December is one of the most intriguing months in the birthstone calendar, not because of its cold weather or festive traditions, but because of the unique and varied selection of gemstones it is associated with. Unlike months that are typically assigned a single birthstone, December offers a rich and eclectic collection of five distinct gemstones: zircon, topaz, tanzanite, lapis lazuli, and turquoise. Each of these gemstones holds its own historical, cultural, and gemological significance, making the December birthstone selection both diverse and deeply meaningful.
This article delves into the origins, properties, symbolism, and care of each of these December birthstones, offering a comprehensive overview for gemstone enthusiasts, jewelry buyers, and those curious about the historical roots of these beautiful stones.
Introduction
December is a month of contrasts—of winter’s chill and holiday warmth, of long nights and the promise of a new year. Just as it symbolizes transition and renewal, so too do its birthstones reflect a range of meanings and properties. From the ancient allure of lapis lazuli to the rare and modern discovery of tanzanite, December's birthstones offer a fascinating blend of history, aesthetics, and cultural significance.
This article explores the five gemstones traditionally or modernly associated with December. Each of these stones—zircon, topaz, tanzanite, lapis lazuli, and turquoise—has its own story to tell. Some are ancient and have been cherished for thousands of years, while others are relatively new to the gemstone world. Together, they form a vibrant and meaningful selection that caters to different tastes, budgets, and beliefs.
The structure of this article is as follows:
- History and Lore: An overview of how each gemstone became associated with December, including its use in ancient and modern times.
- Geological Formation and Sources: A look into how and where these gemstones are formed and mined.
- Gemological Properties: Detailed information on each gemstone's physical and chemical characteristics.
- Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs: An exploration of the meanings and powers attributed to these stones across cultures.
- Care and Cleaning: Practical advice on how to maintain the beauty and integrity of each gemstone.
- Conclusion: A summary of the significance of December's diverse birthstone selection.
History and Lore
The concept of birthstones dates back thousands of years, with early records suggesting that the ancient Israelites wore stones on their priestly garments to represent the twelve tribes. Over time, this tradition evolved into the modern birthstone calendar we know today.
December’s birthstones reflect this evolution. While zircon and turquoise have long been part of the traditional selection, tanzanite, topaz, and lapis lazuli were added more recently to offer a broader range of options in terms of price, color, and availability.
Turquoise: An Ancient Gem of the East
Turquoise is one of the oldest known gemstones, with evidence of its use dating back over 6,000 years. It was especially popular in ancient Egypt, where it was used in jewelry, amulets, and even in the burial of Pharaohs. The deep blue-green color was believed to represent the sky and the gods, making it a symbol of protection and divine favor.
In the Americas, Native American tribes also revered turquoise, using it in pendants, inlays, and ceremonial objects. The stone was considered a bridge between the earth and the heavens, and was often worn to promote health and good fortune.
Lapis Lazuli: The Stone of Royalty
Lapis lazuli has a similarly storied past. Its deep blue color and golden flecks made it a prized material in ancient Mesopotamia, Egypt, and the Indus Valley civilization. It was especially favored by royalty, with Cleopatra famously using it as eye makeup.
The stone was associated with wisdom, truth, and spiritual enlightenment. In medieval times, it was believed to enhance intellectual pursuits and was often used in the adornment of scholars and mystics.
Tanzanite: A Modern Marvel
Discovered in 1967 in Tanzania, tanzanite is one of the newest additions to the birthstone calendar. Its intense blue to violet color and strong pleochroism (the ability to display different colors depending on the viewing angle) quickly made it a favorite among jewelers and collectors.
It was marketed by Tiffany & Co. in the early 1970s, and it rapidly gained popularity as a luxurious and affordable alternative to sapphires. Its exclusivity—being found only in a small area near Mount Kilimanjaro—adds to its allure.
Geological Formation and Sources
Each of December’s birthstones has a unique geological story. Understanding how these gemstones are formed and where they are found helps to appreciate their rarity and beauty.
Turquoise
Turquoise is a hydrated phosphate of aluminum and copper. It forms when acidic, copper-rich water percolates through rock formations, reacting with aluminum and phosphorus. This process typically occurs in arid environments, where water evaporates quickly, allowing the turquoise to crystallize in the cavities of volcanic and sedimentary rocks.
