December, the final month of the year, is represented by a rich tapestry of gemstones, all sharing the common thread of the color blue. This month's birthstones include turquoise, tanzanite, blue zircon, blue topaz, and lapis lazuli. Each of these gemstones possesses unique characteristics, historical significance, and metaphysical properties that have captivated humanity for centuries.
Introduction
The allure of December's birthstones lies in their vibrant blue hues, which symbolize wisdom, strength, and tranquility. These gemstones have been cherished not only for their aesthetic appeal but also for the rich cultural and historical narratives associated with them. From the ancient Egyptians who revered turquoise to the modern appreciation for tanzanite's rarity, the December birthstones encapsulate a journey through time and tradition. This article delves into the geological formation, historical significance, gemological properties, and cultural symbolism of these gemstones, providing a comprehensive overview for enthusiasts and scholars alike.
History and Lore
The history of December's birthstones is as colorful as the stones themselves. Turquoise, one of the earliest known gemstones, has been used for millennia in various cultures. Ancient Egyptians, including the pharaohs, adorned themselves with turquoise, believing it to offer protection and good fortune. In ancient China, artisans carved turquoise over 3,000 years ago, and it was considered a symbol of wealth and power. The name "turquoise" itself is derived from the French "pierre turquoise," meaning "stone of Turkey," as the gem was first introduced to Europe through Turkish trade routes.
Tanzanite, in contrast, is a relatively recent discovery, first identified in the 1960s in Tanzania. Its name is a tribute to its country of origin, and it quickly gained popularity due to its unique blue-violet color. The stone is only found in the region near Mount Kilimanjaro, making it one of the rarest gemstones in the world.
Blue zircon, another December birthstone, has a long and storied history. Known for its brilliant fire and range of colors, zircon is one of the oldest minerals on Earth, with some specimens dating back over 4 billion years. The blue variety of zircon is particularly popular, achieved through heat treatment that transforms brown zircon into a stunning blue gemstone.
Blue topaz, while a newer addition to the December birthstone list, has been used in jewelry for centuries. Its serene blue color has made it a favorite among jewelers and collectors. The gem is often enhanced through chemical or heat treatments to achieve its vivid blue hue.
Lapis lazuli, a traditional December gemstone, has been used for millennia in art and jewelry. The Egyptians used it to create amulets and inlay work, while medieval European artisans crafted intricate jewelry from it. The stone's deep blue color, often flecked with gold pyrite, has made it a symbol of truth and wisdom.
Geological Formation and Sources
The geological formation of December's birthstones is as fascinating as their historical significance. Turquoise is formed by the interaction of copper-containing groundwater with the bedrock, resulting in an opaque stone with stunning shades of blue and green. The dark lines and shapes seen in turquoise are derived from the surrounding rock, known as matrix. Major sources of turquoise include the United States, Iran, and Egypt.
Tanzanite is found exclusively in northern Tanzania, near the base of Mount Kilimanjaro. The geological conditions in this region are unique, allowing for the formation of this rare gemstone. Tanzanite is a metamorphic mineral, formed under high pressure and temperature conditions.
Blue zircon is found in various locations worldwide, including Australia, Thailand, and Madagascar. The blue color is achieved through heat treatment, which alters the structure of the zircon crystal, resulting in a vibrant blue hue.
Blue topaz is found in several countries, including Brazil, Mexico, and Nigeria. The gem is often treated to enhance its color, making it a popular choice for jewelry. The treatment involves irradiation or heat to transform the natural colorless or yellowish topaz into a striking blue gemstone.
Lapis lazuli is primarily found in Afghanistan, which is the largest producer of the stone. Other sources include Chile, Russia, and Canada. The gem is a metamorphic rock composed of lazurite, calcite, and pyrite, giving it its distinctive deep blue color with golden flecks.
Gemological Properties
Understanding the gemological properties of December's birthstones is essential for both collectors and jewelers. Each gemstone has unique characteristics that influence its durability, appearance, and use in jewelry.
Turquoise
- Color: Ranges from blue to green, often with veins of matrix.
- Hardness: 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale.
- Luster: Waxy to dull.
- Clarity: Opaque to semi-translucent.
- Chemical Formula: CuAl₆(PO₄)₄(OH)₈·4H₂O.
- Refractive Index: 1.61 to 1.65.
Turquoise is a relatively soft gemstone, making it susceptible to scratches and damage. It is often stabilized with resins to enhance its durability. The presence of matrix inclusions is considered a natural characteristic and can add to the stone's aesthetic appeal.
Tanzanite
- Color: Blue to violet.
- Hardness: 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale.
- Luster: Vitreous.
- Clarity: Usually clear to slightly included.
- Chemical Formula: CaAl(SiO₄)F.
- Refractive Index: 1.694 to 1.706.
Tanzanite is known for its pleochroism, meaning it can display different colors when viewed from different angles. This property adds to its visual appeal and makes it a popular choice for jewelry. The gem is relatively durable, making it suitable for various types of jewelry.
