December, a month synonymous with winter’s chill and the magic of the holiday season, is also celebrated for its rich and diverse collection of birthstones. Unlike months with a single birthstone, December offers a stunning array of gemstones—blue zircon, blue topaz, tanzanite, lapis lazuli, and turquoise. Each of these gemstones carries its own unique history, symbolism, and gemological properties, making them not just beautiful adornments but also meaningful symbols of personal identity and cultural heritage.
This article provides an in-depth exploration of December’s birthstones, examining their geological origins, historical significance, and the metaphysical beliefs that have surrounded them for centuries. We will also discuss their practical care and the reasons behind the inclusion of multiple stones for the same month. By the end, you will gain a deeper appreciation for the diversity and richness of December’s birthstone tradition.
History and Lore
The tradition of birthstones has deep historical roots, stretching back to ancient times when gemstones were believed to hold protective and healing properties. One of the earliest references to birthstones appears in the Bible’s Book of Exodus, where the twelve stones of the High Priest’s breastplate are described as representing the twelve tribes of Israel. Over time, these stones were associated with specific months, and the practice of linking gemstones to birth months became widespread in medieval Europe.
December’s selection of gemstones, however, has evolved over the centuries. The traditional birthstones for December are lapis lazuli and turquoise, both of which have been cherished for their vibrant colors and symbolic meanings since ancient times. Lapis lazuli, for example, was used by Egyptian royalty and revered as a stone of wisdom and truth. Turquoise, on the other hand, has long been seen as a protective talisman and a symbol of good fortune.
In modern times, the list of December birthstones has expanded to include blue zircon, blue topaz, and tanzanite. These additions reflect both the aesthetic appeal of blue gemstones and the desire to offer a wider variety of options to those born in December. Blue topaz, for instance, became a popular choice in the 20th century due to its affordability and striking clarity, while tanzanite, discovered in 1967, quickly gained popularity for its unique violet-blue color and limited availability.
The inclusion of multiple gemstones for December is not arbitrary. Rather, it serves to accommodate different tastes, budgets, and cultural preferences. Whether someone is drawn to the deep blue of lapis lazuli, the tranquil blue of topaz, or the velvety violet of tanzanite, there is a December birthstone to suit every personality and style.
Geological Formation and Sources
The geological origins of December’s birthstones vary widely, reflecting the diversity of their sources and formation processes.
Blue Zircon
Blue zircon is a variety of the mineral zircon, which is known for its high refractive index and strong dispersion, giving it a brilliant fire similar to that of a diamond. The blue color in zircon is the result of natural irradiation followed by heat treatment. Zircon is found in various parts of the world, including Australia, Madagascar, and Sri Lanka. It is one of the oldest minerals on Earth, with some zircon crystals dating back over 4 billion years.
Blue Topaz
Blue topaz is a relatively recent discovery in the gemstone world, as natural blue topaz is extremely rare. Most of the blue topaz available on the market today is created through irradiation and heat treatment of colorless topaz. Topaz is found in a variety of locations, including Brazil, Nigeria, and the United States. It is a durable gemstone, with a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale, making it suitable for everyday wear.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is a relatively new gemstone, first discovered in 1967 in the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. It is a variety of the mineral zoisite and is prized for its intense blue to violet color. Tanzanite is unique in that it is only found in one location in the world, which adds to its rarity and value. Its color is due to trace amounts of vanadium, and the gemstone is often heat-treated to enhance its blue color.
Lapis Lazuli
Lapis lazuli is a metamorphic rock composed primarily of lazurite, with smaller amounts of calcite and pyrite. It is known for its deep blue color and golden flecks of pyrite. The finest lapis lazuli comes from Afghanistan, where it has been mined for thousands of years. It is also found in Russia, Chile, and the United States. Lapis lazuli is relatively soft, with a hardness of 5–6 on the Mohs scale, which means it requires careful handling and cleaning.
Turquoise
Turquoise is an opaque, blue-green mineral formed by the oxidation of copper deposits in arid environments. It is found in various locations around the world, including the southwestern United States, China, Iran, and Egypt. The most highly prized turquoise comes from the American Southwest, particularly from the state of Nevada. Turquoise is relatively soft, with a hardness of 5–6 on the Mohs scale, and it is porous, making it susceptible to damage from harsh chemicals and heat.
