The world of birthstones is rich in history, symbolism, and aesthetic appeal. Each month is associated with one or more gemstones that not only reflect the beauty of the natural world but also carry deep cultural and historical significance. December and March, two distinct months on the calendar, are each marked by their own set of birthstones—December with blue zircon, blue topaz, and tanzanite, and March with aquamarine. This article delves into the gemstones associated with these months, offering a detailed exploration of their geological properties, historical uses, cultural symbolism, and practical care considerations.
Introduction
December and March birthstones represent a diverse array of gemstones, each with its own unique characteristics and allure. December's modern birthstones include blue zircon, blue topaz, and tanzanite, while the traditional options are lapis lazuli and turquoise. March, by contrast, is represented by the single, elegant gemstone aquamarine. These stones are not only prized for their beauty but also for the deep symbolism they carry across cultures and time periods. This article will explore the geological formation and properties of these gemstones, their historical and cultural significance, and practical advice on how to care for them. By the end, readers will have a comprehensive understanding of these birthstones and the reasons behind their enduring popularity.
History and Lore
December Birthstones
December's birthstones have a long and storied history, with roots tracing back to ancient traditions. The traditional December birthstones, lapis lazuli and turquoise, have been revered for centuries in various cultures. Lapis lazuli, with its deep blue hue and flecks of gold, has been used since antiquity in jewelry and decorative objects. Ancient Egyptians, for example, used lapis lazuli in amulets and for inlay work, believing it to bring wisdom and protection. Turquoise, another traditional December birthstone, has a similarly long history. It was highly valued by the ancient Egyptians, Persians, and Native Americans, often used as a protective talisman and believed to bring good fortune.
In contrast, the modern December birthstones—blue zircon, blue topaz, and tanzanite—are more recent additions to the birthstone tradition. Blue zircon has been used in jewelry for centuries, but its modern status as a birthstone is a more recent development. Blue topaz, a popular and widely available gemstone, has also been incorporated into the modern December birthstone list. Tanzanite, on the other hand, is one of the newest additions to the birthstone chart. Discovered in the 1960s in Tanzania, tanzanite quickly gained popularity due to its vibrant blue-to-violet color and its association with the birthstone tradition.
March Birthstone
The March birthstone, aquamarine, has a long and illustrious history, with its use dating back to ancient times. The name "aquamarine" is derived from the Latin words "aqua" (water) and "marinus" (of the sea), reflecting its resemblance to the color of the ocean. Ancient mariners believed that aquamarine could protect them from drowning and bring calm seas. This belief led to its use in protective amulets for sailors.
Aquamarine has also been used in various cultures for its perceived healing properties. In medieval Europe, it was thought to bring good luck and protect against poisoning. The gemstone's association with water and its calming blue color have made it a popular choice for jewelry, especially in pieces that symbolize serenity and tranquility.
Geological Formation and Sources
December Birthstones
The geological formation of December's birthstones varies depending on the specific gemstone.
Blue Zircon: Zircon is a mineral composed of zirconium silicate and is found in various colors, including blue. Blue zircon is typically created through heat treatment to enhance its color. Natural zircon is found in several countries, including Cambodia, Sri Lanka, and Tanzania. The blue coloration is a result of the gemstone's ability to absorb and emit light, which is influenced by its internal structure and the presence of trace elements.
Blue Topaz: Blue topaz is a form of topaz that has been irradiated and heated to achieve its blue color. Natural blue topaz is extremely rare, so most blue topaz available on the market today is treated. Topaz is a silicate mineral composed of aluminum and fluorine. It is found in various parts of the world, including Brazil, Mexico, and the United States. The blue coloration is a result of the gemstone's ability to absorb and emit light, which is influenced by the presence of trace elements and the treatment process.
Tanzanite: Tanzanite is a relatively recent discovery, having been found in the 1960s in Tanzania. It is a variety of the mineral zoisite and is known for its vibrant blue-to-violet color. Tanzanite is trichroic, meaning it shows different colors when viewed from different angles. This property makes it a unique and desirable gemstone. The gemstone is found only in Tanzania, which is why it is named after the country. The blue coloration is due to the presence of vanadium and the way the gemstone interacts with light.
Lapis Lazuli and Turquoise: These traditional December birthstones are both metamorphic and sedimentary rocks, respectively. Lapis lazuli is a metamorphic rock composed of lazurite, calcite, and pyrite. It is found in several countries, including Afghanistan, Russia, and the United States. Turquoise is a hydrated phosphate of aluminum and copper, and it is found in arid regions where copper deposits have been weathered. Major sources include China, Egypt, Iran, and the United States.
March Birthstone
Aquamarine is a beryl mineral, composed of beryllium aluminum silicate. It is found in various parts of the world, including Brazil, Colombia, Nigeria, and Madagascar. The gemstone's blue color is due to the presence of iron in the crystal structure. Aquamarine is often found in granite pegmatites, where it forms in a high-temperature environment. The gemstone is relatively hard, with a hardness of 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale, making it suitable for use in jewelry.
Gemological Properties
December Birthstones
Understanding the gemological properties of December's birthstones is essential for both jewelers and collectors. These properties include hardness, refractive index, specific gravity, and color.
Blue Zircon: Blue zircon has a hardness of 6 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively durable but not as hard as some other gemstones. It has a refractive index of 1.92 to 2.00, which gives it a high level of brilliance. The specific gravity of zircon ranges from 3.9 to 4.7, which is relatively high. The blue coloration is a result of the gemstone's ability to absorb and emit light, which is influenced by its internal structure and the presence of trace elements.
