December is a month celebrated not only for its festive cheer and winter wonder but also for its rich collection of birthstones. These gemstones—lapis lazuli, turquoise, tanzanite, zircon, and blue topaz—offer a kaleidoscope of colors, histories, and meanings that have captivated humans for centuries. While each gemstone possesses unique qualities, they collectively represent the diversity and depth of gemological and cultural heritage. This article delves into the historical roots, gemological properties, cultural symbolism, and care instructions for these December birthstones, offering a comprehensive guide for gemstone enthusiasts, jewelry buyers, and students of gemology alike.
Introduction
December’s birthstones are more than just beautiful gems; they are storied artifacts of human history and natural beauty. Each stone—lapis lazuli, turquoise, tanzanite, zircon, and blue topaz—has its own narrative, shaped by the hands of time, culture, and nature. From the deep azure of lapis lazuli, long associated with wisdom and royalty, to the vibrant blue-green hues of turquoise, a symbol of protection and good fortune, these stones offer a unique blend of color and meaning. Added to the list in modern times are tanzanite, zircon, and blue topaz, each bringing their own brilliance and rarity to the December collection. Whether chosen for their aesthetic appeal, historical significance, or metaphysical properties, these birthstones are a testament to the enduring allure of gemstones.
The following sections will explore the origins and symbolism of each stone, their geological formation and sources, gemological properties, and practical care advice, all grounded in the information provided by authoritative and historical sources.
History and Lore
Lapis Lazuli: The Stone of Wisdom and Royalty
Lapis lazuli has a long and storied history, dating back to ancient civilizations. Revered for its deep blue color and flecks of golden pyrite, lapis lazuli was used by ancient Egyptians as early as 6000 BCE. It was often ground into powder to make eye shadow and was associated with the goddess Hathor, a deity of love, music, and fertility. Pharaohs like Tutankhamun were buried with lapis lazuli amulets, believing the stone to bring wisdom and protection in the afterlife.
In Mesopotamia, lapis lazuli was considered a sacred stone, used in the creation of cylinder seals—cylindrical objects carved with intricate designs that were rolled onto clay to create impressions. In ancient China, lapis lazuli was known as the “heavenly stone” and was used to carve jade-like artifacts. In medieval Europe, lapis lazuli was believed to promote intellectual clarity and spiritual enlightenment. It was often used in religious artifacts and was associated with the Virgin Mary in Renaissance art, where it symbolized her divine wisdom.
Turquoise: The Stone of Protection and Prosperity
Turquoise is one of the oldest known gemstones, with archaeological evidence of its use dating back to around 3000 BCE in Egypt. The ancient Egyptians used turquoise to make jewelry, amulets, and even inlay work for furniture and statues. It was believed to offer protection from the dangers of life and to bring health and good fortune. In ancient Egypt, turquoise was associated with the goddess Hathor and was often placed in tombs to guide the deceased into the afterlife.
In Mesoamerica, the Aztecs and Maya also held turquoise in high regard. It was considered a sacred stone and was often used in ritual offerings and ceremonial objects. The Aztecs believed that turquoise was the blood of the gods and that it could be used to communicate with the divine. In Native American cultures, particularly among the Navajo, Hopi, and Zuni tribes, turquoise is still revered as a powerful protective stone. It is used in traditional jewelry and is believed to bring balance, healing, and spiritual guidance.
In Europe, during the Middle Ages, turquoise was a symbol of nobility and was often worn as a sign of status. By the 16th century, European jewelers began using turquoise in rings, brooches, and pendants, often set with gold and silver. In Tibet, turquoise is considered a national treasure and is used in religious artifacts and ceremonial objects. Tibetan Buddhists believe that turquoise can ward off negative energy and promote inner peace.
Tanzanite: The Modern Marvel
Tanzanite is the youngest of the December birthstones, discovered in 1967 in the Merelani Hills near Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. The stone was named after the country where it was found, and it quickly gained popularity due to its unique blue to violet color. Tanzanite is a form of the mineral zoisite, and its color is due to the presence of vanadium. The stone's color can be enhanced through heat treatment, which stabilizes its blue hue and makes it more vibrant.
Tanzanite's rarity and beauty have made it a sought-after gemstone in the jewelry industry. It is often used in engagement rings, pendants, and earrings, and its deep, velvety color is considered highly desirable. Because tanzanite is found only in Tanzania, it is considered one of the rarest gemstones in the world. The stone has also been embraced for its metaphysical properties, with many believing it to promote emotional healing, spiritual growth, and a sense of calm.
