December, the final month of the year, is associated with a selection of gemstones known for their vibrant colors, historical significance, and symbolic meanings. Among these, the December 5th birthstone holds a special place. This gemstone, known as Tanzanite, is not only visually striking but also carries deep spiritual and cultural significance. Discovered in 1967 in the Merelani Hills of Tanzania near Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzanite is one of the rarest gemstones in the world. Its unique blue-violet hues and metaphysical properties make it a popular choice for those born on December 5th, as well as for collectors and jewelry enthusiasts.
This article explores the history, geological formation, gemological properties, symbolism, and care of Tanzanite. It also touches on the broader context of December birthstones and the significance of multiple gemstones in representing the month.
History and Lore
Tanzanite's journey into the world of gemstones is relatively recent compared to other birthstones. Discovered in 1967 by a German mineralogist named Count von Lindeiner-Wildau, Tanzanite was found in the Merelani Hills near Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. The gemstone was originally identified as a type of zoisite, a silicate mineral known for its green or yellow hues. However, when the raw material was cut and polished, its remarkable blue-violet coloration was revealed — a transformation that was unexpected and groundbreaking.
The discovery of Tanzanite was significant not only for its rarity but also for its potential in the jewelry market. As a relatively new gemstone, Tanzanite quickly gained popularity due to its vibrant colors and unique optical properties. It was officially designated as a birthstone for December in the 1980s, alongside traditional choices such as Blue Topaz and Turquoise.
In the realm of symbolism and metaphysical beliefs, Tanzanite is often associated with calmness, spiritual awakening, and emotional healing. It is believed to promote a sense of tranquility and mindfulness, helping individuals to navigate the complexities of life with greater ease. Some cultures also attribute Tanzanite with the power to enhance intuition and psychic abilities, making it a favored gemstone among those seeking a deeper connection with their inner selves.
Geological Formation and Sources
Tanzanite is a variety of the mineral zoisite, chemically composed of calcium aluminum silicate with the formula Ca₂Al₃(SiO₄)(Si₂O₇)O(OH). Its blue-violet coloration is due to the presence of trace amounts of vanadium, which causes a charge transfer between vanadium ions and oxygen atoms in the crystal structure. This unique composition results in the gemstone's characteristic pleochroism — the ability to display different colors when viewed from different angles. Tanzanite is known for its trichroic nature, appearing as blue, violet, and brown depending on the viewing angle.
Tanzanite is found only in the Merelani Hills of Tanzania, a location that adds to the gemstone's rarity and exclusivity. The geological conditions in this area, including the presence of metamorphic rocks and the specific pressure and temperature conditions during its formation, are essential to the development of Tanzanite's unique properties. The Merelani Hills are located in the Manyara Region of Tanzania, close to the border with Kenya and within the shadow of Mount Kilimanjaro, one of Africa's highest peaks.
The mining of Tanzanite is a delicate process due to the gemstone's relative softness and cleavage. Tanzanite is rated at 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale of hardness, which means it is relatively soft compared to other gemstones such as diamonds or sapphires. This softness requires careful handling and cutting to prevent damage to the stone. The limited availability of Tanzanite, combined with its unique beauty and rarity, makes it a highly sought-after gemstone in the global jewelry market.
Gemological Properties
Tanzanite is prized not only for its color but also for its other gemological characteristics. Here is a summary of the key properties of Tanzanite, as described in the sources:
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Chemical Composition | Calcium aluminum silicate with trace vanadium |
| Color | Blue, violet, and brown (trichroic) |
| Hardness (Mohs scale) | 6.5 to 7 |
| Refractive Index | 1.694 to 1.706 |
| Specific Gravity | 3.1 to 3.5 |
| Cleavage | Perfect in one direction (pinacoidal) |
| Luster | Vitreous (glassy) |
| Transparency | Transparent to translucent |
| Cut | Commonly cut in oval, round, pear, and emerald shapes |
| Origin | Tanzania only (Merelani Hills) |
These properties make Tanzanite a versatile gemstone suitable for a wide range of jewelry designs, including rings, pendants, earrings, and bracelets. However, due to its perfect cleavage and relatively low hardness, Tanzanite is best suited for pieces that are worn less frequently, such as pendants or earrings, rather than rings that are subject to daily wear and impact.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Tanzanite is often associated with emotional and spiritual healing. It is believed to promote a sense of calm and inner peace, helping individuals to release negative emotions and embrace a more positive outlook on life. In some metaphysical traditions, Tanzanite is also thought to enhance intuition and psychic abilities, making it a popular stone for meditation and spiritual practices.
