December, the final month of the year, is symbolically rich with themes of reflection, renewal, and celebration. In the world of birthstones, December is particularly notable for its diverse selection of gemstones. With multiple birthstones assigned to the month, December offers a range of options in color, history, and symbolism. These include turquoise, zircon, topaz, tanzanite, and lapis lazuli. Each of these gemstones carries its own unique geological, cultural, and metaphysical significance.
This article explores the December birthstones in depth, focusing on their properties, origins, historical uses, and cultural meanings. Whether you are a gemstone enthusiast, a jewelry buyer, or a student of gemology, this guide will provide a thorough understanding of the stones associated with December.
History and Lore
The tradition of birthstones dates back to biblical times. One of the earliest references to birthstones can be found in the Breastplate of Aaron, described in the Book of Exodus. This sacred garment was adorned with twelve gemstones, each representing one of the twelve tribes of Israel. However, the assignment of these stones to specific months evolved over time.
By the 18th and 19th centuries, birthstones had become associated with specific calendar months, with various lists emerging across different cultures. The modern list of birthstones was standardized in the 20th century, largely influenced by the National Association of Jewelers (now Jewellers of America). In the case of December, the selection of multiple stones reflects both their historical significance and their aesthetic appeal.
Turquoise: The Ancient Gem of Royalty
Turquoise has a long and storied history. It was one of the earliest known gemstones, used by ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians, Persians, and Native Americans. The stone was believed to bring protection, wisdom, and good fortune. Pharaohs were often buried with turquoise-adorned jewelry, symbolizing a divine connection and eternal life.
In Native American cultures, turquoise was considered a sacred stone. It was used in ceremonial jewelry and was believed to bridge the gap between the physical and spiritual worlds. The stone was also associated with the sky and water, representing life and vitality.
Zircon: A Stone of Light and Time
Zircon is one of the oldest minerals on Earth, with some specimens dating back over four billion years. The gemstone has been used in jewelry for centuries, particularly in ancient Mesopotamia and Egypt. It was highly valued for its brilliance and fiery dispersion.
Zircon comes in a variety of colors, including blue, green, yellow, and brown. The blue zircon, which is particularly popular as a December birthstone, is created through heat treatment. This process enhances the natural color of the stone, resulting in a vibrant blue that rivals that of topaz or sapphire.
Zircon is also associated with clarity of thought and emotional healing. In some cultures, it was believed to protect the wearer from harm and bring prosperity.
Tanzanite: The Modern Marvel of December
Tanzanite is the youngest of the December birthstones, discovered in 1967 in Tanzania. It is a rare gemstone found only in the Merelani Hills near Mount Kilimanjaro. The stone is a type of zoisite that exhibits a beautiful blue to violet color when heated.
Tanzanite quickly gained popularity due to its striking color and relative affordability compared to other colored gemstones. It is often referred to as the “imperial gem of Africa” and is associated with transformation and emotional healing.
Geological Formation and Sources
Each of the December birthstones has a unique geological history and set of sources. Understanding how these gemstones are formed and where they are mined provides insight into their rarity and value.
Turquoise
Turquoise is a phosphate mineral composed of copper and aluminum. It forms in the oxidation zone of copper deposits, where acidic groundwater interacts with minerals containing aluminum and phosphorus. This process results in the formation of turquoise in a variety of colors, ranging from deep blue to green.
The most famous sources of turquoise include Iran, China, Mexico, and the United States (particularly in Arizona and New Mexico). Turquoise from these regions is often prized for its rich color and minimal matrix (the surrounding rock material).
Zircon
Zircon is a zirconium silicate mineral that occurs in a wide range of colors. The blue zircon commonly associated with December is the result of heat treatment, which stabilizes the stone's color. Natural zircon can also appear in yellow, green, red, and brown.
Zircon is found in many parts of the world, including Australia, Brazil, India, and Madagascar. The stone is relatively hard and durable, making it suitable for jewelry.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is a trichroic gemstone, meaning it can display different colors when viewed from different angles. It is a type of zoisite, a calcium aluminum silicate mineral. The blue to violet color of tanzanite is the result of heat treatment, which enhances the natural color of the stone.
Tanzanite is found exclusively in the Merelani Hills of Tanzania, near the Serengeti National Park. This limited source makes tanzanite a rare and valuable gemstone. The stone is also relatively new to the gem trade, having been discovered only in 1967.
Topaz
Topaz is an aluminum silicate mineral that forms in igneous rocks. Blue topaz, the most popular variety in December, is created through irradiation and heat treatment, which alters the stone's natural color. Natural blue topaz is extremely rare.
Topaz is found in many parts of the world, including Brazil, Russia, Australia, and the United States. It is known for its hardness and durability, making it an excellent choice for everyday jewelry.
Gemological Properties
The gemological properties of a stone determine its suitability for jewelry, its value, and its care requirements. Each of the December birthstones has distinct characteristics that make them unique.
| Gemstone | Color | Hardness (Mohs) | Composition | Cleavage | Refractive Index |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Turquoise | Blue to green | 5–6 | Hydrated phosphate of aluminum and copper | No cleavage | 1.61–1.65 |
| Zircon | Blue, yellow, green, brown | 6–7.5 | Zirconium silicate | Perfect cleavage | 1.92–2.00 |
| Tanzanite | Blue to violet | 6–7 | Calcium aluminum silicate (zoisite) | No cleavage | 1.69–1.70 |
| Topaz | Blue, yellow, brown, pink | 8 | Aluminum silicate | Perfect cleavage | 1.61–1.63 |
| Lapis Lazuli | Blue with gold flecks | 5–6 | Sodium calcium aluminum silicate | No cleavage | 1.50–1.70 |
Turquoise
Turquoise has a Mohs hardness of 5–6, which makes it relatively soft compared to other gemstones. It is also porous and can absorb oils and chemicals easily. This means that turquoise requires special care to maintain its color and luster. It is not suitable for everyday wear in rings or bracelets unless it is stabilized with resin.
