December 31st, the final day of the calendar year, is associated with three official birthstones: Tanzanite, Turquoise, and Zircon. These gemstones, each with a distinct history, symbolic meaning, and geological profile, represent the rich cultural and mineralogical heritage of December. While they share a common theme of promoting success and prosperity, they differ in their formation, appearance, and historical use. This article delves into the properties, symbolism, and sources of these December 31st birthstones, drawing from reliable sources to present a comprehensive and accurate overview.
Introduction
For those born on December 31st, the birthstone options include Tanzanite, Turquoise, and Zircon. These gemstones are not only visually striking but also carry deep symbolic meaning across various cultures. Tanzanite, with its vibrant blue hues, is a modern gemstone that was first discovered in the 1960s. Turquoise, on the other hand, has been cherished for thousands of years and is one of the oldest known gemstones in human history. Zircon, in its colorless or blue forms, is valued for its brilliance and is often mistaken for a diamond due to its refractive qualities.
Together, these three gemstones embody the characteristics of protection, wisdom, and success—traits that are especially fitting for the close of the year. This article explores the geological, cultural, and metaphysical aspects of each stone, offering a detailed look into their significance and how they are used in jewelry and spiritual practices.
History and Lore
Tanzanite: A Modern Marvel
Tanzanite is a relatively new gemstone in the world of jewelry, first discovered in 1967 in Tanzania. It was initially misidentified as a sapphire due to its blue color, but its unique trichroism—displaying three different colors (blue, purple, and brown) when viewed from different angles—set it apart. Tanzanite was officially named in honor of its country of origin and quickly gained popularity due to its rarity and beauty. It is the only gemstone found exclusively in one location on Earth, making it a unique symbol of individuality and exclusivity.
Turquoise: An Ancient Protector
Turquoise has been used for thousands of years across various civilizations. Its name comes from the French pierre turquoise, meaning "Turkish stone," as it was introduced to Europe via Turkey from the East. The gemstone was especially valued by the ancient Egyptians, Persians, Chinese, and Native Americans for its protective and spiritual properties. In Tibetan culture, turquoise was considered a symbol of health and fortune, and it was even used as a form of currency. Native American tribes believed that turquoise brought vitality and strength, and it was often combined with gold to represent longevity and prosperity.
Zircon: A Stone of Radiance
Zircon has a long and fascinating history, with ancient names in Arabic and Sanskrit suggesting its early recognition as a valuable gem. The name zircon is derived from the Arabic word zarkun, meaning "gold-colored," and the Sanskrit term rahuratna refers to its association with the celestial nodes of the moon. In medieval times, physicians wore zircon to aid in accurate diagnosis, and it was also used as an amulet against the Black Death. In India, zircon was believed to be more potent when set in gold. Zircon's brilliance and refractive index make it a popular choice for those seeking a gemstone that mimics the sparkle of a diamond.
Geological Formation and Sources
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is a variety of the mineral columbite-zircon and is found exclusively in Tanzania, near the base of Mount Kilimanjaro. The gemstone forms in metamorphic rock when the mineral cassiterite is heated by magma. Tanzanite is typically found in alluvial deposits, meaning it is often found loose in riverbeds and requires minimal mining to extract. Its rarity is due to both its limited geographic occurrence and the specific geological conditions needed for its formation.
Tanzanite is a trichroic gemstone, meaning it displays three different colors when viewed from different angles. Its most popular color is a deep blue to violet-blue, which is enhanced through heat treatment. Tanzanite has a Mohs hardness of 6 to 6.5, making it relatively soft compared to other gemstones like diamond or sapphire. This means it requires careful handling to avoid scratches and fractures.
Turquoise
Turquoise is a phosphate mineral formed through the interaction of phosphoric acid, copper, and aluminum in the presence of water. It typically forms in weathered copper deposits, often in arid regions where the chemical reactions between minerals and water are more pronounced. The best-quality turquoise is found in Persia (Iran), the Sinai Peninsula, Tibet, and the southwestern United States—particularly in Arizona and Nevada.
Turquoise is known for its porous structure, which means it is often impregnated with stabilizers such as resin or wax to improve its durability. It has a Mohs hardness of 5 to 6, making it relatively soft and prone to damage if not properly cared for. Turquoise is also hygroscopic, meaning it can absorb water and oils from the skin, which can affect its color and stability over time.
Zircon
Zircon is a zirconium silicate that occurs in a wide range of colors, including colorless, blue, red, orange, and green. The blue variety of zircon is the most popular as a birthstone and is often referred to as Blue Zircon or Hyacinth. Zircon forms in metamorphic and igneous rocks, and it is found in various parts of the world, including Sri Lanka, Australia, South Africa, India, and Brazil.
Zircon is known for its high refractive index, which gives it a brilliant sparkle. It is often used as a diamond substitute, especially in the colorless or blue forms. Zircon has a Mohs hardness of 6 to 7.5, depending on the variety, making it more durable than turquoise but still relatively soft compared to diamonds or sapphires.
