December, the twelfth month of the year, is associated with a unique and diverse set of birthstones: turquoise, tanzanite, and zircon. These gemstones, each with their own distinct characteristics, histories, and cultural significances, offer a rich tapestry of meaning and beauty. For those born in December or for anyone interested in the lore and science of gemstones, understanding these stones provides not only an appreciation of their aesthetic value but also a deeper insight into the traditions and symbolism they carry.
This article delves into the properties, histories, and cultural associations of these three December birthstones, exploring their origins, geological formation, and roles in both ancient and modern contexts. We will also examine their gemological properties and the care required to preserve their beauty over time.
History and Lore
Turquoise: A Stone of Antiquity
Turquoise has one of the most storied histories among all gemstones. Its use dates back thousands of years, with evidence of its importance found in ancient Egyptian, Chinese, and Native American cultures. In ancient Egypt, turquoise was highly prized and often used in jewelry, amulets, and other decorative items. It was believed to bring protection and good fortune. The famous funeral mask of Pharaoh Tutankhamun, for instance, features turquoise inlaid into its design, underscoring its significance in Egyptian society.
The name "turquoise" is of relatively recent origin, derived from the French word turquoise, meaning "Turkish," because the gem was originally brought to Europe via Turkey. However, its use in other parts of the world, such as China, predates this by thousands of years. In China, turquoise was used in carvings and jewelry as early as 3000 BCE, and it was considered a symbol of wealth and status.
Turquoise has also played an important role in the Americas, particularly among Native American tribes. These communities used it in jewelry, ceremonial items, and even as currency. The stone was often associated with spiritual protection and was believed to bring health and prosperity.
Tanzanite: A Modern Discovery
Tanzanite is a far more recent entrant to the world of gemstones. Discovered in 1967 in Tanzania, it was officially added as a December birthstone by the American Gem Trade Association (AGTA) in 2002. The stone is found exclusively in Tanzania, making it one of the rarest gemstones in the world. According to Maasai legend, tanzanite was created when a bolt of lightning struck the earth, turning the rocks a shimmering blue.
Tanzanite is often associated with transformation, intuition, and spiritual awakening. It is believed to activate the throat, third eye, and crown chakras, which are associated with communication, intuition, and spiritual connection. The stone is also thought to aid in emotional healing and personal growth. While its lore is not as extensive as that of turquoise, tanzanite has quickly become a popular choice for those seeking a gemstone with both aesthetic appeal and symbolic meaning.
Zircon: An Ancient Gem with a Rainbow of Colors
Zircon is one of the oldest gemstones on Earth, with some zircon crystals found to be over 4.4 billion years old. Despite its ancient origins, zircon has a more modern association with the December birthstone tradition. It is known for its brilliant luster and a wide range of colors, from colorless and golden to red, green, and blue. Zircon is also known for its high refractive index, which gives it a fire and brilliance comparable to diamonds.
Zircon has been used in jewelry for centuries, often mistaken for diamonds due to its brilliance. In the past, it was a popular substitute for diamonds in rings and other fine jewelry. The stone has also been used in decorative arts and as a gemstone in various cultural contexts. While it does not have as prominent a historical narrative as turquoise, its beauty and versatility have made it a valuable addition to the December birthstone collection.
Geological Formation and Sources
Turquoise
Turquoise is a hydrated phosphate of aluminum and copper. Its formation occurs when rainwater or melted snow percolates through copper ore deposits, specifically copper porphyry. As the water interacts with copper sulfides in the ore, it creates an acidic solution. This solution, carrying copper, then reacts with aluminum and potassium in the surrounding rock to form turquoise, which precipitates into cavities.
