December is marked by a trio of gemstones—turquoise, blue topaz, and blue zircon—each with its own historical and cultural significance. These stones, though sometimes overlooked in comparison to more famous birthstones, offer a rich tapestry of color, symbolism, and craftsmanship, especially when set in sterling silver. This article explores the nuances of these December birthstones, focusing on the silver necklaces that feature them. Drawing from a range of product descriptions and brand narratives, we delve into the gemological properties, symbolic meanings, and the art of crafting these elegant pieces.
Historical and Cultural Significance of December Birthstones
The use of gemstones as symbols of personal identity and protection has deep historical roots. In ancient times, gemstones were believed to hold protective and healing properties, often associated with celestial bodies and the elements. December birthstones are no exception.
Turquoise
Among the December birthstones, turquoise is one of the oldest and most historically significant. Its use as a gemstone dates back thousands of years, with evidence of its presence in ancient Egypt, Mesopotamia, and Mesoamerica. The Egyptians used turquoise as an amulet to protect against illness and to symbolize life and immortality. In Mesoamerican cultures, turquoise was considered sacred, often used in ritual masks and jewelry to represent divine power.
The stone's vibrant blue-green hue has long been associated with wisdom, calmness, and spiritual protection. In many traditions, turquoise was believed to absorb negative energy and promote inner peace. This belief persists in modern times, where turquoise is still considered a protective stone, often worn to enhance communication and self-expression.
Blue Topaz
While blue topaz is a more recent addition to the December birthstone lineup, it has quickly gained popularity due to its clarity and cool tones. Historically, topaz was associated with the sun and believed to have the power to increase strength and bring good fortune. The ancient Greeks believed it could enhance vitality and promote courage.
The blue variety of topaz, which is often enhanced through irradiation or heat treatment, became a favored gemstone for its calming and purifying properties. In modern gemstone lore, blue topaz is associated with inner peace, clarity of thought, and emotional balance. Its serene color makes it a symbol of calmness and stability, qualities that resonate with many in fast-paced modern life.
Blue Zircon
Blue zircon is a lesser-known December birthstone, yet it holds a unique place in gemstone history. Zircon has been used in jewelry for centuries, often mistaken for other blue gemstones due to its brilliance and color. In the 19th century, zircon was a popular substitute for diamond in European jewelry, particularly in pieces intended for everyday wear.
The blue color of zircon, achieved through heat treatment, is highly prized for its sparkling clarity and vivid hue. While not as widely recognized as turquoise or blue topaz, blue zircon is appreciated for its aesthetic versatility and affordability, making it a practical choice for silver jewelry that requires durability and affordability.
The Art of Crafting December Birthstone Necklaces in Sterling Silver
Sterling silver is a preferred metal for setting December birthstones due to its durability, luminosity, and affordability. It complements the cool tones of turquoise, blue topaz, and blue zircon, enhancing their natural beauty. The process of crafting these necklaces involves careful attention to detail, from selecting the gemstone to setting it in a secure yet elegant mount.
Design and Aesthetic Considerations
The design of a December birthstone necklace in silver often reflects a balance between minimalism and symbolism. For example, the Little Stone brand features a dainty turquoise pendant on an 18-inch chain, emphasizing the stone’s natural allure without overwhelming it with intricate settings. The Gracie Jewellery necklace, on the other hand, uses a blue topaz stone surrounded by hammered silver beads, creating a textured and modern aesthetic that enhances the stone’s clarity and coolness.
The Amanda Blu December birthstone charm necklace takes a more playful approach, combining the blue zircon with a charm format that allows for personalization. This design caters to those who appreciate versatility and personal expression, making it suitable for everyday wear and special occasions alike.
Technical Aspects of Silver and Gemstone Setting
Sterling silver is composed of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals, typically copper, which enhances its hardness and durability. This composition allows for intricate designs without compromising the strength of the metal. When setting delicate gemstones like turquoise or blue topaz, jewelers often use prong settings or bezel settings to ensure the stone is secure while allowing maximum light exposure to enhance its brilliance.
For blue zircon, which is harder than both turquoise and blue topaz, jewelers may opt for channel settings or pavé settings, especially when incorporating multiple stones into a single piece. These settings help to distribute weight evenly and protect the gemstone from damage during daily wear.
Quality and Craftsmanship
The quality of a December birthstone necklace in silver is often determined by the precision of the craftsmanship and the authenticity of the materials used. Reputable brands such as Little Stone and La Côte Club emphasize the use of handcrafted techniques, hypoallergenic materials, and tarnish-resistant finishes to ensure both longevity and comfort.
The Kendra Scott collection, for example, features a bold London Blue stone set in silver, showcasing the designer’s signature style of combining modern elegance with bold gemstone statements. The attention to detail in such pieces is evident in the symmetry of the setting, the luster of the silver, and the overall balance of the piece on the body.