Zircon
Zircon has a hardness of 6–7.5, which makes it relatively durable for jewelry. However, it has perfect cleavage, meaning it can split along specific planes if struck with enough force. This makes zircon more delicate than it appears and requires careful handling when cutting and setting the stone.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite has a hardness of 6–7, making it suitable for everyday jewelry. It has no cleavage, which means it is less prone to chipping or breaking. Tanzanite also has a high refractive index, which gives it a brilliant, vitreous luster.
Topaz
Topaz is one of the hardest gemstones, with a Mohs hardness of 8. It is also very durable, making it an excellent choice for rings and other everyday jewelry. However, it has perfect cleavage, which means it can split along specific planes if struck with enough force.
Lapis Lazuli
Lapis lazuli has a Mohs hardness of 5–6, which makes it relatively soft and porous. It is often used in carved jewelry and beads rather than in fine jewelry. It requires special care to avoid damage from oils, chemicals, and abrasives.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Each of the December birthstones carries its own set of symbolic and metaphysical meanings. These beliefs have evolved over time and vary across cultures, but they often reflect the stone's color, rarity, and historical significance.
Turquoise
Turquoise is often associated with protection, wisdom, and spiritual connection. In ancient Egypt, it was believed to protect the soul in the afterlife. In Native American cultures, it was considered a sacred stone that connected the earth to the sky.
Modern metaphysical beliefs associate turquoise with emotional healing and calmness. It is often used in meditation and is believed to help with communication and self-expression.
Zircon
Zircon is known for its brilliant fire and color dispersion, which has led to its association with clarity of thought and emotional healing. In ancient times, it was believed to protect the wearer from harm and bring prosperity.
Modern metaphysical beliefs associate zircon with inner strength and resilience. It is also believed to enhance one's intuition and spiritual awareness.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is often associated with transformation and emotional healing. It is believed to help the wearer release old patterns and embrace new beginnings. It is also associated with inner peace and self-acceptance.
Due to its rarity and beauty, tanzanite is also considered a stone of uniqueness and individuality.
Topaz
Topaz is associated with strength, courage, and protection. In ancient times, it was believed to bring good fortune and ward off negative energy. It is also associated with clarity of thought and mental focus.
Modern metaphysical beliefs associate topaz with healing and emotional balance. It is often used to help with stress and anxiety.
Lapis Lazuli
Lapis lazuli is associated with wisdom, truth, and spiritual enlightenment. It was used by ancient Egyptians and Persians as a sacred stone. In modern times, it is believed to help with self-awareness and personal growth.
Lapis lazuli is also associated with inner peace and calmness, making it a popular stone for meditation and spiritual practices.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care and cleaning are essential to maintaining the beauty and longevity of December birthstone jewelry. Each gemstone has its own set of care requirements based on its hardness, porosity, and chemical sensitivity.
Turquoise
Turquoise is a porous and soft stone that requires special care. It should not be exposed to oils, lotions, or harsh chemicals, as these can dull its color and damage its surface. It should also be kept away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
To clean turquoise, use a soft cloth and a mild soap solution. Avoid using ultrasonic cleaners or steamers, as these can damage the stone.
Zircon
Zircon has a high refractive index and brilliant fire, but it also has perfect cleavage, making it vulnerable to chipping. It should be handled with care and protected from hard knocks or abrasions.
To clean zircon, use a soft cloth and a mild soap solution. Avoid using ultrasonic cleaners, as these can cause the stone to split along its cleavage planes.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is relatively durable and easy to care for. It can be cleaned with a soft cloth and a mild soap solution. It should be kept away from harsh chemicals and extreme temperatures.
Avoid using ultrasonic or steam cleaners, as these can cause the stone to become dull or discolored.
Topaz
Topaz is one of the hardest gemstones and is relatively durable. It can be cleaned with a soft cloth and a mild soap solution. It can also be cleaned with ultrasonic and steam cleaners, but care should be taken to avoid exposure to high heat, as this can cause the stone to lose its color.
Lapis Lazuli
Lapis lazuli is a porous and soft stone that requires special care. It should not be exposed to oils, lotions, or harsh chemicals, as these can dull its color and damage its surface. It should also be kept away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
To clean lapis lazuli, use a soft cloth and a mild soap solution. Avoid using ultrasonic cleaners or steamers, as these can damage the stone.
Conclusion
The December birthstones—turquoise, zircon, topaz, tanzanite, and lapis lazuli—offer a rich and diverse selection of gemstones that reflect the beauty and complexity of the final month of the year. Each stone has its own unique history, geological properties, and cultural significance, making them valuable not only as jewelry but also as symbols of personal identity and historical connection.
Whether you are drawn to the calming blue of turquoise, the brilliant fire of zircon, the rare beauty of tanzanite, the hardness and durability of topaz, or the deep blue with golden flecks of lapis lazuli, there is a December birthstone to suit every taste and occasion.
Choosing a December birthstone is not just about aesthetics; it is also about connecting with the past, expressing individuality, and embracing the symbolism and metaphysical properties associated with each gemstone. With proper care and appreciation, these stones can be cherished for a lifetime.