December is a month of celebration, transition, and anticipation. As the year draws to a close, it is also a time to reflect on the beauty of nature and the treasures it offers. In the world of gemology, December is celebrated with a selection of remarkable gemstones—each one imbued with its own color, history, and symbolism. The December birthstones are known for their striking blue tones and are associated with qualities such as wisdom, protection, and serenity.
This article delves into the five officially recognized birthstones for December: turquoise, zircon (particularly blue zircon), tanzanite, lapis lazuli, and blue topaz. Each of these gems has a unique story, from their geological origins to their historical and cultural significance. We will explore their gemological properties, the reasons behind their selection as December birthstones, and the beliefs and traditions that surround them.
By the end of this article, readers will have a deeper understanding of these captivating blue gemstones and their enduring appeal in both historical and modern contexts.
History and Lore of December Birthstones
The tradition of assigning gemstones to birth months has ancient roots, dating back to biblical times. According to the Book of Exodus, the high priest of Israel wore a breastplate adorned with 12 precious stones, each representing a tribe of Israel. Over time, this concept evolved into the modern birthstone tradition, which assigns a specific gemstone to each month of the year.
The list of birthstones has not always been static. In 1912, the Jewelers of America (JA) standardized the official list of birthstones, and it has since been updated to include newer discoveries and to reflect changes in cultural preferences. For December, the birthstones have evolved from earlier inclusions like bloodstone and ruby to the current selection of blue zircon, blue topaz, tanzanite, lapis lazuli, and turquoise.
The addition of these blue gemstones to the December birthstone list reflects both their geological rarity and their symbolic meanings. Blue has long been associated with calmness, wisdom, and protection—qualities that are particularly fitting for a month marked by reflection and renewal.
Turquoise: A Gem of Ancient Power
Turquoise has been a revered gemstone for thousands of years, especially in ancient Egypt, Mesopotamia, and the Americas. Pharaohs and other rulers wore turquoise jewelry as a symbol of power and divine favor. In ancient Egypt, turquoise was believed to bring health and good fortune. It was also thought to protect the wearer from falls and to break apart in the event of impending disaster.
In Chinese culture, turquoise was carved into intricate amulets and inlaid into furniture and ornaments as early as 3,000 years ago. The stone was believed to promote longevity and prosperity. In the Americas, Native American tribes such as the Navajo and Zuni used turquoise in their jewelry, often incorporating it into traditional silverwork. They believed the stone had healing properties and was a conduit for spiritual communication.
Lapis Lazuli: The Stone of Wisdom and Royalty
Lapis lazuli, with its deep blue tones flecked with gold or white, has been associated with wisdom and enlightenment. It was highly prized by ancient Egyptians, who used it in jewelry and for inlay in furniture and artifacts. Pharaohs and high-ranking officials often wore lapis lazuli as a sign of their elevated status.
In medieval Europe, lapis lazuli was considered a stone of truth and was used in religious art, particularly in the depiction of the Virgin Mary's robes. The Renaissance saw renewed interest in the gemstone, and it became a popular pigment in the form of ultramarine, derived from ground lapis lazuli. This pigment was so valuable that it was more expensive than gold.
Tanzanite: The Modern Marvel
Tanzanite is the newest addition to the list of December birthstones. Discovered in Tanzania in 1967 near Mount Kilimanjaro, tanzanite is a relatively recent find in the world of gemology. Its unique blue to violet coloration makes it highly desirable. Unlike many other gemstones, tanzanite is only found in one location in the world, making it one of the rarest gemstones on the market.
The discovery of tanzanite was a significant event in the jewelry industry. It was officially added to the December birthstone list in 2002. The stone's rarity and beauty quickly made it a favorite among jewelers and collectors.
Geological Formation and Sources
Each December birthstone has its own geological origin and unique formation process. Understanding these processes helps explain why these gemstones are so special and why they are associated with the month of December.
Turquoise: A Product of Time and Environment
Turquoise is a phosphate mineral that forms in the oxidized zones of copper deposits. It is typically found in arid regions where water percolates through rock and deposits minerals over time. The blue and green colors of turquoise come from the presence of copper and aluminum, respectively. The veins or "matrix" that run through the stone are remnants of the host rock in which it formed.
Major sources of turquoise include Iran, China, Egypt, the United States (especially Nevada and Arizona), and Mexico. The finest turquoise often comes from these regions, with Persian turquoise being particularly prized for its deep blue color and minimal matrix.
Lapis Lazuli: The Stone of the Earth's Crust
Lapis lazuli is a metamorphic rock composed primarily of lazurite, a deep blue mineral. It also contains calcite, which gives the stone its white veins, and pyrite, which appears as golden flecks. The formation of lapis lazuli occurs under high-pressure conditions, typically in the Earth's crust where other minerals are subjected to intense heat and pressure.
