The birthstones of November and December represent some of the most intriguing and diverse gemstones in the modern birthstone chart. These months are associated with several gemstones, including topaz, citrine, turquoise, and tanzanite, each with its own unique history, properties, and symbolism. While the birthstone tradition has evolved over centuries, these stones continue to be cherished for their beauty and cultural significance. This article explores the origins, gemological properties, and meanings of the birthstones for November and December, drawing on historical records, modern standards, and cultural interpretations.
Introduction
November and December are each associated with multiple birthstones, reflecting the flexibility and evolution of the birthstone tradition. November's primary birthstone is topaz, with citrine as an alternate. December features turquoise, zircon, tanzanite, and blue topaz as its birthstones. These gemstones vary in color, hardness, and origin, making them suitable for different types of jewelry and settings. The modern birthstone chart, as established by organizations like the National Association of Jewelers (now Jewelers of America), continues to adapt, adding new stones as they become more widely recognized and accessible.
The significance of these stones goes beyond their physical properties; they carry historical, cultural, and even metaphysical meanings that have been passed down through generations. For example, topaz has been associated with strength and protection, while turquoise has long been revered for its spiritual and healing properties. Understanding these gemstones provides insight into both their scientific attributes and their enduring cultural appeal.
History and Lore
November Birthstones
The tradition of birthstones dates back to ancient times, with references found in biblical texts and early calendars. In the case of November, topaz has been recognized as its primary birthstone for centuries. Topaz has been associated with November since at least the 14th century, with references in European texts. It was believed to bring strength, courage, and protection to those born in this month. Topaz was also thought to have healing properties, particularly for the stomach and liver.
Citrine, an alternate birthstone for November, has a more recent addition to the birthstone chart. It was officially recognized as an alternative to topaz in the 20th century. Citrine, a variety of quartz, was historically used in jewelry and amulets for its warm, golden color and its perceived ability to promote vitality and energy. In some cultures, citrine was also believed to bring good fortune and prosperity.
December Birthstones
December's birthstones include turquoise, zircon, tanzanite, and blue topaz. Each of these stones has its own rich history and significance. Turquoise, the most well-known of the December birthstones, has been used for thousands of years in jewelry and decorative objects. It was highly valued by ancient civilizations, including the Egyptians, Persians, and Native Americans. Turquoise was believed to have protective and healing properties and was often used in amulets and talismans.
Zircon, another December birthstone, has a long history in gemology. It was recognized as an alternative to lapis lazuli for December in the 1950s. Zircon comes in a variety of colors, but blue zircon is the most commonly associated with this month. It was believed to bring wisdom and good fortune.
Tanzanite, a relatively modern addition to the December birthstone list, was discovered in Tanzania in 1967. It was officially added in 2002, marking the first major update to the birthstone chart in over 50 years. Tanzanite is notable for its deep blue-violet color and its rarity, as it is only found in Tanzania.
Blue topaz, another December birthstone, is a popular choice for jewelry due to its clarity and color. It is a variety of topaz and shares many of the same properties as its yellow counterpart. Blue topaz is often treated to enhance its color, making it a more accessible and affordable option for jewelry.
Geological Formation and Sources
Topaz
Topaz is a silicate mineral composed of aluminum and fluorine, with the chemical formula Al₂SiO₄(F,OH)₂. It is known for its hardness, ranking 8 on the Mohs scale, making it durable and suitable for everyday wear in jewelry. Topaz forms in igneous rocks, particularly in pegmatites and rhyolites. It is commonly found in Brazil, Mexico, Nigeria, and the United States, with Brazil being one of the largest producers.
Topaz occurs in a range of colors, including yellow, brown, blue, and pink. The yellow and brown varieties are the most common, while blue topaz is typically created through irradiation or heat treatment of colorless or brown topaz. The most valuable topaz is the pink variety known as "imperial topaz," which is primarily found in Brazil.
Citrine
Citrine is a variety of quartz, with the chemical formula SiO₂. It is a trigonal mineral with a hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale. Citrine gets its yellow to orange color from trace amounts of iron impurities. It is commonly found in Brazil, Madagascar, and the United States. Natural citrine is relatively rare, and much of the citrine available in the market is heat-treated amethyst or smoky quartz.
Citrine is often cut in various shapes, including emerald cuts, round brilliant cuts, and cabochons. It is popular in jewelry due to its affordability and durability. Citrine is also used in decorative objects and as a gemstone in alternative healing practices.
Turquoise
Turquoise is a phosphate mineral with the chemical formula CuAl₆(PO₄)₄(OH)₈·4H₂O. It forms in the oxidation zone of copper deposits and is typically found in arid climates. Turquoise is known for its blue-green color, which can vary depending on the presence of copper and aluminum. It has a hardness of 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale, making it more delicate than many other gemstones.
