December's birthstone jewelry presents a rich array of options for those seeking to celebrate a December birthday with a meaningful and elegant gift. This month is uniquely marked by the presence of three distinct gemstones—turquoise, tanzanite, and blue topaz—each offering a different aesthetic, cultural significance, and gemological profile. These gemstones are not only prized for their beauty but also for their symbolic meanings and historical relevance, making them ideal choices for crafting personalized jewelry pieces.
Women's December birthstone jewelry, in particular, is a popular way to honor the birth month with a touch of sophistication, individuality, and charm. Whether it’s a delicate turquoise pendant, a dazzling tanzanite earring, or a vibrant blue topaz ring, these pieces can be styled to suit both everyday wear and special occasions. This article explores the characteristics, history, and significance of these December birthstones, alongside practical insights into their care, and design versatility.
History and Lore
Turquoise: The Stone of Protection and Wisdom
Turquoise has a long and storied history, dating back to ancient civilizations. It was one of the first gemstones to be used in jewelry and was highly valued by the Egyptians, who referred to it as the "stone of the gods." The Egyptians believed that turquoise brought protection and healing, often using it in amulets and burial ornaments.
The stone's rich blue-green hue and unique veining made it a favorite among artisans, and it was widely traded across the Mediterranean, the Middle East, and into Asia. In Native American culture, turquoise was considered sacred and was used in rituals, as well as in jewelry and ceremonial objects. The Pueblo, Navajo, and other tribes believed that the stone connected the earth and the sky, serving as a bridge between the physical and spiritual worlds.
Turquoise was also revered in ancient Persia, where it was used to adorn religious artifacts and royal jewelry. The stone was often inlaid into metalwork, a technique that is still practiced today, particularly in traditional Middle Eastern and Native American jewelry.
Tanzanite: The Stone of the 20th Century
Tanzanite is a relatively recent discovery in the world of gemstones. It was first identified in the 1960s in Tanzania, from which it takes its name. The stone was added to the birthstone list in 1952, making it a relatively modern addition to the December birthstone roster. Tanzanite’s striking blue-to-violet coloration quickly made it a favorite among jewelry designers and collectors.
The discovery of tanzanite was a significant event in gemology, as it was found to be a variety of the mineral zoisite. The blue coloration of tanzanite is due to trace amounts of vanadium, and the stone is known for its pleochroism—meaning it can display different colors depending on the angle from which it is viewed. Tanzanite is also known for its association with themes of truth, transformation, and spiritual awakening.
Blue Topaz: The Stone of Clarity and Serenity
Blue topaz has been admired for centuries for its clarity and brilliance. Unlike other topazes, which can occur in a variety of colors, blue topaz is not found in nature in its blue form. Instead, it is typically created through irradiation or heat treatment of colorless topaz, resulting in a stone that ranges from pale blue to deep, intense blue shades.
In ancient times, topaz was believed to have the power to bring strength and intellect to its wearer. The Greeks and Romans associated topaz with the sun and believed it had the power to ward off disease and enhance energy. Blue topaz, in particular, has come to symbolize calmness, clarity, and emotional balance.
The use of blue topaz in jewelry became more widespread in the 20th century, particularly with the advent of synthetic and treated stones that made the gemstone more accessible. Today, blue topaz is a popular choice for December birthstone jewelry, offering a brilliant, icy blue that complements both casual and formal attire.
Geological Formation and Sources
Understanding the geological origins and sources of the December birthstones helps to appreciate their rarity and beauty.
Turquoise
Turquoise is a hydrated phosphate of aluminum and copper. It forms in arid environments where copper-rich minerals react with water and phosphorus. This process typically occurs in the weathering zones of copper deposits, often in association with limestone.
The most famous sources of turquoise are in the American Southwest, particularly in Arizona, Nevada, and New Mexico. Persian turquoise, which is also known for its quality and deep blue coloration, comes from Iran. Other notable sources include China, Mexico, and Egypt.
Turquoise is often found in veins and nodules within host rock and is typically mined using traditional methods such as hand tools and small-scale operations. The stone is then cut, shaped, and inlaid into jewelry using techniques that have been passed down through generations.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is a rare gemstone that is found only in the Merelani Hills of Tanzania, near the city of Arusha. It is a type of zoisite that has been transformed through heat treatment to bring out its vibrant blue and violet hues. The stone is formed in metamorphic rock and is associated with the tectonic activity of the East African Rift system.