The stone is typically found in weathered volcanic and sedimentary rocks in arid regions. Major sources of turquoise include the southwestern United States (especially Arizona and New Mexico), as well as Iran, China, and Egypt. Due to its relatively low hardness (5–6 on the Mohs scale), turquoise is considered a soft gemstone and requires careful handling to avoid damage.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is a metamorphic gemstone, formed from the mineral zoisite. It is found only in the Merelani Hills of Tanzania, near the city of Arusha. The transformation of zoisite into tanzanite occurs under specific geological conditions involving heat and pressure, which cause the mineral to change color to the characteristic blue-violet hue. This process is rare and contributes to the gemstone’s exclusivity.
The limited geographic source of tanzanite makes it one of the most geographically restricted gemstones in the world. The stone is also relatively new to the gem market, having been discovered and marketed in the late 20th century. This combination of rarity and recent introduction has made tanzanite a highly sought-after gemstone.
Zircon
Zircon is a zirconium silicate that occurs in a wide variety of colors, including colorless, yellow, red, green, and blue. The different colors are due to trace impurities and radiation exposure. Zircon is often found in igneous and metamorphic rocks, and it is known for its durability and resistance to weathering.
High-quality zircon is found in various parts of the world, including Sri Lanka, Thailand, Cambodia, and Brazil. Zircon is also found in the United States, particularly in the southeastern states. The stone is known for its high refractive index and dispersion, which give it a brilliant sparkle when cut and polished. However, zircon is also known for its thermal sensitivity, and improper heating can cause it to fracture or lose its color.
Gemological Properties
Turquoise
Turquoise is a relatively soft gemstone, with a hardness of 5–6 on the Mohs scale. It is also porous and can be easily stained by oils, perfumes, and other chemicals. Because of this, it is important to handle and clean turquoise with care to preserve its appearance.
The stone is typically opaque to semi-translucent and is known for its characteristic blue to green coloration. It often contains matrix lines, which are the remnants of the rock in which it formed. These matrix lines can vary in color and pattern, adding to the uniqueness of each piece of turquoise.
Turquoise is often treated to enhance its color and durability. Common treatments include dyeing, impregnation with resins or oils, and heat treatment. These treatments can improve the stone’s stability and appearance but may affect its value, depending on the market and the extent of the treatment.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is a relatively hard gemstone, with a hardness of 6–7 on the Mohs scale. It is known for its vibrant blue-violet color, which is caused by the presence of vanadium. Tanzanite is also pleochroic, meaning it can display different colors when viewed from different angles.
The stone is typically cut to emphasize its color and clarity, and it is often faceted to enhance its brilliance. Tanzanite is usually heat-treated to bring out its blue-violet color, as the raw material is often brown or greenish in color. This treatment is widely accepted in the gem trade and is considered standard practice for enhancing the appearance of tanzanite.
Tanzanite is also sensitive to heat and can be damaged by exposure to high temperatures. It is important to avoid using steam cleaners, ultrasonic cleaners, or extreme heat when cleaning tanzanite jewelry. Instead, a soft brush and warm soapy water are recommended.
Zircon
Zircon is a hard gemstone, with a hardness that varies depending on its color. Colorless and yellow zircons typically have a hardness of 7.5–8 on the Mohs scale, while red and blue zircons are slightly softer. Zircon is known for its high refractive index and dispersion, which give it a fire and brilliance that are similar to diamonds.
Zircon is also known for its thermal sensitivity. Improper heating can cause the stone to fracture or lose its color. Therefore, it is important to handle zircon with care, especially during cutting and polishing. Zircon is often heat-treated to enhance its color, and this treatment is generally stable and long-lasting.
The stone is available in a wide range of colors, including colorless, golden, red, green, and blue. Blue zircon, in particular, is highly prized for its brilliant sparkle and is often used as a diamond substitute.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Turquoise
Turquoise has long been associated with protection, health, and good fortune. In ancient times, it was believed to ward off evil and bring prosperity to the wearer. In some cultures, it was also thought to protect against falls and accidents. For example, in the 13th century, it was believed that turquoise would break into several pieces if disaster was approaching, thus serving as an early warning.
