December is a month of celebration, marked by winter festivities and a unique array of gemstones that reflect its cold, wintry essence. Unlike many other months that are represented by a single birthstone, December is distinguished by four to five different gemstones—each with its own captivating color, historical significance, and symbolic meaning. These stones include Turquoise, Tanzanite, Zircon (particularly Blue Zircon), Blue Topaz, and in some traditions, Lapis Lazuli. Together, they form a vibrant and diverse palette of blue hues that have been cherished for centuries in both jewelry and cultural lore.
This article explores the December birthstones in depth, delving into their geological properties, historical and cultural significance, and the reasons they have become so deeply associated with the winter month. We also examine their metaphysical beliefs and care tips, offering a comprehensive view of these stunning gemstones for gemstone enthusiasts, jewelry buyers, and students of gemology.
History and Lore
The tradition of assigning gemstones to specific months of the year has ancient roots, with early references dating back to the Breastplate of Aaron, described in the Hebrew Bible. This sacred adornment was said to contain twelve gemstones, each representing one of the twelve tribes of Israel. Over time, these stones were linked to the months of the year, giving rise to the modern concept of birthstones.
For December, the gemstones have evolved significantly over time. Turquoise, in particular, has a long and storied history. It was one of the first gemstones used by humans and has been found in archaeological sites in ancient Egypt, China, and the Americas. In ancient Egypt, turquoise was considered a sacred stone and was often used in jewelry, amulets, and even in the decoration of tombs. The Egyptians believed it had protective properties and could ward off evil spirits.
In the Americas, turquoise held deep spiritual significance for Native American tribes, especially the Navajo and Hopi. It was believed to be a conduit for communication with the spirit world and was often used in ceremonies and as a symbol of good fortune. The stone was also associated with healing and was used in medicinal practices.
Zircon, another traditional December birthstone, has a similarly ancient lineage. It is one of the oldest minerals on Earth, with some zircon crystals dating back over 4 billion years. These ancient zircons provide valuable insights into the early history of the planet. In medieval Europe, zircon was often confused with other gemstones like topaz and diamond due to its brilliance and clarity. It was believed to have protective qualities and was used in talismans and rings.
Tanzanite is a more modern addition to the December birthstone list. Discovered in Tanzania in 1967, it was named after the country and quickly gained popularity for its striking blue to violet color. Tanzanite is unique in that it is only found in one location on Earth—near Mount Kilimanjaro. This exclusivity has made it highly prized and has contributed to its growing popularity as a birthstone.
Blue Topaz, another modern December birthstone, has become increasingly popular due to its affordability and stunning color. Natural blue topaz is relatively rare, but it can be treated to enhance its color. The stone is associated with calmness and is believed to promote a sense of peace and serenity in its wearer.
Lapis Lazuli, while not always included in the modern December birthstone list, has a long history as a traditional gemstone. Known for its deep blue color and flecks of gold, it was highly valued in ancient civilizations and was often used in royal jewelry and decorative objects. It was considered a stone of wisdom and was believed to enhance intellectual abilities and spiritual insight.
The inclusion of multiple birthstones for December reflects the diversity of cultural traditions and the evolving nature of gemstone appreciation. Different regions and cultures have historically favored different stones, and the modern list of December birthstones is a reflection of this rich and varied history.
Geological Formation and Sources
The December birthstones are formed under a wide range of geological conditions, each with its own unique process and location. Understanding the formation and sources of these gemstones provides insight into their rarity and the reasons they are so highly valued.
Turquoise is an opaque, hydrated phosphate mineral that forms in the oxidation zones of copper deposits. It is typically found in arid regions where the right combination of copper, aluminum, and phosphorus can create the iconic blue to greenish-blue color. The most famous sources of turquoise include Iran, known for its "Persian blue" color, and the United States, particularly Arizona and Nevada. These regions produce some of the finest examples of turquoise, with each location imparting a slightly different hue and pattern.
Zircon, one of the oldest minerals on Earth, forms in igneous and metamorphic rocks. It is found in a variety of colors, including blue, red, green, and colorless. Blue Zircon, the traditional December birthstone, is typically created through heat treatment to enhance its color. Zircon is found in many parts of the world, including Brazil, Madagascar, and Sri Lanka. Its high refractive index and dispersion give it a brilliant sparkle that has made it a popular choice for jewelry.
