December is a unique month in the world of birthstones, as it is associated with not one, but five gemstones: Blue Topaz, Turquoise, Tanzanite, Zircon, and Lapis Lazuli. This rich selection reflects the month’s historical, cultural, and geological significance, offering a wide range of options for jewelry design and personal expression. Each gemstone carries its own distinct characteristics, symbolism, and allure, making December one of the most intriguing birthstone months.
In this article, we will explore the history, geological formation, gemological properties, cultural significance, and care requirements of each December birthstone. We will also examine why December is unique in having multiple birthstones and how each option caters to different tastes, aesthetics, and budgets.
History and Lore of December Birthstones
The concept of birthstones is deeply rooted in ancient traditions and has evolved over centuries. The earliest references to birthstones can be traced back to the Breastplate of Aaron, mentioned in the Old Testament, which listed twelve stones representing the twelve tribes of Israel. Over time, these stones were associated with the months of the year, forming the basis of the modern birthstone calendar.
December, in particular, has a fascinating history with its gemstone associations. Turquoise, one of the oldest and most traditional December birthstones, has been used for thousands of years in jewelry and adornment. Ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians, Persians, and Native Americans valued turquoise for its protective and healing properties. It was often worn as a talisman to ward off evil and bring prosperity.
Blue Topaz, on the other hand, became prominent in the 20th century with the development of heat and irradiation treatments that enhanced its blue color. Its popularity soared as a modern alternative to traditional stones, offering a vibrant, versatile option for contemporary jewelry.
Tanzanite is the most recent addition to the December birthstone list, discovered in the 1960s near Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. Its deep blue to violet color and rarity have made it a symbol of transformation and spiritual awareness.
Zircon, which replaced Lapis Lazuli as a December birthstone in 1952, is one of the oldest minerals on Earth. Known for its brilliant fire and range of colors, zircon has been prized for its beauty and historical significance.
Each of these gemstones contributes to the rich tapestry of December’s birthstone lore, reflecting the month’s connection to both ancient traditions and modern innovations.
Geological Formation and Sources of December Birthstones
Understanding the geological origins of December’s birthstones provides insight into their rarity, durability, and unique properties.
Blue Topaz
Blue Topaz is a variety of the mineral topaz, which is composed of silicic acid and aluminum. It forms in igneous rocks and is often found in pegmatite deposits. The blue color in topaz is typically the result of irradiation and heat treatment. Natural blue topaz is extremely rare, making the treated variety the most common in the market.
Major sources of topaz include Brazil, Mexico, and the United States, with Brazil being the largest producer. Blue topaz is particularly popular in jewelry due to its high hardness (8 on the Mohs scale) and brilliant clarity.
Turquoise
Turquoise is a hydrated phosphate of aluminum and copper. It forms in the oxidation zone of copper deposits, typically in arid climates. The stone is known for its characteristic blue to greenish-blue color, which can vary depending on the mineral content.
Historically, turquoise was mined in Egypt, Persia, and Afghanistan, and it has also been found in the southwestern United States, where it was highly valued by Native American tribes. Turquoise is relatively soft (5–6 on the Mohs scale), making it more delicate than other December birthstones.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is a variety of the mineral zoisite and is only found in Tanzania, near the base of Mount Kilimanjaro. It was discovered in 1967 and quickly became a popular gemstone due to its intense blue to violet color. Tanzanite's color is caused by trace amounts of vanadium, and the stone is heat-treated to enhance its color and clarity.
Its unique geographic origin and limited supply make tanzanite a rare and valuable gemstone. It has a hardness of 6–7 on the Mohs scale, making it suitable for jewelry but requiring careful handling.
Zircon
Zircon is a zirconium silicate that has been found in various locations around the world, including Australia, Thailand, and Sri Lanka. It is one of the oldest minerals on Earth, with some zircon crystals dating back over 4 billion years. Zircon is known for its high refractive index and dispersion, giving it a brilliant fire similar to diamonds.
Zircon comes in a range of colors, including red, yellow, green, and blue. The blue variety, known as blue zircon, is particularly popular as a December birthstone. It has a hardness of 7.5–8 on the Mohs scale, making it durable enough for everyday wear.
Lapis Lazuli
Lapis Lazuli is a metamorphic rock composed primarily of lazurite, a sodium calcium aluminum silicate. It also contains other minerals such as pyrite and calcite, which give it a distinctive blue color with flecks of gold.
Historically, lapis lazuli was mined in Afghanistan, where it has been used since ancient times. It was highly valued by ancient Egyptians and Renaissance artists for its deep blue color and spiritual significance. Lapis lazuli has a hardness of 5–6 on the Mohs scale, making it a relatively soft stone that requires careful handling.
Gemological Properties of December Birthstones
Each December birthstone has unique gemological properties that contribute to its beauty and desirability in jewelry.
Blue Topaz
- Color: Blue (natural and treated varieties available)
- Hardness: 8 on the Mohs scale
- Luster: Vitreous
- Refractive Index: 1.62–1.64
- Transparency: Transparent to translucent
- Cut: Commonly cut in brilliant or oval shapes
- Chemical Composition: Al₂SiO₄(F,OH)₂
Blue topaz is known for its clarity and brilliance, making it a popular choice for rings, pendants, and earrings. Its high hardness ensures it is suitable for everyday wear.
