If you were born in December, you are among the fortunate few who have the opportunity to choose from a rich array of gemstones as your birthstone. Unlike many other months that are associated with a single gem, December is celebrated with multiple birthstones—zircon, topaz, tanzanite, lapis lazuli, and turquoise—each with its own unique history, properties, and symbolism. These gemstones offer a spectrum of colors, from the deep blues of turquoise and zircon to the vibrant violet of tanzanite, allowing for personal expression and meaningful adornment.
This article delves into the world of December birthstones, exploring their geological origins, historical significance, gemological characteristics, cultural symbolism, and practical care guidelines. Whether you're a gemstone enthusiast, a jewelry buyer, or simply curious about the gemstone that represents your birth month, this in-depth guide will provide a comprehensive understanding of the stones that mark the end of the calendar year.
History and Lore
December’s birthstone tradition is a fascinating blend of ancient symbolism and modern adaptation. While the concept of assigning gemstones to months of the year dates back to biblical times, the specific selection of December birthstones has evolved significantly over the centuries.
Ancient and Medieval Roots
The earliest recorded association of gemstones with months appears in the Biblical Book of Exodus, where 12 gemstones are described as being part of the High Priest’s breastplate. In these ancient records, Ruby was linked with December. This early connection reflects the ruby’s historical association with power, vitality, and divine favor.
By the 13th century, December’s symbolic gemstones had shifted to more widely used stones. Turquoise, with its deep blue-green hues, was particularly revered. Ancient Egyptians and Chinese civilizations valued turquoise for its protective and healing properties. Pharaohs and high priests wore turquoise as a sign of divine protection, and it was often used in amulets and ceremonial objects.
In medieval Europe, turquoise was believed to ward off misfortune and was thought to break apart before a disaster, thereby warning the wearer. Hindu mystics of the 13th century believed that turquoise brought wealth when viewed after the new moon.
Evolution of the Modern Birthstone List
The modern birthstone tradition began to take shape in the 19th century, particularly through the influence of Tiffany & Co., which popularized the idea of assigning gemstones to each month. In 1870, Turquoise was designated as the primary December birthstone.
By 1912, the National Association of Jewellers (now Jewellers of America) updated the list, recognizing Turquoise as the primary December birthstone and Lapis Lazuli as an alternative. Lapis lazuli, a blue stone with gold flecks, had long been associated with royalty and artistic inspiration in ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia.
In 1952, the Jewelry Industry Council of America added Zircon to the list, citing its brilliance and availability in a range of colors, particularly the blue variety known as Blue Zircon.
Then, in 2002, the GIA (Gemological Institute of America) and the American Gem Trade Association added Tanzanite to the list, recognizing its rarity and unique color. Tanzanite, a relatively new gemstone discovered in Tanzania in the 1960s, has since become a popular alternative for December birthdays.
This evolution reflects both the growing diversity of gemstone preferences and the desire to offer more options in terms of price, color, and availability.
Geological Formation and Sources
Each December birthstone has a unique geological origin and source, shaped by the specific mineralogical and environmental conditions in which they form.
Turquoise
Turquoise is a phosphate mineral formed when copper-rich water percolates through copper ore deposits and reacts with aluminum and phosphorus. This process typically occurs in arid regions, where the chemical reaction is facilitated by the slow evaporation of water.
The United States, particularly New Mexico and Arizona, is one of the most well-known sources of turquoise. Other notable sources include China, Iran, and Egypt, where the stone has been mined for thousands of years.
Turquoise is relatively soft, with a Mohs hardness of 5 to 6, making it vulnerable to scratches and discoloration. It is also porous, which means it can absorb oils and dyes, altering its appearance over time.
Zircon
Zircon is a zirconium silicate that occurs in a wide range of colors, from colorless and yellow to red, green, and blue. The blue variety, known as Blue Zircon, is the most commonly associated with December.
Zircon forms in igneous rocks and is often found in metamorphic and sedimentary rocks as a residual mineral. It is one of the oldest minerals on Earth, with some zircon crystals dated to over 4 billion years old.
