December boasts a remarkable array of birthstones – turquoise, zircon, and tanzanite – offering a diverse palette of colors and a rich tapestry of history and symbolism. While traditionally represented by turquoise and zircon, the modern list includes the captivating tanzanite, discovered more recently. These gemstones, each with unique origins and properties, provide a wealth of options for those born in the twelfth month of the year, reflecting varied tastes and personal connections. This article will delve into the history, geological origins, gemological characteristics, and cultural significance of these three December birthstones.
A History Intertwined with Tradition and Modern Discovery
The history of December birthstones is a blend of ancient tradition and more recent discovery. Turquoise and zircon have long been associated with the month, their use stretching back millennia. Turquoise, with its captivating blue-green hues, was revered in ancient Egypt, adorning pharaohs and symbolizing health and good fortune. Chinese artisans carved turquoise over 3,000 years ago, demonstrating its enduring appeal across cultures. It was believed to offer protection, even preventing falls from horses and warning of impending disaster.
Zircon, one of the oldest minerals on Earth, also holds a significant place in history. Its brilliance and range of colors have been appreciated for centuries. While zircon’s popularity in jewelry has fluctuated, its historical and geological value remain substantial.
Tanzanite, in contrast, is a relatively recent addition to the birthstone family, officially recognized in 1952. Discovered near Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, its unique blue to violet color and limited source quickly established it as a prized gemstone. The addition of tanzanite expanded the choices available to December-born individuals, offering a modern and distinctive option. Lapis Lazuli is also considered a traditional December birthstone, associated with wisdom, royalty, and enlightenment due to its deep azure tones and golden pyrite flecks.
Geological Formation and Sources
The geological origins of these three birthstones are as diverse as their appearances. Turquoise forms in relatively dry, arid regions, typically in the vicinity of copper deposits. It is a secondary mineral, meaning it forms as a result of chemical reactions involving copper ions in groundwater. Significant sources of turquoise include the southwestern United States, Iran, and China.
Zircon, being one of the oldest minerals, forms in a variety of igneous rocks, as well as in metamorphic and sedimentary environments. It crystallizes under high temperatures and pressures, often alongside other minerals like quartz and feldspar. Zircon can be found in Sri Lanka, Cambodia, Myanmar, and Australia, among other locations.
Tanzanite’s formation is particularly unique. It is found in a very small area near Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania – the only known commercial source of this gemstone. Its formation involved complex geological processes, including the collision of tectonic plates and the intrusion of alkaline rocks. This limited geographical origin contributes to its rarity and value.
Gemological Properties: A Comparative Overview
Each of these December birthstones possesses distinct gemological properties that contribute to its unique appeal.
Turquoise: A semi-translucent to opaque gem, turquoise ranges in color from blue to green, often exhibiting veins of matrix – remnants of the host rock. Its hardness on the Mohs scale is relatively low, ranging from 5 to 6, making it susceptible to scratching.
Zircon: Zircon exhibits a wider range of colors, including blue, brown, red, yellow, and green. It boasts a higher hardness than turquoise, measuring between 6.5 and 7.5 on the Mohs scale. Zircon is known for its brilliant fire and dispersion, meaning it exhibits a rainbow-like play of color.
Tanzanite: Tanzanite is prized for its unique pleochroism, displaying different colors depending on the viewing angle – typically blue, violet, and burgundy. Its hardness falls between 6 and 7 on the Mohs scale. The gem’s color is highly sensitive to heat treatment, which is commonly used to enhance its blue and violet hues.
Here's a table summarizing the key gemological properties:
| Gemstone | Color(s) | Hardness (Mohs) | Transparency | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Turquoise | Blue to Green | 5-6 | Opaque | Matrix veining |
| Zircon | Blue, Brown, Red, etc. | 6.5-7.5 | Transparent to Opaque | High fire and dispersion |
| Tanzanite | Blue, Violet, Burgundy | 6-7 | Transparent | Pleochroism, heat sensitive |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, these December birthstones have been attributed with various symbolic meanings and metaphysical properties. Turquoise has long been considered a protective stone, believed to ward off negative energy and bring good fortune. It is also associated with tranquility, creativity, and inner calm.
Zircon is often linked to prosperity, wisdom, and honor. Its brilliance is said to promote clarity of thought and enhance spiritual growth. Some believe that zircon can dispel negative energy and attract positive vibrations.
Tanzanite is associated with transformation, intuition, and spiritual awareness. It is believed to stimulate the mind, enhance psychic abilities, and promote emotional healing. Its connection to Mount Kilimanjaro and the Tanzanian landscape adds to its mystique and spiritual significance. Lapis Lazuli, with its deep blue color, has historically been associated with wisdom, truth, and royalty, believed to enhance intellectual abilities and stimulate a quest for knowledge.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care is essential to maintain the beauty and vibrancy of December birthstones. Turquoise, due to its relatively low hardness, is susceptible to scratching and should be protected from harsh impacts. It is best cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soapy water. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners and harsh chemicals.
Zircon, being harder than turquoise, is more durable but still requires careful handling. It can be cleaned with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid exposing zircon to sudden temperature changes.
Tanzanite is also sensitive to heat and should not be cleaned with ultrasonic cleaners or exposed to prolonged heat. Gentle cleaning with warm soapy water and a soft cloth is recommended. Due to its sensitivity, professional cleaning is often advised.
Conclusion
December’s birthstones – turquoise, zircon, and tanzanite – represent a captivating blend of history, geological wonder, and symbolic meaning. From the ancient reverence for turquoise and zircon to the modern allure of tanzanite, these gemstones offer a diverse range of choices for those born in the final month of the year. Each stone possesses unique properties and a rich cultural heritage, making them not only beautiful adornments but also meaningful connections to the past and present. When choosing between these gemstones, individuals can select a stone that resonates with their personal style, beliefs, and appreciation for the enduring beauty of the natural world.