December is a unique month in the world of birthstones, as it is associated with a diverse selection of gemstones—five in total—each with its own distinct color, history, and symbolism. The modern December birthstones include Blue Zircon, Blue Topaz, and Tanzanite, while the traditional ones are Lapis Lazuli and Turquoise. These gemstones, all celebrated for their beautiful shades of blue and green, offer a rich tapestry of color and meaning that reflects the wintry season. This article explores the history, geological properties, cultural significance, and care of these December birthstones, drawing from authoritative sources to provide an in-depth understanding of their allure and value.
A Brief History of December Birthstones
The tradition of associating gemstones with the months of the year is believed to have originated in ancient times, with roots in both biblical and cultural practices. The use of gemstones as symbols of protection, healing, and spiritual power dates back to early civilizations, where they were often embedded in amulets and talismans. The December birthstones, in particular, have a long and storied history.
Turquoise, one of the oldest gemstones used in jewelry and spiritual practices, has been revered for millennia. It was especially cherished in ancient Egypt, where it was considered a stone of protection and good fortune. Pharaohs and nobles adorned themselves with turquoise jewelry, believing it connected them to the divine. Lapis Lazuli, with its deep blue tones and golden flecks, was similarly esteemed in ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia. It was used in the creation of cosmetics, amulets, and even as inlays in furniture and tools.
The inclusion of Blue Zircon, Blue Topaz, and Tanzanite as modern December birthstones reflects a more recent evolution of the tradition. These gemstones were added to the list in the 20th and 21st centuries, expanding the options available to December-born individuals. Tanzanite, in particular, is a remarkable addition, as it was only discovered in the 1960s near Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. Its striking blue-to-violet color quickly made it a popular choice in jewelry, and it was officially recognized as a December birthstone in 2002.
The addition of multiple birthstones to the December list was not arbitrary; it was driven by both cultural and commercial factors. As the provided sources indicate, the inclusion of multiple options allows for greater variety in terms of color, price, and personal meaning. This flexibility makes it easier for individuals to find a birthstone that resonates with their personality and preferences.
Geological Formation and Sources
Each of December’s birthstones has a distinct geological origin and formation process, which contributes to their unique characteristics and value.
Blue Zircon
Zircon is one of the oldest minerals on Earth, with some zircon crystals found in Australia dating back over 4.4 billion years. Blue zircon, in particular, is created through a process called irradiation followed by heat treatment, which enhances its natural color and brilliance. This gemstone is typically found in metamorphic and igneous rocks, and it is mined in countries such as Cambodia, Thailand, and parts of Africa.
Zircon’s refractive index and dispersion give it a brilliant fire that is often compared to that of diamonds, making it a popular choice for jewelry. Its hardness on the Mohs scale is 6 to 7.5, which makes it relatively durable, though it can be susceptible to chipping if struck at the wrong angle.
Blue Topaz
Blue topaz is a variety of topaz that has been treated to achieve its beautiful blue color. The most common treatment involves irradiation and heat, which alters the stone’s structure and produces the rich blue hues that are so highly prized. Natural blue topaz is extremely rare, which is why the vast majority of blue topaz available on the market is treated.
Topaz is a silicate mineral that forms in igneous rocks and is found in various parts of the world, including Brazil, Mexico, and the United States. On the Mohs scale, blue topaz ranks at 8, making it quite durable and suitable for everyday wear in jewelry.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is a relatively rare gemstone that is found only in one location in the world: the Merelani Hills near Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. Discovered in the 1960s, tanzanite quickly gained popularity due to its striking blue-to-violet color and its pleochroism, which means it displays different colors when viewed from different angles. Tanzanite is a variety of the mineral zoisite and is typically heat-treated to enhance its color.
Tanzanite is relatively soft compared to other gemstones, with a hardness of 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale. This makes it more delicate and requires careful handling to prevent damage. Despite its relative softness, its beauty and rarity have made it a highly sought-after gemstone.
Lapis Lazuli
Lapis lazuli is a metamorphic rock composed primarily of lazurite, a deep blue mineral, along with other minerals such as pyrite, which gives it its golden flecks. It is mined in several countries, including Afghanistan, Chile, and Russia. The most prized lapis lazuli comes from Afghanistan, where it has been mined for thousands of years.
