For those born on December 22, the birthstone tradition assigns a trio of gemstones—Tanzanite, Turquoise, and Zircon—each with its own unique charm, history, and symbolism. These stones share a common attribute: their association with the color blue, which is the symbolic hue for December. This article delves into the properties, history, cultural significance, and care of these gemstones, with a special focus on their relevance to those born on this day.
Introduction
December 22 marks a special date in the annual cycle, and for many, it is a day of celebration and reflection. In the world of birthstones, this date is linked to a selection of gemstones that not only serve as personal symbols but also carry deep historical and metaphysical meanings. The primary birthstone for December is Turquoise, while Tanzanite and Blue Zircon are also officially recognized. These stones, with their beautiful blue tones, represent themes of calm, clarity, and spiritual growth.
This article explores the significance of these gemstones from a scientific and cultural perspective. It examines their geological formation, historical use, and symbolic meaning, offering readers a comprehensive understanding of why these stones have become cherished symbols for December 22nd birthdays.
History and Lore
Turquoise: The Ancient Gem of Power and Protection
Turquoise is the most historically recognized of the December birthstones. Its use dates back thousands of years, with evidence of its presence in ancient civilizations such as Egypt, Persia, and Mesoamerica. In ancient Egypt, turquoise was considered a sacred stone, often used in jewelry and amulets to protect the wearer from harm and to symbolize immortality. It was also believed to bring good fortune and was frequently inlaid into jewelry for royalty and the elite.
In the Americas, Native American tribes such as the Navajo and Zuni held turquoise in high regard. They used it in ceremonial jewelry and healing practices, believing it to connect the physical and spiritual worlds. Turquoise was often carved into small pendants or inlaid into silver, a practice that continues today in traditional Native American jewelry.
Tanzanite: The Modern Discovery
Tanzanite, in contrast to Turquoise, is a relatively recent discovery in the world of gemology. It was first identified in the 1960s in northern Tanzania, near the Serengeti Plains, and was named after the country of its origin. Tanzanite is a rare gemstone, found only in this specific region of the world, making it highly prized among collectors and jewelers.
The discovery of Tanzanite was a significant event in the gemstone industry. It was marketed as a "gift from the Earth" and quickly gained popularity due to its vibrant blue-violet color and the belief that it was destined to become the birthstone of December. Tanzanite is known for its trichroism, a property that allows it to display three different colors when viewed from different angles—blue, violet, and burgundy.
Zircon: An Ancient Gemstone Reborn
Zircon is one of the oldest known gemstones, with crystals found in geological formations that are over 2 billion years old. The gemstone has been used in jewelry for centuries, though it was often mistaken for other stones due to its similarity in appearance. In particular, Blue Zircon was frequently confused with Blue Topaz or Aquamarine.
In the modern era, Zircon has been recognized for its brilliance and fire, especially when cut and polished. Blue Zircon, in particular, is highly valued for its sparkling effect, which is comparable to that of diamonds. Its use as a December birthstone reinforces its connection to clarity, wisdom, and emotional balance.
Geological Formation and Sources
Turquoise
Turquoise is a hydrous phosphate of aluminum and copper, formed when groundwater rich in copper seeps into the bedrock and reacts with phosphorus-bearing minerals. This process typically occurs in arid environments, where the water evaporates quickly, allowing the mineral to crystallize and harden over time. The resulting stone is opaque, with a range of blue to green hues, often marked by black or brown matrix lines—these are inclusions from the surrounding rock.
Turquoise is primarily found in the following countries:
- United States (especially in Arizona, New Mexico, and Nevada)
- Iran (historically a major source)
- China
- Egypt
- Russia
- Australia
Each location produces a distinct variation in color and matrix, making turquoise a gemstone of exceptional diversity.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is a trigonal mineral and a variety of the mineral zoisite. It forms in metamorphic rock under conditions of high heat and pressure, which cause the mineral to undergo a structural change that results in its characteristic blue-violet color. This transformation is what gives Tanzanite its unique trichroic properties.
As its name suggests, Tanzanite is found only in Tanzania, specifically in the Merelani Hills in the northern part of the country, near the Serengeti National Park. This limited geographical origin makes Tanzanite a rare and highly sought-after gemstone.
Zircon
Zircon is a zirconium silicate that forms in igneous and metamorphic rocks. It is one of the oldest minerals on Earth, with some zircon crystals found in Australia that are over 4 billion years old. This makes Zircon one of the oldest known minerals, offering valuable insights into the early formation of the planet.
Zircon occurs naturally in a wide range of colors, including brown, yellow, red, green, and colorless. However, Blue Zircon is the most popular and is created through a heat treatment process that enhances its color. The most significant sources of Zircon include:
- Australia
- Madagascar
- India
- Brazil
- Thailand
Zircon is known for its high refractive index and strong dispersion, which gives it a sparkling effect that is often compared to that of diamonds.