Zircon: The Timeless Fire
Zircon is one of the oldest minerals on Earth, with some zircon crystals found in Australia dating back over 4 billion years. The name “zircon” comes from the Arabic word “zarkun,” meaning “gold-colored.” Zircon is known for its brilliant fire and high refractive index, which gives it a dazzling sparkle similar to that of diamonds. It occurs in a wide range of colors, including red, yellow, green, brown, and blue. Blue zircon, which is the most popular for jewelry, is created through heat treatment.
Zircon has been used in jewelry for centuries, with ancient civilizations such as the Greeks and Romans using it in rings and amulets. In medieval Europe, zircon was believed to have protective properties and was often worn as a talisman against illness and negative energy. In the 19th century, zircon was popular in European jewelry, especially in the form of blue zircon, which was used as a diamond substitute.
In modern times, zircon is prized for its affordability and brilliance. It is often used in vintage and antique jewelry, as well as in contemporary designs. Zircon is also valued for its metaphysical properties, with many believing it to enhance intuition, promote mental clarity, and stimulate creativity.
Blue Topaz: The Serene Sparkle
Blue topaz is a popular gemstone that has gained widespread popularity in the 20th century. Naturally occurring blue topaz is extremely rare, and most blue topaz used in jewelry is created through irradiation and heat treatment. The resulting color ranges from light blue to deep, vivid blue. Blue topaz is known for its clarity and brilliance, making it a popular choice for engagement rings, pendants, and earrings.
Topaz has been used in jewelry since ancient times, with the Egyptians believing it to be a gift from the sun god, Ra. The name “topaz” comes from the Greek word “topazios,” which referred to a yellow gemstone from the island of Topazios in the Red Sea. In medieval Europe, topaz was believed to have healing properties and was used to treat various ailments. It was also believed to bring strength and courage to the wearer.
In modern times, blue topaz is associated with calmness, serenity, and emotional balance. It is often used in jewelry as a symbol of peace and tranquility. Blue topaz is also believed to have metaphysical properties, including the ability to promote mental clarity and enhance communication.
Geological Formation and Sources
Lapis Lazuli
Lapis lazuli is a metamorphic rock composed primarily of lazurite, a deep blue mineral, along with other minerals such as pyrite, calcite, and sodalite. The formation of lapis lazuli occurs when limestone is subjected to high pressure and temperature conditions, causing the minerals to recrystallize and form the characteristic blue color. The presence of pyrite gives the stone its golden flecks, while calcite adds white or gray veins.
Lapis lazuli is found in several regions around the world, with the most famous sources being in Afghanistan. The Sar-e-Sang mines in Badakhshan province have been producing lapis lazuli for thousands of years and are still active today. Other sources include Siberia, Chile, the United States, and Canada. The quality of lapis lazuli is determined by the intensity of the blue color, the evenness of the distribution of pyrite, and the absence of calcite.
Turquoise
Turquoise is an anhydrous copper aluminum phosphate mineral that forms in the oxidation zone of copper deposits. It is typically found in arid regions where copper sulfide deposits are exposed to oxygen and water. The formation of turquoise involves the leaching of copper from the ore and its subsequent deposition in the surrounding rock. The presence of iron and aluminum in the environment can affect the color of the turquoise, with higher iron content resulting in greener hues and higher aluminum content resulting in bluer tones.
The most well-known sources of turquoise are in Iran (historically known as Persia), where the finest quality turquoise has been mined for centuries. In the United States, turquoise is found in Arizona, Nevada, New Mexico, and Colorado. China and Egypt are also notable sources of turquoise. The quality of turquoise is determined by its color, transparency, and the presence of matrix, which is the host rock in which the turquoise is found. High-quality turquoise is typically deep blue with minimal matrix and is often referred to as “Persian blue.”
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is a form of the mineral zoisite and is found only in the Merelani Hills near Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. The formation of tanzanite occurs when the mineral zoisite is exposed to high heat and pressure conditions. The presence of vanadium in the mineral is responsible for its blue to violet color. Tanzanite is a relatively new gemstone, having been discovered in 1967, and it has since become one of the most sought-after gemstones in the world.
Tanzanite is found only in a small area in Tanzania, making it one of the rarest gemstones in the world. The stone is mined in open-pit and underground mines, and the quality of tanzanite depends on the presence of inclusions and the intensity of its color. Tanzanite with a deep, even blue color and minimal inclusions is considered the highest quality. Because tanzanite is found only in Tanzania, it is a symbol of the country’s natural wealth and cultural heritage.
Zircon
Zircon is a silicate mineral that is found in a wide range of geological environments, including igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks. It is formed when molten rock cools and solidifies, and it can also be found in metamorphic rocks that have been subjected to high pressure and temperature. Zircon is known for its high refractive index and dispersion, which give it a brilliant sparkle and fire.