Tanzanite is a relatively rare gemstone that was discovered in Tanzania in 1967. It forms in metamorphic rocks and is found exclusively in the Merelani Hills near Mount Kilimanjaro. The stone is typically found in its raw, uncut form and is then heat-treated to enhance its blue to violet color. Tanzanite's unique origin and limited supply make it one of the most exclusive gemstones in the world.
Blue Topaz is a colorless topaz that is treated to enhance its blue color. Natural blue topaz is rare, and most of the blue topaz available in the market is created through irradiation or heat treatment. Topaz is found in a variety of locations around the world, including Brazil, Nigeria, and the United States. It forms in igneous rocks and is often found in veins and alluvial deposits.
Lapis Lazuli is a metamorphic rock composed of lazurite, calcite, and pyrite. It is known for its deep blue color and the flecks of gold that give it a distinctive appearance. The most famous source of lapis lazuli is Afghanistan, where it has been mined for thousands of years. The stone was highly valued in ancient Egypt and was used in jewelry, decorative objects, and even as pigment in paint.
The geological diversity of the December birthstones contributes to their unique characteristics and the reasons they have been cherished for centuries. Each stone has its own story, shaped by the conditions in which it was formed and the regions where it is found.
Gemological Properties
The December birthstones are distinguished by their unique gemological properties, which include their color, hardness, refractive index, and other physical characteristics. These properties determine their suitability for different types of jewelry and their overall durability.
| Gemstone | Color | Hardness (Mohs) | Refractive Index (RI) | Transparency | Cleavage | Special Properties |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Turquoise | Blue to greenish-blue | 5–6 | 1.61–1.65 | Opaque | None | Often features unique veining patterns |
| Zircon | Blue, red, green, colorless | 6–7.5 | 1.81–1.95 | Transparent | Perfect | High dispersion, brilliant sparkle |
| Tanzanite | Blue to violet | 6–7 | 1.69–1.70 | Transparent | Perfect | Heat-treated to enhance color |
| Blue Topaz | Blue | 8 | 1.62–1.64 | Transparent | None | Often irradiated to enhance color |
| Lapis Lazuli | Deep blue with gold flecks | 5–6 | 1.5–1.7 | Opaque | None | Composed of multiple minerals |
Turquoise is known for its opaque nature and distinctive blue to greenish-blue color. It has a hardness of 5–6 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively soft compared to other gemstones. This softness means it is more prone to scratches and requires careful handling. Turquoise is also known for its unique veining patterns, which are caused by the presence of other minerals and inclusions. These patterns make each piece of turquoise unique and highly valued.
Zircon, especially Blue Zircon, is prized for its brilliance and dispersion, which give it a fire-like sparkle similar to that of a diamond. It has a hardness of 6–7.5, making it more durable than turquoise but less so than topaz. Zircon can be found in a variety of colors, and Blue Zircon is one of the most popular for December. It has a high refractive index and a perfect cleavage, which means it can be split along specific planes. This property requires careful cutting to avoid damaging the stone.
Tanzanite is a relatively soft gemstone with a hardness of 6–7. It is known for its striking blue to violet color, which is enhanced through heat treatment. Tanzanite has a unique refractive index and is often cut in a way that maximizes its color and brilliance. It has a perfect cleavage, which makes it susceptible to chipping if not handled carefully. Tanzanite is also pleochroic, meaning it can display different colors when viewed from different angles.
Blue Topaz is one of the harder December birthstones, with a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale. It is highly durable and is often used in everyday jewelry. Natural blue topaz is rare, so most blue topaz available in the market is treated to enhance its color. It has a lower refractive index compared to other gemstones, but its high durability and affordability make it a popular choice.
Lapis Lazuli is a metamorphic rock composed of lazurite, calcite, and pyrite. It has a hardness of 5–6 and is relatively soft, making it more prone to scratches and wear. Lapis lazuli is opaque and is known for its deep blue color and flecks of gold, which give it a distinctive appearance. It is often used in decorative objects and jewelry, but it requires careful handling due to its softness.
The gemological properties of the December birthstones determine their suitability for different types of jewelry and their overall durability. Each stone has its own unique characteristics that make it a valuable and cherished gemstone.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
The December birthstones are not only valued for their beauty and rarity but also for their symbolic and metaphysical meanings. These beliefs have been passed down through generations and are deeply rooted in various cultural traditions.
Turquoise is often associated with protection, good fortune, and spiritual insight. It is believed to dispel negative energy and promote a sense of calm and balance. In ancient cultures, turquoise was considered a sacred stone and was used in rituals and ceremonies. It is also believed to enhance intuition and encourage self-expression. For those born in December, wearing turquoise is thought to bring protection and positive energy into their lives.