Major sources of zircon include Australia, Cambodia, Sri Lanka, and Brazil. Zircon is known for its high refractive index, which gives it a brilliant fire and sparkle, similar to diamond.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is a trigonal mineral and a variety of columbite that was first discovered in 1967 in Tanzania, near Mount Kilimanjaro. It is unique to this region, making it one of the rarest gemstones in the world.
Tanzanite is formed from sodium calcium aluminum silicate and is known for its trichroism, meaning it can display three different colors (violet, blue, and brown) depending on the angle of light. It is often heat-treated to enhance its color and clarity.
With a Mohs hardness of 6 to 7, tanzanite is relatively durable but still requires careful handling to avoid scratches and thermal shock.
Lapis Lazuli
Lapis lazuli is a metamorphic rock composed primarily of lazurite, a sodium calcium aluminum silicate. It also contains pyrite, which gives it its characteristic golden flecks, and sometimes calcite, which appears as white veins.
Lapis lazuli is formed through regional metamorphism, where sedimentary rocks are subjected to high pressure and temperature over time. The most famous source of lapis lazuli is Afghanistan, where it has been mined for over 6,000 years. Other sources include Russia, Argentina, and Canada.
Lapis lazuli has a Mohs hardness of 5 to 6, making it relatively soft and prone to scratching and damage from acidic substances.
Topaz
Topaz is a silicate mineral with a tetragonal crystal structure. It is known for its wide range of colors, including blue, yellow, pink, and colorless. Blue topaz, in particular, is a popular choice for December and is often treated to enhance its color.
Topaz forms in granitic rocks and is found in hydrothermal veins and pegmatite deposits. It is one of the hardest minerals, with a Mohs hardness of 8, making it highly durable and suitable for everyday wear.
Major sources of topaz include Brazil, Mexico, Nigeria, and the United States (especially Utah).
Gemological Properties
Understanding the gemological properties of each December birthstone is essential for identifying, valuing, and caring for these gemstones. The following table provides a concise comparison of their key characteristics:
| Gemstone | Chemical Formula | Mohs Hardness | Refractive Index | Color Range | Primary Source(s) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Turquoise | CuAl₆(PO₄)₄(OH)₈·4H₂O | 5–6 | 1.61–1.65 | Blue to green, often with matrix | USA, Iran, China, Egypt |
| Zircon | ZrSiO₄ | 6–7.5 | 1.92–2.01 | Colorless, blue, yellow, red, green | Australia, Cambodia, Sri Lanka |
| Tanzanite | NaCaAl₃(AlSi₃O₁₀)(OH)₂ | 6–7 | 1.694–1.701 | Blue to violet, trichroic | Tanzania |
| Lapis Lazuli | (Na,Ca)Al₃(Al,SiO₄)₃(S,SO₄) | 5–6 | 1.60–1.70 | Deep blue with gold flecks | Afghanistan, Russia, Argentina |
| Topaz | Al₂SiO₄(OH,F)₂ | 8 | 1.616–1.627 | Colorless, blue, yellow, pink | Brazil, Mexico, Nigeria, USA |
Each of these gemstones has distinct optical and physical properties that influence their appearance, durability, and suitability for different types of jewelry.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Beyond their beauty and rarity, December birthstones have long been associated with spiritual, emotional, and metaphysical properties. These beliefs vary across cultures and historical periods but generally emphasize protection, clarity, emotional balance, and spiritual insight.
Turquoise
Turquoise is one of the most ancient and widely revered gemstones in human history. It has been considered a stone of protection, especially against misfortune and disease. In ancient Egypt, turquoise was believed to have divine power and was used in burial amulets to ensure safe passage into the afterlife.
In Native American cultures, turquoise is associated with healing, wisdom, and spiritual power. It is often used in ceremonial jewelry and healing rituals. It is also thought to help in calming the mind and emotions, making it a popular stone for meditation and stress relief.
Zircon
Zircon is known for its brilliant fire and rainbow-like sparkle, which has led to its association with joy, balance, and emotional clarity. In some traditions, zircon is considered a stone of transformation, helping individuals navigate complex emotions and spiritual growth.
Zircon is also believed to align the body’s energy centers (chakras) and to enhance intuition and creativity. Blue zircon, in particular, is associated with emotional healing and serenity.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is a relatively modern gemstone, but its unique color and rarity have quickly made it a symbol of spiritual connection and emotional depth. It is often used in spiritual practices to open the heart and throat chakras, allowing for clearer communication and emotional expression.
