December, the final month of the year, is adorned with a rich collection of gemstones that reflect the season’s cool hues and the deep cultural roots of birthstone traditions. For those born in December, the selection of gemstones is both varied and historically significant, encompassing a range of colors, properties, and meanings. These stones—blue zircon, blue topaz, tanzanite, turquoise, and lapis lazuli—each carry their own unique stories and have been cherished across different civilizations for centuries. This article delves into the historical, geological, and symbolic dimensions of these December birthstones, offering a comprehensive overview of their enduring allure.
A Rich Tapestry of December Birthstones
The December birthstone selection is one of the most diverse on the traditional birthstone calendar. The inclusion of multiple gemstones for a single month is not common and reflects the evolution of birthstone traditions over time. The earliest references to birthstones, rooted in biblical and ancient texts, once designated ruby as the December birthstone. However, as time passed and gemstone appreciation evolved, the December list expanded to include several other stones, each adding to the month’s symbolic and aesthetic richness.
Modern December birthstones include blue zircon, blue topaz, and tanzanite, while lapis lazuli and turquoise are considered traditional December birthstones. This diversity allows individuals born in December to choose a gemstone that best resonates with their personal preferences, historical interests, and even metaphysical beliefs.
The inclusion of multiple gemstones in December’s list is not arbitrary. It reflects the historical and cultural shifts that have shaped the birthstone tradition. These gemstones are not only valued for their beauty but also for their unique properties and the meanings they carry across various cultures and time periods.
Historical Roots and Cultural Significance
The tradition of assigning gemstones to months of the year dates back to ancient times, with early references found in biblical and Mesopotamian texts. These early systems often linked gemstones to months and zodiac signs, attributing specific virtues, protective qualities, and symbolic meanings to each stone. In the case of December, the association has evolved significantly over time.
Historically, lapis lazuli was a prominent December birthstone prior to the 1950s. This deep blue stone, often flecked with gold or white, was highly prized in ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia for its regal appearance and supposed protective qualities. It was used in jewelry, amulets, and even in the pigments of ancient paintings. Lapis lazuli was considered a stone of self-mastery and protection, believed to bring clarity of thought and emotional balance.
In the 1950s, zircon was officially added to the December birthstone list. Zircon, particularly in its blue form, is known for its brilliant fire and vivid coloration. It is one of the oldest minerals on Earth, with some zircons dating back over 4 billion years. This geological longevity adds to the stone’s mystique and significance. Zircon is also valued for its versatility in jewelry and its ability to mimic the appearance of diamonds or other precious gems.
In 2002, tanzanite was introduced as an official December birthstone in the United States. This relatively rare gemstone is found only in a small region near Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, making it a unique and exclusive choice. Tanzanite is known for its striking blue to violet color and its ability to display pleochroism, meaning it appears to change color when viewed from different angles. It is also considered a protective and calming stone, believed to help individuals express their spiritual insights in a balanced manner.
The turquoise connection to December is perhaps the most ancient and enduring. Turquoise has been used for thousands of years in jewelry, amulets, and decorative objects across various cultures. In ancient Egypt, it was considered a symbol of life and protection. Native American tribes also revered turquoise as a sacred stone, often using it in ceremonial jewelry and as a protective talisman. For December birthdays, turquoise represents joy, emotional balance, and the connection between the Earth and the sky.
Historically, ruby was also associated with December, though it is now more commonly linked to July. In ancient times, ruby was believed to sharpen the mind, improve concentration, and encourage courtly love. Its deep red color made it a symbol of passion and vitality.
Geological Formation and Sources
Understanding the geological origins of these December birthstones provides insight into their rarity, beauty, and the processes that formed them over millions of years.
Zircon is a mineral that forms in igneous rocks and is known for its resistance to weathering. Blue zircon is typically created through heat treatment, which alters the color of the natural brown zircon. The presence of zircon in the Earth's crust is significant, as it is one of the oldest known minerals. Zircon is found in various parts of the world, including Australia, Sri Lanka, and Brazil.
Blue topaz is a popular choice for December, known for its calm, serene blue color. Natural blue topaz is rare, so most blue topaz available in the market is treated to enhance or alter its color. Topaz is found in several countries, including the United States, Brazil, and Nigeria. It is a durable gemstone with a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale, making it suitable for everyday wear in jewelry.
