December is a month rich in color, tradition, and symbolism, and its birthstones reflect this richness with their diverse range of hues and historical significance. The modern and traditional December birthstones include Blue Zircon, Blue Topaz, Tanzanite, Lapis Lazuli, and Turquoise—each offering a unique blend of beauty, meaning, and cultural resonance. These gemstones have been revered for centuries for their aesthetic appeal, spiritual properties, and symbolic value, making them not only beautiful adornments but also meaningful gifts and personal talismans.
This article explores the history, geological properties, cultural significance, and care requirements of each of these December birthstones. By examining their origins, uses, and the lore surrounding them, we gain a deeper appreciation of the enduring fascination these gemstones hold for both gemologists and enthusiasts alike.
History and Lore
The tradition of assigning gemstones to specific months of the year has roots in ancient civilizations, particularly in biblical times. The earliest known references to birthstones can be traced back to the Book of Exodus, where Aaron’s breastplate was described as being set with twelve gemstones, each representing one of the twelve tribes of Israel. Over time, this tradition evolved, and by the 13th century, European scholars began to associate each month with a particular stone, linking them to celestial influences and spiritual properties.
In the case of December, the selection of birthstones has undergone several changes throughout history. Initially, the Jewelers of America (JA) recognized Lapis Lazuli and Turquoise as the December birthstones. However, in more recent times, Blue Zircon, Blue Topaz, and Tanzanite have been added to the list, reflecting the evolving preferences and availability of gemstones. Prior to the 1912 JA list, even Bloodstone and Ruby were considered December birthstones, illustrating the dynamic nature of this tradition.
The December birthstones are often associated with themes of protection, wisdom, and tranquility. Turquoise, for instance, has long been regarded as a protective talisman, believed to ward off illness and misfortune. In ancient Egypt, it was used to adorn pharaohs and was thought to bring divine favor. Similarly, Lapis Lazuli has been linked to wisdom and enlightenment, with its deep blue color symbolizing the vastness of the cosmos and the depth of knowledge.
Geological Formation and Sources
Each of the December birthstones is formed through distinct geological processes and is found in specific regions around the world. Understanding these processes and locations helps to appreciate the rarity and value of these gemstones.
Blue Zircon is a type of zircon, a mineral that is typically found in metamorphic and igneous rocks. It is known for its high refractive index, which gives it a brilliant, fiery appearance. Blue zircon is often heat-treated to enhance its color, turning it into the vibrant blue hue that is so desirable. Major sources of zircon include Australia, Madagascar, and Sri Lanka.
Blue Topaz is a variety of topaz, a silicate mineral that forms in pegmatite and rhyolite veins. Natural blue topaz is rare, and most blue topaz is created through irradiation and heat treatment. This process enhances its color, making it more vibrant and marketable. Brazil is the primary source of topaz, with significant deposits also found in Nigeria, Russia, and the United States.
Tanzanite is a relatively new gemstone, discovered in 1967 in Tanzania, from which it gets its name. It is a type of zoisite, and its striking blue-violet color is due to a combination of vanadium and chromium. Tanzanite is only found in the Merelani Hills of Tanzania, making it one of the rarest gemstones in the world. Its limited geographic origin adds to its allure and value.
Lapis Lazuli is a metamorphic rock composed of lazurite, calcite, and pyrite. It is known for its deep blue color and golden flecks of pyrite. Lapis lazuli has been mined for thousands of years, with the most significant deposits found in Afghanistan. Other sources include Russia, Chile, and the United States. Its historical use in art and jewelry dates back to ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia.
Turquoise is a hydrated phosphate mineral that forms in the oxidation zones of copper deposits. It is often found in arid regions where it can form in veins and nodules. The most well-known sources of turquoise include Iran, the United States (particularly Arizona and Nevada), and China. Turquoise has been used for centuries in jewelry, amulets, and decorative objects, with its blue-green color symbolizing protection and good fortune.
Gemological Properties
The gemological properties of each December birthstone contribute to their unique characteristics and appeal. These properties include color, clarity, hardness, and refractive index, all of which affect the gemstone's durability, brilliance, and suitability for jewelry.
Blue Zircon is known for its high refractive index, which gives it a brilliant, glassy luster. Its hardness ranges from 6 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively durable but still susceptible to scratches. Blue zircon is often cut into brilliant or cushion shapes to maximize its fire and sparkle.