The most famous sources of turquoise include Nevada, Arizona, and New Mexico in the United States, as well as Iran, China, and Egypt. The quality and color of turquoise vary depending on the trace elements present, with the most prized specimens displaying a vivid blue with golden or black matrix patterns.
Lapis Lazuli
Lapis lazuli is a metamorphic rock composed mainly of lazurite, with smaller amounts of calcite and pyrite. It forms under high-pressure and high-temperature conditions in the Earth's crust, often in association with igneous rocks.
The primary source of high-quality lapis lazuli is Afghanistan, where it has been mined for thousands of years. Other notable sources include Russia, Canada, and the United States. The presence of pyrite in the stone gives it its characteristic golden speckles, while the deep blue color comes from the lazurite component.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is a variety of the mineral zoisite, and its striking blue to violet color is due to trace amounts of vanadium. It is formed under specific geological conditions in the area around Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, where the collision of tectonic plates and high heat and pressure created the perfect environment for its formation.
Tanzanite is found in a very limited area, making it one of the rarest gemstones in the world. The stone is often heat-treated to enhance its color, a process that is standard in the industry and widely accepted.
Zircon
Zircon is one of the oldest minerals on Earth, with some crystals dating back over 4 billion years. It is typically found in metamorphic and igneous rocks and is often mined as a byproduct of other mineral extraction.
The primary sources of gem-quality zircon include Madagascar, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Australia. Blue zircon, in particular, is popular as a December birthstone, and its vivid blue color is achieved through heat treatment.
Topaz
Topaz is a silicate mineral that forms in igneous rocks, particularly in areas where magma cools and solidifies. It is found in a wide range of colors, but blue topaz is the most commonly associated with December.
The largest sources of topaz include Brazil, Mexico, and Nigeria. Blue topaz is typically created through irradiation and heat treatment, processes that are well-documented and safe.
Gemological Properties
Each of December’s birthstones has distinct gemological properties that define its appearance, durability, and use in jewelry.
Turquoise
- Chemical Formula: CuAl₆(PO₄)₄(OH)₈·4H₂O
- Color: Blue to green, often with matrix patterns
- Hardness (Mohs Scale): 5–6
- Luster: Waxy to vitreous
- Transparency: Opaque to translucent
- Cleavage: None
- Specific Gravity: 2.6–2.8
- Fracture: Uneven
Turquoise is a relatively soft gemstone, and it is porous and sensitive to oils, acids, and heat. It is best suited for pendants, inlay work, and other pieces that are not subjected to frequent wear.
Lapis Lazuli
- Chemical Formula: (Na,Ca)₈(AlSiO₄)₆(S,SO₄,Cl)₁₋₂·(OH,H₂O)
- Color: Deep blue with white, golden, or black flecks
- Hardness (Mohs Scale): 5–6
- Luster: Waxy to dull
- Transparency: Opaque
- Cleavage: None
- Specific Gravity: 2.4–2.8
- Fracture: Uneven
Lapis lazuli is also a relatively soft gemstone, and it is often carved or inlaid rather than faceted. It is popular in beads, cabochons, and ornamental objects.
Tanzanite
- Chemical Formula: Ca₂Al₃(SiO₄)(OH)₂·H₂O (Zoisite)
- Color: Blue to violet
- Hardness (Mohs Scale): 6–7
- Luster: Vitreous
- Transparency: Transparent to translucent
- Cleavage: Perfect in one direction
- Specific Gravity: 3.1–3.4
- Fracture: Uneven
- Pleochroism: Strong (displays multiple colors)
Tanzanite is known for its vibrant color and strong pleochroism. It is typically heat-treated to enhance its color, and it is best suited for earrings, pendants, and rings with protective settings.
Zircon
- Chemical Formula: ZrSiO₄
- Color: Blue (most common), red, yellow, brown
- Hardness (Mohs Scale): 6–7.5
- Luster: Vitreous
- Transparency: Transparent to translucent
- Cleavage: None
- Specific Gravity: 4.0–4.7
- Fracture: Conchoidal
- Pleochroism: Strong
Blue zircon is a popular gemstone due to its brilliance and color. It is often mistaken for blue topaz or sapphire. It is durable enough for most jewelry settings and is a great choice for rings and earrings.
