December, the final month of the calendar year, is uniquely distinguished by its association with multiple birthstones. While most months are linked to a single gemstone, December is the only month that officially has four: turquoise, zircon (especially blue zircon), tanzanite, and blue topaz. This phenomenon raises a compelling question: why does December have so many birthstones?
To answer this, we must delve into the history of birthstone traditions, the symbolic significance of December and its gemstones, and the cultural and economic factors that contributed to the inclusion of multiple stones for this month. As we explore the origins, properties, and meanings of each gemstone, we gain a deeper appreciation for how December became a month of exceptional gemstone diversity.
The Origins of Birthstone Traditions
The tradition of associating gemstones with months of the year dates back thousands of years. One of the earliest recorded references to birthstones is found in the Biblical Book of Exodus, which describes the High Priest’s Breastplate, adorned with twelve gemstones representing the twelve tribes of Israel. These stones were believed to possess divine powers and were used for spiritual protection and guidance.
Over time, different cultures around the world developed their own lists of birthstones, often influenced by local gemstone availability, mythology, and spiritual beliefs. For example, the ancient Persians and Egyptians revered turquoise, linking it to health, prosperity, and divine favor. In medieval Europe, gemstones were associated with astrological signs, and their properties were believed to influence the wearer’s character and destiny.
By the 19th and early 20th centuries, these diverse traditions began to consolidate into a more standardized list. In 1912, the American National Association of Jewelers (now known as the Jewelers of America) created a widely accepted modern list of birthstones, assigning one gemstone to each month of the year. However, December was an exception—it already had multiple stones associated with it due to its long-standing cultural and symbolic significance.
The Historical Significance of December Birthstones
Turquoise: The Original December Birthstone
Turquoise is the most ancient and traditional birthstone for December. Its use dates back to at least the 1300s, and it was highly valued in the Middle East, Persia, and Egypt. The gemstone's cool blue hue, reminiscent of clear winter skies and calm waters, made it a natural symbol of the December season.
Ancient cultures believed that turquoise possessed protective and healing properties. It was thought to bring good fortune, enhance wisdom, and ward off negative energy. In many traditions, it was also used to promote mental clarity and honest self-expression.
Turquoise is an opaque mineral formed from the oxidation of copper and aluminum in arid regions. It is typically found in North Africa, the Middle East, and the southwestern United States, where it is mined from sedimentary deposits. The stone is often veined with dark matrix patterns, which add to its uniqueness and individuality.
Zircon: A Sparkling Addition
Zircon, particularly blue zircon, was added to the December birthstone list in the 1950s by the Jewelry Industry Council of America. Known for its exceptional brilliance and fire, zircon is often mistaken for a diamond due to its high refractive index and dispersion.
Zircon is a silicate mineral that occurs in various colors, including brown, red, yellow, and blue. The blue variety is created through heat treatment, which alters the stone's color. Zircon is found in numerous locations around the world, including Australia, Sri Lanka, and Madagascar.
The addition of zircon to December’s birthstone list was partly due to its sparkling appearance and partly to offer a more affordable alternative to turquoise. Zircon’s historical association with spiritual protection and mental clarity also made it a fitting choice for December.
Tanzanite: The Modern Discovery
Tanzanite was officially added to the December birthstone list in 2002, making it the most recent gemstone to be recognized as a December birthstone. Discovered in Tanzania in the early 1960s, tanzanite is a trichroic gemstone, meaning it displays three different colors depending on the angle of light—blue, purple, and brown.
Tanzanite is a rare and valuable gemstone, with the majority of the world’s supply coming from a single mine in Tanzania. Its vibrant blue and purple hues, combined with its high refractive index, make it a popular choice for modern jewelry.
The decision to include tanzanite was influenced by its esthetic appeal and the desire to expand the range of December birthstone options. It also offered a premium option for those seeking a more luxurious December gemstone.
Blue Topaz: A Radiant Option
Blue topaz was added to the December birthstone list more recently, though its inclusion is less formally recognized compared to turquoise, zircon, and tanzanite. Blue topaz is a colorless topaz that has been irradiated and heat-treated to produce its striking blue color.
