For those born on December 19th, the birthstone list includes three distinct gemstones—tanzanite, turquoise, and zircon—each with its own historical, symbolic, and gemological significance. These stones are not only cherished for their aesthetic appeal but also for their cultural and spiritual associations. This article delves into the history, geological properties, metaphysical beliefs, and care instructions for these December 19th birthstones, drawing exclusively from the provided sources.
Introduction
December is one of the few months with multiple birthstones, and December 19th is particularly unique in that it shares its birthstone designation with tanzanite, turquoise, and zircon. These three gemstones represent a diverse range of colors, histories, and meanings, offering those born on this day a rich selection of symbolic and decorative options. While tanzanite is the most recent addition to the December birthstone list, turquoise and zircon have deep historical roots that stretch back to ancient civilizations.
This article will explore the origins and properties of each gemstone, their cultural and spiritual meanings, and how to care for them to preserve their beauty. Whether you're a gemstone enthusiast, a jewelry buyer, or a student of gemology, this guide offers a comprehensive look at the December 19th birthstones.
History and Lore
The Evolution of December Birthstones
The concept of birthstones has roots in ancient traditions, with some sources tracing it back to the Breastplate of Aaron in the Bible, which listed twelve stones representing the tribes of Israel. Over time, these associations evolved into modern birthstone lists that are now widely recognized.
For December, the earliest recorded birthstone was ruby, as referenced in ancient biblical texts. However, by the 1870s, turquoise was designated as the December birthstone by Tiffany & Co. in its "Gregorian Birthstone Poems" pamphlet. In 1912, the National Association of Jewellers (now known as the American Gem Society) listed turquoise as the primary December stone and lapis lazuli as an alternative.
The 1950s brought the addition of zircon to the December birthstone list, and in 2002, tanzanite was officially recognized as a December birthstone by the American Gem Trade Association. Thus, December 19th now includes tanzanite, turquoise, and zircon among its list of associated gemstones.
Cultural and Symbolic Significance
Each of these gemstones carries a unique cultural and symbolic legacy:
Turquoise has been revered for centuries in ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians, Persians, and Native Americans. It was considered a protective talisman and was often worn to ward off evil and bring good fortune. In many cultures, it is also believed to enhance communication and intuition.
Zircon is one of the oldest minerals on Earth, with some zircons dating back over 4 billion years. It was used in ancient Mesopotamian and Indian cultures and was thought to provide clarity of mind and spiritual insight. Zircon is also known for its fiery brilliance and range of colors, making it a symbol of vitality and transformation.
Tanzanite, discovered in 1967 near Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, is a relatively modern gemstone. Its deep blue to violet hues were immediately recognized as unique and captivating. As the only gemstone found in a single location in the world, tanzanite is often associated with rarity and exclusivity.
Geological Formation and Sources
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is a variety of the mineral columbite-zircon, and it was first discovered in the Merelani Hills near Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania in 1967. The gemstone is formed under intense geological conditions involving the transformation of the mineral zoisite, which undergoes a process of metamorphism and heat treatment to reveal its signature blue and violet hues.
Due to the limited geographical source and the fact that tanzanite can only be found in Tanzania, it is considered one of the rarest gemstones in the world. Its value is further enhanced by the fact that it is a finite resource, and as the deposit depletes, its rarity is expected to increase.
Turquoise
Turquoise is a phosphorus-based mineral that forms in arid regions where copper deposits intersect with the surface. It typically occurs in hydrothermal veins and weathered copper ores, forming in a process that involves the interaction of water and minerals.
Historically, the most significant sources of turquoise have been Persia (modern-day Iran), China, and the American Southwest. Native American tribes, particularly the Navajo and Zuni, have long used turquoise in jewelry and ceremonial objects. Today, while turquoise is still mined in these regions, much of the turquoise on the market is treated or enhanced to improve color and durability.
Zircon
Zircon is one of the oldest known minerals, with some zircon crystals dated back to over 4.4 billion years, making them among the oldest materials on Earth. It forms in igneous rocks and is often found in granite and metamorphic rocks.
Zircon can be found in a wide range of colors, including blue, yellow, green, and red. Blue zircon, which is the most common variety associated with December, is the result of heat treatment that enhances its natural color. Major sources of zircon include Australia, Thailand, Cambodia, and Sri Lanka.
