December is a month of celebration and change, symbolizing the end of the year and the anticipation of new beginnings. For those born in this month, the symbolism is further enriched by the presence of multiple birthstones. December is unique in that it has four recognized birthstones—turquoise, tanzanite, zircon, and blue topaz—each with its own distinct history, gemological properties, and cultural significance. These stones, all predominantly blue in color, represent the cool tones of winter and have been treasured for centuries for their beauty, rarity, and the meanings they carry.
This article delves into the origins, properties, and significance of each December birthstone. Whether you are a gemstone enthusiast, a jewelry buyer, or simply someone curious about the symbolism of your birthstone, this comprehensive guide will provide you with a deeper understanding of these precious gems.
History and Lore
Turquoise
Turquoise is perhaps the most ancient of the December birthstones, with a history that stretches back thousands of years. It has been used by numerous civilizations, including the ancient Egyptians, who believed it was a gift from the gods. In China, it was considered a symbol of immortality and was often used in imperial decorations. Among Indigenous cultures in the Americas, turquoise has long been revered for its spiritual significance. In Tibet, it is even considered a "national treasure."
The name "turquoise" comes from the French word pierre turquoise, meaning "Turkish stone," due to the belief that the stone was brought to Europe from Turkey. However, the stone is actually formed in arid regions where copper ore deposits interact with water and other minerals. Turquoise has been historically valued not just for its beauty, but also for its perceived healing properties and protective qualities.
Tanzanite
In contrast to the ancient turquoise, tanzanite is a relatively new discovery in the gem world. It was first identified in 1967 in Tanzania, where it is the only known source. The gemstone quickly gained popularity due to its striking blue to violet color and its rarity. Tanzanite is often described as having a "velvety" appearance, with a deep, saturated hue that is both captivating and unique.
Though it is a modern gem, tanzanite has quickly become a popular choice for jewelry, especially for those born in December. It is also a traditional gift for the 24th wedding anniversary. While it lacks the extensive historical lore of older gems like turquoise or zircon, tanzanite is associated with intuition, vitality, and spiritual transformation. Some believe that wearing tanzanite can help activate the throat, third-eye, and crown chakras, aiding in communication and psychic abilities.
Zircon
Zircon is a gemstone that has been known and used for centuries. It is particularly noted for its brilliance and fire, which are even greater than those of diamonds in some cases. The term "zircon" is derived from the Arabic word zarkun, meaning "gold-colored." However, zircon comes in a wide range of colors, with blue zircon being the most commonly recognized as a December birthstone.
Blue zircon is often heat-treated to enhance its color, a process that is common in the gem industry. The gemstone has been used in jewelry since ancient times, with references appearing in Roman and medieval texts. Zircon was also once mistaken for diamond due to its similar refractive properties. Today, zircon is appreciated both for its beauty and its affordability, making it a popular alternative to more expensive gems.
Blue Topaz
Blue topaz is a more recent addition to the list of December birthstones. While topaz has been known since antiquity, the blue variety was not widely available until the 1960s, when irradiation techniques were developed to produce its vibrant blue color. Blue topaz is now a popular choice for December birthstone jewelry due to its clarity, brilliance, and affordability.
Though some debate exists regarding whether blue topaz should be considered an official December birthstone, it has gained recognition in recent years. Its popularity is partly due to its similarity in color to the other December birthstones, making it a cohesive choice for those drawn to blue gems.
Geological Formation and Sources
Turquoise
Turquoise is a phosphate mineral composed of copper and aluminum. It forms in arid environments where water interacts with copper ore deposits. The chemical formula for turquoise is CuAl6(PO4)4(OH)8·4H2O, indicating its composition of copper, aluminum, phosphorus, oxygen, and water.
The formation of turquoise occurs when acidic water, carrying dissolved copper, interacts with aluminum and phosphorus in rocks. This process typically takes place in the presence of weathered volcanic or sedimentary rocks in arid regions. The resulting turquoise deposits are found in cavities or veins within the rock.
