December 31 marks the end of the year, and like the final notes of a symphony, it is a fitting time to reflect on the beauty and significance of the gemstones associated with this date. For those born on December 31, the birthstone options are as diverse and vibrant as the colors of the rainbow. These gemstones—blue topaz, tanzanite, zircon, turquoise, and sapphire—each carry unique histories, gemological properties, and cultural significances. In this article, we will explore these December birthstones in depth, examining their geological origins, their roles in history and mythology, and their meanings in the modern world.
Introduction
The month of December is symbolically rich, often associated with closure, renewal, and celebration. This symbolism is reflected in the gemstones chosen to represent those born on December 31. These birthstones—blue topaz, tanzanite, zircon, turquoise, and sapphire—each offer a distinct visual and energetic presence. While blue topaz is the most commonly associated gemstone for December, especially in modern times, the traditional and alternative birthstones also hold significant value.
This article will delve into the key characteristics of these gemstones, exploring their formation, historical use, and cultural symbolism. We will examine how each of these stones is formed, where they are found, and how they have been used throughout history. Additionally, we will discuss their gemological properties, including hardness, refractive index, and chemical composition, to provide a comprehensive understanding of what makes these stones so special.
History and Lore
Blue Topaz: A Modern Classic
Blue topaz is a relatively recent addition to the birthstone calendar, but it has quickly become a favorite. The name "topaz" comes from the Sanskrit word for "fire," a curious name for a gemstone known for its cool blue tones. This is due to the fact that the natural form of topaz is actually colorless, and the blue color is achieved through irradiation and heat treatment. Blue topaz is a silicate mineral composed of aluminum and fluorine with a glass-like luster and deep cleavage.
Blue topaz comes in several varieties, each with its own distinct shade. London Blue topaz is known for its deep, inky blue color, while Swiss Blue topaz features a more vibrant, medium light blue. Sky Blue topaz offers a lighter, aqua-like hue, and Natural blue topaz can sometimes resemble aquamarine. Blue topaz is highly versatile and is often used in jewelry due to its affordability and availability in various shapes and sizes.
Tanzanite: A Discovery of the 20th Century
Tanzanite is one of the most recent gemstones to be discovered. It was first identified in the 1960s in Tanzania, near Mount Kilimanjaro. The gemstone is a variety of zoisite and is known for its striking pleochroism, which allows it to display different colors—ranging from blue to purple—depending on the viewing angle and lighting conditions. Tanzanite is typically heat-treated to enhance its color, making it a popular choice for jewelry.
Tanzanite's discovery by Tiffany & Co. in the 1960s marked a significant moment in the gemstone industry. The company marketed it as the "December birthstone," and it quickly gained popularity. Its rarity and beauty have made it a sought-after gemstone, especially among celebrities. Notable figures such as Beyoncé, Cate Blanchett, and Sarah Jessica Parker have been seen wearing tanzanite jewelry, further elevating its status.
Zircon: The Ancient Radiant
Zircon is one of the oldest gemstones, with some specimens dating back to over 4.4 billion years. The name "zircon" is derived from the Arabic word "zarkun," meaning "gold-like." Zircon is known for its high refractive index, which gives it a brilliant, diamond-like sparkle. It is often used as a diamond substitute due to its brilliance and is available in a range of colors, including colorless, yellow, orange, red, and blue.
Blue zircon, in particular, is a popular choice for December birthstones. It is typically heat-treated to achieve its beautiful pastel blue color. Zircon is found in several countries, including Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, Australia, and South Africa. The gemstone has also played a significant role in scientific discoveries, as it contains trace amounts of uranium and thorium, making it useful for radiometric dating.
Turquoise: A Stone of Protection and Prosperity
Turquoise has been cherished for thousands of years and is one of the oldest known gemstones used in jewelry. The name "turquoise" comes from the French word "turquoy," meaning "Turkish stone," as the gem was historically brought to Europe through Turkey. Turquoise is a semi-translucent to opaque gem that ranges in color from blue to green, often with veins of matrix running through it.