Blue Topaz has a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale, making it one of the more durable December birthstones. Its refractive index is lower than that of zircon, but its clarity and color make it a popular choice for jewelry. Blue topaz is typically cut into round, oval, or princess shapes to showcase its vibrant color and clarity.
Tanzanite has a hardness of 6 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale, which means it is relatively soft and requires careful handling. It has a high refractive index and is often cut into cushion or oval shapes to enhance its color and brilliance. Tanzanite's pleochroism—its ability to display different colors when viewed from different angles—adds to its visual appeal.
Lapis Lazuli is a metamorphic rock rather than a gemstone, and its hardness ranges from 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale. It is often carved into cabochons or used in mosaics and inlay work. Lapis lazuli's deep blue color and golden pyrite flecks make it a popular choice for decorative objects and jewelry.
Turquoise is a relatively soft gemstone, with a hardness of 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale. It is typically cut into cabochons to highlight its color and patterns. Turquoise is often stabilized with resins to improve its durability and enhance its color. Its opaque nature and blue-green hues make it a unique and versatile gemstone for jewelry and decorative purposes.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
The December birthstones are not only valued for their physical properties but also for their symbolic meanings and metaphysical beliefs. These gemstones have been associated with various qualities and powers across different cultures and historical periods.
Blue Zircon is believed to enhance wisdom, intellect, and spiritual insight. It is often associated with the throat chakra, promoting communication and self-expression. Blue zircon is also thought to bring calm and tranquility, helping to reduce stress and anxiety.
Blue Topaz is linked to the heart and third eye chakras, promoting emotional healing and intuition. It is believed to bring serenity and peace, helping to soothe the mind and enhance clarity of thought. Blue topaz is also associated with protection and good fortune, making it a popular choice for those seeking to attract positive energy.
Tanzanite is associated with the heart and throat chakras, promoting emotional balance and communication. It is believed to enhance creativity, intuition, and spiritual growth. Tanzanite is also thought to help with emotional healing and transformation, making it a valuable gemstone for those undergoing change.
Lapis Lazuli has long been associated with wisdom, truth, and enlightenment. It is believed to enhance intellectual abilities and stimulate a quest for knowledge. Lapis lazuli is also linked to the third eye chakra, promoting spiritual awareness and insight. It is often used in meditation and spiritual practices to enhance focus and clarity.
Turquoise is one of the most well-known protective stones, believed to ward off illness and misfortune. It is associated with the throat and heart chakras, promoting communication, emotional healing, and positive energy. Turquoise is also thought to bring good fortune and prosperity, making it a popular choice for those seeking to attract abundance and success.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care and cleaning are essential for maintaining the beauty and longevity of December birthstone jewelry. Each gemstone requires specific handling to ensure its durability and appearance.
Blue Zircon should be cleaned with mild soap and warm water. It should be kept away from harsh chemicals and abrasive materials, as it can scratch easily. Blue zircon should also be stored separately from harder gemstones to prevent damage.
Blue Topaz is relatively durable and can be cleaned with warm, soapy water. It can also be cleaned with an ultrasonic cleaner, but care should be taken to avoid prolonged exposure to high heat, which can affect its color.
Tanzanite requires gentle care due to its relatively soft nature. It should be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap. Tanzanite should be kept away from heat and direct sunlight, as exposure can cause fading. It should also be stored separately from harder gemstones to prevent scratches.
Lapis Lazuli is a soft gemstone that should be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap. It should be kept away from harsh chemicals and abrasive materials. Lapis lazuli should also be stored in a cool, dry place to prevent damage.
Turquoise is sensitive to heat, chemicals, and abrasives, so it requires gentle care. It should be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap. Turquoise should be kept away from direct sunlight and heat sources, as these can cause it to dry out and lose its color. It should also be stored in a cool, dry place to prevent damage.
Conclusion
The December birthstones—Blue Zircon, Blue Topaz, Tanzanite, Lapis Lazuli, and Turquoise—offer a rich tapestry of history, beauty, and meaning. Each gemstone has its own unique properties and cultural significance, making them valuable not only as adornments but also as symbols of protection, wisdom, and tranquility. From their geological origins to their metaphysical beliefs, these gemstones continue to captivate and inspire, reflecting the enduring fascination with gemstones across cultures and centuries.
By understanding the history, properties, and care requirements of these December birthstones, we gain a deeper appreciation of their value and significance. Whether chosen for their aesthetic appeal, symbolic meaning, or personal connection, these gemstones serve as enduring reminders of the beauty and mystery of the natural world.