Major sources of turquoise include:
- United States (especially Arizona, Nevada, and New Mexico)
- Iran (historically the most famous source)
- China
- Tanzania
- Russia
- Australia
Turquoise is relatively soft, with a hardness of 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale, and it is porous and easily stained. Because of this, it is often treated with oils or resins to enhance its durability and color.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is a variety of the mineral columbite, which is a niobium-rich mineral. The chemical formula for tanzanite is CaAl(SiO4)(OH)2, and it is found only in Tanzania, making it one of the rarest gemstones in the world.
Tanzanite forms under high-pressure, high-temperature conditions in metamorphic rocks. It was discovered in 1967 in the Merelani Hills of Tanzania and is still the only known source. The gemstone is known for its pleochroism, meaning it can display different colors—blue, violet, and brown—depending on the angle of light.
Tanzanite is found exclusively in:
- Tanzania
Due to its limited source and the geological conditions required for its formation, tanzanite is considered a rare and valuable gemstone. It is often cut in a way that maximizes its blue color and is frequently heat-treated to enhance its appearance.
Zircon
Zircon is a zirconium silicate mineral with the chemical formula ZrSiO4. It occurs in a wide range of colors, including colorless, yellow, red, brown, green, and blue. The blue color is most commonly achieved through heat treatment.
Zircon is found in igneous and metamorphic rocks and is often associated with high-pressure and high-temperature environments. It is one of the oldest minerals on Earth, with some zircon crystals dating back over 4 billion years.
Major sources of zircon include:
- Australia
- South Africa
- India
- Brazil
- United States
Zircon is relatively hard, with a hardness of 6 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale, making it more durable than turquoise or tanzanite. It is also highly refractive, which contributes to its brilliance and fire.
Blue Topaz
Topaz is a silicate mineral with the chemical formula Al2SiO4(F,OH)2, and it is known for its clarity and brilliance. The blue color of blue topaz is typically achieved through irradiation or heat treatment, as natural blue topaz is extremely rare.
Blue topaz forms in igneous rocks, particularly in pegmatites and rhyolites. It is often found in deposits with other minerals such as quartz and beryl.
Major sources of topaz include:
- Brazil (the largest source of topaz in the world)
- Russia
- India
- United States
- Myanmar
Blue topaz is relatively hard, with a hardness of 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs scale, making it more durable than turquoise or tanzanite. It is also one of the most affordable of the December birthstones, making it a popular choice for jewelry.
Gemological Properties
Below is a summary of the gemological properties of each December birthstone, organized into a table for clarity and ease of comparison.
| Gemstone | Color | Hardness (Mohs) | Chemical Formula | Refractive Index | Cleavage | Transparency | Specific Gravity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Turquoise | Blue-green | 5–6 | CuAl6(PO4)4(OH)8·4H2O | 1.61–1.65 | None | Opaque | 2.6–2.8 |
| Tanzanite | Blue to violet | 6–7 | CaAl(SiO4)(OH)2 | 1.69–1.70 | None | Transparent | 3.0–3.4 |
| Zircon | Blue, yellow, red, brown, green | 6–7.5 | ZrSiO4 | 1.92–2.01 | Perfect | Transparent | 4.6–4.7 |
| Blue Topaz | Blue | 7.5–8 | Al2SiO4(F,OH)2 | 1.61–1.63 | None | Transparent | 3.5–3.6 |
Summary of Key Properties
- Turquoise is a soft, opaque gemstone with a porous structure that requires treatment for durability.
- Tanzanite is a rare, pleochroic gemstone that is known for its deep blue to violet color.
- Zircon is a highly refractive gemstone with a wide range of colors and a relatively high hardness.
- Blue Topaz is a clear, brilliant gemstone that is often treated to enhance its blue color.
These gemological properties not only determine the appearance of the stones but also influence their use in jewelry and their care requirements.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Turquoise
Turquoise has long been associated with protection, healing, and spiritual connection. In ancient Egypt, it was believed to ward off evil and bring good fortune. It was also used in amulets and talismans for protection during travel and in battle. In many Indigenous cultures, turquoise is considered a sacred stone, representing the sky and the spirit world.
