December is a month rich in tradition, symbolism, and color. Those born in December are lucky to have a choice of multiple gemstones as their birthstone, each with its own unique color palette and significance. While blue is the dominant theme, December birthstones encompass a range of hues, from deep purples and greens to vibrant reds and warm browns. This article explores the colors of December's birthstones—tanzanite, turquoise, zircon, blue topaz, and lapis lazuli—and their historical, cultural, and gemological significance.
Introduction
December birthstones offer an array of colors, all centered around the soothing and symbolic color blue. However, the diversity of December's birthstones extends well beyond this, including green, purple, red, and even warm browns. The primary December birthstones include tanzanite, turquoise, zircon, blue topaz, and lapis lazuli. Each of these gemstones has its own distinct color variations and properties, making them suitable for a wide range of preferences and budgets.
From the deep, velvety blues of tanzanite to the vivid greens and blues of turquoise, and the radiant clarity of blue topaz, December birthstones reflect the multifaceted nature of the month. This article will delve into the colors of each of these gemstones, examining their historical significance, gemological properties, and cultural symbolism. Understanding the color spectrum of December birthstones not only enhances appreciation for these gems but also helps in choosing the perfect stone that resonates with one's personality and style.
History and Lore
Turquoise: The Stone of Ancient Royalty
Turquoise has a long and storied history, dating back thousands of years. The ancient Egyptians revered it as a symbol of life and protection, often using it in jewelry and amulets. Pharaohs and other rulers adorned themselves with turquoise, believing it brought health, good fortune, and protection from harm. Chinese artisans carved turquoise more than 3,000 years ago, using it in intricate jewelry and decorative objects.
In the 13th century, it was believed that turquoise could protect the wearer from falling, especially while riding a horse. Additionally, it was said that the stone would break into pieces when disaster approached, serving as a warning. Hindu mystics believed that seeing turquoise after the new moon would bring wealth and prosperity. These beliefs highlight the stone's deep-rooted cultural significance and its association with protection and abundance.
Zircon: A Stone of Timeless Beauty
Zircon is one of the oldest known gemstones, with some specimens estimated to be over 2 billion years old. The name "zircon" comes from the Arabic word "zar gun," meaning "gold color," a reference to its golden hues in some varieties. Zircon was once used in ancient jewelry and was believed to grant the wearer the ability to relieve pain, increase appetite, and protect against injury and disease. It was also thought to bring a warm welcome to visitors and ensure peaceful sleep without nightmares.
Zircon was considered a December birthstone starting in the 20th century, replacing lapis lazuli after 1952. It has been mined in various parts of the world, including Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, Nigeria, and Australia. Despite its age, zircon remains a popular choice for its vibrant colors and historical significance.
Lapis Lazuli: The Stone of Ancient Royalty and Artists
Before 1950, lapis lazuli was considered one of the December birthstones. This gemstone has a storied history, having been used by ancient royalty and artists for millennia. Lapis lazuli is a deep blue stone often streaked with veins of white and gold. It was highly prized in ancient Egypt, where it was used in jewelry and ceremonial objects. Egyptian royalty, including Queen Nefertiti, wore lapis lazuli as a symbol of power and divinity.
Lapis lazuli is a stone of self-mastery and protection. It was believed to clear the mind and bring deep peace and stress relief to those who carried it. This gemstone is also associated with wisdom and truth, making it a popular choice among scholars and artists.
Blue Topaz: A Modern Symbol of Clarity and Love
Blue topaz became a modern December birthstone and is known for its calming blue hues. The name "topaz" is derived from the Sanskrit word for "fire," although modern blue topaz is not naturally occurring in its blue form. Instead, most commercially available blue topaz is produced by irradiating naturally colorless topaz. This process gives it a beautiful range of blue shades, from deep inky blues to lighter, more vibrant hues.
Blue topaz is associated with love and affection in ancient Hindu traditions. It is believed to aid in one's disposition and bring sweetness to relationships. As a gemstone, it is known for its clarity and brilliance, making it a popular choice for jewelry.