Gemological Properties of December Birthstones
Understanding the physical and chemical properties of the December birthstones is essential for appreciating their use in jewelry and for proper care and maintenance.
Turquoise
- Chemical Formula: CuAl₆(PO₄)₄(OH)₈·4H₂O
- Hardness (Mohs Scale): 5–6
- Color: Blue-green, with variations influenced by the presence of copper and iron.
- Luster: Waxy to sub-vitreous
- Transparency: Opaque to translucent
- Origin: Formed in arid regions through the interaction of copper and aluminum in the presence of water. Major sources include the United States, China, and Iran.
- Inclusions: Characteristic "matrix" patterns caused by impurities in the stone.
Due to its lower hardness and porous structure, turquoise requires careful handling and cleaning. It is susceptible to damage from acids, excessive moisture, and direct sunlight, which can cause fading or discoloration.
Blue Topaz
- Chemical Formula: Al₂SiO₄(F,OH)₂
- Hardness (Mohs Scale): 6–6.5
- Color: Blue, achieved through irradiation or heat treatment.
- Luster: Vitreous
- Transparency: Transparent to translucent
- Origin: Natural blue topaz is rare; most available in jewelry is enhanced. Brazil is the primary source of topaz.
- Inclusions: Generally clean, with occasional minor inclusions depending on the source and treatment.
Blue topaz is relatively durable compared to turquoise, making it a practical choice for everyday wear. However, it should still be stored separately from harder gemstones to avoid scratches.
Blue Zircon
- Chemical Formula: ZrSiO₄
- Hardness (Mohs Scale): 7.5–8
- Color: Blue, achieved through heat treatment.
- Luster: Vitreous
- Transparency: Transparent
- Origin: Zircon is found in various parts of the world, including Australia, Sri Lanka, and Thailand.
- Inclusions: Typically clean, with some inclusions depending on the source and treatment.
Blue zircon is one of the hardest of the December birthstones, making it very durable and suitable for daily wear. It is also known for its high refractive index, which gives it a sparkling brilliance that rivals diamonds.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
The symbolic meanings of December birthstones are deeply rooted in cultural traditions and spiritual beliefs. These stones are often associated with emotional well-being, clarity of thought, and personal strength.
Turquoise and Emotional Resilience
Turquoise has long been associated with emotional resilience and inner peace. In many cultures, it is believed to absorb negative energy and promote calmness, making it a popular choice for those seeking emotional balance. The stone is also associated with open communication and self-expression, making it an ideal companion for those who wish to speak their truth with confidence.
Blue Topaz and Clarity of Thought
Blue topaz is often associated with clarity of thought and emotional stability. It is believed to help the wearer focus their thoughts, make rational decisions, and communicate effectively. The stone is also associated with inner peace and mental clarity, making it a popular choice for those who wish to stay grounded in the face of stress or uncertainty.
Blue Zircon and Spiritual Connection
Blue zircon is believed to enhance spiritual connection and emotional healing. It is associated with clarity of purpose, inner strength, and emotional resilience. The stone is also believed to promote harmony and balance, making it an ideal companion for those seeking inner peace and emotional stability.
Care and Maintenance of December Birthstone Necklaces
Proper care and maintenance are essential for ensuring the longevity and beauty of December birthstone necklaces. Each gemstone has specific care requirements based on its hardness, porosity, and chemical sensitivity.
General Care Tips
- Store jewelry in a dry, cool place to prevent tarnishing and damage.
- Remove jewelry before showering, swimming, or exercising to avoid exposure to moisture and chemicals.
- Avoid contact with perfumes, lotions, and cleaning products, which can dull the luster of the silver and damage the gemstone.
- Clean jewelry regularly with a soft, dry cloth to remove dust and fingerprints.
- Use a polishing cloth specifically designed for silver to maintain its shine without damaging the gemstone.
Specific Care for Each Gemstone
- Turquoise: Due to its porous nature, turquoise should be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap. Avoid soaking the stone in water, and never expose it to direct sunlight for prolonged periods.
- Blue Topaz: Blue topaz is relatively durable, but it should still be stored separately from harder gemstones to avoid scratches. It can be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild detergent, but avoid ultrasonic cleaners, which may damage the stone.
- Blue Zircon: Blue zircon is very durable and can be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild detergent. It is resistant to scratches and can be worn daily without significant risk of damage.
Conclusion
December birthstone necklaces in silver offer a unique blend of aesthetic beauty, symbolic meaning, and craftsmanship. Whether set with turquoise, blue topaz, or blue zircon, these pieces reflect the rich history and enduring appeal of December birthstones. Their use in jewelry not only celebrates personal identity but also connects us to ancient traditions and modern design.
For those who wear these necklaces, they serve as both ornamental accessories and personal talismans, carrying with them the wisdom of the past and the aspirations of the future. As December birthstone necklaces continue to evolve in design and meaning, they remain a testament to the enduring power of gemstones in our lives.