Topaz
- Chemical Formula: Al₂SiO₄(F,OH)₂
- Color: Blue (most common), yellow, brown, pink
- Hardness (Mohs Scale): 8
- Luster: Vitreous
- Transparency: Transparent
- Cleavage: Perfect in one direction
- Specific Gravity: 3.4–3.6
- Fracture: Subconchoidal
- Pleochroism: Weak
Blue topaz is a durable gemstone with a high hardness. It is often used in rings, pendants, and bracelets. It is typically enhanced through irradiation and heat treatment to achieve its blue color.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Each of December’s birthstones carries its own symbolic and metaphysical significance. These beliefs vary across cultures and time periods, but they often reflect the stone’s color, composition, and historical use.
Turquoise: Protection and Harmony
Turquoise has long been associated with protection, healing, and spiritual connection. In ancient Egypt, it was believed to ward off evil and bring divine favor. Native American tribes used it in rituals to promote health and good fortune. Today, it is often seen as a stone of balance, promoting emotional stability and inner peace.
Lapis Lazuli: Wisdom and Enlightenment
Lapis lazuli is a stone of intellect and wisdom. It was used by scholars and mystics in ancient times to enhance mental clarity and stimulate philosophical thought. It is believed to promote self-awareness, enhance creativity, and encourage spiritual growth.
Tanzanite: Transformation and Intuition
Tanzanite is associated with transformation and intuition. It is believed to activate the throat, third-eye, and crown chakras, helping the wearer to communicate more effectively and access higher states of consciousness. It is also seen as a stone of emotional healing and self-discovery.
Zircon: Clarity and Hope
Zircon is known for its brilliance and is often associated with clarity and hope. It is believed to enhance mental clarity and promote a sense of optimism. It is also seen as a protective stone, helping to ward off negative energies and promote positive change.
Topaz: Strength and Courage
Topaz is a stone of strength and courage. It is believed to promote confidence, clarity, and emotional stability. It is also associated with love and friendship, making it a popular choice for romantic jewelry.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care and maintenance are essential to preserving the beauty and longevity of December’s birthstones. Each gemstone requires specific handling due to its unique physical properties.
Turquoise
- Cleaning: Use a soft, damp cloth with mild soap. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasives.
- Storage: Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
- Avoid: Exposure to oils, acids, and heat.
Lapis Lazuli
- Cleaning: Use a soft, damp cloth with mild soap. Avoid soaking in water.
- Storage: Store in a dry place, preferably in a fabric-lined box.
- Avoid: Exposure to oils and acids.
Tanzanite
- Cleaning: Use a soft, damp cloth with mild soap. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners and steamers.
- Storage: Store in a dry, secure place.
- Avoid: Exposure to high heat and direct sunlight.
Zircon
- Cleaning: Use a soft, damp cloth with mild soap. Avoid harsh chemicals.
- Storage: Store in a cool, dry place.
- Avoid: Exposure to high heat and abrasive cleaners.
Topaz
- Cleaning: Use a soft, damp cloth with mild soap. Can also be cleaned with warm water and mild detergent.
- Storage: Store in a dry, secure place.
- Avoid: Exposure to sudden temperature changes.
Conclusion
December’s birthstones—zircon, topaz, tanzanite, lapis lazuli, and turquoise—offer a fascinating and diverse selection that reflects both the rich history of gemstones and the evolving tastes of modern jewelry lovers. From the ancient wisdom of lapis lazuli to the vibrant charm of turquoise, and from the rare beauty of tanzanite to the brilliant clarity of zircon and topaz, these gemstones represent a unique blend of color, meaning, and symbolism.
Each of these stones has its own geological story, cultural significance, and gemological properties, making them not just beautiful adornments, but also meaningful symbols of identity and tradition. Whether worn for their aesthetic appeal, their spiritual properties, or their historical value, December’s birthstones continue to captivate and inspire.
Understanding the origins, properties, and care of these gemstones allows for a deeper appreciation of their beauty and significance. As both a personal and cultural symbol, these stones serve as a lasting reminder of the connection between nature, history, and human expression.