Gemological Properties
Understanding the physical and optical characteristics of each gemstone is essential for both gemologists and jewelry buyers. Below is a comparative overview of the key gemological properties of tanzanite, turquoise, and zircon.
| Gemstone | Color | Hardness (Mohs) | Chemical Composition | Origin | Refractive Index (RI) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tanzanite | Blue to violet, pleochroic | 6–7 | Calcium aluminum silicate | Tanzania | 1.694–1.708 |
| Turquoise | Blue to green, often with matrix | 5–6 | Hydrated phosphate of copper & aluminum | Iran, China, US Southwest | 1.61–1.65 |
| Zircon | Blue, yellow, green, red | 6–7.5 | Zirconium silicate | Australia, Thailand, Cambodia | 1.92–2.01 |
Key Properties Explained
Color: Each gemstone has a signature color or range of colors. Tanzanite is known for its intense blue to violet hues, turquoise is recognized for its blue to green tones, and zircon is prized for its brilliant, fiery colors—especially in the blue variety.
Hardness: On the Mohs scale, tanzanite and zircon are relatively durable with a hardness of 6–7.5, while turquoise is softer, with a hardness of 5–6. This means that turquoise requires more careful handling and cleaning.
Chemical Composition: The chemical makeup of these gemstones determines their stability and reactivity. Tanzanite is a calcium aluminum silicate, turquoise is a hydrated phosphate, and zircon is a zirconium silicate.
Origin and Availability: Tanzanite is unique in that it is only found in Tanzania, making it one of the rarest gemstones. Turquoise and zircon are more widely available, though turquoise often requires stabilization to enhance its color and durability.
Refractive Index (RI): The RI of a gemstone affects how it interacts with light. Tanzanite and zircon have higher RI values, which contribute to their brilliance and fire.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is often associated with spirituality, intuition, and transformation. Due to its deep blue to violet color, it is linked with the third eye and crown chakras, making it a popular stone in meditation and spiritual practices. It is believed to enhance emotional healing, open the mind to new perspectives, and promote a sense of inner peace.
As a relatively new gemstone, tanzanite has not been as widely used in ancient cultures as turquoise or zircon. However, its modern popularity and symbolic meaning have made it a powerful and meaningful gemstone for those born on December 19th.
Turquoise
Turquoise has long been considered a stone of protection and good fortune. In ancient cultures, it was believed to ward off evil spirits, protect against illness, and bring prosperity. It is also associated with clarity of thought, communication, and spiritual insight.
In Native American traditions, turquoise was used in jewelry, carvings, and ceremonial objects to connect with the divine and the natural world. It is also linked with healing, especially for respiratory and digestive issues, and is often used in holistic gemstone therapy.
Zircon
Zircon is known as the "stone of vitality" and is believed to enhance mental clarity, focus, and spiritual awareness. It is often used in meditation and is associated with dreaming and the subconscious mind. Some cultures also believe that zircon promotes renewal and transformation, making it a powerful gemstone for personal growth and change.
Zircon is also associated with happiness and positive energy, and it is often worn to enhance one's mood and outlook on life.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care and cleaning are essential to maintaining the beauty and longevity of these gemstones. Due to their varying hardness and chemical properties, each gemstone requires specific handling and cleaning techniques.
Tanzanite
- Hardness: 6–7 on the Mohs scale
- Cleaning: Use a soft cloth and mild soap with warm water. Avoid harsh chemicals and ultrasonic cleaners, as they can damage the stone.
- Storage: Store tanzanite separately from harder gemstones to avoid scratches.
Turquoise
- Hardness: 5–6 on the Mohs scale
- Cleaning: Use a soft brush and mild soap. Avoid soaking in water for long periods, as turquoise is porous and can absorb water.
- Storage: Store turquoise in a dry, cool place. Avoid exposure to direct sunlight or heat, as it can cause fading.
Zircon
- Hardness: 6–7.5 on the Mohs scale
- Cleaning: Zircon can be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth. It is generally safe to use an ultrasonic cleaner, but avoid harsh chemicals.
- Storage: Zircon can be stored with other gemstones, but it should be kept away from abrasive materials.
Conclusion
The December 19th birthstones—tanzanite, turquoise, and zircon—are more than just beautiful gemstones; they are rich in history, symbolism, and gemological significance. Whether you're drawn to the deep blue of tanzanite, the ancient allure of turquoise, or the vibrant fire of zircon, these stones offer a meaningful connection to the past and a celebration of individuality.
Each gemstone has its own unique properties and care requirements, making it essential for owners to understand how to best preserve their beauty. From their geological origins to their cultural and spiritual meanings, these December 19th birthstones continue to captivate and inspire those who wear them.