For those born on December 1st, the birthstone is a unique combination of three distinct gemstones: tanzanite, turquoise, and zircon. These stones are celebrated for their beauty, historical significance, and symbolic associations with success, protection, and spiritual insight. While the concept of multiple birthstones for a single date may seem unusual, it reflects the evolving nature of birthstone traditions and the diverse cultural and geological heritage of December’s gems.
This article explores the historical background, gemological properties, cultural symbolism, and care instructions for the December 1st birthstones, drawing exclusively from the sources provided. It aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of these stones for gemstone enthusiasts, jewelry buyers, and those interested in the deeper meanings of birthstones.
Introduction
December 1st is associated with three birthstones: tanzanite, turquoise, and zircon. Each of these gemstones has its own unique color palette, geological origin, and symbolic meaning. Together, they represent a rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty that reflects the diversity of December as a month. While turquoise and zircon have long been regarded as traditional December birthstones, tanzanite was added more recently due to its rarity and striking blue-violet hues.
These stones are not only valued for their aesthetic appeal but also for their long-standing associations with spiritual properties and personal protection. Their inclusion in December’s birthstone list allows individuals born on this date to choose a gemstone that aligns with their personality, style, and spiritual beliefs.
In the following sections, we will explore the history and lore behind these gemstones, their geological properties, and the symbolism attributed to them across different cultures.
History and Lore
The Evolution of December Birthstones
The concept of birthstones has its roots in ancient biblical and cultural traditions. In the Old Testament, the breastplate of Aaron was said to contain twelve gemstones, each representing a tribe of Israel. While these early references did not assign stones to specific months, they laid the foundation for later interpretations that linked gemstones to the calendar.
By the 18th and 19th centuries, various lists of birthstones by month began to emerge. In 1870, Tiffany & Co. published a list of "Gregorian Birthstone Poems," which assigned turquoise as the December birthstone. This marked the beginning of the modern birthstone tradition.
In 1912, the National Association of Jewellers (now the American Gem Society) included turquoise as the primary December birthstone and lapis lazuli as an alternative. In 1952, zircon was added to the list by the Jewelry Industry Council of America, and in 2002, tanzanite was officially recognized as a December birthstone.
This evolution of the December birthstone list reflects the changing landscape of gemstone availability, cultural significance, and consumer preferences. Today, December is one of only two months with three birthstones—tanzanite, turquoise, and zircon—offering wearers a choice that suits their tastes and beliefs.
Cultural Significance
Across various cultures, December birthstones have held symbolic meanings for centuries. Turquoise, for example, has been used by Native American tribes for centuries as a protective and healing stone. Zircon, one of the oldest minerals on Earth, has been valued for its brilliance and clarity, often used in ancient jewelry. Tanzanite, discovered in the 20th century, quickly became a symbol of rarity and transformation due to its unique color and limited geographic origin.
These stones have also been associated with winter imagery, such as the chill of snow and the deep blues of the night sky. In Victorian jewelry, blue gemstones were particularly popular, symbolizing serenity, wisdom, and spiritual insight.
Geological Formation and Sources
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is a relatively new gemstone in the history of jewelry, having been discovered in 1967 in the Merelani Hills of Tanzania, near Mount Kilimanjaro. It is a type of zoisite that exhibits a pleochroic effect, meaning it can display different colors depending on the angle of light—blue, violet, and brown. The blue-violet variety is the most sought-after and is typically heat-treated to enhance its color.
Tanzanite is known for its moderate hardness on the Mohs scale (6–6.5), which makes it suitable for jewelry but requires careful handling to avoid damage. It is one of the rarest gemstones in the world, with all known deposits found only in Tanzania. This exclusivity adds to its value and appeal.
Turquoise
Turquoise is an aluminum phosphate mineral that forms in arid environments, often in the oxidized zones of copper deposits. It is known for its characteristic blue-green color, which can vary depending on the presence of copper and iron. The most prized turquoise is a deep blue with minimal matrix (the dark veins that run through the stone).
Historically, turquoise was mined in regions such as Persia, China, and the American Southwest. Today, major sources include Iran, Egypt, the United States (especially Arizona and Nevada), and China. Turquoise is relatively soft (5–6 on the Mohs scale), making it more delicate than tanzanite and zircon.
Zircon
Zircon is a mineral that has been around for billions of years—some zircon crystals found in Australia are over 4.4 billion years old, making them among the oldest known minerals on Earth. Zircon occurs in a variety of colors, but the most common December birthstone is the blue zircon, which is created through heat treatment.
