December 22nd is associated with a unique combination of three birthstones: tanzanite, turquoise, and zircon—specifically, blue zircon. These gemstones, all characterized by their blue or blue-green hues, are not only visually captivating but also carry rich historical and symbolic meanings. While December is one of the few months with multiple birthstones, the selection for those born on the 22nd is particularly notable for its depth of color, cultural significance, and the unique properties of each stone. This article explores the history, geological properties, metaphysical beliefs, and care requirements of these three gemstones, offering a comprehensive overview of their role as birthstones for December 22nd.
Introduction
December is a month of transition and celebration, marking the end of one year and the beginning of another. It is also a time of cold, often symbolized by the colors of the sky and the earth in winter. The birthstones for December—tanzanite, turquoise, and zircon—capture this essence with their blue tones, evoking a sense of calm, serenity, and spiritual depth. Each of these stones has its own unique story, rooted in both ancient traditions and modern appreciation.
Tanzanite, discovered in the 1960s in Tanzania, is a relatively new gemstone to the jewelry world but has quickly gained popularity due to its vivid blue to violet color and its rarity. Turquoise, on the other hand, has been used for thousands of years across various cultures and is known for its association with protection, healing, and prosperity. Zircon, especially in its blue variety, is prized for its brilliance and refractive fire, making it a standout gemstone in both historical and contemporary settings.
This article will delve into the origins, properties, symbolism, and care of these three December 22nd birthstones. We will also examine the historical evolution of December's birthstone list and the reasons behind the inclusion of multiple gemstones for a single date.
History and Lore
The tradition of assigning gemstones to specific dates is ancient, with roots in biblical and medieval European practices. The earliest references to birthstones appear in the Book of Exodus, where the High Priest’s breastplate was adorned with twelve stones, each representing one of the twelve tribes of Israel. These stones were later associated with the months of the year and the zodiac signs, forming the basis of the modern birthstone calendar.
December is one of two months with three officially recognized birthstones. This multiplicity allows for greater variety in color, price, and personal meaning, catering to different tastes and cultural preferences. While the modern birthstone list has evolved over time, the inclusion of multiple stones for December reflects the month’s rich symbolism and the diversity of gemstones available in blue tones.
For December 22nd specifically, tanzanite, turquoise, and zircon (particularly blue zircon) are recognized as the official birthstones. This triad of gemstones is not arbitrary but is supported by historical usage and cultural significance. For example, turquoise has long been associated with protection and good fortune in many ancient civilizations, including the Egyptians, Persians, and Native Americans. Tanzanite, though a more modern discovery, has quickly become a symbol of transformation and success, thanks to its striking color and limited geographical source.
Zircon, especially in its blue variety, has been known since antiquity and was even mistaken for other gemstones due to its brilliance. In the early 20th century, zircon was widely used in jewelry, and its inclusion as a December birthstone acknowledges its enduring popularity and aesthetic appeal.
Geological Formation and Sources
Understanding the geological properties of each birthstone helps to appreciate their rarity and beauty. Tanzanite, turquoise, and zircon each form under different geological conditions, resulting in distinct characteristics and sources.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is a type of zoisite, a mineral composed primarily of calcium aluminum silicate. It was first discovered in 1967 in the Merelani Hills near Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, which is the only known source of the gemstone in the world. The gemstone is known for its pleochroism, a property that allows it to display different colors—typically blue, violet, and brown—depending on the angle of light. Tanzanite is usually heat-treated to enhance its blue to violet color, which is its most desirable form.
Tanzanite has a hardness of 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively durable for everyday wear, though it is still more fragile than harder gemstones like diamonds or sapphires. Its chemical formula is Ca₂Al₃(SiO₄)(Si₂O₇)O(OH) and it has a refractive index of 1.694 to 1.700. Tanzanite is typically cut into faceted gemstones or cabochons, depending on the desired effect and the presence of inclusions.
Turquoise
Turquoise is a hydrated phosphate of aluminum and copper, with the chemical formula Al₂(OH)₃PO₄·H₂O. It forms in arid regions where copper-rich rocks are exposed to the weathering effects of water and air. The most famous sources of turquoise include the American Southwest (particularly Arizona, New Mexico, and Nevada), as well as Iran, Egypt, and China.
Turquoise is known for its characteristic blue to green color, which is caused by the presence of copper. The intensity of the color varies depending on the concentration of copper and the presence of other minerals like iron. Turquoise is also known for its porosity and softness, with a hardness of 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale. Because of its softness, it is often stabilized with resins or waxes to improve its durability and luster.
Turquoise is typically cut into cabochons to emphasize its smooth surface and chatoyance, a silky sheen that results from the interplay of light with the stone's fine, fibrous structure. It is often inlaid into silver or other metals to create jewelry and decorative objects.
Zircon
Zircon is a silicate mineral with the chemical formula ZrSiO₄. It is found in a wide range of geological environments and is one of the oldest minerals on Earth, with some zircon crystals dating back over 4 billion years. Zircon occurs in various colors, including colorless, yellow, red, brown, and blue. The blue variety of zircon, which is most commonly associated with December, is the result of heat treatment or irradiation.