Due to its trichroism, tanzanite is also considered a stone of perspective and balance, helping individuals see situations from multiple angles and find inner harmony.
Lapis Lazuli
Lapis lazuli has a long history of being associated with wisdom, intellect, and divine favor. In ancient Egypt, it was used by pharaohs and priests to adorn masks, statues, and ceremonial items. It was believed to enhance knowledge and spiritual insight.
In medieval Europe, lapis lazuli was used in art and manuscripts, and its gold flecks were thought to represent divine light. It is also believed to calm the mind, reduce stress, and promote self-awareness.
Topaz
Topaz is known for its clarity and brilliance, and it has been associated with strength, vitality, and emotional balance. In ancient Greece, it was believed to increase strength and intellect. In medieval times, it was thought to ward off nightmares and poison.
Blue topaz, in particular, is associated with calmness, serenity, and spiritual connection. It is believed to enhance learning, self-esteem, and emotional stability.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care and cleaning are essential for preserving the beauty and longevity of your December birthstone jewelry. Each gemstone has specific needs based on its hardness, porosity, and chemical sensitivity.
General Care Tips
- Avoid exposure to harsh chemicals: Clean your jewelry with mild soap and water. Avoid using ammonia, bleach, or acid-based cleaners, which can damage the surface or alter the color of the gemstone.
- Store gemstones separately: To prevent scratches and abrasions, store each gemstone in a separate compartment or pouch.
- Remove jewelry during physical activities: To avoid impact, friction, and chemical exposure, remove your December birthstone jewelry before swimming, exercising, or doing household chores.
Specific Care for Each Gemstone
Turquoise
- Soft and porous: Turquoise can be easily scratched or discolored. Avoid exposing it to oils, lotions, or acidic substances.
- Cleaning: Gently clean with a soft cloth and warm, soapy water. Do not use an ultrasonic cleaner, as it may damage the stone.
- Storage: Keep turquoise in a dry, cool place to prevent drying out and cracking.
Zircon
- Relatively durable: Zircon can be worn daily but should be protected from hard knocks and abrasion.
- Cleaning: A soft brush, warm water, and mild soap are suitable for cleaning zircon.
- Avoid heat: Zircon can be heat-sensitive, especially if it has been treated to enhance its color.
Tanzanite
- Moderate hardness: Tanzanite is relatively soft and brittle, so it should be handled with care.
- Cleaning: Use a soft cloth and warm water to clean tanzanite. Avoid ultrasonic or steam cleaners, as they can cause thermal shock.
- Avoid heat and chemicals: Tanzanite can be heat-treated, and exposure to high temperatures or harsh chemicals may alter its color or structure.
Lapis Lazuli
- Soft and porous: Like turquoise, lapis lazuli can be easily scratched or discolored.
- Cleaning: Gently wipe with a soft, damp cloth. Avoid soaking or using harsh chemicals.
- Storage: Keep lapis lazuli in a dry, cool place to prevent cracking and fading.
Topaz
- Hard and durable: Topaz is one of the hardest gemstones, making it suitable for daily wear.
- Cleaning: Topaz can be cleaned with an ultrasonic cleaner or a soft brush and mild soap.
- Avoid sudden temperature changes: While topaz is heat-resistant, it should be kept away from sudden temperature shifts to prevent thermal shock.
Conclusion
December birthstones offer a rich and diverse array of gemstones, each with its own unique history, properties, and symbolism. From the ancient protective powers of turquoise to the modern rarity of tanzanite, these stones reflect the evolving nature of birthstone traditions while maintaining deep cultural and spiritual connections.
Whether you choose blue zircon for its brilliance, topaz for its clarity, or tanzanite for its rarity, your December birthstone is a meaningful and beautiful symbol of your birth month. Understanding the geology, care, and symbolism of these gemstones allows you to appreciate their beauty and significance even more.
As you explore the world of December birthstones, consider the historical legacy, spiritual meaning, and practical considerations that make these stones so special. Whether worn as jewelry, talismans, or collectibles, December birthstones continue to capture the imagination and admiration of gemstone lovers around the world.