December is a month rich in celebration and tradition, and it is also uniquely honored in the world of gemstones. Among all the months of the year, December boasts three officially recognized birthstones: tanzanite, zircon, and turquoise. Each of these gemstones carries a distinct history, cultural significance, and set of properties that make them treasured not only for their beauty but also for the meanings they embody. This article delves into the geological and historical background of these three December birthstones, their symbolic associations, and their place in modern jewelry and culture.
The Significance of December Birthstones
December is the final month of the year and is associated with two zodiac signs: Sagittarius and Capricorn. This duality may explain why December is represented by multiple birthstones. The concept of birthstones—assigning a specific gemstone to each month of the year—has deep historical roots. The earliest known reference to this practice can be traced to the Breastplate of Aaron from the Old Testament, where 12 gemstones were said to represent the 12 tribes of Israel. Over centuries, this idea evolved, with different cultures and regions adding their own interpretations. By the 19th and 20th centuries, the modern list of birthstones was formalized, with the American National Retail Jewelers Association (now Jewelers of America) standardizing the list in 1912. This list has since been updated to reflect the discovery of new gemstones and changes in cultural preferences.
December’s birthstones—tanzanite, zircon, and turquoise—each represent different aspects of beauty and meaning. Tanzanite, discovered in the 20th century, is a relatively modern gemstone with a striking blue-violet color. Zircon, one of the oldest minerals on Earth, is known for its brilliance and refractive properties. Turquoise, a gemstone with a long history of cultural and spiritual significance, has been prized for thousands of years across various civilizations. Together, these stones reflect the rich tapestry of December’s symbolism—ranging from protection and wisdom to beauty and vitality.
The Discovery and Origin of Tanzanite
Tanzanite is a gemstone with a fascinating and relatively recent origin. It was first discovered in 1967 in the Merelani Hills of northern Tanzania, near the base of Mount Kilimanjaro. The gemstone is a variety of the mineral zoisite, and its striking blue-violet coloration is the result of a unique geological process. Tanzanite’s color is caused by trace amounts of vanadium, and the gemstone must undergo heat treatment to enhance and stabilize its hue. In its natural state, tanzanite is typically a deep green color, but when heated to temperatures around 600 degrees Celsius, the green color is transformed into the vibrant blue-violet tones that make tanzanite so desirable.
Tanzanite is a relatively rare gemstone, found only in Tanzania. It is considered one of the rarest precious gemstones in the world, with most of the supply coming from a small area in the Merelani Hills. The gemstone was named after its country of origin, Tanzania, and was introduced to the market in the late 1960s. It was officially recognized as a December birthstone in 2002 by the American Gem Trade Association. Tanzanite quickly gained popularity due to its unique color and brilliance, and it has since become a favorite among gemstone enthusiasts and jewelers.
The geological formation of tanzanite is tied to the presence of vanadium and the specific conditions of the Merelani Hills. The area is known for its metamorphic rocks, and tanzanite forms in these rocks under high pressure and temperature. The gemstone is often found in association with other minerals, such as gold and other colored stones. Tanzanite’s rarity and beauty have made it a highly sought-after gemstone, and it is often used in fine jewelry, including rings, pendants, and earrings.
The Properties and Characteristics of Tanzanite
Tanzanite is a gemstone that captivates with its deep blue-violet color and excellent clarity. It has a hardness of 6 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale, which means it is relatively soft compared to other gemstones like diamonds or sapphires. Because of this, tanzanite requires careful handling and is best suited for jewelry that is not subject to frequent wear or impact. Tanzanite also exhibits pleochroism, a property that allows it to display different colors when viewed from different angles. In tanzanite, this means that it can appear blue, violet, or even brown depending on the lighting and angle of view. This pleochroism adds to the gemstone’s allure and makes each tanzanite piece unique.
The chemical composition of tanzanite is Ca₂Al₃(SiO₄)(OH)₂. It belongs to the zoisite mineral group and is a member of the epidote family. Tanzanite’s refractive index ranges from 1.694 to 1.706, and it has a high dispersion, which gives it a beautiful sparkle. Tanzanite is typically cut into faceted shapes to enhance its brilliance and color. The most popular cuts for tanzanite include the emerald cut, oval cut, and cushion cut. These cuts help to showcase the gemstone’s color and clarity while maximizing its light return.