Zircon is known for its high refractive index and strong dispersion, giving it a brilliant, fiery appearance. It has a hardness of 6 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale, making it durable enough for most jewelry applications. Zircon is often cut into brilliant or modified brilliant cuts to maximize its sparkle and fire.
Zircon is found in many parts of the world, including Australia, Sri Lanka, India, and the United States. The gemstone has been used in jewelry for centuries and was even mistaken for diamonds in the past due to its brilliance. In fact, zircon was once known as "hyacinth" and was popular in European jewelry during the 16th and 17th centuries.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Each of the December 22nd birthstones carries its own set of symbolic meanings and metaphysical properties, which have been attributed to them by various cultures and spiritual traditions.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is often associated with transformation, intuition, and spiritual growth. Its pleochroic nature, which allows it to display different colors when viewed from different angles, is seen as a metaphor for change and adaptability. Tanzanite is believed to help individuals navigate life’s transitions with grace and insight.
In metaphysical practices, tanzanite is said to open the throat and third eye chakras, enhancing communication, self-expression, and psychic abilities. It is also believed to promote emotional healing and to help individuals release negative emotions such as fear and anxiety. Tanzanite is considered a stone of serenity and peace, making it a popular choice for meditation and spiritual practices.
Turquoise
Turquoise has a long history of symbolic use in various cultures. It is often associated with protection, healing, and good fortune. In ancient Egypt, turquoise was used to decorate amulets and jewelry, and it was believed to provide protection from harm. In Native American cultures, turquoise is considered a sacred stone that connects the earth and the sky. It is often used in ceremonies and is believed to promote spiritual balance and harmony.
In Chinese and Persian cultures, turquoise is associated with wisdom, health, and longevity. It is also believed to have healing properties and is used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments. In modern times, turquoise is still valued for its protective qualities and is often worn as a talisman to ward off negative energy and promote positive change.
Zircon
Zircon is known for its brilliance and is often associated with clarity, truth, and spiritual awakening. In ancient times, zircon was believed to have protective properties and was used as a charm to ward off evil spirits and negative influences. It was also thought to bring good fortune and to help individuals find their life path.
In metaphysical practices, zircon is said to enhance mental clarity and to help individuals see the truth in situations. It is also believed to promote emotional balance and to help individuals overcome fear and insecurity. Zircon is associated with the heart and solar plexus chakras, and it is believed to help individuals connect with their inner strength and confidence.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care is essential to maintaining the beauty and longevity of any gemstone. Tanzanite, turquoise, and zircon each have specific care requirements due to their physical properties and susceptibility to damage.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is relatively durable but should still be handled with care to avoid scratches and chipping. It should be kept away from harsh chemicals, including household cleaners and perfumes, which can dull its surface or cause discoloration. Tanzanite should also be protected from extreme heat, as high temperatures can alter its color or cause it to lose its luster.
To clean tanzanite, a soft cloth and mild soap and water solution are recommended. Ultrasonic cleaners and steam cleaners can be used, but they should be used with caution, as some tanzanite stones may have inclusions that could be affected by the vibrations or heat.
Turquoise
Turquoise is a relatively soft gemstone and is more prone to damage than tanzanite or zircon. It is also porous, which means it can absorb oils, lotions, and other substances that can dull its surface or cause discoloration. Turquoise should be kept away from water and chemicals, as these can damage the stone or cause it to lose its color.
To clean turquoise, a soft cloth and a mild soap and water solution are recommended. The stone should be gently wiped and then dried with a clean, dry cloth. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners should be avoided, as they can cause the stone to crack or become discolored.
Turquoise should also be stored separately from other gemstones to prevent scratches. It is best to store it in a soft pouch or a lined jewelry box to protect it from dust and physical contact.
Zircon
Zircon is more durable than tanzanite and turquoise, with a hardness of 6 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale. However, it can still be scratched by harder gemstones and should be handled with care. Zircon is also sensitive to heat and should be kept away from high temperatures, as this can cause it to lose its color or clarity.
To clean zircon, a soft cloth and a mild soap and water solution are recommended. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners can be used, but they should be used with caution, as some zircon stones may be sensitive to the vibrations or heat.
Zircon should be stored in a soft pouch or a lined jewelry box to protect it from scratches and dust. It should also be kept away from other gemstones that could scratch its surface.
Conclusion
The birthstones for December 22nd—tanzanite, turquoise, and zircon—represent a unique and meaningful combination of gemstones that reflect the essence of the month. Each of these stones carries its own geological, historical, and symbolic significance, making them not only beautiful but also deeply connected to the cultural and spiritual traditions of the past.
Tanzanite, with its striking blue to violet color and its rarity, is a symbol of transformation and intuition. Turquoise, with its rich history and protective properties, is a stone of healing and good fortune. Zircon, known for its brilliance and clarity, is a gemstone of truth and spiritual awakening.
These gemstones are more than just decorative objects; they are vessels of meaning and tradition that connect us to the past and inspire us in the present. Whether worn as jewelry or used in spiritual practices, the December 22nd birthstones offer a powerful way to express individuality, celebrate personal milestones, and honor the rich heritage of gemstone lore.