December is a month of celebration, and for those born in this month, it also brings with it the gift of a choice of four beautiful birthstones: blue topaz, blue zircon, tanzanite, and turquoise. Each of these gemstones carries its own unique history, properties, and symbolism. Whether you are a gemstone enthusiast, a jewelry buyer, or simply curious about the significance of birthstones, this article provides an in-depth look at the December birthstones, exploring their geological origins, cultural significance, and practical considerations for care and appreciation.
December is the final month of the year, and it is a time of transition—moving from the warmth of autumn to the cold of winter. It is also a time when many cultures reflect on the past year and look forward to the future. For those born during this month, the December birthstones offer a tangible connection to the season, with their cool blue tones evoking the colors of the winter sky and sea.
The December birthstones are known for their beautiful blue hues, but they also exhibit a wide range of properties and characteristics that make each one unique. Blue topaz is prized for its clarity and brilliance, while blue zircon has a high refractive index that gives it a fiery sparkle. Tanzanite, a relatively recent discovery, is notable for its pleochroism, which allows it to display different colors when viewed from different angles. Turquoise, one of the oldest known gemstones, is valued for its historical significance and its association with protection and good fortune.
This article will explore each of the December birthstones in detail, covering their history, geological formation, gemological properties, cultural significance, and care instructions. Whether you are looking to choose a birthstone for yourself or a loved one, or simply wish to deepen your understanding of these beautiful gemstones, this guide will provide the information you need to make an informed decision.
History and Lore
The concept of birthstones dates back thousands of years, with ancient cultures attributing specific gemstones to each month of the year. While the modern list of birthstones was largely standardized in the 20th century, many of these gemstones have long histories rooted in mythology, religion, and folklore.
Blue topaz, one of the December birthstones, is a relatively modern gemstone in the birthstone tradition. While topaz has been known and used for centuries, the blue variety became popular in the 20th century after being discovered in Brazil. Blue topaz is now one of the most common and affordable December birthstones, making it a popular choice for jewelry.
Blue zircon, another December birthstone, has a much longer history. Zircon is one of the oldest known minerals on Earth, with some specimens dating back over 4.4 billion years. In ancient times, zircon was often confused with other gemstones such as topaz and diamond due to its similar appearance. The blue variety of zircon became popular in the 20th century after being heat-treated to enhance its color. Today, blue zircon is valued for its brilliance and its ability to mimic the appearance of a diamond at a lower cost.
Tanzanite is a more recent addition to the December birthstone list. Discovered in the 1960s in Tanzania, tanzanite was first marketed by Tiffany & Co. under the name "Tanzanite." The gemstone quickly gained popularity due to its striking blue and violet colors and its pleochroic properties. Tanzanite is unique in that it is found only in a small area near Mount Kilimanjaro, making it a rare and valuable gemstone.
Turquoise, the oldest of the December birthstones, has been used for thousands of years in jewelry and ornamentation. Ancient Egyptians, Chinese, and Native American cultures all valued turquoise for its beauty and its believed protective properties. Turquoise is often associated with good luck, health, and prosperity, and it remains a popular gemstone in many parts of the world today.
Each of these gemstones has its own rich history and cultural significance, and they continue to be cherished for their beauty and symbolism.
Geological Formation and Sources
The December birthstones are formed through a variety of geological processes, and each one has its own unique origin story.
Blue topaz is typically found in igneous rocks, particularly in pegmatites and granites. The blue color in topaz is caused by irradiation, which alters the crystal structure of the stone. Natural blue topaz is relatively rare, so most of the blue topaz available on the market has been enhanced through heat treatment or irradiation to achieve its characteristic color.
Blue zircon is another gemstone that is often enhanced to improve its appearance. Zircon is found in a variety of colors, including yellow, green, red, and colorless. The blue variety of zircon is created through heat treatment, which removes impurities and enhances the blue color. Zircon is commonly found in Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam, and it is also mined in other parts of the world, including Australia and the United States.
Tanzanite is a unique gemstone that is found only in a small area near Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. The gemstone is a type of zoisite that has been heat-treated to enhance its blue and violet colors. Tanzanite is formed under high-pressure conditions and is often found in metamorphic rocks. Due to its limited source, tanzanite is considered a rare and valuable gemstone.
Turquoise is formed through a different process than the other December birthstones. It is a hydrated phosphate of aluminum and copper, and it is typically found in arid regions where it can form in the presence of water. Turquoise is often found in veins within rocks, and it is known for its distinct blue-green color and the matrix patterns that run through it. Some of the most famous sources of turquoise include Iran, China, and the southwestern United States.
Understanding the geological formation and sources of these gemstones provides insight into their rarity, availability, and the processes that give them their unique characteristics.
Gemological Properties
Each of the December birthstones has its own set of gemological properties that make it unique and valuable. These properties include color, clarity, hardness, refractive index, and other characteristics that affect the appearance and durability of the gemstone.
