December is a month of celebration and festivity, often associated with the magic of the holiday season. However, it also holds a special place in the world of gemstones as it is the month that boasts four official birthstones: Turquoise, Tanzanite, Blue Topaz, and Blue Zircon. Each of these gemstones carries unique characteristics, historical significance, and symbolic meanings that make them ideal choices for jewelry and personal adornment.
This article explores the December birthstones, with a focus on Turquoise, Tanzanite, and Blue Topaz, as these are most prominently featured in the jewelry collections from the sources provided. We will delve into their geological formation, gemological properties, cultural symbolism, and practical care tips. The goal is to offer a comprehensive guide to understanding the significance and beauty of these stones, especially when used in December birthstone necklaces and other jewelry.
History and Lore
The concept of birthstones is an ancient tradition, with roots in biblical and early alchemical texts. The December birthstones, in particular, have evolved over time, with Turquoise being the most historically recognized. It has been cherished by civilizations as early as 3000 BCE in Mesopotamia, Egypt, and the Indus Valley.
Turquoise
Turquoise has long been associated with protection, good fortune, and communication. In ancient Egypt, it was used in amulets and jewelry and was believed to bring divine favor. In the American Southwest, Native American tribes such as the Navajo and Zuni also revered turquoise for its spiritual and protective properties. It was used in ceremonial jewelry and as a symbol of health, wealth, and spiritual clarity.
The stone was also highly valued in Persia (modern-day Iran) and China, where it was used to decorate imperial robes and sacred objects. The word "turquoise" itself is derived from the French word "pierre turquoise", meaning "Turkish stone", referring to the trade routes through which the stone entered Europe from the East.
Turquoise became an official December birthstone in the 1900s, and it remains a popular choice for birthstone jewelry, especially in the form of necklaces, bracelets, and rings.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is a much younger addition to the birthstone tradition. Discovered in 1967 in Tanzania, it was officially designated as a December birthstone in 1952, though its recognition gained popularity later. Tanzanite is a type of zircon that is known for its vibrant blue-violet color, which is caused by the presence of vanadium in its crystal structure.
Tanzanite was named after its country of origin, Tanzania, and it quickly became a favorite in the jewelry world due to its unique color and affordability. It symbolizes transformation, intuition, and spiritual insight, making it a meaningful stone for those born in December.
Blue Topaz
Blue Topaz is another modern addition to the December birthstone lineup. While topaz has been known for centuries, the blue variety is typically created through heat treatment or irradiation to enhance its natural color. It is associated with calmness, clarity, and emotional balance. In ancient times, topaz was believed to have the power to ward off evil and enhance courage.
Blue Topaz is a popular choice for birthstone necklaces due to its brilliance and affordability. It is often used in modest designs, making it versatile for everyday wear.
Geological Formation and Sources
Each of these gemstones has a unique geological history and source, which contributes to their rarity and beauty.
Turquoise
Turquoise is a phosphate mineral that forms in arid regions, typically in limestone deposits that are exposed to the surface. It is formed when phosphorus-rich water percolates through the rock, reacting with copper and aluminum to create the characteristic blue-green color.
The most famous sources of high-quality turquoise are:
- Iran – Known as Persian turquoise, this is considered the finest and most valuable.
- United States (Arizona, New Mexico, Nevada) – Particularly in the Southwest, where turquoise has been mined for centuries.
- China, Russia, and Egypt – Also have notable deposits, though the quality may vary.
Turquoise is a soft gemstone, with a Mohs hardness of 5 to 6, which means it is susceptible to scratches and damage. It is often stabilized or treated with resins to enhance its durability for use in jewelry.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is a trigonal crystal of the zircon family and is found only in Tanzania, specifically in the Merelani Hills of the Simanjiro Plateau. This is one of the few gemstones that is exclusive to a single country, which adds to its rarity and value.
The formation of tanzanite is linked to metamorphic processes, where zircon crystals in the rock are subjected to heat and pressure, causing the vibrant blue-violet color to develop. The presence of vanadium is crucial to this coloration.
Tanzanite is relatively soft, with a Mohs hardness of 6 to 6.5, and it has perfect cleavage, meaning it can split easily if struck along the correct plane. This makes it important to handle and wear tanzanite jewelry with care.
Blue Topaz
Topaz is a silicate mineral that occurs in hydrothermal veins and pegmatite deposits. The blue color in topaz is typically a result of irradiation, which alters the atomic structure of the crystal and causes the absorption of light in the yellow and red wavelengths, resulting in a blue appearance.
Natural blue topaz is rare, so most blue topaz on the market is treated to enhance or create the blue color. The most common treatments include:
- Heat treatment – Used to enhance natural coloration.
- Irradiation – Used to create blue color in otherwise colorless topaz.
Blue topaz is harder than both turquoise and tanzanite, with a Mohs hardness of 8, which makes it more durable and suitable for everyday wear.
Natural sources of topaz include:
- Brazil – The largest and most well-known source.
- Myanmar (Burma), Mexico, and the United States – Also have significant deposits.
Gemological Properties
Each of these gemstones has distinct physical and optical properties that define their appearance and value in jewelry.
