For those born on December 13th, their birthstone is uniquely represented by a triad of gemstones: tanzanite, turquoise, and zircon. Each of these stones offers a distinct blend of beauty, history, and meaning, making this date’s birthstone selection both diverse and rich in significance. From the deep blue-violet allure of tanzanite to the vibrant blue-green hues of turquoise and the dazzling rainbow sparkle of zircon, these gemstones reflect the multifaceted nature of December itself—both a month of celebration and a gateway to the new year.
This article explores the geological, historical, and metaphysical aspects of these three gemstones, highlighting what makes them special not just for December 13th, but for anyone who appreciates the depth and diversity of gemstone lore. We will delve into their origins, properties, cultural significance, and care instructions, providing a comprehensive overview grounded in the information from the provided sources.
Introduction
December 13th is a date associated with a unique birthstone selection: tanzanite, turquoise, and zircon. This combination is relatively rare in the birthstone tradition, which typically assigns one or two gemstones to a given month. The inclusion of three stones for December 13th reflects both the diversity of December’s birthstones as a whole and the desire to offer a range of options that vary in color, price, and symbolism.
According to the sources, these stones are believed to offer various benefits—ranging from emotional calm and stability to prosperity and transformation. Each gemstone carries a distinct legacy, with turquoise being one of the oldest known and most culturally significant, zircon offering a dazzling yet underrated brilliance, and tanzanite being a modern discovery with deep spiritual associations.
This article will explore the geological properties, historical and cultural significance, metaphysical beliefs, and care instructions for these gemstones, drawing only from the information provided in the sources.
History and Lore
Tanzanite
Tanzanite, the most recent of the three gemstones, was discovered in 1967 in Tanzania, and was officially added to the list of December birthstones in 2002 by the American Gem Trade Association (AGTA). The discovery is attributed to a local Maasai herdsman who found blue stones near Mount Kilimanjaro. The Maasai, a semi-nomadic tribe in Tanzania, have their own legend about tanzanite: it is said that the land was struck by a bolt of lightning, which transformed the rocks into shimmering blue crystals.
According to the Maasai tradition, tanzanite is given as a gift at the birth of a child, symbolizing health, well-being, and prosperity. The gemstone is also associated with new beginnings and transformation, making it a powerful symbol for those born on December 13th.
Tanzanite is also believed to have healing properties, historically linked to strengthening the immune system, detoxifying the blood, and regenerating cells, skin, and hair. It is associated with psychic abilities, particularly in activating the throat, third eye, and crown chakras, which are believed to enhance communication and spiritual awareness.
Turquoise
Turquoise is the oldest and most culturally significant of the three December 13th birthstones. It has been used for thousands of years in jewelry and ornamentation. The earliest known use of turquoise dates back over 3,000 years in China, where it was carved into intricate pieces. Ancient Egyptian pharaohs and rulers also adorned themselves with turquoise, believing it to bring health, good fortune, and protection.
During the 13th century, it was believed that turquoise could prevent falls, especially from horses, and would break into pieces at the approach of danger, serving as a kind of early warning system. Hindu mystics believed that seeing turquoise after the new moon ensured great wealth.
Turquoise has also been used as a spiritual and protective stone in various cultures. In many traditions, it is associated with healing, emotional stability, and connection to the divine. Its use in jewelry is not only ornamental but also symbolic, often passed down through generations as a sign of prosperity and good luck.
Zircon
Zircon is a less well-known gemstone, but one that can produce exceptionally brilliant and colorful stones. It is not as widely recognized as tanzanite or turquoise, but in the right setting, zircon can rival even diamonds and sapphires in brilliance.
Zircon has been known and used for centuries, particularly in ancient civilizations where its sparkling effect and rainbow-like play of light made it a popular choice for high-quality jewelry. In particular, colorless zircon is often used as a diamond substitute due to its high refractive index and fire.
Zircon is also associated with spiritual transformation and emotional healing. It is believed to help the wearer release negative patterns and habits, while encouraging inner strength and clarity. These properties make it a fitting symbol for those born on December 13th, who are often described as passionate and open-minded.
Geological Formation and Sources
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is a rare and unique gemstone, found only in Tanzania. It is a type of cushion-colored zoisite that exhibits trichroism—meaning it can display three different colors (violet, blue, and red) depending on the angle from which it is viewed.
Tanzanite is formed in metamorphic rock under high pressure and temperature conditions. The specific location where tanzanite is found is near Mount Kilimanjaro, and its rarity is due in part to the geological conditions required for its formation and the limited geographic range in which it is found.
The gemstone is relatively soft, with a Mohs hardness of 6 to 6.5, which means it is susceptible to scratches and heat. Because of this, it is best suited for protective jewelry settings such as pendants or earrings.
Turquoise
Turquoise is a phosphate mineral formed through the interaction of water with copper deposits. It is typically found in arid regions, particularly in weathered volcanic rock and sedimentary rock. The process begins when rainwater or melted snow percolates through copper porphyry, reacting with copper sulfides to form an acidic solution. This solution then interacts with aluminum and potassium in the surrounding rock to precipitate turquoise into cavities and cracks.
Turquoise is relatively soft, with a Mohs hardness of 5 to 6, which makes it prone to scratching, breaking, and discoloration. It is also porous, meaning it can be easily stained by oils, pigments, and chemicals. Additionally, it can change color when it loses moisture, which is why it is often treated with waxes or resins to enhance its durability and appearance.
Major sources of turquoise include Tanzania, the United States (particularly Nevada and Arizona), Iran, China, and Egypt.
Zircon
Zircon is a silicate mineral that is found in igneous and metamorphic rocks. It is known for its high refractive index, fire, and ability to display multiple colors—especially in hyalite zircon (colorless or yellow) and star zircon (with a star-like effect).