Blue topaz is a relatively hard gemstone, with a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale. This makes it durable enough for everyday wear in jewelry. Blue topaz has a refractive index of 1.62 to 1.64, which gives it a brilliant sparkle. It is also known for its excellent clarity, with many specimens being eye-clean and free of inclusions.
Blue zircon is another hard gemstone, with a hardness of 6 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale. However, zircon can be brittle, so it should be handled with care to avoid chipping or breaking. Blue zircon has a high refractive index of 1.92 to 1.98, which gives it a fiery brilliance that is similar to that of a diamond. This high refractive index is one of the reasons why zircon has been used as a diamond substitute in the past.
Tanzanite has a hardness of 6 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale, which means it is relatively soft and can be easily scratched or chipped. Tanzanite has a refractive index of 1.69 to 1.70, which gives it a moderate level of brilliance. One of the most unique properties of tanzanite is its pleochroism, which allows it to display different colors when viewed from different angles. This property makes tanzanite a fascinating and visually striking gemstone.
Turquoise is a softer gemstone, with a hardness of 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale. It is also porous and can be easily stained or damaged by exposure to chemicals or moisture. Turquoise has a refractive index of 1.61 to 1.65, which gives it a moderate level of brilliance. The distinct blue-green color of turquoise is due to the presence of copper and aluminum in its chemical composition.
Understanding the gemological properties of these gemstones is important for both gemologists and consumers, as it helps in identifying, grading, and caring for these beautiful stones.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
In addition to their physical properties, the December birthstones are also associated with a range of symbolic meanings and metaphysical beliefs. These beliefs vary across cultures and time periods, but they often reflect the characteristics and qualities of the gemstone.
Blue topaz is often associated with wisdom, clarity, and strength. It is believed to enhance mental focus and promote a sense of calm and balance. In some traditions, blue topaz is also believed to protect the wearer from harm and to bring good fortune.
Blue zircon is thought to have protective qualities, and it has been used in various cultures for its ability to ward off negative energy and promote spiritual growth. Blue zircon is also believed to enhance intuition and to help the wearer connect with their higher self.
Tanzanite is associated with transformation, intuition, and spiritual awakening. It is believed to help the wearer open their heart and mind to new possibilities and to facilitate emotional healing. Tanzanite is also thought to enhance communication and to help the wearer express their thoughts and feelings more clearly.
Turquoise has a long history of being associated with protection, health, and good fortune. In many cultures, turquoise is believed to bring protection to the wearer and to ward off evil spirits. It is also believed to promote physical and emotional healing and to bring a sense of calm and balance.
While the metaphysical properties of gemstones are not scientifically proven, they have been an important part of many cultures and traditions throughout history. Whether you believe in their power or not, these gemstones continue to be cherished for their beauty and their symbolic significance.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care and cleaning are essential for maintaining the beauty and longevity of the December birthstones. Each gemstone has its own unique requirements for cleaning and maintenance, and understanding these can help ensure that your gemstone remains in excellent condition for years to come.
Blue topaz is relatively easy to care for and can be cleaned with mild soap and water. It is also safe to use ultrasonic and steam cleaners for blue topaz, as long as the gemstone is not set in a fragile setting or has any inclusions that could be damaged by vibration.
Blue zircon should be handled with care, as it is more brittle than blue topaz. It is best to clean blue zircon with a soft cloth and mild soap and water. Avoid using ultrasonic or steam cleaners, as the vibration and heat can cause the gemstone to crack or chip.
Tanzanite is a relatively soft gemstone and should be cleaned gently to avoid damage. A soft cloth and mild soap and water are the best options for cleaning tanzanite. Avoid exposing tanzanite to harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as this can cause scratches or dulling of the surface.
Turquoise is the most delicate of the December birthstones and requires special care. It is porous and can be easily stained or damaged by exposure to chemicals or moisture. It is best to clean turquoise with a soft cloth and a small amount of water. Avoid using any harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, and keep turquoise away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
By following these care and cleaning guidelines, you can help ensure that your December birthstone remains beautiful and valuable for years to come.
Conclusion
The December birthstones—blue topaz, blue zircon, tanzanite, and turquoise—each offer their own unique beauty, history, and symbolism. Whether you are drawn to the brilliance of blue topaz, the fiery sparkle of blue zircon, the pleochroism of tanzanite, or the historical significance of turquoise, there is a December birthstone to suit every taste and preference.
Understanding the geological formation, gemological properties, and cultural significance of these gemstones provides a deeper appreciation for their beauty and value. Whether you are a gemstone enthusiast, a jewelry buyer, or simply curious about the world of birthstones, the December birthstones offer a fascinating and rewarding exploration into the world of gemology.
By choosing a December birthstone for yourself or a loved one, you are not only selecting a beautiful gemstone but also connecting with a long tradition of symbolism, meaning, and appreciation that has been passed down through generations.