Geological Formation and Sources
Turquoise
Turquoise is a hydrated phosphate of aluminum and copper. It forms in the oxidation zones of copper deposits, often in arid environments where water percolates through rock and mineral-rich solutions. The presence of copper gives turquoise its characteristic blue and green hues, while the matrix (the rock in which it forms) creates intricate patterns and veins.
Major sources of turquoise include Iran, China, Egypt, and the United States. Each location produces turquoise with unique characteristics and color variations. Turquoise is relatively soft compared to other gemstones, with a hardness of around 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale. This makes it susceptible to damage and requires special care when handling and wearing jewelry made from it.
Zircon
Zircon is a silicate mineral composed of zirconium, silicon, and oxygen. It is one of the oldest minerals on Earth, with some zircon crystals dating back over 4 billion years. Zircon is found in a variety of geological environments, including igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic rocks. It is often found in association with other minerals and is typically heat-treated to enhance its color.
Zircon is mined in several countries, including Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, Nigeria, and Australia. It is available in a range of colors, including blue, colorless, orange, yellow, and red. Blue zircon, in particular, is the most popular variety for December birthstone jewelry. Despite its beauty, zircon is relatively soft compared to other gemstones and should be handled with care.
Lapis Lazuli
Lapis lazuli is a metamorphic rock composed primarily of lazurite, a deep blue mineral. It also contains calcite, which appears as white veins, and pyrite, which gives it a golden sheen. Lapis lazuli forms in regions where sedimentary rock has been subjected to high pressure and heat, causing the minerals to recrystallize.
Historically, lapis lazuli was mined in Afghanistan, which remains one of the primary sources today. Other sources include Russia, Pakistan, and the United States. Lapis lazuli is relatively soft, with a hardness of around 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale, making it prone to scratches and damage.
Blue Topaz
Blue topaz is a silicate mineral composed of aluminum, silicon, and fluorine. It forms in igneous rocks, particularly in granites and pegmatites, where it crystallizes in cavities and fissures. Naturally occurring blue topaz is rare, and most of the blue topaz available on the market is produced through irradiation of colorless topaz.
Topaz is found in several countries, including Brazil, Mexico, the United States, and Australia. Blue topaz is available in a range of shades, from deep, inky blues to lighter, more vibrant hues. It is relatively hard, with a hardness of around 8 on the Mohs scale, making it durable and suitable for everyday wear.
Gemological Properties
| Gemstone | Chemical Formula | Color Range | Hardness (Mohs Scale) | Transparency | Special Properties |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tanzanite | Ca₂Al₃(SiO₄)₃(OH) | Blue to purple | 6–7 | Transparent | Pleochroism (shows different colors in different light) |
| Turquoise | Al₂(SO₄)₃·(OH)₃·5H₂O | Blue to green | 5–6 | Opaque | Requires special care due to softness |
| Zircon | ZrSiO₄ | Blue, colorless, yellow, orange, red | 6–7.5 | Transparent | Heat-treated for color enhancement |
| Blue Topaz | Al₂SiO₄(F,OH)₄ | Blue (London Blue, Swiss Blue, Sky Blue) | 8 | Transparent | Irradiated for color enhancement |
| Lapis Lazuli | Lazurite (Na,Ca)₈(Al,Si)₆O₂₀(S,SO₄) | Deep blue with white and gold veins | 5–6 | Opaque | Requires special care due to softness |
Each of these gemstones has its own unique set of gemological properties that contribute to its beauty and desirability. Tanzanite, for example, is known for its pleochroism, which means it can display different colors when viewed from different angles. Turquoise, on the other hand, is an opaque gemstone that is best suited for carving and inlay work.