Throughout history, turquoise has been associated with protection, prosperity, and good fortune. It was highly valued by ancient Egyptian pharaohs, who used it in jewelry and amulets. In Tibet, turquoise was used as currency and was considered a symbol of wealth and power. Native American cultures also held turquoise in high regard, using it in jewelry and as a symbol of vitality and strength.
Sapphire: A Gem of Divine Wisdom
Sapphire is a gemstone that has been revered for its beauty and symbolic significance for centuries. In ancient times, it was believed to be a stone of divine wisdom and was used to protect the wearer from evil forces. The Hebrews associated sapphire with the wisdom of Joseph, and it was said to be part of the sacred relics of the Jewish people.
Sapphires have also played a role in religious and cultural traditions. Some believe that sapphire was set in the ring of King Solomon and that the Queen of Sheba mentioned it in the Song of Songs. The gemstone was hidden when Roman Emperor Titus conquered Jerusalem, adding to its mystique. Sapphires are known for their deep blue color, though they can also be found in other colors such as pink, yellow, and green.
Geological Formation and Sources
Blue Topaz: A Product of Nature and Science
Blue topaz is formed in igneous rocks and is often found in association with quartz and other minerals. Natural topaz is typically colorless, and the blue color is achieved through a combination of irradiation and heat treatment. This process stabilizes the blue color, making it permanent. Blue topaz is found in several countries, including Brazil, the United States, and Mexico. It is a relatively abundant gemstone, which contributes to its affordability and popularity.
Tanzanite: A Unique Geological Phenomenon
Tanzanite is unique in that it is found only in a small area of Tanzania near Mount Kilimanjaro. The gemstone is a metamorphic mineral formed under high pressure and temperature conditions. The pleochroism of tanzanite is due to the crystal structure of the mineral, which allows it to absorb and reflect different wavelengths of light. Tanzanite is relatively rare, which contributes to its value and desirability.
Zircon: A Timeless Gem
Zircon is found in a variety of geological environments, including metamorphic, igneous, and sedimentary rocks. It is particularly common in areas with high levels of radioactive activity, as it contains trace amounts of uranium and thorium. Zircon is found in several countries, including Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, Australia, and South Africa. The gemstone's high refractive index and brilliance make it a popular choice for jewelry.
Turquoise: A Sedimentary Gem
Turquoise is a sedimentary gemstone formed in arid regions through the weathering of copper-bearing minerals. It is typically found in association with other minerals such as quartz and calcite. Turquoise is found in several countries, including the United States, China, Tibet, and Persia. The presence of matrix—remnants of the rock in which it formed—can add to the gemstone's beauty and value.
Sapphire: A Gem of the Earth's Crust
Sapphires are formed deep within the Earth's crust under high pressure and temperature conditions. They are typically found in metamorphic rocks and are associated with other gemstones such as rubies and emeralds. Sapphires are found in several countries, including Myanmar, Sri Lanka, India, and Australia. The deep blue color of sapphires is due to the presence of trace elements such as iron and titanium.
Gemological Properties
Blue Topaz: Hardness and Versatility
Blue topaz has a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively durable for everyday wear. It has a refractive index of 1.62 to 1.64 and is composed of aluminum silicate with fluorine. Blue topaz is known for its glass-like luster and deep cleavage, which can make it somewhat delicate. Despite this, its popularity in jewelry is due to its affordability, availability, and vibrant color.
Tanzanite: Color and Rarity
Tanzanite has a hardness of 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively soft compared to other gemstones. It has a refractive index of 1.694 to 1.701 and is composed of calcium aluminum silicate. Tanzanite's pleochroism allows it to display different colors—blue and purple—depending on the viewing angle. Its rarity and unique color make it a highly sought-after gemstone.
Zircon: Brilliance and Heat Treatment
Zircon has a hardness of 6 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale and a refractive index of 1.92 to 2.00, which gives it a brilliant, diamond-like sparkle. It is composed of zirconium silicate and can be found in a variety of colors. Blue zircon is typically heat-treated to enhance its color. Its high refractive index makes it a popular diamond substitute.
