December 31, the final day of the calendar year, marks the birthstone day for three remarkable gemstones: Tanzanite, Turquoise, and Zircon. Each of these stones carries a unique history, a distinct geological origin, and a rich tapestry of cultural and metaphysical significance. As a gemstone enthusiast or a jewelry buyer, understanding the properties and lore of these stones can deepen your appreciation of their role in both personal adornment and symbolic meaning. This article delves into the characteristics, origins, and significance of these three December birthstones, with a special emphasis on their relevance to those born on December 31.
Historical Use and Cultural Significance
Tanzanite: A Modern Discovery with Ancient Roots
Tanzanite, the most recently discovered of the three December birthstones, was first identified in 1967 in the Merelani Hills of Tanzania. Though it is a modern gem in terms of commercial recognition, its vibrant blue and violet hues quickly captured the attention of jewelers and collectors alike. Tanzanite is a variety of the mineral zoisite and is prized for its color-changing properties—exhibiting different shades under natural and artificial light.
Tanzanite's connection to December 31 and the end of the year is relatively new compared to its counterparts. However, its symbolic association with transformation, emotional healing, and spiritual growth makes it a fitting birthstone for those born on the last day of the year, a time often associated with new beginnings and reflection.
Turquoise: A Stone of Protection and Prosperity
Turquoise is one of the oldest known gemstones, with a history that spans thousands of years. The name "turquoise" comes from the French word turquoise, meaning "Turkish," as the gem was historically imported to Europe through Turkey. The earliest known use of turquoise dates back to ancient Egypt and Persia, where it was used in amulets, inlay work, and even as a form of currency in some cultures.
In many ancient civilizations, turquoise was believed to possess protective and healing properties. The Tibetans considered it a stone of fortune, health, and success, while Native American tribes associated it with youth, strength, and vitality. It was also believed that turquoise could warn its wearer of illness or danger by fading in color. In medieval Europe, it was used as a protective charm against the plague, and in India, it was thought to be more potent when set in gold.
Zircon: A Radiant Stone with a Diverse History
Zircon, the third December birthstone, has a long and varied history across different cultures. The name "zircon" is derived from the Arabic word zurun, meaning "gold-like," a reference to the golden color of some of its varieties. In Sanskrit, it is called rahuratna, which translates to "the tone of the nodes of the Moon," linking it to lunar mythology.
Zircon comes in a wide range of colors, including colorless (often referred to as jargoon or hyacinth), golden, red, green, and blue. The colorless variety was historically mistaken for diamond due to its brilliance and refractive properties. Zircon was also used by medieval physicians as a diagnostic aid, and it was believed to offer protection against evil spirits and the Black Death. In India, zircon was thought to gain greater potency when set in gold, and in ancient times, it was worn as an amulet against misfortune.
Geological Formation and Sources
Understanding the geological origins of a gemstone provides insight into its rarity and value. Each of the December 31 birthstones—Tanzanite, Turquoise, and Zircon—has distinct formation processes and sources.
Tanzanite: The One-of-a-Kind Gem
Tanzanite is a relatively rare gemstone, found only in the Merelani Hills of Tanzania. It forms under specific geological conditions involving the metamorphism of calcium-rich minerals. The presence of vanadium impurities is responsible for its striking blue and violet colors. Due to its limited geographic source, Tanzanite is considered one of the most exclusive gemstones in the world.
Its rarity, combined with its beauty and color, has made Tanzanite a popular choice in high-end jewelry. It is also known for its pleochroism, meaning it displays different colors depending on the angle from which it is viewed. Tanzanite is typically cut to maximize its color and brilliance, often in emerald or oval cuts.
Turquoise: A Sedimentary Treasure
Turquoise is formed through a process of sedimentation and oxidation in arid climates. It is a hydrated phosphate of aluminum and copper, and its color ranges from deep blue to green, depending on the presence of copper and iron. The most prized turquoise is found in regions with low iron content, resulting in a rich blue hue.
Historically, the finest turquoise was mined in Persia (modern-day Iran) and the Sinai Peninsula. Today, major sources include the United States (particularly Arizona and Nevada), China, and Egypt. Turquoise is often found in matrix, where it is embedded in host rock, and it is frequently stabilized or treated to enhance its durability and color.
Zircon: A Diverse and Durable Mineral
Zircon is a zirconium silicate mineral that occurs in a variety of colors due to different trace elements. It is found in igneous and metamorphic rocks and is one of the oldest minerals on Earth, with some zircon crystals dating back over 4 billion years. This makes zircon one of the few minerals that can provide insights into the early history of the planet.
Major sources of zircon include Australia and South Africa, which together account for about 70% of the world's production. Other significant sources include Sri Lanka, India, and Brazil. Zircon is known for its high refractive index and dispersion, giving it a diamond-like brilliance. It is also relatively durable, with a hardness of 6 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale, making it suitable for everyday wear in jewelry.
Gemological Properties
To appreciate the value and beauty of a gemstone, it is essential to understand its gemological properties. These include hardness, refractive index, color, clarity, and cut. Each of the December 31 birthstones has distinct properties that contribute to their allure and practicality in jewelry.
Tanzanite: A Colorful and Fragile Gem
Tanzanite has a hardness of 6 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively soft compared to other gemstones like sapphires or diamonds. Its refractive index ranges from 1.694 to 1.701, which contributes to its brilliance and color. Tanzanite is known for its pleochroism, meaning it displays different colors depending on the angle of view—often blue, violet, and brown.