Turquoise
- Color: Blue to greenish-blue
- Hardness: 5–6 on the Mohs scale
- Luster: Waxy to greasy
- Refractive Index: 1.61–1.65
- Transparency: Opaque to translucent
- Cut: Typically carved or in cabochon form
- Chemical Composition: AlPO₄·(OH,F)₃·nH₂O
Turquoise is best appreciated in carved or cabochon forms due to its opaque nature. It is often set in silver to enhance its appearance.
Tanzanite
- Color: Blue to violet
- Hardness: 6–7 on the Mohs scale
- Luster: Vitreous
- Refractive Index: 1.694–1.701
- Transparency: Transparent to translucent
- Cut: Commonly cut in brilliant or oval shapes
- Chemical Composition: Ca₂Al₃(SiO₄)₃(OH)
Tanzanite is prized for its vivid color and brilliance. It is often cut to maximize its color and clarity, making it a popular choice for pendants and earrings.
Zircon
- Color: Blue, red, yellow, green
- Hardness: 7.5–8 on the Mohs scale
- Luster: Vitreous
- Refractive Index: 1.92–2.01
- Transparency: Transparent to translucent
- Cut: Brilliant or faceted
- Chemical Composition: ZrSiO₄
Blue zircon is particularly popular as a December birthstone due to its brilliant fire and high refractive index. It is often used as a diamond alternative in jewelry.
Lapis Lazuli
- Color: Deep blue with gold flecks
- Hardness: 5–6 on the Mohs scale
- Luster: Waxy to greasy
- Transparency: Opaque
- Cut: Carved or in cabochon form
- Chemical Composition: NaCa₂Al₂(AlSiO₆)₄(OH,F)₂
Lapis lazuli is best appreciated in carved or cabochon forms. It is often used in beads and pendants, where its rich blue color and gold flecks can be showcased.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Each December birthstone carries its own symbolic and metaphysical significance, reflecting the diverse beliefs and traditions associated with these gemstones.
Blue Topaz
- Symbolism: Clarity, communication, and self-expression.
- Metaphysical Beliefs: Blue topaz is believed to promote calmness, enhance communication, and support emotional healing. It is also associated with the throat chakra, helping to improve clarity in self-expression.
Turquoise
- Symbolism: Protection, prosperity, and spiritual wisdom.
- Metaphysical Beliefs: Turquoise is considered a protective stone, believed to ward off evil and promote peace and prosperity. It is also associated with the heart and throat chakras, helping to enhance communication and emotional balance.
Tanzanite
- Symbolism: Transformation, intuition, and spiritual awareness.
- Metaphysical Beliefs: Tanzanite is believed to promote emotional healing, intuition, and spiritual growth. It is associated with the heart and third eye chakras, helping to deepen one’s spiritual journey.
Zircon
- Symbolism: Wisdom, prosperity, and emotional balance.
- Metaphysical Beliefs: Zircon is believed to promote wisdom, prosperity, and emotional stability. It is associated with the crown chakra, helping to enhance spiritual awareness and mental clarity.
Lapis Lazuli
- Symbolism: Wisdom, truth, and self-mastery.
- Metaphysical Beliefs: Lapis lazuli is believed to promote wisdom, truth, and self-mastery. It is associated with the third eye and crown chakras, helping to enhance spiritual insight and mental clarity.
These beliefs and symbols make December’s birthstones not only beautiful but also meaningful, adding to their appeal in jewelry and personal adornment.
Care and Cleaning of December Birthstones
Proper care and maintenance are essential for preserving the beauty and longevity of December’s birthstones. Each gemstone has different care requirements based on its hardness and sensitivity to heat and chemicals.
Blue Topaz
- Cleaning: Use warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners as they can damage the stone.
- Storage: Store in a soft pouch or separate compartment to prevent scratches.
- Avoid: Exposure to harsh chemicals and high heat.
Turquoise
- Cleaning: Use a soft cloth and mild soap. Avoid abrasive materials and harsh chemicals.
- Storage: Store in a cool, dry place to prevent drying out and cracking.
- Avoid: Exposure to water for extended periods and direct sunlight.
Tanzanite
- Cleaning: Use warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners.
- Storage: Store in a soft pouch to prevent scratches.
- Avoid: Exposure to high heat and harsh chemicals.
Zircon
- Cleaning: Use warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners.
- Storage: Store in a soft pouch to prevent scratches.
- Avoid: Exposure to harsh chemicals and high heat.
Lapis Lazuli
- Cleaning: Use a soft cloth and mild soap. Avoid abrasive materials and harsh chemicals.
- Storage: Store in a cool, dry place.
- Avoid: Exposure to water for extended periods and direct sunlight.
By following these care and cleaning guidelines, you can ensure that your December birthstone remains beautiful and vibrant for years to come.
Conclusion
December’s birthstones offer a rich and diverse selection of gemstones, each with its own unique history, beauty, and significance. From the vibrant blue of Blue Topaz to the deep blue of Tanzanite, these stones reflect the month’s connection to both ancient traditions and modern innovations. Whether you choose Turquoise for its protective qualities, Zircon for its brilliance, or Lapis Lazuli for its wisdom, each December birthstone carries its own special meaning and appeal.
Understanding the geological origins, gemological properties, and cultural significance of these stones enhances their value and appreciation. With proper care and maintenance, December’s birthstones can be cherished for generations, serving as both beautiful adornments and meaningful symbols.