Turquoise: Translucence and Matrix
Turquoise has a hardness of 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale and is a semi-translucent to opaque gemstone. It is composed of a hydrated phosphate of copper and aluminum. The presence of matrix—veins of the surrounding rock—can add to the gemstone's beauty and value. Turquoise is relatively soft, so it requires careful handling and cleaning.
Sapphire: Durability and Color
Sapphire has a hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale, making it one of the hardest gemstones after diamonds. It is composed of aluminum oxide and is known for its deep blue color, which is due to the presence of trace elements such as iron and titanium. Sapphires are highly durable and are often used in engagement rings and other jewelry that requires lasting beauty.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Blue Topaz: Clarity and Calm
Blue topaz is associated with calmness, clarity, and emotional balance. It is believed to help with anxiety and stress, promoting a sense of peace and tranquility. In metaphysical traditions, blue topaz is thought to enhance communication and encourage truthful expression. It is also believed to promote love and understanding in relationships.
Tanzanite: Transformation and Intuition
Tanzanite is associated with transformation and intuition. It is believed to help with emotional healing and to enhance one's ability to see different perspectives. Tanzanite is also thought to promote spiritual growth and to help with decision-making. It is a stone of the heart and is believed to encourage compassion and empathy.
Zircon: Radiance and Protection
Zircon is associated with radiance, protection, and spiritual growth. It is believed to help with emotional healing and to provide protection against negative energies. Zircon is also thought to enhance one's ability to see the truth and to provide clarity in difficult situations. In some traditions, zircon is used as an amulet to ward off evil spirits and to provide protection against disease.
Turquoise: Protection and Prosperity
Turquoise is one of the most powerful gemstones in terms of its protective properties. It is believed to provide protection against danger, illness, and evil forces. Turquoise is also associated with prosperity and good fortune. In many cultures, it is believed that turquoise can warn the wearer of approaching danger by becoming pale. It is also a symbol of love and friendship and is often given as a gift to preserve relationships.
Sapphire: Wisdom and Divine Power
Sapphire is associated with wisdom, divine power, and protection from evil forces. It is believed to enhance one's ability to make wise decisions and to provide clarity in difficult situations. Sapphires are also thought to promote spiritual growth and to provide a connection to the divine. In many traditions, sapphires are used as talismans for protection and are believed to bring good fortune.
Care and Cleaning
Blue Topaz: Gentle Handling
Blue topaz is relatively durable, but it has a deep cleavage that can make it susceptible to chipping. It should be handled with care and stored separately from other gemstones to avoid scratches. Blue topaz can be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap and water. Ultrasonic cleaners should be avoided as they can cause damage.
Tanzanite: Soft and Delicate
Tanzanite is relatively soft and has a perfect cleavage, making it vulnerable to chipping and cracking. It should be handled with care and stored separately from other gemstones. Tanzanite can be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap and water. It should not be exposed to harsh chemicals or extreme temperatures.
Zircon: High Refractive Index, Delicate Structure
Zircon is relatively hard but has a high refractive index, which makes it susceptible to damage if not handled properly. It should be stored separately from other gemstones to avoid scratches. Zircon can be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap and water. It should not be exposed to harsh chemicals or extreme temperatures.
Turquoise: Soft and Porous
Turquoise is relatively soft and porous, making it vulnerable to damage from chemicals and moisture. It should be handled with care and stored separately from other gemstones. Turquoise can be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap and water. It should not be exposed to harsh chemicals or extreme temperatures.
Sapphire: Durable and Resilient
Sapphire is one of the hardest gemstones and is highly durable. It can be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap and water. It can also be cleaned using ultrasonic cleaners. Sapphire should be stored separately from other gemstones to avoid scratches.
Conclusion
The birthstones associated with December 31—blue topaz, tanzanite, zircon, turquoise, and sapphire—each offer a unique combination of beauty, history, and symbolism. Whether you are drawn to the calm and clarity of blue topaz, the transformative energy of tanzanite, the radiant brilliance of zircon, the protective power of turquoise, or the wisdom of sapphire, there is a gemstone to suit every taste and belief. These gemstones not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of jewelry but also carry deep cultural and historical significance. As we close the year, these December birthstones remind us of the enduring beauty and mystery of the natural world.