Clarity in Tanzanite is generally good to very good, with most stones containing minor inclusions. Tanzanite is typically heat-treated to enhance its color, and this treatment is considered permanent. Tanzanite is best suited for earrings and pendants due to its relative softness and tendency to fracture along cleavage planes.
Turquoise: A Porous and Stabilized Stone
Turquoise has a hardness of 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale, making it a relatively soft gemstone. It is also porous and tends to absorb oils and moisture, which is why it is often stabilized with resins or oils to improve its durability. The refractive index of turquoise is relatively low, around 1.61, and it does not display significant brilliance or dispersion.
The color of turquoise varies from deep blue to green, and the most valuable stones are those with a uniform, rich blue color and minimal matrix. Turquoise is typically cut into cabochons to highlight its color and to avoid the risk of damage from sharp edges. It is best suited for earrings, pendants, and other low-wear jewelry.
Zircon: A Durable and Sparkling Stone
Zircon has a hardness of 6 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale, making it more durable than both Tanzanite and Turquoise. Its refractive index ranges from 1.81 to 1.93, which contributes to its high brilliance and fire. Zircon is known for its dispersion, or "fire," which is similar to that of diamond.
Zircon comes in a wide range of colors, including colorless, golden, red, green, and blue. The blue variety is the most popular and is often heat-treated to enhance its color. Zircon is typically cut in brilliant or faceted styles to maximize its sparkle and refractive qualities. Due to its durability and beauty, zircon is often used in rings, earrings, and pendants.
Metaphysical and Symbolic Meanings
Each of the December 31 birthstones has a rich history of symbolic and metaphysical significance. These meanings vary across cultures and time periods, but they often reflect themes of protection, prosperity, and personal transformation.
Tanzanite: A Stone of Transformation and Emotional Healing
Tanzanite is often associated with emotional healing and spiritual transformation. It is believed to help individuals release negative emotions and embrace new perspectives. Tanzanite is also associated with intuition and psychic development, making it a popular stone for meditation and spiritual practices.
In terms of personal symbolism, Tanzanite is linked to the concept of success and the ability to overcome challenges. As a birthstone for those born on December 31, it is seen as a powerful ally in navigating the transition from one year to the next.
Turquoise: A Stone of Protection and Prosperity
Turquoise has long been regarded as a protective stone, believed to ward off evil spirits and misfortune. It was used as an amulet in many ancient cultures, including those of the Egyptians, Persians, and Native Americans. Turquoise was also thought to bring good fortune and success, particularly in matters of love and relationships.
In some cultures, turquoise was considered a currency, and it was used in trade and as a form of payment. Today, it continues to be associated with prosperity and abundance, making it a popular choice for those seeking financial success.
Zircon: A Stone of Clarity and Spiritual Awareness
Zircon is often associated with clarity, wisdom, and spiritual awareness. It is believed to enhance mental clarity and help individuals make sound decisions. Zircon is also linked to the concept of truth and is thought to help individuals overcome illusions and see the world more clearly.
In medieval times, zircon was used by physicians as a diagnostic aid, and it was believed to help with accurate diagnosis. Today, zircon continues to be associated with healing and spiritual growth, making it a valuable stone for those seeking balance and understanding.
Care and Maintenance
Proper care and maintenance are essential to preserving the beauty and longevity of gemstone jewelry. Each of the December 31 birthstones—Tanzanite, Turquoise, and Zircon—requires specific care due to their unique properties.
Tanzanite: Gentle Cleaning and Protection
Tanzanite is relatively soft and can be easily scratched or damaged. It should be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap to avoid harsh chemicals. Tanzanite should be stored separately from other gemstones to prevent scratching, and it should be protected from extreme temperatures and direct sunlight.
Tanzanite is also sensitive to heat and can lose its color if exposed to high temperatures. It is important to avoid using ultrasonic cleaners or steam cleaners, as these can damage the gemstone.
Turquoise: Stabilization and Moisture Control
Turquoise is a porous and soft gemstone that requires special care. It should be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap to avoid harsh chemicals. Turquoise should also be kept away from moisture, as it can cause the stone to become dull or discolored.
Because turquoise is often stabilized with resins or oils, it is important to avoid using any treatments that could strip away these stabilizers. Turquoise should also be stored in a dry, cool place to prevent damage from humidity and temperature changes.
Zircon: Durable and Easy to Care For
Zircon is a relatively durable gemstone and is easier to care for than Tanzanite and Turquoise. It can be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap, and it can also be cleaned with ultrasonic or steam cleaners. Zircon is resistant to most chemicals and is suitable for everyday wear.
Zircon should be stored separately from other gemstones to prevent scratching, and it should be protected from extreme temperatures. Zircon is also resistant to fading and does not require special treatments to maintain its color.
Conclusion
December 31 is a unique and meaningful date, and the birthstones associated with it—Tanzanite, Turquoise, and Zircon—carry a rich history, diverse symbolism, and fascinating gemological properties. Each of these stones has its own story, from the recent discovery of Tanzanite in Tanzania to the ancient use of Turquoise and Zircon in cultures around the world.
Whether you are drawn to the vibrant colors of Tanzanite, the protective qualities of Turquoise, or the sparkling brilliance of Zircon, these December birthstones offer something special for those born on the last day of the year. Understanding their origins, properties, and meanings can deepen your appreciation of these gemstones and their role in both personal adornment and spiritual significance.