In the context of birthstones, Tanzanite is considered a powerful stone for those born on December 5th. It is believed to bring protection, guidance, and positive energy to individuals born on this day, helping them to navigate life's challenges with confidence and resilience. The stone is also associated with courage and passion, qualities that are said to be amplified in those who wear or carry Tanzanite.
Tanzanite's symbolism extends beyond the individual and into the cultural and historical realms. In some traditions, Tanzanite is associated with the idea of transformation and renewal, reflecting the changing seasons and the cyclical nature of life. It is also seen as a stone of connection, bridging the gap between the physical and spiritual worlds.
Care and Cleaning
Given its relative softness and perfect cleavage, Tanzanite requires special care to maintain its beauty and longevity. Here are some tips for cleaning and maintaining Tanzanite jewelry:
- Avoid harsh chemicals: Tanzanite should not be cleaned with harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as these can damage the surface of the gemstone. Instead, use a gentle soap solution and a soft cloth or a soft-bristled brush.
- Avoid heat: Tanzanite is sensitive to heat, which can cause it to lose its color or become brittle. Avoid exposing Tanzanite to high temperatures, such as those found in steam cleaners or ultrasonic cleaners.
- Avoid impact: Due to its perfect cleavage, Tanzanite is prone to chipping or breaking if struck with force. Avoid wearing Tanzanite jewelry in activities where the gemstone may be subjected to impact or pressure.
- Store carefully: To prevent scratches and damage, store Tanzanite separately from other gemstones in a soft pouch or a lined jewelry box. Avoid stacking Tanzanite jewelry on top of other pieces.
By following these care instructions, you can ensure that your Tanzanite jewelry remains beautiful and vibrant for years to come.
December Birthstones in Context
While Tanzanite is the specific birthstone for December 5th, the month as a whole is associated with a range of gemstones. These include Blue Topaz, Turquoise, Zircon, Lapis Lazuli, and Tanzanite. Each of these gemstones carries its own unique properties and symbolism, offering a diverse selection of options for those born in December.
- Blue Topaz is known for its serene blue color and is associated with calmness, clarity, and emotional balance.
- Turquoise is one of the oldest known gemstones and is highly valued for its blue-green color and historical significance.
- Zircon is prized for its brilliance and fire, often displaying a rainbow of colors when cut and polished.
- Lapis Lazuli is a traditional birthstone with a deep blue color and golden flecks, symbolizing wisdom and truth.
The inclusion of multiple birthstones for December allows individuals to choose a gemstone that resonates with their personal style and preferences. Whether it's the deep blue of Blue Topaz, the vibrant blue-green of Turquoise, or the unique blue-violet hues of Tanzanite, each gemstone offers a distinct aesthetic and meaning.
Conclusion
Tanzanite, the December 5th birthstone, is a rare and captivating gemstone that combines beauty, rarity, and symbolism in a single stone. Discovered in Tanzania in 1967, Tanzanite is known for its vibrant blue-violet hues and its ability to display different colors depending on the viewing angle. It is a gemstone of calm and clarity, believed to promote emotional healing and spiritual awareness. With a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, Tanzanite is relatively soft and requires careful handling and care to maintain its beauty.
As the December 5th birthstone, Tanzanite holds a special significance for those born on this day. It is believed to bring protection, guidance, and positive energy, helping individuals to navigate life's challenges with confidence and resilience. Tanzanite is also associated with courage, passion, and intuition, qualities that are said to be amplified in those who wear or carry the stone.
In the broader context of December birthstones, Tanzanite is one of several gemstones that represent the month. These include Blue Topaz, Turquoise, Zircon, and Lapis Lazuli, each of which offers a unique color and symbolism. The inclusion of multiple birthstones for December allows individuals to choose a gemstone that resonates with their personal style and preferences.
Tanzanite's rarity, beauty, and symbolism make it a highly sought-after gemstone in the world of jewelry and gemology. Whether worn as a meaningful birthstone or simply for its aesthetic appeal, Tanzanite is a gemstone that continues to capture the imagination and admiration of gemstone enthusiasts and jewelry lovers alike.