In Tibet, turquoise is considered a "national treasure" and is used in religious and ceremonial contexts. Some believe that turquoise enhances intuition and communication, making it a popular stone for those in creative or spiritual pursuits.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is associated with intuition, transformation, and spiritual growth. It is believed to help activate the throat, third-eye, and crown chakras, allowing the wearer to access higher states of consciousness and psychic abilities. Tanzanite is also associated with healing and protection, making it a popular stone for those undergoing emotional or physical healing.
Because it is found only in Tanzania, some believe that tanzanite has a unique connection to the Earth's energy and is a symbol of unity and oneness with the planet.
Zircon
Zircon is associated with wisdom, clarity, and spiritual insight. It is believed to help the wearer overcome fear and anxiety and to enhance mental clarity and focus. Zircon is also associated with the heart and is believed to promote emotional healing and balance.
In ancient times, zircon was believed to bring good luck and prosperity. It was often used in talismans and amulets to ward off evil and to attract positive energy.
Blue Topaz
Blue topaz is associated with calmness, peace, and emotional balance. It is believed to help soothe the mind and reduce stress and anxiety. It is also associated with truth and honesty, making it a popular stone for those seeking clarity in their lives.
Blue topaz is also believed to enhance communication and self-expression, making it a useful stone for those in creative or public-facing professions.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care and cleaning are essential to maintaining the beauty and longevity of your December birthstone jewelry. Each gemstone has its own unique requirements based on its hardness, porosity, and chemical stability.
Turquoise
Turquoise is a relatively soft and porous gemstone, so it requires special care. It should not be exposed to harsh chemicals, oils, or perfumes, as these can stain or dull the stone. It is also sensitive to heat and should not be exposed to high temperatures.
To clean turquoise, use a soft cloth and mild soap and water. Avoid using ultrasonic or steam cleaners, as these can damage the stone. If the stone is treated with oil or resin, it may require periodic re-oiling to maintain its color and luster.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is a relatively hard gemstone, but it is still sensitive to heat and radiation. It should not be exposed to high temperatures or direct sunlight for prolonged periods, as this can cause the color to fade.
To clean tanzanite, use a soft cloth and mild soap and water. Avoid using ultrasonic cleaners, as these can cause the stone to lose its color. Tanzanite should also be stored separately from other gemstones to avoid scratches.
Zircon
Zircon is a relatively hard gemstone, but it has a perfect cleavage, which means it can be chipped or broken if struck in the wrong direction. It is also sensitive to heat and should not be exposed to high temperatures.
To clean zircon, use a soft cloth and mild soap and water. Avoid using ultrasonic cleaners, as these can cause the stone to crack or lose its color. Zircon should also be stored separately from other gemstones to avoid scratches.
Blue Topaz
Blue topaz is a relatively hard and durable gemstone, making it easy to care for. It is resistant to heat and light and can be cleaned with mild soap and water.
To clean blue topaz, use a soft cloth and mild soap and water. You can also use an ultrasonic cleaner, but it is not necessary. Blue topaz can be exposed to sunlight without fading and does not require special storage.
Conclusion
December birthstones offer a rich and diverse selection of gems, each with its own unique beauty, history, and meaning. From the ancient turquoise to the rare tanzanite, from the brilliant zircon to the vibrant blue topaz, these gems have been treasured for centuries and continue to captivate gemstone enthusiasts and jewelry lovers alike.
Whether you are drawn to the deep blue of turquoise, the velvety hue of tanzanite, the fiery brilliance of zircon, or the clear, vibrant color of blue topaz, there is a December birthstone to match your personality, style, and preferences. Understanding the history, properties, and symbolism of these gems allows you to appreciate them not only as beautiful stones but also as meaningful symbols of your connection to the world and to yourself.
Sources
- December Birthstone: Tanzanite, Turquoise, and Zircon
- December Birthstones: Blue Topaz, Blue Zircon, Tanzanite and Turquoise
- December Birthstones
- December Birthstones
- December Birthstone: A Trio of Jewels for the Year’s End
- December Birthstone: Turquoise, Zircon or Tanzanite
- What Is the Birthstone for December?