Tanzanite, as the name suggests, is exclusively found in Tanzania. It was discovered in the 1960s and quickly gained popularity due to its unique color and rarity. Tanzanite is a variety of the mineral zoisite and is known for its pleochroism. The gemstone is relatively soft compared to other birthstones, with a hardness of about 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale. Its rarity and beauty make it a prized possession in the jewelry world.
Turquoise forms in arid regions where copper-rich minerals react with water. It is typically found in desert environments, where it can be mined from veins in rocks. Major sources of turquoise include the southwestern United States, Iran, and China. Turquoise is relatively soft, with a hardness of 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale, and it is often stabilized or treated to improve its durability for use in jewelry.
Lapis lazuli is a metamorphic rock composed primarily of lazurite, a deep blue mineral. It is also found in association with other minerals such as pyrite and calcite. Lapis lazuli is most commonly mined in Afghanistan, where it has been a valued resource for thousands of years. It is a relatively soft stone, with a hardness of about 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale, and it is often used in carvings and inlay work.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
The symbolic meanings and metaphysical properties attributed to these December birthstones vary across cultures and time periods. These beliefs have influenced the way these stones are used in jewelry, amulets, and spiritual practices.
Blue zircon is considered a stone of joy and emotional balance. It is believed to promote a sense of calm and help individuals maintain emotional stability. In metaphysical practices, blue zircon is used for meditation and to enhance spiritual awareness.
Blue topaz is often associated with self-esteem, learning, and emotional calmness. It is believed to help individuals navigate complex ideas and align their energy with spiritual sources. Blue topaz is also used in meditation to promote a sense of peace and clarity.
Tanzanite is considered a protective and calming stone. It is believed to help individuals express their spiritual insights in a balanced and compassionate manner. Tanzanite is also associated with transformation and personal growth.
Turquoise has been revered for its protective and healing properties across many cultures. It is considered a stone of communication, helping individuals express their thoughts and emotions clearly. In Native American traditions, turquoise is believed to bring good fortune and protect the wearer from harm.
Lapis lazuli is associated with wisdom, truth, and self-mastery. It is believed to enhance intellectual capabilities and promote a sense of inner peace. Lapis lazuli is also used in meditation to help individuals connect with higher consciousness.
Care and Maintenance
Proper care is essential for preserving the beauty and longevity of these December birthstones. Each gemstone has specific needs based on its hardness, chemical composition, and sensitivity to environmental factors.
Blue zircon, while relatively durable, should be protected from scratches and abrasions. It is recommended to store blue zircon jewelry separately from other gemstones to prevent damage. Cleaning should be done gently with a soft cloth and mild soap solution.
Blue topaz is more durable and can be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. However, it should be kept away from harsh chemicals and extreme temperatures to avoid damage.
Tanzanite is a relatively soft gemstone and requires careful handling. It should be cleaned with a gentle, damp cloth and stored in a cool, dry place. Exposure to direct sunlight for prolonged periods can cause fading, so it should be protected from excessive light.
Turquoise is a porous and relatively soft stone that requires special care. It should be kept away from moisture and chemicals, as these can cause discoloration and damage. Cleaning should be done with a soft cloth and mild soap, and it should be stored in a dry, cool place.
Lapis lazuli is also a soft stone and can be easily damaged by harsh chemicals and excessive moisture. It should be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap, and it should be kept away from direct sunlight to prevent fading.
Conclusion
The December birthstones—blue zircon, blue topaz, tanzanite, turquoise, and lapis lazuli—offer a rich and diverse selection of gemstones that reflect the month’s cool hues and deep cultural significance. Each stone carries its own unique history, geological properties, and symbolic meanings, making them not only beautiful but also meaningful choices for those born in December. From the ancient associations with lapis lazuli and turquoise to the modern additions of zircon, tanzanite, and blue topaz, the December birthstone tradition continues to evolve while maintaining its connection to the past. Whether chosen for their beauty, symbolism, or historical significance, these gemstones serve as enduring reminders of the month’s traditions and the personal stories they represent.