Historically, turquoise was mined in Egypt, Persia, and China, but today, the primary sources are the United States, Iran, and China. The most famous turquoise deposits are in the southwestern United States, particularly in Arizona and Nevada. Native American tribes, such as the Navajo and Zuni, have long used turquoise in jewelry and ceremonial objects.
Zircon
Zircon is a zirconium silicate mineral with the chemical formula ZrSiO₄. It occurs in a variety of colors, including colorless, yellow, red, and blue. The blue variety is the most popular for jewelry and is often referred to as "blue zircon." Zircon has a hardness of 6 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively durable.
Zircon is found in many parts of the world, including Sri Lanka, Myanmar, and Australia. It is often used as a diamond simulant due to its high refractive index and dispersion. Zircon is also used in industrial applications, such as in ceramics and refractories.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is a variety of the mineral zoisite, with the chemical formula Ca₂Al₃(SiO₄)(Si₂O₇)O(OH). It is known for its deep blue-violet color, which is caused by trace amounts of vanadium. Tanzanite has a hardness of 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale and is only found in Tanzania, near the slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro.
Tanzanite was discovered in 1967 by a Maasai herder who found a piece of the stone in his field. It was later identified as a new gemstone and quickly became popular in the jewelry industry. Tanzanite is typically cut in cushion or emerald cuts to showcase its color and clarity.
Blue Topaz
Blue topaz is a variety of topaz that has been treated to enhance its color. It is a silicate mineral with the same chemical formula as topaz, Al₂SiO₄(F,OH)₂. Blue topaz is typically created by irradiating or heating colorless or brown topaz. It has a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale, making it durable and suitable for everyday wear.
Blue topaz is found in several countries, including Brazil, the United States, and Nigeria. It is a popular gemstone in jewelry due to its affordability and attractive color. Blue topaz is often cut in round brilliant or cushion cuts to maximize its brilliance and fire.
Gemological Properties
Topaz
- Chemical Formula: Al₂SiO₄(F,OH)₂
- Hardness: 8 on the Mohs scale
- Color: Yellow, brown, blue, pink (imperial topaz)
- Crystal System: Orthorhombic
- Refractive Index: 1.61 to 1.63
- Specific Gravity: 3.4 to 3.6
Topaz is known for its hardness and clarity. It can be found in a variety of colors, with the most valuable being the pink "imperial topaz." Topaz is a uniaxial crystal, meaning it has one optic axis, and it can exhibit pleochroism, which means it can show different colors when viewed from different angles.
Citrine
- Chemical Formula: SiO₂
- Hardness: 7 on the Mohs scale
- Color: Yellow to orange
- Crystal System: Trigonal
- Refractive Index: 1.46 to 1.55
- Specific Gravity: 2.65
Citrine is a variety of quartz with a hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale. It is known for its warm, golden color, which can range from light yellow to deep orange. Citrine is a uniaxial crystal and does not exhibit pleochroism. Natural citrine is rare, and much of the citrine available in the market is heat-treated amethyst or smoky quartz.
Turquoise
- Chemical Formula: CuAl₆(PO₄)₄(OH)₈·4H₂O
- Hardness: 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale
- Color: Blue-green
- Crystal System: Trigonal
- Refractive Index: 1.61 to 1.65
- Specific Gravity: 2.6 to 2.8
Turquoise is a phosphate mineral with a hardness of 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale. It is known for its blue-green color, which can vary depending on the presence of copper and aluminum. Turquoise is a biaxial crystal and can exhibit chatoyancy, which is a cat's eye effect caused by fibrous inclusions.
Zircon
- Chemical Formula: ZrSiO₄
- Hardness: 6 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale
- Color: Colorless, yellow, red, blue
- Crystal System: Tetragonal
- Refractive Index: 1.90 to 2.00
- Specific Gravity: 4.6 to 4.7
Zircon is a zirconium silicate mineral with a hardness of 6 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale. It occurs in a variety of colors, including colorless, yellow, red, and blue. The blue variety is the most popular for jewelry and is often referred to as "blue zircon." Zircon is a uniaxial crystal and can exhibit high refractive index and dispersion, making it a popular diamond simulant.
Tanzanite
- Chemical Formula: Ca₂Al₃(SiO₄)(Si₂O₇)O(OH)
- Hardness: 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale
- Color: Deep blue-violet
- Crystal System: Monoclinic
- Refractive Index: 1.69 to 1.70
- Specific Gravity: 3.3 to 3.4
Tanzanite is a variety of the mineral zoisite, with a hardness of 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale. It is known for its deep blue-violet color, which is caused by trace amounts of vanadium. Tanzanite is a biaxial crystal and exhibits strong pleochroism, meaning it can show different colors when viewed from different angles.
