December is a month rich in symbolism and beauty, marked by a unique selection of birthstones that capture the essence of winter in their brilliant hues. Unlike other months that typically feature a single birthstone, December is celebrated with a diverse collection of gemstones—each offering its own charm, history, and significance. These include Blue Zircon, Blue Topaz, Tanzanite, Lapis Lazuli, and Turquoise. Together, they form a vibrant tapestry of blue and green tones that reflect the chill and serenity of the season.
The inclusion of multiple birthstones for December is not arbitrary; it is rooted in both historical tradition and modern appreciation for gemstone diversity. Each of these stones has a story to tell, from ancient civilizations that revered their spiritual and protective properties to contemporary jewelers who craft them into elegant pieces of fine jewelry. This article explores the origins, gemological properties, cultural significance, and care instructions for these five December birthstones, offering a comprehensive guide for gemstone enthusiasts, jewelry buyers, and those curious about the deeper meanings behind these captivating stones.
History and Lore
Ancient Roots and Cultural Significance
The tradition of associating gemstones with specific months has ancient origins. While the modern concept of birthstones is largely attributed to Jewish and medieval European traditions, the use of gemstones for symbolic and protective purposes dates back thousands of years. In ancient Egypt, for example, turquoise was considered a sacred stone and was used to adorn the burial mask of Pharaoh Tutankhamun. The stone was believed to bring protection and good fortune, making it a treasured gem in both life and the afterlife.
Lapis lazuli, another of December's birthstones, has similarly deep historical roots. Found in the ancient trade routes between Asia and the Mediterranean, lapis lazuli was prized by the Egyptians, Sumerians, and even the Romans. It was used to create pigments and was often ground into powder to make cosmetics and paints. The stone was associated with wisdom and truth, and was believed to enhance intellectual abilities and spiritual insight.
Zircon, one of the oldest minerals on Earth, is another gemstone with a long and storied history. The name "zircon" is derived from the Arabic word zarkun, meaning "gold color," and was later modified into the modern name through Persian and German influences. Zircon has been used in jewelry for centuries, particularly in the form of golden or reddish-brown varieties, though the blue coloration—achieved through heat treatment—has become especially popular in modern times.
Turquoise, with its striking blue-green hues, has been used for thousands of years across various cultures. Native American tribes in the American Southwest, for example, have long incorporated turquoise into their jewelry and ceremonial objects. It was seen as a bridge between the physical and spiritual worlds and was believed to promote healing, protection, and harmony. The stone's name comes from the French phrase pierre tourques, meaning "Turkish stone," reflecting its historical trade routes from the East to Europe.
Tanzanite, the youngest of December's birthstones, was only discovered in the 1960s in Tanzania near Mount Kilimanjaro. It was named after the country and quickly gained popularity due to its unique blue-to-violet color and its exclusive source. Tanzanite is considered one of the rarest gemstones in the world, adding to its allure and mystique.
The Evolution of the Birthstone Concept
The modern list of birthstones was officially standardized in the 20th century, with various organizations and jewelers contributing to its development. The American National Association of Jewelers (now known as the Jewelers of America) played a key role in formalizing the modern list in the 1950s. This list includes multiple gemstones for December, reflecting both the traditional and contemporary significance of the month.
The inclusion of multiple birthstones for December is not only a nod to the gemstone's rich history but also a practical consideration. By offering a variety of options, December-born individuals can choose a gemstone that best matches their personal taste, budget, and desired symbolism. Whether someone is drawn to the deep blue of lapis lazuli, the vibrant green of turquoise, or the brilliant fire of zircon, there is a birthstone to suit every preference.
Geological Formation and Sources
Blue Zircon
Zircon is one of the oldest minerals on Earth, with some specimens dating back over 4.4 billion years. It forms in igneous rocks and is often found in metamorphic and sedimentary deposits. The blue coloration in zircon is the result of a heat treatment process that alters the natural color of the stone. Natural zircon is typically found in a range of colors, including yellow, brown, red, and green, but the blue variety is particularly popular in jewelry.
