The December birthstone has long been a topic of intrigue and debate among gemologists, historians, and lovers of precious stones. Unlike other months that have maintained a singular birthstone for centuries, December has seen a complex evolution of assigned gems, each with its own history, symbolism, and geological significance. The original December birthstone remains a subject of scholarly and cultural speculation, as historical records and ancient texts reveal multiple candidates that have either been lost to time or replaced by more modern selections.
This article delves into the origins and legacy of the December birthstone, exploring the gemstone's historical roots, its transformation through time, and the reasons behind its eventual replacement. We will examine the contenders—ranging from heliodor to turquoise, zircon, and others—and assess their cultural and symbolic importance. By analyzing the information provided in the sources, we will uncover the nuanced story of December's original gem and its journey through history to the present day.
A Mysterious Beginnings: The Original December Birthstone
The origins of the December birthstone are shrouded in mystery, as the gemstone associated with the month has changed multiple times over the centuries. According to one source, the original December birthstone was heliodor, a greenish-yellow beryl. This assertion is based on references in the Book of Revelation, where a stone called chrysoprasos is listed as the 12th foundation stone in the apocalyptic vision. This stone is associated with the zodiac sign of Capricorn, which partially overlaps with the month of December.
However, the interpretation of chrysoprasos is not straightforward. While some scholars and modern gemologists equate it with chrysoprase, a green variety of chalcedony, others argue that the ancient term refers to a different substance entirely. In Latin, the term chrysoprasus is derived from chrysos (gold) and prason (leek), suggesting a golden or yellow-green hue. This aligns more closely with heliodor, a yellow beryl that was once considered the true December birthstone.
The confusion between chrysoprase and heliodor highlights the ambiguity in early historical records. The modern association of December with a green or blue gem—such as turquoise or zircon—appears to have obscured the identity of the original December birthstone. This shift may have occurred due to the lack of availability of heliodor in certain regions, or because of the symbolic meanings associated with other stones at different times in history.
The Replacement of the Original December Birthstone
As the December birthstone evolved, it was replaced by a number of other gems—some of which are still recognized today. One of the earliest replacements was turquoise, which has deep roots in ancient cultures. Turquoise was widely used in jewelry, ornamentation, and spiritual practices in regions such as the American Southwest, the Middle East, and Central Asia. The stone is often found in bluish-green hues and is sometimes embedded with matrix patterns—remnants of the rock in which it was formed.
Turquoise was considered a protective and healing stone in many indigenous cultures. In North America, it was used by Native American tribes such as the Navajo and Zuni for ceremonial purposes and as a symbol of good fortune. Its association with December may have stemmed from its winter-like colors and its long-standing cultural significance.
Another replacement for the original December birthstone was zircon, particularly the blue variety. Zircon is one of the oldest minerals on Earth, with some zircon crystals dating back over 4 billion years. The blue zircon was officially recognized as the December birthstone in the United States in 1952, replacing lapis lazuli. This shift may have been due to the increasing popularity of zircon in jewelry and its resemblance to the color of the sky or sea—both of which are often associated with the winter season.
Zircon is a silicate mineral with a high refractive index, which gives it a brilliant sparkle. It is available in a wide range of colors, but the blue variety is the most commonly associated with December. Zircon is also known for its durability, with a hardness of 6 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale, making it suitable for use in jewelry that is worn regularly.
The Modern December Birthstones
By the 20th century, December had become associated with multiple birthstones, each with its own unique properties and symbolism. The American Gem Trade Association (AGTA) officially recognized tanzanite as a December birthstone in 2002. Tanzanite is a relatively new gemstone, having been discovered in Tanzania in 1967. It is a variety of the mineral zoisite and is known for its striking blue to violet coloration.
Tanzanite is only found in one location in the world—near Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania—making it a rare and highly sought-after gem. It has a hardness of 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale and is often treated to enhance its color. Tanzanite is believed to promote emotional healing and spiritual awakening, which may have contributed to its adoption as a December birthstone.
In addition to turquoise, zircon, and tanzanite, lapis lazuli was also considered a December birthstone in the past. Lapis lazuli is an opaque, deep-blue gemstone that is often mottled with white and gold flecks. It has been used for thousands of years in jewelry, amulets, and decorative objects. In ancient Egypt, lapis lazuli was associated with the goddess Isis and was believed to bring wisdom and protection.
Lapis lazuli was a December birthstone in the United States until 2013, when it was officially replaced by zircon. However, it remains an important stone in other cultural traditions and is still used in jewelry and spiritual practices today.
The Symbolism and Metaphysical Properties of December Birthstones
Each of the December birthstones carries its own symbolic and metaphysical significance. Turquoise is believed to promote protection, healing, and spiritual guidance. It is often used in meditation and is associated with the throat chakra in some energy systems. Zircon, particularly the blue variety, is thought to bring peace of mind, prosperity, and clarity. It is also believed to enhance the wearer's sense of optimism and creativity.
Tanzanite is associated with emotional healing and transformation. It is believed to help individuals release past traumas and open themselves to new possibilities. Lapis lazuli is considered a stone of wisdom, truth, and intuition. It is believed to enhance mental clarity and promote a sense of calm and balance.
In addition to these gems, chrysoprase, onyx, and bloodstone have also been associated with December in various cultural and spiritual traditions. Chrysoprase, a green variety of chalcedony, is believed to promote emotional balance and prevent depression. Onyx, particularly the black variety, is considered a grounding stone that protects the wearer from negativity. Bloodstone, also known as heliotrope, is believed to enhance courage and physical strength.
Care and Maintenance of December Birthstones
Given the variety of gemstones associated with December, it is important to understand how to care for each one to preserve its beauty and longevity. Turquoise is a relatively soft gemstone with a hardness of 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale. It is porous and can absorb oils, so it should be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap. It should be stored separately from harder gemstones to avoid scratches.
Zircon, with a hardness of 6 to 7.5, is more durable than turquoise but still requires care. It should be cleaned with warm water and a soft brush to remove dirt and debris. It is not recommended to use ultrasonic or steam cleaners, as these can damage the stone.
Tanzanite has a hardness of 6 to 7 and is sensitive to heat and light. It should be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild detergent and stored in a cool, dark place. Exposure to direct sunlight can cause it to fade over time.
Lapis lazuli is an opaque gemstone with a hardness of 5 to 6. It should be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap, and it should not be soaked in water or exposed to harsh chemicals.
Chrysoprase, onyx, and bloodstone are all varieties of chalcedony and have a hardness of 6 to 7. They are relatively durable and can be cleaned with warm water and a soft brush. They should be stored separately from harder gemstones to avoid scratches.
Conclusion
The original December birthstone remains a subject of historical and gemological interest. While it is now associated with multiple gemstones—ranging from turquoise and zircon to tanzanite and lapis lazuli—the true December birthstone may have once been heliodor, a yellow beryl that is mentioned in the Book of Revelation. The confusion surrounding the identity of the original December gemstone highlights the fluid nature of birthstone traditions and the influence of cultural and historical changes over time.
As December birthstones continue to evolve, each gemstone carries its own unique properties and symbolism. Whether used for jewelry, spiritual practices, or personal adornment, these gems reflect the rich heritage of the December birthstone tradition and its enduring appeal.