Zircon is harder than tanzanite and turquoise, with a Mohs hardness of 6.5 to 7.5, depending on the variety. This makes it more durable and suitable for everyday wear, though it is still susceptible to chipping if struck in the right angle due to its cleavage.
Zircon is found in various parts of the world, including Australia, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and the United States. Some of the most prized zircons come from Burma and Madagascar, where they exhibit particularly vibrant colors.
Gemological Properties
| Gemstone | Color | Hardness (Mohs) | Chemical Composition | Refractive Index | Transparency | Source Locations |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tanzanite | Blue-violet | 6–6.5 | Calcium aluminum silicate | 1.694–1.701 | Translucent to opaque | Tanzania |
| Turquoise | Blue-green | 5–6 | Copper aluminum phosphate | 1.61–1.65 | Opaque | Tanzania, USA, Iran, China, Egypt |
| Zircon | Colorless, blue, red, green | 6.5–7.5 | Zirconium silicate | 1.92–2.01 | Transparent to translucent | Australia, Thailand, USA, Sri Lanka, Madagascar |
Tanzanite
- Color: Deep blue-violet with trichroism (can show three different colors depending on light).
- Hardness: 6–6.5 (relatively soft).
- Chemical Composition: Calcium aluminum silicate.
- Refractive Index: 1.694–1.701.
- Transparency: Translucent to opaque.
- Best Cut: Oval, cushion, and emerald cuts to enhance color and clarity.
Turquoise
- Color: Blue to green with matrix patterns (black or brown veins).
- Hardness: 5–6 (soft and porous).
- Chemical Composition: Copper aluminum phosphate.
- Refractive Index: 1.61–1.65.
- Transparency: Opaque.
- Best Cut: Cabochon or inlay work to showcase natural patterns.
Zircon
- Color: Colorless, blue, red, green, and other hues.
- Hardness: 6.5–7.5 (relatively durable).
- Chemical Composition: Zirconium silicate.
- Refractive Index: 1.92–2.01.
- Transparency: Transparent to translucent.
- Best Cut: Round brilliant or princess cuts to maximize sparkle.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is associated with spiritual awakening, emotional healing, and psychic development. It is believed to help the wearer open their heart and mind, encouraging empathy, compassion, and understanding. In chakra work, tanzanite is linked to the thoracic chakras, helping to clear emotional blockages and enhance spiritual awareness.
It is also believed to facilitate transformation, helping individuals let go of old habits and patterns and embrace new beginnings. This makes it a particularly fitting birthstone for those born on December 13th, who are said to be passionate and open-minded.
Turquoise
Turquoise has long been associated with protection, healing, and good fortune. It is believed to ward off negative energy and promote emotional stability. In many cultures, turquoise is used as a protective talisman, especially for travelers and warriors.
The stone is also associated with communication and truth, encouraging the wearer to speak their mind and listen with empathy. It is often used in spiritual practices to enhance intuition and connect with higher wisdom.
In ancient times, turquoise was believed to predict danger, breaking into pieces when a threat was near. It was also used as a healing stone, particularly for respiratory and digestive issues, and was believed to promote longevity and vitality.
Zircon
Zircon is a stone of transformation and clarity. It is believed to help the wearer release negative thoughts and behaviors, making it an excellent stone for personal growth and self-improvement. It is also associated with emotional healing, helping individuals process grief and move on from past traumas.
Zircon is also known as a stone of prosperity and abundance, believed to attract financial and emotional wealth. It is often used in spiritual practices to enhance psychic abilities and open the third eye chakra, which is associated with insight and inner vision.
In some traditions, zircon is believed to enhance the wearer’s ability to see the future, making it a stone of foresight and wisdom.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care is essential for preserving the beauty and longevity of tanzanite, turquoise, and zircon. Due to their varying hardness and chemical sensitivity, each gemstone requires specific handling and cleaning methods.
Tanzanite
- Avoid heat and sudden temperature changes, as these can cause cracking or fading.
- Do not use steam or ultrasonic cleaners, as they can damage the stone.
- Clean with a soft brush and warm soapy water, then dry with a soft cloth.
- Store tanzanite separately from harder gemstones to prevent scratches.
Turquoise
- Avoid exposure to oils, lotions, and chemicals, as they can stain or discolor the stone.
- Do not wear turquoise in water, as it can lose its moisture and fade.
- Clean with a soft cloth and mild soap, avoiding abrasive materials.
- Store turquoise in a cool, dry place, preferably wrapped in a soft cloth to prevent scratching.
Zircon
- Avoid exposure to high heat or sudden temperature changes, which can damage the stone or cause it to crack.
- Avoid using ultrasonic or steam cleaners, as they can damage the stone’s structure.
- Clean with a soft brush and warm soapy water, then dry with a soft cloth.
- Store zircon in a soft-lined jewelry box, away from harder gemstones, to prevent scratches.
Conclusion
The December 13th birthstone—represented by tanzanite, turquoise, and zircon—is a unique and meaningful combination of gemstones that reflect both the beauty and complexity of December. Each stone carries a distinct legacy: tanzanite, with its rare beauty and spiritual associations; turquoise, with its ancient history and protective qualities; and zircon, with its sparkling brilliance and transformative energy.
These gemstones are not only beautiful to behold but also rich in symbolism and meaning, making them a powerful choice for those who wear them. Whether used in jewelry, spiritual practices, or as a meaningful gift, they offer a connection to the past, present, and future.
For those born on December 13th, these gemstones serve as a reminder of their inner strength, potential, and journey—a perfect reflection of the month’s spirit of celebration and new beginnings.