Blue zircon is known for its brilliance and fire, often rivaling that of diamonds. It is harder than turquoise but slightly softer than tanzanite, with a hardness of 6–7.5 on the Mohs scale. Zircon is found in various parts of the world, including Sri Lanka, Cambodia, and Brazil.
Gemological Properties
| Gemstone | Color | Hardness (Mohs) | Composition | Origin |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tanzanite | Blue to violet | 6–6.5 | Calcium aluminum silicate | Tanzania |
| Turquoise | Blue-green | 5–6 | Hydrated phosphate of aluminum and copper | Iran, USA, China |
| Zircon | Blue, yellow, colorless | 6–7.5 | Zirconium silicate | Sri Lanka, Cambodia, Brazil |
Each of these gemstones has distinct physical and chemical properties that influence their use in jewelry and their care requirements.
Tanzanite has a refractive index of approximately 1.69–1.70 and a specific gravity of 3.1–3.4. Its pleochroism makes it a fascinating gemstone to study and admire.
Turquoise has a refractive index of 1.61–1.65 and a specific gravity of 2.7–2.8. Its porosity and softness require special handling and care to prevent damage.
Zircon has a refractive index of 1.92–2.00 and a specific gravity of 4.6–4.7. Its high refractive index gives it a brilliant sparkle that is often mistaken for diamond.
These properties make each gemstone unique and suitable for different types of jewelry and settings.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is often associated with transformation, intuition, and spiritual growth. It is believed to help individuals embrace change and find clarity in difficult times. Due to its rarity and beauty, tanzanite is also seen as a symbol of exclusivity and individuality.
In many cultures, tanzanite is used for meditation and healing. It is thought to open the heart and throat chakras, facilitating communication and emotional healing. Its deep blue-violet hues are associated with wisdom, calmness, and spiritual insight.
Turquoise
Turquoise has been used for centuries as a protective and healing stone. Native American tribes, in particular, valued turquoise for its protective qualities and used it in rituals and jewelry. It was believed to bring good fortune, ward off negative energy, and promote harmony and balance.
In ancient Egypt, turquoise was associated with the goddess Hathor and was used in amulets to protect the wearer. In Chinese and Persian cultures, turquoise was also revered for its calming and purifying effects.
Zircon
Zircon is known for its brilliant fire and has been used as a diamond substitute in jewelry. It is believed to enhance one’s ability to see clearly, both physically and spiritually. Zircon is associated with truth, clarity, and wisdom.
Blue zircon, in particular, is thought to stimulate the mind and enhance creativity. It is also believed to help individuals overcome emotional blockages and find inner peace.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care is essential to preserving the beauty and longevity of December birthstones. Each gemstone has specific care requirements based on its hardness, porosity, and sensitivity to heat and chemicals.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite should be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners, as these can damage the stone. It should also be stored separately from harder gemstones to prevent scratches.
Due to its moderate hardness, tanzanite is not ideal for everyday wear in rings or bracelets. It is best suited for pendants and earrings, where it is less likely to be subjected to impact.
Turquoise
Turquoise is a soft and porous gemstone that requires gentle care. It should be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap. Avoid exposing it to water for extended periods, as this can cause it to lose its color or become discolored.
Turquoise should not be exposed to strong chemicals or heat, as it can cause the stone to dry out or fade. It should also be stored in a cool, dry place to prevent damage.
Zircon
Zircon is relatively hard and durable, making it suitable for everyday wear. It can be cleaned with warm, soapy water or an ultrasonic cleaner. However, it should not be exposed to high heat for prolonged periods, as this can affect its color.
Zircon should be stored separately from other gemstones to prevent scratches. It is a versatile gemstone that can be worn in rings, earrings, pendants, and bracelets.
Conclusion
The December 1st birthstone—comprising tanzanite, turquoise, and zircon—offers a diverse range of colors, properties, and meanings. These gemstones reflect the rich history and cultural significance of December, from ancient traditions to modern jewelry design. Each stone brings its own unique charm and symbolism, making them a meaningful choice for those born on this date.
Whether you are drawn to the rarity of tanzanite, the deep blue hues of turquoise, or the brilliance of zircon, these birthstones offer something for everyone. Their inclusion in December’s birthstone list allows individuals to choose a gemstone that resonates with their personality, style, and spiritual beliefs.
As with all gemstones, proper care and handling are essential to preserving their beauty and value. By understanding the properties and symbolism of these stones, you can make informed choices when selecting jewelry that reflects your individuality and appreciation for gemology.