Turquoise
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | CuAl₆(PO₄)₄(OH)₈·4H₂O |
| Hardness (Mohs) | 5–6 |
| Color | Ranges from blue to green, with matrix patterns (black or brown veins) |
| Luster | Waxy to greasy |
| Refractive Index | 1.61–1.65 |
| Specific Gravity | 2.60–2.85 |
| Transparency | Usually opaque, sometimes translucent |
| Treatment | Often stabilized with resins to improve durability |
Turquoise is a porous and soft gemstone, which means it requires special care to prevent drying out or cracking. It is also susceptible to fading when exposed to direct sunlight or harsh chemicals.
Tanzanite
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | Al₂SiO₄(OH)₂·V |
| Hardness (Mohs) | 6–6.5 |
| Color | Blue to violet, often with pleochroism (multiple colors in different light) |
| Luster | Vitreous |
| Refractive Index | 1.69–1.70 |
| Specific Gravity | 3.10–3.35 |
| Transparency | Transparent to translucent |
| Treatment | Heat-treated to enhance color |
Tanzanite is known for its pleochroism, which means it displays different colors when viewed from different angles. This makes it a visually dynamic gemstone that can shift from deep blue to violet depending on the light source.
Blue Topaz
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | Al₂SiO₄(F,OH)₂ |
| Hardness (Mohs) | 8 |
| Color | Blue (often treated) |
| Luster | Vitreous |
| Refractive Index | 1.62–1.64 |
| Specific Gravity | 3.50–3.56 |
| Transparency | Transparent |
| Treatment | Heat-treated or irradiated to create blue color |
Blue topaz is a harder and more durable gemstone compared to turquoise and tanzanite, which makes it a practical choice for daily wear. Its brilliant blue color and high clarity make it a popular option for birthstone jewelry, especially in necklaces and earrings.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Each of the December birthstones carries its own symbolic meaning, which has been passed down through history and continues to influence their popularity in jewelry and personal adornment.
Turquoise
Turquoise has long been associated with protection, good fortune, and communication. In ancient cultures, it was believed to ward off evil spirits and promote health and vitality. It was also used in ceremonial jewelry and amulets to enhance spiritual connection and intuition.
Modern metaphysical beliefs suggest that turquoise enhances self-expression, calms the mind, and promotes emotional healing. It is often recommended for those seeking inner peace and clarity of thought.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is known for its spiritual and emotional properties. It is believed to enhance intuition, open the heart chakra, and promote emotional healing. It is also associated with transformation, making it a suitable stone for those undergoing life changes or seeking personal growth.
In metaphysical circles, tanzanite is considered a stone of enlightenment, helping individuals connect with higher consciousness and gain insight into their life path.
Blue Topaz
Blue topaz is associated with calmness, clarity, and emotional balance. It is often used to soothe anxiety and promote mental clarity. In ancient times, it was believed to ward off evil and enhance courage, making it a protective stone.
Modern crystal healers use blue topaz to enhance communication, promote emotional stability, and support decision-making. It is also believed to attract love and harmony, making it a meaningful choice for December birthstone jewelry.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care is essential to maintain the beauty and longevity of December birthstone jewelry, especially for turquoise and tanzanite, which are more delicate than blue topaz.
Turquoise
- Avoid exposure to direct sunlight, as this can cause the color to fade.
- Store in a cool, dry place to prevent the stone from drying out and cracking.
- Use a soft, dry cloth to gently polish the surface.
- Avoid contact with chemicals, such as perfumes, lotions, and cleaning products.
- Never clean with water or ultrasonic cleaners, as this can damage the stone.
Tanzanite
- Store tanzanite separately from other jewelry to avoid scratches.
- Use a soft, damp cloth to gently clean the surface.
- Avoid exposure to harsh chemicals, as they can dull the color and damage the stone.
- Do not use ultrasonic or steam cleaners, as these can cause the stone to crack or chip due to its cleavage.
- Handle with care, especially when wearing it in physical activities or sports, to avoid impact or pressure that may cause it to split.
Blue Topaz
- Blue topaz is more durable than turquoise and tanzanite, but it still requires gentle care.
- Clean with warm water and mild soap, using a soft brush.
- Ultrasonic and steam cleaners can be used, but it’s best to avoid prolonged exposure.
- Avoid exposure to high heat, as this can affect the treated color.
- Store separately from other jewelry to prevent scratches.
Conclusion
December birthstone jewelry is a beautiful and meaningful way to honor those born in this month. The December birthstones—Turquoise, Tanzanite, and Blue Topaz—each bring their own unique beauty, symbolism, and historical significance to the world of gemology and jewelry.
From the spiritual and protective properties of Turquoise, to the transformative and intuitive energy of Tanzanite, and the calming and clarifying qualities of Blue Topaz, these gemstones offer a rich tapestry of meaning and value.
Whether you are choosing a December birthstone necklace as a personal keepsake or a thoughtful gift, understanding the geological, historical, and symbolic aspects of these gemstones can deepen your appreciation for their beauty and significance. With proper care and respect, these stones can be cherished for generations, symbolizing the special bond between the wearer and the stone.