December, the final month of the year, is graced with a selection of gemstones that capture the essence of winter with their vibrant blue hues. Among the many months, December is unique in that it is associated with multiple birthstones, each offering a distinct combination of color, history, and symbolism. These gems—zircon, blue topaz, tanzanite, lapis lazuli, and turquoise—have been cherished for centuries and continue to be popular choices for jewelry and personal adornment.
This article will explore the rich history, geological formation, gemological properties, cultural significance, and care instructions for December’s birthstones. By delving into these aspects, we aim to provide a comprehensive understanding of why these gems hold such a special place in the world of jewelry and gemology.
History and Lore
The tradition of associating gemstones with specific birth months is a practice that dates back to ancient times. While the modern concept of birthstones is largely standardized, the origins of these associations vary across cultures and time periods. In the case of December, the tradition of designating multiple birthstones reflects the diversity and richness of the gems that have been revered throughout history.
Lapis lazuli, one of the traditional birthstones for December, has a history that stretches back to the ancient civilizations of Egypt, Mesopotamia, and the Indus Valley. Revered for its deep blue color and flecks of gold, lapis lazuli was considered a stone of wisdom and truth. It was often used in jewelry and amulets and was believed to enhance intellectual abilities and provide a connection to higher consciousness. In ancient Egypt, lapis lazuli was considered so valuable that it was often reserved for royalty and the elite.
Turquoise, another traditional December birthstone, has an equally storied past. This gemstone has been used by various cultures, including the ancient Egyptians, Persians, and Native Americans. Turquoise was believed to offer protection, promote good fortune, and enhance intuition. The stone was also used in religious and ceremonial contexts, often carved into talismans and pendants. In some cultures, turquoise was considered a sacred stone that could bridge the gap between the earthly and the divine.
The addition of blue zircon, tanzanite, and blue topaz to the list of December birthstones in more recent times reflects the evolving nature of gemstone appreciation. These gems, while newer to the official list, have their own unique histories and characteristics that make them worthy of recognition. For example, tanzanite, which is only found in one location near Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, was discovered in the 1960s and quickly gained popularity for its striking blue to violet color. Blue topaz, a variety of the topaz mineral, has been known for centuries but gained new prominence in the 20th century due to its affordability and beauty.
The inclusion of multiple birthstones for December allows individuals born in this month to choose a gemstone that resonates with their personal style, preferences, and cultural background. This flexibility has contributed to the enduring popularity of December birthstones, as they offer a range of options in terms of color, price, and symbolism.
Geological Formation and Sources
The formation and sourcing of December birthstones are as diverse as the stones themselves. Each gemstone has a unique geological origin and is found in specific regions of the world, often in challenging environments.
Zircon is one of the oldest minerals on Earth, with some zircon crystals dating back over four billion years. These ancient zircon crystals provide valuable information about the early history of the planet. Zircon is typically found in metamorphic and igneous rocks and is often associated with other gemstones such as beryl and tourmaline. The blue variety of zircon, known as blue zircon, is created through heat treatment, which enhances its color and brilliance.
Tanzanite is a relatively recent discovery in the world of gemstones. It was first identified in 1967 in the Merelani Hills near Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. This gemstone is a type of zoisite and is notable for its trichroic nature, meaning it can display three different colors—blue, purple, and brown—depending on the angle of light. Tanzanite is only found in this one location, making it a rare and highly sought-after gemstone.
Lapis lazuli is a metamorphic rock composed primarily of lazurite, a deep blue mineral. It is also found in association with other minerals such as pyrite and calcite, which give it its characteristic flecks of gold and white. The primary sources of lapis lazuli are Afghanistan, Russia, and Chile. The most prized lapis lazuli comes from the mountains of Afghanistan, where it has been mined for thousands of years.
Turquoise is an opaque, blue-to-green mineral that forms in arid regions where copper-rich rocks are exposed to water. It is commonly found in the United States, particularly in Arizona and New Mexico, as well as in Egypt, China, and Mexico. Turquoise is often found in association with other minerals such as quartz and calcite. The color of turquoise can vary depending on the presence of impurities such as iron and aluminum.