The most famous source of lapis lazuli is the Kafiristan region of Afghanistan, where it has been mined for thousands of years. Other sources include Russia, Argentina, and the United States. The quality of lapis lazuli is determined by the depth of its blue color and the even distribution of the golden pyrite.
Tanzanite: A Geological Rarity
Tanzanite is a type of zoisite that contains a significant amount of vanadium, which gives it its distinctive blue to violet color. It forms in metamorphic rocks and is found only in the Merelani Hills of Tanzania, near Mount Kilimanjaro. The geological conditions in this region are unique and have resulted in the formation of tanzanite.
The rarity of tanzanite is due to the limited geographic area in which it can be found. This makes it a highly valuable and sought-after gemstone. The Merelani Hills have been the primary source of tanzanite since its discovery in 1967.
Gemological Properties of December Birthstones
To fully appreciate the December birthstones, it is essential to understand their gemological properties. These properties include hardness, color, clarity, and refractive index, all of which influence the gemstone's appearance and durability.
Turquoise
- Color: Ranges from blue to green, with blue being the most common. The presence of copper gives the blue color, while aluminum contributes to green.
- Hardness (Mohs scale): 5 to 6.5
- Luster: Waxy to greasy
- Specific Gravity: 2.6 to 2.8
- Transparency: Translucent to opaque
- Cleavage: None
- Fracture: Uneven
- Chemical Composition: Hydrated phosphate of copper and aluminum (CuAl₆(PO₄)₄(OH)₈·4H₂O)
Turquoise is a relatively soft gemstone, which means it requires careful handling and proper setting in jewelry. It is also porous, making it susceptible to staining if not cleaned properly.
Lapis Lazuli
- Color: Deep blue with white and gold veins
- Hardness (Mohs scale): 5 to 6
- Luster: Waxy to sub-vitreous
- Specific Gravity: 2.4 to 2.9
- Transparency: Opaque
- Cleavage: None
- Fracture: Uneven
- Chemical Composition: A rock composed of lazurite, calcite, and pyrite
Lapis lazuli is an opaque gemstone that is valued for its deep blue color and golden flecks. Its hardness makes it suitable for use in jewelry, but it is still relatively soft and requires gentle cleaning.
Tanzanite
- Color: Blue to violet, with a trichroic effect
- Hardness (Mohs scale): 6 to 6.5
- Luster: Vitreous
- Specific Gravity: 3.1 to 3.4
- Transparency: Transparent to translucent
- Cleavage: Perfect in one direction
- Fracture: Conchoidal
- Chemical Composition: Calcium aluminum silicate with vanadium (Ca₂Al₃(SiO₄)(Si₂O₇)O(OH)·H₂O)
Tanzanite is known for its vibrant blue to violet color and its trichroism, which means it displays three different colors depending on the angle of light. Its moderate hardness and perfect cleavage require careful cutting and setting to avoid damage.
Blue Zircon
- Color: Blue, with a high refractive index
- Hardness (Mohs scale): 7.5 to 8
- Luster: Vitreous
- Specific Gravity: 4.6 to 4.7
- Transparency: Transparent
- Cleavage: None
- Fracture: Conchoidal
- Chemical Composition: Zirconium silicate (ZrSiO₄)
Blue zircon is one of the oldest minerals on Earth, with some specimens dating back to the formation of the planet. It is prized for its high refractive index, which gives it a brilliant sparkle. Blue zircon is durable and suitable for everyday wear in jewelry.
Blue Topaz
- Color: Blue, ranging from pale to deep
- Hardness (Mohs scale): 8
- Luster: Vitreous
- Specific Gravity: 3.4 to 3.6
- Transparency: Transparent
- Cleavage: Perfect in one direction
- Fracture: Sub-conchoidal
- Chemical Composition: Aluminum silicate (Al₂SiO₆)
Blue topaz is a relatively recent addition to the December birthstone list. It is a durable gemstone with a high hardness, making it ideal for use in jewelry. Its blue color is often enhanced through heat treatment or irradiation.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
The December birthstones have been attributed with various symbolic meanings and metaphysical properties across different cultures and historical periods. These beliefs often reflect the gemstone's color, rarity, and the values they represent.
Turquoise: Protection and Positive Energy
Turquoise has long been associated with protection, healing, and positive energy. In ancient Egypt, it was believed to protect the wearer from falling, especially off horses. It was also thought to break apart in the event of impending danger, serving as a warning to the wearer.
In Native American cultures, turquoise is considered a sacred stone that connects the physical and spiritual worlds. It is believed to promote healing, balance, and communication with the divine. It is also associated with good fortune and is often used in rituals and ceremonies.