Tanzanite is also known for its excellent transparency and can range from translucent to transparent. The most valuable tanzanite stones are those with a deep, rich blue color and minimal inclusions. Tanzanite is often treated to enhance its color and clarity, and these treatments are generally considered stable and permanent. Tanzanite is a popular choice for jewelry, and it is especially favored for its affordability compared to other colored gemstones of similar size and quality.
The Historical and Cultural Significance of Zircon
Zircon is one of the oldest minerals on Earth, with some zircon crystals dating back over 4 billion years. It is a naturally occurring gemstone that has been used in jewelry for thousands of years. Zircon is known for its brilliance and refractive index, which is among the highest of all gemstones. It is often referred to as the “gem of fire” due to its fiery sparkle and high dispersion. Zircon is found in a variety of colors, including yellow, red, green, and blue, with the blue variety being the most popular in modern jewelry.
The blue zircon used as a December birthstone is created through heat treatment. In its natural state, zircon is typically a brown or reddish color, but when heated to high temperatures, it transforms into a vibrant blue. This blue zircon is sometimes called “starlight zircon” or “hyacinth.” Zircon is a versatile gemstone that can be found in a wide range of jewelry styles, from classic to contemporary. It is often used in rings, earrings, and pendants, and it is particularly popular in vintage and Art Deco jewelry.
Zircon has a hardness of 6 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively durable and suitable for everyday wear. It has a chemical composition of ZrSiO₄ and is known for its excellent refractive properties. Zircon is found in various parts of the world, including Sri Lanka, Thailand, Australia, and the United States. It is a relatively affordable gemstone and is often used as an alternative to more expensive gemstones like diamonds or sapphires.
Zircon has a long history of cultural and symbolic significance. In ancient times, zircon was believed to have protective properties and was used in amulets and talismans. It was also thought to bring wisdom and clarity to the wearer. In some cultures, zircon was associated with the sun and was believed to bring energy and vitality. In modern times, zircon is often used as a symbol of love and friendship, and it is a popular choice for anniversary jewelry and special occasion pieces.
The Properties and Characteristics of Zircon
Zircon is a gemstone that is prized for its brilliance and fire. It has a refractive index of 1.92 to 2.01, which is among the highest of all gemstones. This high refractive index gives zircon a beautiful sparkle and makes it an excellent choice for jewelry that is designed to catch the light. Zircon is also known for its high dispersion, which creates a rainbow-like effect when light passes through the gemstone. This dispersion is often compared to that of a diamond, making zircon a popular choice for those who want a gemstone with a similar brilliance.
Zircon is available in a wide range of colors, including yellow, red, green, and blue. The blue zircon used as a December birthstone is created through heat treatment, which enhances its color and clarity. Zircon is typically cut into faceted shapes to maximize its brilliance and fire. The most popular cuts for zircon include the round brilliant cut, emerald cut, and princess cut. These cuts help to showcase the gemstone’s color and clarity while maximizing its light return.
Zircon has a hardness of 6 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively durable and suitable for everyday wear. However, it is still a relatively soft gemstone and requires careful handling to avoid scratches and damage. Zircon is also known for its excellent transparency and can range from translucent to transparent. The most valuable zircon stones are those with a deep, rich color and minimal inclusions. Zircon is often treated to enhance its color and clarity, and these treatments are generally considered stable and permanent.
Zircon is a versatile gemstone that can be found in a wide range of jewelry styles, from classic to contemporary. It is often used in rings, earrings, and pendants, and it is particularly popular in vintage and Art Deco jewelry. Zircon is a relatively affordable gemstone and is often used as an alternative to more expensive gemstones like diamonds or sapphires. It is also a popular choice for those who want a gemstone with a unique color and a high level of brilliance.
The Historical and Cultural Significance of Turquoise
Turquoise is one of the oldest known gemstones and has been used for thousands of years in jewelry and decorative objects. It is a hydrated phosphate of aluminum and copper, with the chemical formula Al₂(Cu,Al)₃(PO₄)₄(OH)₃·4H₂O. Turquoise is known for its distinctive blue-green color, which is caused by the presence of copper. The intensity of the blue color depends on the amount of copper in the stone. Turquoise is also known for its matrix, which refers to the web-like patterns of dark lines that can appear in the stone. These matrix patterns can range from subtle to bold and are often considered a mark of the stone’s authenticity and origin.