Zircon is found in several countries, including Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, Nigeria, and Australia. The gemstone's durability, with a hardness of 6 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale, makes it suitable for a variety of jewelry applications, from rings to pendants.
Blue Topaz
Blue topaz is a popular choice for December due to its calm, serene color and its affordability compared to other gemstones. Natural blue topaz is relatively rare, so most of the blue topaz used in jewelry is created through irradiation and heat treatment. This process enhances the color and makes it more consistent.
Topaz is found in various parts of the world, including Brazil, Myanmar, Russia, and the United States. It is a relatively hard gemstone, with a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale, making it resistant to scratches and suitable for everyday wear.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is a type of zoisite that is unique to the region around Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. It was discovered in the 1960s and quickly gained popularity due to its stunning blue-to-violet color and its rarity. Tanzanite forms in metamorphic rock and is found only in the Merelani Hills of Tanzania.
Tanzanite has a hardness of 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale, which makes it more delicate than some other gemstones. It is also pleochroic, meaning it can display different colors when viewed from different angles. This characteristic adds to its visual appeal but requires careful cutting to showcase the best color.
Lapis Lazuli
Lapis lazuli is a metamorphic rock composed primarily of lazurite, a deep blue mineral. It also contains pyrite, which gives it its characteristic golden flecks, and calcite, which may appear as white or light-colored streaks. Lapis lazuli is found in several parts of the world, including Afghanistan, Egypt, Russia, and Mali.
Lapis lazuli is relatively soft, with a hardness of 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale, making it more prone to scratches and damage. It is often used for pendants and earrings rather than rings due to its fragility.
Turquoise
Turquoise is a hydrated phosphate of aluminum and copper, and it forms in the oxidation zones of copper deposits. It is found in arid regions where the conditions are suitable for its formation. Major sources of turquoise include China, Iran, Egypt, the United States, and Mexico.
Turquoise has a hardness of 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale and is relatively soft and porous. It is often treated with wax or resin to enhance its color and durability. Native American tribes in the American Southwest have long used turquoise in their jewelry, and it remains a popular gemstone for its rich blue-green color and cultural significance.
Gemological Properties
| Gemstone | Color | Hardness (Mohs Scale) | Chemical Composition | Refractive Index | Sources |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Blue Zircon | Blue | 6–7.5 | ZrSiO₄ | 1.92–2.00 | Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, Nigeria, Australia |
| Blue Topaz | Blue | 8 | Al₂SiO₆ | 1.62 | Brazil, Myanmar, Russia, USA |
| Tanzanite | Blue to violet | 6–7 | Ca₂Al₃(SiO₄)₃(OH) | 1.69–1.70 | Tanzania |
| Lapis Lazuli | Deep blue with gold flecks | 5–6 | Lazurite, Pyrite, Calcite | 1.50–1.70 | Afghanistan, Egypt, Russia, Mali |
| Turquoise | Blue-green | 5–6 | CuAl₆(PO₄)₄(OH)₈·4H₂O | 1.61–1.65 | China, Iran, Egypt, USA, Mexico |
Blue Zircon
Blue zircon is known for its high refractive index, which gives it a brilliant sparkle. It is also known for its dispersion, or "fire," which makes it resemble a diamond in some lighting conditions. The gemstone's color is enhanced through heat treatment, and it is available in a range of shades from light blue to deep blue.
Blue Topaz
Blue topaz is prized for its clarity and vibrant color. It is a relatively hard gemstone, making it durable enough for everyday wear. Blue topaz is often used in rings, pendants, and earrings, and its affordability makes it a popular choice for both jewelry and collectible pieces.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite's unique blue-to-violet color is one of its most distinguishing features. It is a pleochroic gemstone, meaning it can display different colors when viewed from different angles. Tanzanite is relatively soft and requires careful handling to avoid scratches and damage. It is often cut into ovals or cushions to showcase its color and clarity.
Lapis Lazuli
Lapis lazuli is a metamorphic rock rather than a single mineral, and it is composed of several components, including lazurite, pyrite, and calcite. Its deep blue color is due to the presence of lazurite, while the golden flecks are from pyrite. Lapis lazuli is often used for pendants and earrings rather than rings due to its softness.