Blue topaz is a colorless topaz that has been treated with irradiation and heat to produce its characteristic blue color. Natural blue topaz is extremely rare, so most of the blue topaz available on the market is treated. Topaz is found in various parts of the world, including Brazil, Nigeria, and the United States. It is typically found in igneous rocks and is often associated with other minerals such as quartz and feldspar.
The geological diversity of these gemstones reflects the complexity and beauty of the natural world. Each December birthstone tells a story of the Earth's history, from the ancient zircons that date back to the formation of the planet to the unique tanzanite that is found only in one location.
Gemological Properties
Understanding the gemological properties of December birthstones is essential for appreciating their beauty and value. These properties include color, clarity, cut, carat, hardness, and chemical composition.
Color is one of the most important characteristics of any gemstone, and it plays a significant role in the appeal of December birthstones. Each of these gemstones is known for its vibrant blue hues, which range from the deep cobalt blue of tanzanite to the softer robin’s egg blue of turquoise. The color of a gemstone is determined by the presence of trace elements within its crystal structure. For example, the blue color of zircon is enhanced through heat treatment, while the blue color of topaz is the result of irradiation and heat treatment.
Clarity refers to the presence of inclusions or imperfections within a gemstone. In general, the fewer inclusions a gemstone has, the higher its value. However, some gemstones, such as turquoise, are naturally opaque and may contain visible matrix patterns, which are considered part of their charm. Tanzanite is also known for its inclusions, which are often described as "silk-like" and can enhance the stone's appearance.
Cut is another important factor in the appearance and value of a gemstone. The cut refers to how a gemstone is shaped and polished to enhance its brilliance and color. The most common cuts for December birthstones include the round brilliant cut, oval cut, and cushion cut. The choice of cut can significantly affect the overall appearance of a gemstone, as it determines how light interacts with the stone.
Carat weight is a measure of a gemstone's size and is not necessarily an indicator of its value. A larger gemstone may be less valuable if it has poor color, clarity, or cut. In the case of December birthstones, the value of a gemstone is often determined by its color and rarity rather than its size.
Hardness is measured on the Mohs scale, which ranges from 1 (softest) to 10 (hardest). The hardness of a gemstone affects its durability and ability to resist scratches and wear. The hardness of December birthstones varies:
- Zircon: 6–7.5
- Tanzanite: 6–7
- Lapis lazuli: 5–6
- Turquoise: 5–6
- Blue topaz: 8
As a result, some of these gemstones may require special care to prevent damage. For example, lapis lazuli and turquoise are relatively soft and can be easily scratched or damaged if not handled properly.
Chemical composition is another important aspect of gemology. Each gemstone has a unique chemical composition that determines its physical and optical properties. For example, zircon has the chemical formula ZrSiO₄, while tanzanite is a type of zoisite with the chemical formula Ca₂Al₃(SiO₄)(OH)₆·H₂O. Understanding the chemical composition of a gemstone can help gemologists identify and authenticate it.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
The symbolism and metaphysical beliefs associated with December birthstones have been passed down through generations and vary across different cultures. These beliefs often reflect the natural properties of the gemstones and their historical significance.
Lapis lazuli has long been associated with wisdom, truth, and enlightenment. In ancient times, it was believed to enhance intellectual abilities and promote a deeper understanding of the world. It was also considered a stone of royalty and was often used in jewelry and amulets by the elite. In modern times, lapis lazuli is still revered for its calming and soothing properties, and it is often used in meditation and spiritual practices.
Turquoise has been regarded as a protective stone in many cultures. It was believed to ward off negative energy and provide a shield against environmental pollutants. In Native American cultures, turquoise was considered a sacred stone that could connect the earthly and the divine. It was often used in religious ceremonies and was believed to bring good fortune and promote intuition. In some cultures, turquoise was also associated with fertility and was used in birth rituals.
Zircon is known for its brilliance and fire, which have made it a popular choice for jewelry. It is also associated with clarity of thought and emotional healing. Zircon is believed to help individuals overcome emotional trauma and promote a sense of balance and harmony. In some cultures, zircon is considered a stone of transformation, helping individuals to let go of the past and embrace new beginnings.