Gemological Properties
| Property | Turquoise | Tanzanite | Zircon |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | Al₂(OH)₃PO₄ | Ca₂Al₃O₅(OH)₃(SiO₄) | ZrSiO₄ |
| Hardness (Mohs) | 5–6 | 6–7 | 6–7.5 |
| Color | Blue, green | Blue, violet, trichroic | Blue, yellow, red, colorless |
| Refractive Index | 1.60–1.64 | 1.69–1.70 | 1.90–2.00 |
| Luster | Waxy, greasy | Vitreous | Vitreous |
| Cleavage | Poor | Poor | Poor |
| Transparency | Opaque | Translucent to transparent | Transparent |
| Origin | USA, Iran, China, Egypt, Russia | Tanzania | Australia, Madagascar, India, Brazil, Thailand |
| Treatment | Stabilization (oiling) | Heat treatment | Heat treatment |
These properties define the unique character of each gemstone and influence how they are used in jewelry and spiritual practices.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Turquoise: A Stone of Protection and Clarity
Turquoise has long been associated with protection, healing, and spiritual guidance. It is believed to soothe the mind, reduce stress, and promote emotional stability. In many cultures, it is worn as a guardian stone, offering protection from negative energies and promoting a sense of calm and clarity.
Metaphysically, Turquoise is linked to the Throat Chakra, enhancing communication and self-expression. It is also believed to enhance intuition and spiritual awareness, making it a popular choice for meditation and spiritual practices.
Tanzanite: The Stone of Transformation
Tanzanite is often referred to as the stone of transformation. It is believed to help individuals navigate change, embrace new opportunities, and overcome emotional challenges. It is associated with the Third Eye Chakra, promoting higher thinking, intuition, and spiritual growth.
Tanzanite is also thought to remove negative emotions such as fear, anger, and sadness, replacing them with peace, balance, and inner harmony. It is particularly valued by those undergoing personal or spiritual transformation, as it is believed to support emotional healing and self-discovery.
Zircon: A Stone of Clarity and Wisdom
Zircon is known for its brilliance and fire, and it is believed to enhance mental clarity, wisdom, and emotional balance. It is associated with the Heart Chakra, promoting love, compassion, and emotional healing.
Blue Zircon, in particular, is believed to enhance communication, promote truth and honesty, and support decision-making. It is also thought to protect the wearer from psychic attacks and promote spiritual insight.
Care and Cleaning
Due to their varying hardness levels and chemical compositions, each of these gemstones requires specific care and cleaning methods to maintain their beauty and longevity.
Turquoise
Turquoise is a soft and porous gemstone, with a Mohs hardness of 5–6, making it susceptible to scratches and damage from harsh chemicals. To clean Turquoise:
- Use a soft cloth and warm water with a mild soap.
- Avoid ultrasonic cleaners and steam cleaners, as they can cause damage to the stone.
- Store Turquoise away from other gemstones to prevent scratching.
It is also important to avoid exposure to direct sunlight for extended periods, as this can cause the color to fade over time.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite has a Mohs hardness of 6–7, making it relatively durable, but it is still prone to scratches and damage from harsh chemicals. To clean Tanzanite:
- Use a soft cloth and warm water with a mild soap.
- Avoid exposure to strong chemicals, as they can alter the color of the stone.
- Store Tanzanite separately from other gemstones to prevent scratches.
Tanzanite should also be avoided in ultrasonic cleaners, as the high frequency can damage the stone.
Zircon
Zircon is a relatively hard gemstone, with a Mohs hardness of 6–7.5, making it more resistant to scratches and damage. However, it is still important to handle it with care, as it can crack under high pressure.
To clean Zircon:
- Use a soft cloth and warm water with a mild soap.
- Zircon can be safely cleaned with ultrasonic cleaners, but it is not recommended to use steam cleaners, as they can cause heat damage.
- Store Zircon separately from other gemstones to prevent scratches.
Conclusion
The gemstones associated with December 22—Tanzanite, Turquoise, and Zircon—each carry their own unique beauty, history, and symbolism. Turquoise, with its ancient roots, is a stone of protection and spiritual clarity, while Tanzanite represents transformation and emotional balance. Zircon, with its sparkling brilliance, is a gemstone of clarity, wisdom, and emotional healing.
For those born on December 22, these stones serve as meaningful symbols of personal and spiritual growth, offering not only aesthetic beauty but also deep metaphysical significance. Whether worn as jewelry, used in spiritual practices, or simply admired for their natural beauty, these gemstones are a testament to the enduring power of the Earth and the rich history of gemstone lore.