Zircon, particularly Blue Zircon, is believed to have a calming and soothing effect. It is associated with wisdom and clarity of thought, making it a popular choice for those seeking intellectual and spiritual growth. Zircon is also believed to enhance one's ability to see clearly and make wise decisions. In some traditions, it is used as a protective stone, believed to ward off negative energies and promote inner peace.
Tanzanite is known for its deep emotional and spiritual properties. It is believed to enhance compassion, understanding, and emotional healing. Tanzanite is also associated with transformation and personal growth, making it a powerful stone for those undergoing significant life changes. It is believed to help release old patterns and foster new beginnings. For those born in December, wearing tanzanite is thought to bring emotional balance and a deeper connection to the world around them.
Blue Topaz is associated with calmness, serenity, and emotional stability. It is believed to promote a sense of peace and tranquility in the wearer. Blue Topaz is also linked to loyalty and love, making it a popular choice for romantic gifts. In some traditions, it is used to enhance communication and encourage honest and open dialogue. For those born in December, wearing Blue Topaz is thought to bring a sense of emotional harmony and clarity.
Lapis Lazuli is one of the oldest known gemstones and has been revered for its wisdom and spiritual insight. It is believed to enhance intellectual abilities and stimulate a quest for knowledge. Lapis Lazuli is also associated with truth, making it a powerful stone for those seeking to speak their truth and live authentically. In some traditions, it is used in meditation and spiritual practices to promote higher consciousness and inner wisdom.
The metaphysical beliefs associated with the December birthstones reflect their deep cultural and historical significance. These beliefs have been passed down through generations and continue to influence the way these gemstones are used and valued today.
Care and Cleaning
Due to their varying hardness and durability, the December birthstones require different levels of care and cleaning to maintain their beauty and longevity. Proper care ensures that these gemstones remain vibrant and beautiful for years to come.
Turquoise is relatively soft and requires careful handling to avoid scratches and damage. It is sensitive to heat and should not be exposed to high temperatures. Turquoise should be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap and water. It should not be soaked in water for long periods, as it can absorb water and become discolored. Turquoise jewelry should be stored separately from other gemstones to prevent scratches.
Zircon, particularly Blue Zircon, is more durable than turquoise but still requires careful handling. It should be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap and water. Zircon should not be exposed to harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners, as these can damage the stone. Due to its perfect cleavage, it is important to avoid hard impacts that could cause the stone to chip or crack.
Tanzanite is relatively soft and requires gentle cleaning to maintain its luster. It should be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap and water. Tanzanite should not be exposed to high heat or direct sunlight for long periods, as this can cause the color to fade. It should also be stored separately from other gemstones to avoid scratches.
Blue Topaz is one of the harder December birthstones and is more resistant to scratches and wear. It can be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap and water. Blue Topaz can also be cleaned using an ultrasonic cleaner, but it should be done with caution to avoid damaging the stone. Due to its high durability, it is suitable for everyday wear and does not require as much care as the softer December birthstones.
Lapis Lazuli is relatively soft and requires careful handling to avoid scratches and damage. It should be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap and water. Lapis Lazuli should not be soaked in water for long periods, as it can absorb water and become discolored. It should also be stored separately from other gemstones to prevent scratches.
Proper care and cleaning are essential for preserving the beauty and value of the December birthstones. Each gemstone has its own unique requirements, and following these guidelines ensures that they remain in excellent condition for years to come.
Conclusion
The December birthstones offer a rich and diverse selection of gemstones, each with its own unique beauty, history, and symbolism. From the ancient allure of turquoise to the modern elegance of tanzanite and blue topaz, these stones reflect the deep cultural and historical significance associated with the month of December. Their varying gemological properties and metaphysical beliefs make them highly valued in both jewelry and spiritual practices.
Whether you are drawn to the deep blue hues of turquoise, the brilliant sparkle of zircon, the calming energy of blue topaz, or the emotional depth of tanzanite, there is a December birthstone that resonates with your personal style and meaning. These gemstones not only serve as beautiful adornments but also as symbols of protection, wisdom, and personal growth.
Understanding the geological formation, sources, and care requirements of these gemstones enhances their appreciation and ensures their continued beauty and value. As December birthstones continue to evolve in popularity, they remain a testament to the enduring allure of gemstones and their deep connection to human history and culture.