Tanzanite is a relatively new gemstone but has quickly gained popularity for its unique color and metaphysical properties. It is believed to promote emotional healing and provide a sense of calm and stability. Tanzanite is also associated with spiritual awakening and is often used in meditation and energy work. Its rarity and beauty make it a highly sought-after gemstone, and it is often considered a symbol of individuality and uniqueness.
Blue topaz is known for its calming and soothing properties. It is believed to help reduce stress and anxiety and promote a sense of inner peace. Blue topaz is also associated with communication and is believed to enhance one’s ability to express thoughts and emotions clearly. In some cultures, blue topaz is considered a stone of protection and is used to ward off negative energy.
The metaphysical beliefs associated with December birthstones reflect the deep connection between humans and the natural world. These beliefs continue to influence the popularity of these gemstones and their use in jewelry, spiritual practices, and personal adornment.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care and cleaning are essential for maintaining the beauty and longevity of December birthstones. Given their varying hardness and composition, different gemstones require specific care instructions to prevent damage.
Lapis lazuli and turquoise are relatively soft gemstones with a hardness of 5–6 on the Mohs scale. As a result, they are more susceptible to scratches and abrasions. These gemstones should be cleaned with a soft, damp cloth and mild soap. Avoid using ultrasonic cleaners or steamers, as these can cause damage. It is also important to avoid exposing these gemstones to harsh chemicals, as they can cause discoloration or damage to the stone.
Zircon has a hardness of 6–7.5, making it more durable than lapis lazuli and turquoise. However, it can still be scratched by harder gemstones or materials. Zircon should be cleaned with a soft brush and mild soap, and ultrasonic cleaners can be used with caution. It is important to avoid exposing zircon to high heat, as this can affect its color and clarity.
Tanzanite has a hardness of 6–7 and is relatively sensitive to heat and chemicals. Tanzanite should be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap. Ultrasonic cleaners can be used, but it is best to avoid exposing tanzanite to prolonged heat or harsh chemicals. Tanzanite can also be sensitive to light, so it is advisable to store it in a cool, dark place when not in use.
Blue topaz has a hardness of 8, making it one of the most durable gemstones in the December birthstone list. It can be cleaned with a soft brush and mild soap, and ultrasonic cleaners can be used safely. Blue topaz is also resistant to heat and chemicals, making it a versatile choice for everyday wear.
Regardless of the specific gemstone, it is important to store December birthstones separately from other jewelry to prevent scratches and abrasions. Using a jewelry box with individual compartments or a soft cloth pouch can help protect the stones from damage. Regular inspection for loose settings or damage is also recommended to ensure the gemstones remain secure and in good condition.
By following these care and cleaning instructions, individuals can enjoy the beauty and brilliance of December birthstones for years to come.
Conclusion
December birthstones—zircon, blue topaz, tanzanite, lapis lazuli, and turquoise—offer a rich and diverse selection of gems that reflect the history, culture, and beauty of the natural world. Each of these gemstones has a unique story, from the ancient zircons that date back to the formation of the Earth to the rare tanzanite that is found only in one location. These stones are not only prized for their vibrant blue hues but also for their symbolic and metaphysical significance.
The history and lore surrounding December birthstones reveal the deep connection between humans and the natural world. These gemstones have been used for centuries in jewelry, amulets, and spiritual practices, and their popularity continues to grow. The geological formation and sources of these gemstones highlight the complexity and beauty of the Earth's processes, while their gemological properties provide insight into their physical and optical characteristics.
The symbolism and metaphysical beliefs associated with December birthstones reflect the enduring fascination with these gems and their ability to connect individuals to the past, present, and future. Whether used for personal adornment, spiritual practices, or simply for their beauty, these gemstones continue to captivate and inspire.
By understanding the care and cleaning requirements of these gemstones, individuals can ensure that their December birthstones remain beautiful and vibrant for generations to come. The enduring appeal of these gems lies not only in their physical beauty but also in the rich history and meaning that they carry.