Turquoise
Turquoise is known for its blue-green color, which can vary from pale green to deep blue depending on the concentration of copper and aluminum in the stone. It is a relatively soft gemstone and is often treated with wax or resin to enhance its color and durability. Turquoise is often used in jewelry such as pendants, earrings, and bracelets.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Blue Zircon
Blue zircon has long been associated with protection, wisdom, and spiritual clarity. It was believed to help travelers by protecting them from disease and injury. Some cultures also believed that blue zircon could bring a warm welcome to visitors and promote peaceful sleep without nightmares. In modern times, blue zircon is often used in jewelry to symbolize clarity, balance, and positive energy.
Blue Topaz
Blue topaz is associated with calmness, serenity, and emotional balance. It is believed to help reduce stress and anxiety and to promote a sense of tranquility. Blue topaz is also considered a stone of good fortune and is often used in jewelry to bring positive energy and protection.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is often associated with transformation, intuition, and spiritual awakening. It is believed to help the wearer connect with higher consciousness and to enhance their ability to see the world from different perspectives. Tanzanite is also considered a stone of compassion and is used to promote emotional healing and understanding.
Lapis Lazuli
Lapis lazuli has long been associated with wisdom, truth, and spiritual insight. It was used in ancient times to enhance intellectual abilities and to promote a quest for knowledge. Lapis lazuli is also believed to help with emotional balance and to promote inner peace and calm.
Turquoise
Turquoise has been revered for centuries for its protective and healing properties. It is believed to bring good fortune, health, and protection from harm. Turquoise is also considered a stone of friendship and is often given as a gift to promote harmony and positive relationships. In many cultures, turquoise is also associated with the earth and the sky, symbolizing the connection between the physical and spiritual worlds.
Care and Cleaning
Blue Zircon
Blue zircon is a durable gemstone, but it should still be handled with care to avoid scratches and damage. It can be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth. Avoid using ultrasonic cleaners or steam cleaning, as these can cause damage to the stone.
Blue Topaz
Blue topaz is a relatively hard gemstone and can be cleaned with warm, soapy water. It can also be cleaned with an ultrasonic cleaner or a steam cleaner, but it should be kept away from harsh chemicals and abrasive materials.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is a softer gemstone and should be cleaned with care. It can be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth. Avoid using ultrasonic cleaners or steam cleaners, as these can cause damage to the stone. Tanzanite should also be stored separately from other gemstones to avoid scratches.
Lapis Lazuli
Lapis lazuli is a relatively soft gemstone and should be handled with care. It should be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth. Avoid using ultrasonic cleaners or steam cleaners, as these can cause damage to the stone. Lapis lazuli should also be stored separately from other gemstones to avoid scratches.
Turquoise
Turquoise is a soft and porous gemstone and should be handled with care. It should be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth. Avoid using ultrasonic cleaners or steam cleaners, as these can cause damage to the stone. Turquoise should also be stored separately from other gemstones to avoid scratches. It should also be kept away from direct sunlight and heat, as these can cause it to fade or become brittle.
Conclusion
December's birthstones—Blue Zircon, Blue Topaz, Tanzanite, Lapis Lazuli, and Turquoise—offer a rich blend of history, symbolism, and beauty. Each of these gemstones has its own unique story, from ancient civilizations that revered their spiritual and protective properties to modern jewelers who craft them into elegant pieces of fine jewelry.
Whether you are drawn to the brilliant fire of blue zircon, the serene calm of blue topaz, the rare beauty of tanzanite, the wisdom of lapis lazuli, or the protective energy of turquoise, there is a December birthstone to suit every taste and occasion. These gemstones are more than just beautiful; they are a connection to the past, a symbol of personal meaning, and a testament to the enduring allure of gemstones.
When choosing a December birthstone, it is important to consider its gemological properties, cultural significance, and care requirements. By doing so, you can ensure that your chosen gemstone remains beautiful and meaningful for years to come.