self-expression and is believed to enhance confidence and courage.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care and cleaning are essential for maintaining the beauty and durability of December birthstones.
Blue Zircon
Blue zircon is a relatively durable gemstone with a hardness of 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale. It should be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners, as these can damage the stone.
Blue Topaz
Blue topaz has a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale and is relatively durable. It should be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners, as these can damage the stone. Due to its brittleness, blue topaz should be handled with care, especially when set in jewelry that might receive impacts.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite has a hardness of 6 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale and is a relatively soft gemstone. It should be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners, as these can damage the stone. Tanzanite should be handled with care and stored separately from other gemstones to prevent scratching.
Lapis Lazuli
Lapis lazuli has a hardness of 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale and is relatively tough despite its moderate hardness. It should be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners, as these can damage the stone. Lapis lazuli should be stored separately from other gemstones to prevent scratching.
Turquoise
Turquoise has a hardness of 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale and is a relatively soft gemstone. It should be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners, as these can damage the stone. Due to its softness, turquoise should be handled with care and stored separately from other gemstones to prevent scratching.
Conclusion
December birthstones, including blue zircon, blue topaz, tanzanite, lapis lazuli, and turquoise, are a testament to the beauty and diversity of gemstones. Each of these gemstones has a unique history, geological formation, and symbolic meaning that makes them valuable and meaningful. Whether chosen for their beauty, durability, or metaphysical properties, these December birthstones continue to captivate and inspire.
Understanding the properties and care requirements of these gemstones allows for their proper appreciation and maintenance. Whether worn as jewelry or collected as gemstones, December birthstones offer a rich tapestry of history and significance that continues to be celebrated around the world.