In modern times, turquoise is still seen as a stone of protection and positive energy. It is believed to calm the mind, enhance creativity, and promote emotional stability.
Lapis Lazuli: Wisdom and Enlightenment
Lapis lazuli has been associated with wisdom, enlightenment, and intellectual growth. In ancient Egypt, it was believed to enhance one's ability to think clearly and to connect with higher consciousness. It was often used in jewelry worn by scholars and philosophers.
In medieval Europe, lapis lazuli was considered a stone of truth and was used in religious art. It was believed to promote honesty, clarity, and spiritual insight. The Renaissance saw a renewed interest in the gemstone, and it was used in the creation of pigments for paintings and manuscripts.
In modern times, lapis lazuli is still associated with wisdom and intellectual pursuits. It is believed to enhance memory, stimulate creativity, and promote a sense of calm and focus.
Tanzanite: Transformation and Intuition
Tanzanite is a relatively new addition to the December birthstone list, but it has quickly gained popularity due to its unique color and symbolism. It is associated with transformation, intuition, and emotional healing. The stone is believed to help individuals release old patterns and embrace new beginnings.
Tanzanite is also associated with intuition and spiritual awakening. It is believed to enhance one's ability to connect with their inner self and to access higher states of consciousness. It is often used in meditation and spiritual practices.
Blue Zircon: Clarity and Spiritual Connection
Blue zircon is one of the oldest minerals on Earth and is believed to have formed at the time of the planet's creation. It is associated with clarity, spiritual connection, and the ability to see the big picture. It is believed to enhance one's ability to think clearly and to make wise decisions.
Blue zircon is also associated with the heart chakra and is believed to promote emotional healing and balance. It is often used in jewelry as a way to connect with one's inner self and to enhance spiritual awareness.
Blue Topaz: Clarity and Emotional Balance
Blue topaz is associated with clarity, emotional balance, and the calming of the mind. It is believed to promote a sense of peace and to help individuals release stress and anxiety. It is often used in meditation and is believed to enhance one's ability to communicate clearly and effectively.
Blue topaz is also associated with love and is believed to strengthen relationships and promote harmony. It is a popular choice for engagement rings and wedding bands, symbolizing the enduring nature of love.
Care and Cleaning of December Birthstones
Proper care and cleaning are essential to maintaining the beauty and longevity of December birthstones. Each gemstone has specific care requirements based on its hardness, cleavage, and sensitivity to chemicals and heat.
Turquoise
Turquoise is a relatively soft gemstone (hardness 5 to 6.5) and is porous, making it susceptible to staining and discoloration. It should be cleaned gently with a soft cloth and mild soap and water. Avoid exposing it to harsh chemicals, as this can damage the stone. It is best to store turquoise jewelry separately to prevent scratches from harder gemstones.
Lapis Lazuli
Lapis lazuli is also a soft gemstone (hardness 5 to 6) and should be handled with care. It can be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap and water. Avoid exposing it to heat or chemicals, as this can cause the pyrite flecks to tarnish or the color to fade. Lapis lazuli should be stored in a cool, dry place to prevent cracking.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite has a moderate hardness (6 to 6.5) but has perfect cleavage, which means it can split along certain planes if struck. It should be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap and water. Avoid exposing it to sudden temperature changes or harsh chemicals, as this can cause the stone to crack or lose its color. Tanzanite should be stored in a padded container to prevent damage.
Blue Zircon
Blue zircon is a durable gemstone (hardness 7.5 to 8) and can be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth. It is resistant to scratches and can be worn daily in jewelry. However, it is important to avoid exposing it to high heat, as this can cause the color to fade. Blue zircon should be stored in a cool, dry place.
Blue Topaz
Blue topaz is a very durable gemstone (hardness 8) and can be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth. It is resistant to scratches and can be worn daily in jewelry. However, it has perfect cleavage and can split if struck. Blue topaz should be stored in a padded container to prevent damage.
Conclusion
The December birthstones—turquoise, zircon, tanzanite, lapis lazuli, and blue topaz—offer a stunning array of blue hues, each with its own unique history, symbolism, and gemological properties. From the ancient traditions of Egypt and Mesopotamia to the modern jewelry market, these gemstones have held a special place in human culture for centuries.
Whether you are drawn to the deep blue of lapis lazuli, the vibrant blue-green of turquoise, or the rare beauty of tanzanite, there is a December birthstone that will resonate with you. Each stone carries its own energy and meaning, making it a meaningful choice for jewelry and personal adornment.
Understanding the history, properties, and care requirements of these gemstones allows us to appreciate their beauty and significance even more. Whether worn as a gift or for personal use, December birthstones are a timeless symbol of the month's charm and character.