Zircon is a versatile gemstone that can be heat-treated to produce a range of colors, making it a popular choice for jewelry. Blue topaz is known for its clarity and brilliance, making it a favorite among jewelers and designers. Lapis lazuli, while soft, is prized for its deep blue color and intricate patterns.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is a relatively recent addition to the list of December birthstones, having been discovered in 1967 in Tanzania. It is known for its soothing and calming properties, making it a popular choice for those seeking emotional balance and spiritual clarity. Tanzanite is believed to enhance communication and encourage the sharing of spiritual information from the heart in a calm and compassionate manner.
Turquoise
Turquoise is a stone of protection and prosperity. It is believed to bring health, good fortune, and protection from harm. In ancient times, it was thought that turquoise would break into pieces at the approach of disaster, serving as a warning to the wearer. It is also associated with travel and adventure, making it a popular choice for those who love to explore.
Zircon
Zircon is associated with wisdom and truth. It is believed to help the wearer gain clarity of thought and make sound decisions. Zircon is also thought to protect against illness and disease, making it a popular choice for those seeking physical and emotional healing.
Blue Topaz
Blue topaz is a stone of love and affection. It is believed to aid in one's disposition and bring sweetness to relationships. In ancient Hindu traditions, blue topaz was associated with the zodiac sign Sagittarius and was believed to stimulate self-esteem and the ability to learn.
Lapis Lazuli
Lapis lazuli is a stone of self-mastery and protection. It is believed to clear the mind and bring deep peace and stress relief to those who carry it. It is also associated with wisdom and truth, making it a popular choice among scholars and artists.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care and cleaning are essential for maintaining the beauty and longevity of December birthstone jewelry. Each gemstone has its own specific care requirements, based on its hardness and chemical stability.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is relatively soft and should be handled with care to avoid scratches and damage. It is best to store tanzanite jewelry separately from other gemstones to prevent abrasion. Clean tanzanite with a soft brush and mild soap in warm water. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners should be avoided, as they can cause damage to the stone.
Turquoise
Turquoise is a soft and porous gemstone that is sensitive to heat, light, and chemicals. It should be kept away from harsh chemicals and excessive heat, as these can cause discoloration and damage. Clean turquoise with a soft cloth and mild soap in warm water. Avoid using ultrasonic and steam cleaners, as these can damage the stone.
Zircon
Zircon is relatively durable but can be affected by prolonged exposure to bright light. Some heat-treated zircon may revert to its original color after extended exposure to light. It is best to avoid wearing zircon in rough conditions, such as while gardening or playing sports. Clean zircon with a soft brush and mild soap in warm water. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners should be avoided.
Blue Topaz
Blue topaz is a relatively hard gemstone and is suitable for everyday wear. It is resistant to scratches and can be cleaned with a soft brush and mild soap in warm water. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners are also safe for blue topaz. However, avoid exposing blue topaz to harsh chemicals and excessive heat, as these can cause damage to the stone.
Lapis Lazuli
Lapis lazuli is a soft and porous gemstone that is sensitive to heat, light, and chemicals. It should be kept away from harsh chemicals and excessive heat, as these can cause discoloration and damage. Clean lapis lazuli with a soft cloth and mild soap in warm water. Avoid using ultrasonic and steam cleaners, as these can damage the stone.
Conclusion
December birthstones offer a rich and diverse color palette, making them an excellent choice for those seeking a gemstone that reflects their personality and style. From the deep, velvety blues of tanzanite to the vibrant greens and blues of turquoise, and the radiant clarity of blue topaz, December birthstones provide a wide range of options to suit every taste and budget.
Each of these gemstones has its own unique history, cultural significance, and gemological properties that contribute to its beauty and desirability. Whether you are drawn to the protective qualities of turquoise, the wisdom and truth of zircon, the clarity and brilliance of blue topaz, or the deep peace of lapis lazuli, there is a December birthstone that is perfect for you.
Understanding the colors, properties, and symbolism of December birthstones not only enhances appreciation for these gems but also helps in making an informed choice when selecting the perfect stone. Whether for personal use or as a thoughtful gift, December birthstones are a beautiful and meaningful way to celebrate the magic of the month.