Blue Zircon
- Color: Blue, with green pleochroism.
- Hardness: 6 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale.
- Luster: Vitreous.
- Clarity: Usually clear to slightly included.
- Chemical Formula: ZrSiO₄.
- Refractive Index: 1.92 to 2.00.
Blue zircon is a high refractive index gemstone, which gives it a brilliant sparkle. It is often heat-treated to achieve its blue color, which is highly sought after in the jewelry industry. The gem is relatively durable, making it suitable for everyday wear.
Blue Topaz
- Color: Blue.
- Hardness: 8 on the Mohs scale.
- Luster: Vitreous.
- Clarity: Usually clear to slightly included.
- Chemical Formula: Al₂SiO₄(F,OH)₂.
- Refractive Index: 1.618 to 1.627.
Blue topaz is a durable gemstone, making it ideal for everyday jewelry. The gem is often treated to enhance its color, resulting in a stunning blue hue that is highly popular in the jewelry market. Its high hardness and clarity make it a versatile choice for various types of jewelry.
Lapis Lazuli
- Color: Deep blue with golden flecks.
- Hardness: 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale.
- Luster: Waxy to dull.
- Clarity: Opaque.
- Chemical Formula: (Na,Ca)₈(AlSiO₄)₆(S,S,OH,Cl)₂.
- Refractive Index: 2.4 to 2.8.
Lapis lazuli is an opaque gemstone, often used in inlay work and pendants. Its deep blue color, enhanced by flecks of gold pyrite, makes it a unique and valuable gemstone. It is relatively soft, so it requires careful handling to avoid scratches and damage.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
The December birthstones are not only admired for their beauty but also for the symbolic and metaphysical properties attributed to them. These beliefs vary across cultures and historical periods, adding to the stones' allure.
Turquoise
Turquoise has long been associated with protection, good fortune, and health. Ancient Egyptian rulers believed it offered protection and ensured a prosperous life. In medieval times, it was believed that turquoise would break into pieces if a disaster was imminent, thus serving as a warning to the wearer. Hindu mystics maintained that seeing a turquoise stone after the new moon ensured fantastic wealth.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is often associated with transformation and emotional healing. It is believed to help individuals overcome fears and anxieties, promoting a sense of calm and balance. The stone's rarity and unique color have also made it a symbol of individuality and self-expression.
Blue Zircon
Blue zircon is believed to enhance wisdom and intuition. It is often used in meditation to promote mental clarity and spiritual insight. The gemstone's brilliance and fire are thought to symbolize the inner light of the soul.
Blue Topaz
Blue topaz is associated with calmness and serenity. It is believed to help reduce stress and promote a sense of peace. The gemstone is also thought to enhance communication and encourage honesty and truthfulness.
Lapis Lazuli
Lapis lazuli is a symbol of truth and wisdom. It has been used in ancient times to create amulets and talismans that were believed to protect the wearer from harm. The stone is also thought to enhance intellectual abilities and promote a sense of self-awareness.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care and cleaning are essential to maintaining the beauty and longevity of December's birthstones. Each gemstone has specific requirements based on its hardness, luster, and susceptibility to damage.
Turquoise
Turquoise is a relatively soft gemstone and is sensitive to heat, chemicals, and abrasives. It should be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap and water. Avoid exposure to harsh chemicals, as they can cause the stone to lose its color. Store turquoise separately from other gemstones to prevent scratches.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite should be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap and water. It is relatively durable but should be protected from sharp blows and high heat. Avoid exposure to harsh chemicals, as they can affect the stone's color and clarity. Store tanzanite in a soft cloth to prevent scratches.
Blue Zircon
Blue zircon is a durable gemstone but should be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap and water. Avoid exposure to harsh chemicals and high heat, as they can affect the stone's color and clarity. Store blue zircon separately from other gemstones to prevent scratches.
Blue Topaz
Blue topaz is a hard and durable gemstone, making it suitable for everyday wear. It can be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap and water. Avoid exposure to harsh chemicals and high heat, as they can affect the stone's color and clarity. Store blue topaz in a soft cloth to prevent scratches.
Lapis Lazuli
Lapis lazuli is a soft gemstone and is sensitive to abrasives and harsh chemicals. It should be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap and water. Avoid exposure to heat and direct sunlight, as they can cause the stone to lose its color. Store lapis lazuli separately from other gemstones to prevent scratches.
Conclusion
December's birthstones—turquoise, tanzanite, blue zircon, blue topaz, and lapis lazuli—each possess unique properties and rich histories that have captivated humanity for centuries. From the ancient Egyptians who revered turquoise to the modern appreciation for tanzanite's rarity, these gemstones continue to inspire and enchant. Their vibrant blue hues symbolize wisdom, strength, and tranquility, making them ideal gifts for December birthdays. Whether chosen for their beauty, historical significance, or metaphysical properties, these gemstones are a testament to the enduring allure of December's birthstones.