Gemological Properties
The following table summarizes the key gemological properties of the three December 31st birthstones:
| Gemstone | Color | Chemical Formula | Hardness (Mohs) | Origin | Refractive Index |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tanzanite | Blue, violet-blue, brown | CaAl(SiO₄)(OH)₂ | 6 – 6.5 | Tanzania | 1.694 – 1.701 |
| Turquoise | Blue, green | CuAl₆(PO₄)₄(OH)₈·4H₂O | 5 – 6 | Persia, Sinai, U.S. | 1.61 – 1.65 |
| Zircon | Blue, colorless, red, orange | ZrSiO₄ | 6 – 7.5 | Sri Lanka, Australia, South Africa | 1.92 – 2.01 |
Tanzanite
- Color: Tanzanite is most commonly found in blue to violet-blue hues. Its trichroic nature means it can display up to three colors depending on the viewing angle.
- Hardness: With a Mohs hardness of 6 to 6.5, tanzanite is relatively soft and requires careful handling to avoid scratches and fractures.
- Clarity: Tanzanite is usually translucent to transparent and is often heat-treated to enhance its color.
- Luster: It has a vitreous (glassy) luster, which contributes to its brilliance.
- Cut: Tanzanite is commonly cut into faceted shapes, with oval and cushion cuts being the most popular.
Turquoise
- Color: Turquoise is known for its blue-green hues, with the most desirable being a deep blue with black or brown matrix patterns.
- Hardness: It has a Mohs hardness of 5 to 6, making it relatively soft and prone to scratches.
- Clarity: Turquoise is typically opaque, with visible matrix patterns.
- Luster: It has a waxy to dull luster, which is often enhanced through stabilization treatments.
- Cut: Turquoise is often cut into cabochons or shaped into inlay pieces, especially in Native American jewelry.
Zircon
- Color: Zircon is available in a wide range of colors, including blue, colorless, red, orange, and green. The blue variety is the most popular as a birthstone.
- Hardness: Zircon has a Mohs hardness of 6 to 7.5, depending on the variety, making it more durable than turquoise.
- Clarity: Zircon is usually transparent to translucent and may contain inclusions that are visible to the naked eye.
- Luster: It has a brilliant vitreous luster, which contributes to its diamond-like appearance.
- Cut: Zircon is commonly cut into faceted shapes, with brilliant and emerald cuts being the most popular.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is associated with transformation, spiritual awakening, and emotional healing. It is believed to open the third eye chakra, enhancing intuition and insight. In metaphysical practices, tanzanite is used to promote inner peace, self-expression, and emotional balance. It is also considered a stone of success, helping individuals achieve their goals and aspirations.
Turquoise
Turquoise is one of the oldest and most widely recognized protective stones. It is believed to offer protection against danger, ward off illness, and preserve friendships. In Native American cultures, turquoise was worn as an amulet of good fortune and was believed to bring health and vitality. It is also associated with wisdom, truth, and divine inspiration.
Zircon
Zircon has long been used as a stone of clarity and mental focus. In medieval times, it was believed to help physicians make accurate diagnoses and was used as an amulet against disease. Zircon is also associated with prosperity, good fortune, and success, especially in business and personal relationships. In India, it is believed that zircon is more potent when set in gold, enhancing its protective and beneficial properties.
Care and Cleaning
Each of the December 31st birthstones requires special care due to their varying hardness and composition.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite should be cleaned with mild soap and warm water, using a soft cloth or brush to avoid scratching. It should be stored separately from harder gemstones to prevent abrasion. Avoid exposure to high heat or direct sunlight, as this can cause the color to fade or the stone to crack.
Turquoise
Turquoise is porous and hygroscopic, meaning it can absorb water and oils from the skin. It should be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap, avoiding steam or ultrasonic cleaners, which can damage the stone. It is best to store turquoise in a dry place to prevent discoloration and degradation.
Zircon
Zircon is more durable than turquoise but still requires gentle care. It can be cleaned with mild soap and warm water, and ultrasonic cleaners are generally safe, though caution is advised for heated or treated zircons. Zircon should be stored in a soft cloth or pouch to prevent scratches from harder gemstones.
Conclusion
The December 31st birthstones—Tanzanite, Turquoise, and Zircon—each offer a unique blend of beauty, symbolism, and history. Tanzanite is a modern marvel with a rare and striking color, Turquoise is an ancient gemstone with protective and spiritual properties, and Zircon is a brilliant stone with a diamond-like sparkle. Together, they represent the themes of success, prosperity, and transformation, making them meaningful choices for those born on the last day of the year.
Whether worn as a jewelry piece, used in spiritual practices, or simply admired for its aesthetic appeal, these gemstones continue to captivate and inspire. Their rich histories and symbolic meanings connect us to the past while offering guidance and positivity for the future.