In addition to its protective properties, turquoise is also associated with communication and self-expression. It is believed to help the wearer speak with confidence and clarity. This makes it a popular stone for those who work in public speaking, teaching, or any profession that requires strong communication skills.
Turquoise is also linked to the throat chakra, which is associated with truth, expression, and communication. Wearing turquoise is believed to help open and balance this chakra, allowing for clearer and more honest communication.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is associated with transformation, intuition, and spiritual awakening. It is believed to activate the throat, third eye, and crown chakras, which are linked to communication, intuition, and spiritual connection. This makes it a popular stone for those seeking to enhance their psychic abilities or deepen their spiritual practice.
Tanzanite is also associated with emotional healing and personal growth. It is believed to help release old patterns and habits that no longer serve the wearer, allowing for a fresh start. This makes it a powerful stone for those undergoing major life changes or seeking to move forward from past difficulties.
In addition to its spiritual properties, tanzanite is also believed to have physical healing properties. It is thought to strengthen the immune system, detoxify the blood, and promote the regeneration of cells, skin, and hair. These properties make it a popular choice for those seeking to improve their overall health and well-being.
Zircon
Zircon is associated with clarity, truth, and spiritual growth. It is believed to help the wearer see things more clearly and make better decisions. This makes it a valuable stone for those who are seeking to improve their mental clarity and focus.
Zircon is also linked to the heart and throat chakras, which are associated with love, communication, and emotional expression. Wearing zircon is believed to help open and balance these chakras, allowing for greater emotional and spiritual connection.
In addition to its spiritual properties, zircon is also believed to have protective qualities. It is thought to shield the wearer from negative energy and promote a sense of calm and stability. This makes it a popular stone for those who are dealing with stress or anxiety.
Care and Cleaning
Turquoise
Due to its softness and porosity, turquoise requires careful handling and cleaning. It is sensitive to oils, perfumes, and other chemicals, which can cause it to discolor or degrade over time. It is also sensitive to heat and can lose water content, causing it to crack or become brittle.
To clean turquoise, it is best to use a soft cloth and mild soap and water. Avoid using steam cleaners, ultrasonic cleaners, or harsh chemicals, as these can damage the stone. It is also important to store turquoise separately from other gemstones to prevent scratches.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is relatively easy to clean, but it should be handled with care due to its sensitivity to heat. It is best to use a soft brush and warm soapy water to clean the stone, and then dry it with a soft cloth. Avoid using steam cleaners, ultrasonic cleaners, or extreme heat, as these can cause the stone to fracture or lose its color.
It is also important to store tanzanite separately from other gemstones to prevent scratches and damage. Because of its rarity and value, tanzanite should be handled with care to preserve its appearance and integrity.
Zircon
Zircon is relatively durable but should be handled with care due to its thermal sensitivity. It is best to clean zircon with a soft brush and warm soapy water, and then dry it with a soft cloth. Avoid using steam cleaners, ultrasonic cleaners, or extreme heat, as these can cause the stone to fracture or lose its color.
Zircon should also be stored separately from other gemstones to prevent scratches and damage. Due to its high refractive index and dispersion, zircon can be quite brilliant when cleaned and polished, making it a beautiful and valuable gemstone.
Conclusion
The December birthstones—turquoise, tanzanite, and zircon—each bring their own unique qualities and symbolism to the month of December. Turquoise, with its ancient history and spiritual significance, represents protection, communication, and prosperity. Tanzanite, a modern discovery, is associated with transformation, intuition, and spiritual awakening. Zircon, an ancient gem with a rainbow of colors, is linked to clarity, truth, and emotional balance.
These gemstones, each with their own rich histories and properties, offer a wide range of options for those born in December or for anyone looking to incorporate the symbolism and beauty of these stones into their lives. Whether chosen for their aesthetic appeal, historical significance, or metaphysical properties, the December birthstones are a testament to the enduring fascination with gemstones and their role in human culture.