Turquoise has a long history of cultural and symbolic significance. It has been used in jewelry and decorative objects by various civilizations, including the ancient Egyptians, Persians, Chinese, and Native Americans. In ancient Egypt, turquoise was associated with the gods and was used in amulets and jewelry. It was also used in the decoration of tombs and temples. In Persia, turquoise was considered a protective stone and was used in amulets and talismans. In China, turquoise was highly valued and was used in imperial jewelry and decorative objects. In Native American cultures, turquoise was considered a sacred stone and was used in jewelry, ceremonial objects, and even as a pigment for body paint.
Turquoise has a hardness of 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively soft compared to other gemstones. It is also relatively porous, which means it can absorb oils and dirt over time. Because of this, turquoise requires special care and should be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap. It should also be stored separately from other gemstones to prevent scratches and damage. Turquoise is often treated with resin or wax to enhance its color and durability. These treatments are generally considered stable and permanent.
Turquoise is a popular gemstone that is used in a wide range of jewelry styles, from traditional to contemporary. It is often used in rings, earrings, and pendants, and it is particularly popular in Native American and Southwest-inspired jewelry. Turquoise is also a popular choice for those who want a gemstone with a unique color and a rich history. It is often associated with protection, wisdom, and good fortune, and it is believed to bring health and vitality to the wearer.
The Properties and Characteristics of Turquoise
Turquoise is a gemstone that is prized for its distinctive blue-green color and unique matrix patterns. It has a hardness of 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively soft compared to other gemstones. Turquoise is also relatively porous, which means it can absorb oils and dirt over time. Because of this, turquoise requires special care and should be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap. It should also be stored separately from other gemstones to prevent scratches and damage.
Turquoise is a hydrated phosphate of aluminum and copper, with the chemical formula Al₂(Cu,Al)₃(PO₄)₄(OH)₃·4H₂O. The intensity of the blue color in turquoise depends on the amount of copper in the stone. Turquoise is also known for its matrix, which refers to the web-like patterns of dark lines that can appear in the stone. These matrix patterns can range from subtle to bold and are often considered a mark of the stone’s authenticity and origin.
Turquoise is often treated with resin or wax to enhance its color and durability. These treatments are generally considered stable and permanent. Turquoise is a versatile gemstone that can be found in a wide range of jewelry styles, from traditional to contemporary. It is often used in rings, earrings, and pendants, and it is particularly popular in Native American and Southwest-inspired jewelry.
Turquoise is also a popular choice for those who want a gemstone with a unique color and a rich history. It is often associated with protection, wisdom, and good fortune, and it is believed to bring health and vitality to the wearer. Turquoise is also a popular choice for those who want a gemstone with a connection to nature and the earth. It is often used in jewelry that is designed to reflect the colors and patterns of the natural world.
The Symbolism and Metaphysical Properties of December Birthstones
Each of December’s birthstones—tanzanite, zircon, and turquoise—carries its own set of symbolic meanings and metaphysical properties. Tanzanite is associated with transformation, healing, and emotional balance. It is believed to help the wearer release old patterns and embrace new beginnings. Tanzanite is also associated with intuition and spiritual awareness, making it a popular choice for those who are seeking inner peace and personal growth. In addition, tanzanite is believed to promote compassion and empathy, making it a valuable gemstone for those who want to strengthen their relationships and connections with others.
Zircon is associated with wisdom, clarity, and protection. It is believed to help the wearer gain insight and make clear, rational decisions. Zircon is also associated with the sun and is believed to bring energy and vitality to the wearer. In some cultures, zircon is considered a protective stone and is used in amulets and talismans to ward off negative influences. Zircon is also believed to enhance creativity and imagination, making it a popular choice for artists, writers, and other creative individuals.