Blue Topaz: Blue topaz has a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale, making it a durable gemstone suitable for everyday wear. It has a refractive index of 1.61 to 1.63, which is relatively low compared to other gemstones. The specific gravity of topaz is around 3.5, which is moderate. The blue coloration is a result of the gemstone's ability to absorb and emit light, which is influenced by the presence of trace elements and the treatment process.
Tanzanite: Tanzanite has a hardness of 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale, which makes it somewhat delicate. It has a refractive index of 1.694 to 1.701, which is relatively high, giving it a brilliant appearance. The specific gravity of tanzanite is around 3.35, which is moderate. The blue-to-violet coloration is due to the presence of vanadium and the way the gemstone interacts with light.
Lapis Lazuli and Turquoise: These traditional December birthstones are not gemstones in the traditional sense but are still valued for their beauty and symbolism. Lapis lazuli has a hardness of 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale and a refractive index of 1.65 to 1.70. The specific gravity is around 2.4 to 2.5. Turquoise has a hardness of 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale, a refractive index of 1.61 to 1.65, and a specific gravity of 2.0 to 2.7.
March Birthstone
Aquamarine is a beryl mineral, and its gemological properties are as follows:
- Hardness: Aquamarine has a hardness of 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale, making it a durable gemstone suitable for use in jewelry.
- Refractive Index: The refractive index of aquamarine ranges from 1.57 to 1.60, which gives it a moderate level of brilliance.
- Specific Gravity: The specific gravity of aquamarine is around 2.67 to 2.78, which is relatively low.
- Color: The blue coloration of aquamarine is due to the presence of iron in the crystal structure. The gemstone can range from a light blue to a deep blue-green color.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
December Birthstones
The December birthstones carry a wealth of symbolism and metaphysical beliefs, many of which have been passed down through generations.
Blue Zircon: Blue zircon is often associated with wisdom, protection, and spiritual growth. It is believed to enhance intuition and provide a sense of calm and clarity. Some cultures also attribute healing properties to blue zircon, particularly for the heart and circulatory system.
Blue Topaz: Blue topaz is associated with tranquility, peace, and emotional balance. It is believed to help reduce stress and anxiety, promoting a sense of calm and serenity. Some cultures also attribute healing properties to blue topaz, particularly for the throat and respiratory system.
Tanzanite: Tanzanite is associated with transformation, healing, and spiritual awakening. It is believed to help with emotional healing and to promote a sense of balance and harmony. Some cultures also attribute healing properties to tanzanite, particularly for the heart and circulatory system.
Lapis Lazuli and Turquoise: These traditional December birthstones are associated with wisdom, protection, and spiritual growth. Lapis lazuli is believed to enhance intellectual abilities and stimulate a quest for knowledge. Turquoise is believed to bring good fortune and protection, making it a popular choice for talismans and amulets.
March Birthstone
Aquamarine carries a rich set of symbolic and metaphysical beliefs, many of which have been passed down through generations.
- Aquamarine: Aquamarine is often associated with calmness, serenity, and emotional balance. It is believed to help reduce stress and anxiety, promoting a sense of peace and tranquility. Some cultures also attribute healing properties to aquamarine, particularly for the throat and respiratory system. Additionally, aquamarine is believed to protect against drowning and bring calm seas, making it a popular choice for sailors and seafarers.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care and cleaning are essential for maintaining the beauty and longevity of December and March birthstones. The specific care instructions vary depending on the gemstone, but some general guidelines apply.
December Birthstones:
- Blue Zircon: Blue zircon should be cleaned with mild soap and warm water. It is not recommended to use ultrasonic or steam cleaners, as these can cause damage. Blue zircon should also be stored separately from other gemstones to avoid scratches.
- Blue Topaz: Blue topaz can be cleaned with mild soap and warm water or with an ultrasonic cleaner. It is relatively durable and can withstand regular wear. However, it should be stored separately from other gemstones to avoid scratches.
- Tanzanite: Tanzanite should be cleaned with mild soap and warm water. It is not recommended to use ultrasonic or steam cleaners, as these can cause damage. Tanzanite should also be stored separately from other gemstones to avoid scratches.
- Lapis Lazuli and Turquoise: These traditional December birthstones should be cleaned with mild soap and warm water. They are relatively soft and can be easily damaged by harsh chemicals or abrasive materials. They should also be stored separately from other gemstones to avoid scratches.
March Birthstone:
- Aquamarine: Aquamarine can be cleaned with mild soap and warm water or with an ultrasonic cleaner. It is relatively durable and can withstand regular wear. However, it should be stored separately from other gemstones to avoid scratches.
Conclusion
December and March birthstones offer a fascinating glimpse into the world of gemstones, each with its own unique history, properties, and symbolism. From the deep blue allure of lapis lazuli and turquoise to the vibrant blue of aquamarine, these gemstones have captivated people for centuries. Their geological formation, cultural significance, and metaphysical beliefs make them not only beautiful but also meaningful. Whether worn as jewelry or used as talismans, these birthstones continue to hold a special place in the hearts of gemstone enthusiasts and jewelry lovers alike. By understanding their properties and care requirements, we can ensure that these beautiful gemstones remain a cherished part of our lives for generations to come.