Lapis lazuli is opaque and has a hardness of 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale, which makes it more suitable for pendants, earrings, and other types of jewelry that are less likely to be subjected to impact.
Turquoise
Turquoise is a hydrated phosphate of aluminum and copper, and it forms in arid regions where water percolates through copper-rich rocks. It is typically found in the United States (especially in Nevada and Arizona), Iran, and Egypt. The color of turquoise can vary from a light blue to a greenish-blue, depending on the presence of different minerals in the stone.
Turquoise is relatively soft, with a hardness of 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale, and it is often treated with wax or resin to enhance its durability and appearance. It is also porous, which means it can absorb oils and chemicals, making it important to handle it with care.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Each of December’s birthstones carries its own set of symbolic meanings and metaphysical properties, which have been attributed to them across various cultures and time periods.
Blue Zircon
Blue zircon is associated with wisdom, clarity, and spiritual enlightenment. It is believed to enhance one’s ability to think clearly and make sound decisions. In some traditions, zircon is also associated with love and prosperity, and it is considered a stone of protection and good fortune.
Blue Topaz
Blue topaz is often linked to calmness, serenity, and emotional balance. It is believed to help soothe the mind and reduce stress, making it an ideal stone for those who seek inner peace. It is also associated with love and affection, and it is thought to bring harmony to relationships.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is considered a stone of transformation and spiritual awakening. It is believed to enhance one’s intuition and help individuals connect with their higher selves. It is also associated with emotional healing and the release of negative emotions, making it a powerful stone for personal growth and self-discovery.
Lapis Lazuli
Lapis lazuli is one of the most ancient and revered gemstones in history. It is associated with wisdom, truth, and enlightenment. In ancient Egypt, it was believed to help the wearer connect with the divine and to protect against negative energies. It is also thought to enhance one’s intellectual abilities and stimulate a desire for knowledge.
Turquoise
Turquoise is perhaps the most well-known of all the December birthstones in terms of its symbolic significance. It has long been associated with protection, good fortune, and spiritual connection. In many Native American cultures, turquoise is considered a sacred stone that brings balance and harmony. It is also believed to enhance intuition and to help individuals express their true selves.
Care and Maintenance
Proper care is essential to maintaining the beauty and longevity of December’s birthstones, especially given that some of them are relatively soft and porous.
Blue Zircon
Blue zircon should be cleaned with a soft cloth and warm, soapy water. It is not recommended to use ultrasonic or steam cleaners, as these can damage the stone. Zircon should also be stored separately from harder gemstones to prevent scratching.
Blue Topaz
Blue topaz is more durable than zircon and can be cleaned using a soft brush, warm, soapy water, and a soft cloth. It can also be cleaned with ultrasonic or steam cleaners, but it is important to avoid exposing it to high heat, as this can cause the color to fade.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite should be cleaned with a soft cloth and warm, soapy water. It is best to avoid using ultrasonic or steam cleaners, as these can cause the stone to lose its color. Tanzanite should also be stored separately from other gemstones to prevent scratches.
Lapis Lazuli
Lapis lazuli is quite porous and can absorb oils and chemicals, so it should be cleaned with a soft cloth and a mild detergent. It is best to avoid using ultrasonic or steam cleaners, as these can damage the stone. Lapis lazuli should also be stored in a dry place to prevent moisture from affecting its appearance.
Turquoise
Turquoise is particularly sensitive to heat, chemicals, and moisture. It should be cleaned with a soft cloth and a mild detergent. It is best to avoid using ultrasonic or steam cleaners, as these can cause the stone to lose its color. Turquoise should also be stored separately from other gemstones and in a cool, dry place.
Conclusion
December’s birthstones offer a rich and diverse selection of gemstones that reflect the beauty and symbolism of the winter season. From the brilliant blue of zircon and topaz to the deep blue of lapis lazuli and the vibrant blue-green of turquoise, each of these gemstones has its own unique qualities and history. Whether chosen for their beauty, their meaning, or their rarity, these stones provide a meaningful and personal connection for those born in December. Understanding their geological properties, cultural significance, and proper care can help ensure that these gemstones continue to shine for generations to come.