Tanzanite is considered one of the most valuable gemstones in the world due to its limited supply and striking color. The Merelani Hills are the only known source of tanzanite, which adds to its exclusivity and desirability.
Blue Topaz
Blue topaz is a silicate mineral composed of aluminum and fluorine. It is found in a variety of geological settings, including igneous and metamorphic rocks. Natural colorless topaz is the most common form, and the blue color is achieved through irradiation or heat treatment.
The largest sources of topaz are in Brazil, particularly in the states of Minas Gerais and Bahia. Other notable sources include Russia, Sri Lanka, and the United States. Blue topaz is often mined in open pits and is then treated to achieve its characteristic blue coloration. Once treated, the stone is cut and polished to create a range of jewelry pieces, from simple rings to intricate pendants and earrings.
Gemological Properties
Each of the December birthstones possesses distinct gemological properties that contribute to their beauty and durability. Understanding these properties can help in selecting the right jewelry and ensuring its longevity.
Turquoise
- Color: Ranges from deep blue to green, with unique veining patterns.
- Hardness: 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale.
- Luster: Waxy to greasy.
- Clarity: Typically opaque, with visible matrix patterns.
- Chemical Composition: Hydrated phosphate of aluminum and copper.
Turquoise is relatively soft and porous, which makes it susceptible to damage from chemicals and moisture. It is best suited for jewelry that is worn occasionally and cared for properly.
Tanzanite
- Color: Deep blue to violet, with pleochroism.
- Hardness: 6 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale.
- Luster: Vitreous.
- Clarity: Often transparent to translucent, with inclusions.
- Chemical Composition: Calcium aluminum silicate, with vanadium as a trace element.
Tanzanite is known for its vibrant color and is a popular choice for pendants, earrings, and rings. It is relatively durable but should be protected from extreme temperatures and harsh chemicals.
Blue Topaz
- Color: Ranges from pale blue to intense blue.
- Hardness: 8 on the Mohs scale.
- Luster: Vitreous.
- Clarity: Typically very clear.
- Chemical Composition: Aluminum silicate fluoride.
Blue topaz is a durable gemstone that is well-suited for everyday wear. Its high hardness and clarity make it an excellent choice for rings, bracelets, and necklaces.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Each of the December birthstones is associated with various symbolic meanings and metaphysical properties, adding to their appeal in jewelry.
Turquoise
Turquoise is often considered a stone of protection and wisdom. It is believed to bring good fortune and to enhance communication and self-expression. In many cultures, turquoise is also associated with healing and emotional balance. It is thought to promote calmness and reduce anxiety.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is associated with transformation, intuition, and spiritual growth. It is believed to help the wearer connect with higher consciousness and to encourage self-discovery. Tanzanite is also thought to aid in emotional healing and to bring clarity to complex situations.
Blue Topaz
Blue topaz is associated with clarity, calmness, and emotional balance. It is believed to enhance mental clarity and to help the wearer focus on their goals. Blue topaz is also associated with serenity and is often used in meditation and healing practices.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care and cleaning are essential for maintaining the beauty and longevity of December birthstone jewelry.
Turquoise
Turquoise is relatively fragile and should be handled with care. It is best to avoid exposure to water, chemicals, and extreme temperatures. Cleaning should be done with a soft cloth and mild soap. Turquoise should be stored separately from other gemstones to prevent scratches.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is durable but should be protected from extreme heat and chemicals. It can be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap. Tanzanite should be stored in a cool, dry place to prevent fading.
Blue Topaz
Blue topaz is a durable gemstone that can be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap. It is resistant to scratches and can be worn daily with minimal care. Blue topaz should be stored in a cool, dry place to maintain its color and clarity.
Conclusion
December's birthstone jewelry offers a beautiful and meaningful way to celebrate a December birthday. Whether it's the rich blue-green hues of turquoise, the deep blue-to-violet tones of tanzanite, or the brilliant icy blue of blue topaz, these gemstones each bring their own unique charm and symbolism to the jewelry they adorn.
Women's December birthstone jewelry is a versatile and elegant choice, suitable for both everyday wear and special occasions. Understanding the history, geological properties, and care requirements of these gemstones allows for informed choices when selecting and maintaining these pieces.
By choosing December birthstone jewelry, one not only celebrates a birth month but also honors the rich cultural and gemological heritage of these remarkable stones.