Blue Topaz
- Chemical Formula: Al₂SiO₄(F,OH)₂
- Hardness: 8 on the Mohs scale
- Color: Blue
- Crystal System: Orthorhombic
- Refractive Index: 1.61 to 1.63
- Specific Gravity: 3.4 to 3.6
Blue topaz is a variety of topaz that has been treated to enhance its color. It has the same chemical formula as topaz and a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale. Blue topaz is typically created by irradiating or heating colorless or brown topaz. It is a uniaxial crystal and does not exhibit pleochroism.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
November Birthstones
Topaz has long been associated with strength, courage, and protection. In ancient times, it was believed to have healing properties, particularly for the stomach and liver. Topaz was also thought to bring wisdom and clarity of thought. In some cultures, topaz was used in amulets and talismans to ward off negative energy and promote positive change.
Citrine, on the other hand, is often associated with vitality, energy, and prosperity. It is believed to promote good fortune and abundance, making it a popular choice for those seeking success and wealth. Citrine is also thought to have cleansing properties, helping to remove negative energy and promote emotional balance.
December Birthstones
Turquoise has been revered for its spiritual and healing properties for centuries. It is believed to bring protection, wisdom, and good fortune. In many cultures, turquoise is considered a sacred stone and is used in amulets and talismans to promote health and well-being. It is also associated with the throat chakra, helping to enhance communication and self-expression.
Zircon is believed to bring wisdom and good fortune. It is associated with the heart chakra and is thought to promote love, compassion, and emotional balance. Zircon is also believed to enhance intuition and psychic abilities.
Tanzanite is associated with transformation and spiritual growth. It is believed to help with emotional healing and to promote a sense of inner peace and harmony. Tanzanite is also thought to enhance intuition and psychic abilities, making it a popular stone for meditation and spiritual practices.
Blue topaz is associated with calmness, serenity, and clarity of thought. It is believed to help with communication and to promote a sense of inner peace and tranquility. Blue topaz is also thought to have protective properties, helping to ward off negative energy and promote positive change.
Care and Cleaning
Topaz
Topaz is a relatively durable gemstone with a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale, making it suitable for everyday wear in jewelry. However, it can be sensitive to heat and light, which can cause fading or discoloration. It is also important to avoid exposure to harsh chemicals, as they can damage the surface of the stone.
To clean topaz, use a soft cloth and mild soap and water. Avoid using ultrasonic cleaners or steam cleaners, as they can cause damage to the stone. Store topaz separately from other gemstones to prevent scratches.
Citrine
Citrine has a hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively durable. However, it can be sensitive to heat and light, which can cause fading or discoloration. It is also important to avoid exposure to harsh chemicals, as they can damage the surface of the stone.
To clean citrine, use a soft cloth and mild soap and water. Avoid using ultrasonic cleaners or steam cleaners, as they can cause damage to the stone. Store citrine separately from other gemstones to prevent scratches.
Turquoise
Turquoise is a relatively delicate gemstone with a hardness of 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale. It is sensitive to heat, light, and chemicals, which can cause fading or discoloration. It is also important to avoid exposure to water and moisture, as they can cause the stone to become soft or discolored.
To clean turquoise, use a soft cloth and mild soap and water. Avoid using ultrasonic cleaners or steam cleaners, as they can cause damage to the stone. Store turquoise separately from other gemstones to prevent scratches.
Zircon
Zircon has a hardness of 6 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively durable. However, it can be sensitive to heat and light, which can cause fading or discoloration. It is also important to avoid exposure to harsh chemicals, as they can damage the surface of the stone.
To clean zircon, use a soft cloth and mild soap and water. Avoid using ultrasonic cleaners or steam cleaners, as they can cause damage to the stone. Store zircon separately from other gemstones to prevent scratches.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite has a hardness of 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively durable. However, it can be sensitive to heat and light, which can cause fading or discoloration. It is also important to avoid exposure to harsh chemicals, as they can damage the surface of the stone.
To clean tanzanite, use a soft cloth and mild soap and water. Avoid using ultrasonic cleaners or steam cleaners, as they can cause damage to the stone. Store tanzanite separately from other gemstones to prevent scratches.
Blue Topaz
Blue topaz has a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively durable. However, it can be sensitive to heat and light, which can cause fading or discoloration. It is also important to avoid exposure to harsh chemicals, as they can damage the surface of the stone.
To clean blue topaz, use a soft cloth and mild soap and water. Avoid using ultrasonic cleaners or steam cleaners, as they can cause damage to the stone. Store blue topaz separately from other gemstones to prevent scratches.
Conclusion
The birthstones of November and December—topaz, citrine, turquoise, zircon, tanzanite, and blue topaz—each have their own unique history, properties, and symbolism. These gemstones have been cherished for centuries for their beauty and cultural significance, and they continue to be popular choices in jewelry and decorative objects. Understanding their gemological properties, historical origins, and metaphysical beliefs provides a deeper appreciation for these stones and their enduring appeal. Whether as a birthstone for personal significance or as a collectible gemstone, these stones offer a rich blend of science, history, and culture that continues to captivate gemstone enthusiasts around the world.