Gemological Properties
Each of December’s birthstones has its own set of gemological properties, which contribute to its unique appeal and suitability for different types of jewelry.
| Gemstone | Color | Hardness (Mohs) | Refractive Index | Chemical Composition | Transparency |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Blue Zircon | Blue | 6.5–7.5 | 1.92–2.01 | ZrSiO₄ | Transparent |
| Blue Topaz | Blue | 8 | 1.61–1.63 | Al₂SiO₆ | Transparent |
| Tanzanite | Blue to violet | 6–7 | 1.69–1.70 | Ca₂Al₃(PO₄)₃(OH)₃ | Translucent |
| Lapis Lazuli | Deep blue with gold | 5–6 | 1.62–1.64 | Lazurite, calcite, pyrite | Opaque |
| Turquoise | Blue-green | 5–6 | 1.61–1.63 | CuAl₆(PO₄)₄(OH)₈·4H₂O | Opaque |
These properties influence how each gemstone is used in jewelry and how it should be cared for. For example, blue topaz and zircon are relatively durable and can be used in rings and bracelets, while lapis lazuli and turquoise are better suited for pendants and earrings due to their lower hardness.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
December’s birthstones have long been associated with various symbolic meanings and metaphysical properties. These beliefs vary across cultures and time periods, but they often reflect the gemstone’s natural characteristics and historical uses.
Blue Zircon
Blue zircon is often associated with wisdom, clarity, and spiritual insight. In ancient times, it was believed to enhance one’s ability to make sound decisions and to see the truth in complex situations. Some cultures also believed that zircon could bring good fortune and protect the wearer from negative energies.
Blue Topaz
Blue topaz is commonly linked to calmness, serenity, and emotional balance. It is thought to help reduce stress and promote a sense of inner peace. In some traditions, blue topaz is believed to enhance communication and encourage honesty and clarity in relationships.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is often associated with transformation, healing, and emotional release. It is believed to help individuals let go of past traumas and negative emotions, allowing them to move forward with a renewed sense of purpose. Tanzanite is also thought to enhance intuition and spiritual awareness.
Lapis Lazuli
Lapis lazuli is one of the oldest and most revered birthstones. It has been used for thousands of years as a symbol of wisdom, truth, and enlightenment. In ancient Egypt, lapis lazuli was believed to connect the earthly and the divine, and it was often used in ceremonial jewelry and amulets. It is also thought to enhance intellectual abilities and promote self-awareness.
Turquoise
Turquoise is one of the most culturally significant gemstones, especially in Native American and Middle Eastern traditions. It is often seen as a protective talisman and a symbol of good fortune. Turquoise is believed to bring balance and harmony, and it is often used in rituals to promote healing and spiritual growth.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care is essential to preserving the beauty and longevity of December’s birthstones. Each gemstone has specific care requirements based on its hardness, porosity, and chemical stability.
Blue Zircon
Blue zircon is relatively durable, but it can be sensitive to heat and strong chemicals. It is best cleaned with mild soap and warm water. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners should be used with caution, as they can damage the gemstone’s color or clarity.
Blue Topaz
Blue topaz is a hard and stable gemstone that can be cleaned using warm, soapy water. It is also safe to use an ultrasonic cleaner, but steam cleaning should be avoided, as it can potentially affect the gemstone’s color.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is a relatively soft gemstone and should be handled with care. It is sensitive to heat and should not be exposed to direct sunlight for prolonged periods, as this can cause fading. Cleaning should be done with mild soap and water, and harsh chemicals should be avoided.
Lapis Lazuli
Lapis lazuli is a soft and porous stone that requires gentle care. It should be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap, and it should not be exposed to harsh chemicals or high temperatures. Lapis lazuli is also sensitive to acids and should be stored separately from other gemstones to prevent scratching.
Turquoise
Turquoise is a delicate gemstone that is easily damaged by harsh chemicals, heat, and oils. It should be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soap, and it should be kept away from perfumes, lotions, and other substances that can dull its surface. Turquoise should also be stored in a cool, dry place to prevent it from drying out and cracking.
Conclusion
December’s birthstones—blue zircon, blue topaz, tanzanite, lapis lazuli, and turquoise—offer a rich and diverse selection of gemstones that reflect the month’s wintry charm and cultural heritage. Each of these gemstones has its own unique history, symbolic meaning, and gemological properties, making them not only beautiful but also deeply meaningful. Whether you are drawn to the brilliant fire of zircon, the tranquil blue of topaz, or the protective energy of turquoise, there is a December birthstone that resonates with your personal style and spirit.
These gemstones are more than just adornments; they are symbols of connection, tradition, and individuality. By understanding their origins, properties, and meanings, you can make an informed choice when selecting a December birthstone for yourself or a loved one. With proper care and appreciation, these gemstones will continue to shine brightly for generations to come.