Turquoise is one of the oldest known gemstones and has long been associated with protection, wisdom, and good fortune. It is believed to bring health and vitality to the wearer and is often used in jewelry and amulets for this purpose. Turquoise is also associated with communication and is believed to help the wearer express their thoughts and emotions more clearly. In Native American cultures, turquoise is considered a sacred stone and is used in jewelry, ceremonial objects, and even as a pigment for body paint. Turquoise is also believed to promote harmony and balance, making it a valuable gemstone for those who want to maintain peace and stability in their lives.
Caring for December Birthstones
Proper care is essential for maintaining the beauty and longevity of December birthstones. Tanzanite, zircon, and turquoise each have unique care requirements due to their different hardness levels and chemical compositions.
Tanzanite has a hardness of 6 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively soft and prone to scratches. It is also sensitive to heat and should not be exposed to high temperatures for extended periods. Tanzanite should be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap, and it should be stored separately from other gemstones to prevent scratches. Tanzanite is also sensitive to ultrasonic and steam cleaners and should not be exposed to these methods of cleaning.
Zircon has a hardness of 6 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale, making it more durable than tanzanite. However, zircon is still a relatively soft gemstone and should be handled with care. Zircon is also sensitive to heat and should not be exposed to high temperatures for extended periods. Zircon should be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap, and it should be stored separately from other gemstones to prevent scratches. Zircon is also sensitive to ultrasonic and steam cleaners and should not be exposed to these methods of cleaning.
Turquoise has a hardness of 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively soft and prone to scratches. It is also relatively porous and can absorb oils and dirt over time. Turquoise should be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap, and it should be stored separately from other gemstones to prevent scratches. Turquoise is also sensitive to heat and should not be exposed to high temperatures for extended periods. Turquoise is often treated with resin or wax to enhance its color and durability, and these treatments should be avoided when cleaning the stone.
The Popularity and Use of December Birthstones in Jewelry
December birthstones—tanzanite, zircon, and turquoise—are all popular choices for jewelry due to their beauty, symbolism, and versatility. Each of these gemstones can be found in a wide range of jewelry styles, from classic to contemporary. Tanzanite is often used in rings, pendants, and earrings, and it is particularly popular in vintage and Art Deco jewelry. Zircon is also a popular choice for jewelry and is often used in rings, earrings, and pendants. It is especially popular in vintage and Art Deco jewelry due to its brilliance and fire. Turquoise is a versatile gemstone that can be found in a wide range of jewelry styles, from traditional to contemporary. It is often used in rings, earrings, and pendants, and it is particularly popular in Native American and Southwest-inspired jewelry.
December birthstones are also popular choices for anniversary jewelry and special occasion pieces. Tanzanite is the birthstone for the 2nd wedding anniversary, and it is also associated with the 23rd wedding anniversary. Zircon is associated with the 22nd wedding anniversary, and it is also a popular choice for anniversary jewelry and special occasion pieces. Turquoise is associated with the 11th wedding anniversary, and it is also a popular choice for anniversary jewelry and special occasion pieces.
December birthstones are also popular choices for personalized jewelry and custom-designed pieces. Many people choose to incorporate their birthstone into their jewelry as a way to express their individuality and celebrate their unique qualities. December birthstones are also popular choices for family jewelry and multi-stone pieces that represent multiple birthstones. These pieces are often given as gifts to celebrate special occasions and milestones.
Conclusion
December is a month of celebration and tradition, and it is also uniquely honored in the world of gemstones. The three official birthstones for December—tanzanite, zircon, and turquoise—each carry their own rich history, symbolism, and beauty. Tanzanite, a modern gemstone discovered in the 20th century, is known for its deep blue-violet color and its association with transformation and healing. Zircon, one of the oldest minerals on Earth, is known for its brilliance and refractive properties and is often associated with wisdom and protection. Turquoise, a gemstone with a long history of cultural and spiritual significance, is known for its distinctive blue-green color and its association with protection, wisdom, and good fortune.
These December birthstones are not only beautiful but also meaningful, making them treasured gifts and symbols of personal significance. Whether used in jewelry, amulets, or decorative objects, tanzanite, zircon, and turquoise continue to captivate and inspire with their unique colors, properties, and meanings. As gemstone enthusiasts, jewelry buyers, and students of gemology, we can appreciate the rich history and beauty of these December birthstones and their enduring place in the world of gemstones.