Topaz is a silicate mineral that occurs in a variety of colors, including yellow, orange, pink, and blue. It is relatively hard, with a Mohs hardness of 8, making it suitable for everyday wear. Blue topaz is found in Brazil, Sri Lanka, and the United States.
The inclusion of blue topaz reflects the modern trend of expanding birthstone options to provide greater variety and affordability. It is also a popular alternative for those who prefer a clearer and lighter blue than the more opaque turquoise.
Cultural and Symbolic Significance of December Birthstones
Each December birthstone carries its own cultural and symbolic meaning, contributing to the month’s rich gemstone heritage.
Turquoise: A Symbol of Protection and Prosperity
In ancient times, turquoise was believed to ward off evil spirits and bring good luck. It was often used in amulets and talismans, and its blue color was associated with healing and spiritual wisdom. In many cultures, turquoise was also used to enhance communication and self-expression, making it a popular stone for those in creative or leadership roles.
Zircon: A Stone of Clarity and Confidence
Zircon is known for its sparkling brilliance and its ability to enhance mental clarity and self-esteem. In many traditions, zircon was used to clear away negative emotions and promote inner strength. It was also believed to protect the wearer from dishonesty and jealousy, making it a fitting choice for those seeking honesty and integrity.
Tanzanite: A Stone of Transformation and Balance
Tanzanite is a stone of transformation and emotional balance. Its vibrant blue and purple hues are thought to stimulate intuition and spiritual awareness, helping the wearer navigate complex emotions and challenges. It is also associated with compassion and empathy, making it a popular choice for those in healing and caregiving professions.
Blue Topaz: A Stone of Calm and Clarity
Blue topaz is believed to promote calmness and emotional stability. Its clear, light blue color is associated with mental clarity and focus, making it a popular choice for those in intellectual or analytical fields. It is also thought to enhance creativity and problem-solving abilities, making it a valuable stone for artists and innovators.
Economic and Practical Considerations
One of the key reasons December has multiple birthstones is economic and practical. While turquoise has been the primary December stone for centuries, it is relatively rare and expensive, especially high-quality specimens with deep blue color and fine matrix patterns.
To make the December birthstone tradition more accessible, jewelers and gemstone traders introduced alternative options such as zircon, tanzanite, and blue topaz. These stones offer similar aesthetic appeal at a more affordable price, allowing people with different budgets to choose a December gemstone that suits their preferences and financial situation.
In addition, the availability of these gemstones in different parts of the world made it easier for jewelers to source and market a variety of December birthstones. This globalized gemstone trade played a significant role in expanding the December birthstone list and making it more inclusive.
The Role of Modern Jewelry Industry
The modern jewelry industry has played a crucial role in shaping the December birthstone tradition. As consumer demand for gemstone jewelry grew, jewelers and gemstone traders began to expand the range of available options to meet the needs of a diverse customer base.
The introduction of new gemstone treatments and enhancements also contributed to the inclusion of new December birthstones. For example, blue topaz is a treated gemstone, and zircon is often heat-treated to enhance its color. These treatment methods allowed jewelers to offer high-quality, affordable gemstones that resembled more expensive stones like diamonds and sapphires.
In addition, the marketing of birthstone jewelry as personalized and meaningful gifts helped to popularize the tradition of associating gemstones with birth months. December, with its four beautiful blue gemstones, became a particularly attractive option for those seeking a meaningful and visually appealing birthstone.
Conclusion
December is a unique and special month in the world of birthstones. Its association with four gemstones—turquoise, zircon, tanzanite, and blue topaz—reflects a rich history of cultural traditions, symbolic meanings, and economic considerations. From the ancient use of turquoise for protection and prosperity to the modern discovery of tanzanite in Tanzania, each December birthstone tells a story of beauty, significance, and connection.
Whether you are a gemstone enthusiast, a jewelry buyer, or a student of gemology, the December birthstones offer a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of history, culture, and science. Their diverse colors, properties, and meanings make them perfect symbols for the end of the year, representing change, renewal, and the promise of new beginnings.
As we continue to explore and celebrate the beauty and meaning of birthstones, December remains a testament to the enduring power of gemstones to inspire, connect, and transform.