Zircon is found in several regions around the world, including Australia, Brazil, Cambodia, India, Madagascar, and Sri Lanka. The most famous sources of zircon are in Australia, where some of the oldest zircon crystals in the world have been found. These crystals, which are over 4 billion years old, have been used in scientific studies to understand the early history of the Earth.
In terms of gemstone quality, zircon is evaluated based on its color, clarity, and cut. The most popular color for zircon is blue, which is achieved through heat treatment. Blue zircon is highly prized for its brilliance and is often used in jewelry. Other colors of zircon, such as red, yellow, and green, are also used in jewelry, but they are less common than blue zircon.
Blue Topaz
Blue topaz is a form of the mineral topaz that has been treated to enhance its color. Natural blue topaz is extremely rare, and most blue topaz used in jewelry is created through irradiation and heat treatment. The process involves exposing the topaz to radiation, which creates color centers that give the stone its blue color. The stone is then heated to stabilize the color and make it permanent.
Topaz is found in several regions around the world, including Brazil, Mexico, Nigeria, and the United States. The most famous source of topaz is in Brazil, where large deposits of high-quality topaz have been found. The quality of blue topaz is determined by the intensity of its color, clarity, and the absence of inclusions. High-quality blue topaz is typically deep blue with good clarity and is often used in fine jewelry.
Gemological Properties
Lapis Lazuli
Lapis lazuli is a metamorphic rock composed primarily of lazurite, a deep blue mineral, along with other minerals such as pyrite, calcite, and sodalite. The hardness of lapis lazuli on the Mohs scale ranges from 5 to 6, making it a relatively soft gemstone. It is not typically used in rings or other jewelry that is subject to daily wear, as it can be easily scratched or damaged. Lapis lazuli is opaque to translucent and has a vitreous to greasy luster.
The refractive index of lapis lazuli is not typically measured because it is a rock rather than a mineral. However, the presence of lazurite gives it a characteristic blue color, and the presence of pyrite gives it a golden fleck. The color of lapis lazuli can vary from deep blue to lighter blue or even greenish tones, depending on the presence of other minerals. The quality of lapis lazuli is determined by the intensity of the blue color, the evenness of the distribution of pyrite, and the absence of calcite.
Turquoise
Turquoise is an anhydrous copper aluminum phosphate mineral that forms in the oxidation zone of copper deposits. It has a hardness of 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale, making it a relatively soft gemstone. Turquoise is typically opaque to translucent and has a waxy to greasy luster. It is often found with matrix, which is the host rock in which it is formed. The matrix can vary in color and pattern, and it can add to the uniqueness of the gemstone.
The refractive index of turquoise ranges from 1.61 to 1.65, and it is typically found in shades of blue to green. The color of turquoise is influenced by the presence of copper, which gives it its blue hue, and iron, which gives it its green hue. The presence of aluminum can also affect the color. High-quality turquoise is typically deep blue with minimal matrix and is often referred to as “Persian blue.”
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is a form of the mineral zoisite and has a hardness of 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale. It is typically opaque to translucent and has a vitreous luster. The refractive index of tanzanite ranges from 1.69 to 1.70, and it is known for its deep blue to violet color. Tanzanite is pleochroic, meaning that it can display different colors when viewed from different angles. This property makes it a highly desirable gemstone for jewelry.
Tanzanite is typically found in a single location in Tanzania, making it one of the rarest gemstones in the world. The quality of tanzanite is determined by the intensity of its color, clarity, and the presence of inclusions. Tanzanite with a deep, even blue color and minimal inclusions is considered the highest quality. Because tanzanite is found only in Tanzania, it is a symbol of the country’s natural wealth and cultural heritage.
Zircon
Zircon is a silicate mineral with a hardness of 6 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale. It is typically transparent to translucent and has a vitreous luster. The refractive index of zircon ranges from 1.81 to 1.94, and it is known for its high dispersion, which gives it a brilliant sparkle and fire. Zircon is found in a wide range of colors, including red, yellow, green, brown, and blue. Blue zircon is the most popular for jewelry and is created through heat treatment.
Zircon is found in several regions around the world, including Australia, Brazil, Cambodia, India, Madagascar, and Sri Lanka. The quality of zircon is determined by its color, clarity, and the absence of inclusions. Blue zircon is highly prized for its brilliance and is often used in jewelry. Other colors of zircon, such as red, yellow, and green, are also used in jewelry, but they are less common than blue zircon.
Blue Topaz
Blue topaz is a form of the mineral topaz that has been treated to enhance its color. It has a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale, making it a durable gemstone. It is typically transparent to translucent and has a vitreous luster. The refractive index of topaz ranges from 1.61 to 1.63, and it is known for its clarity and brilliance.
Blue topaz is created through a process of irradiation and heat treatment, which creates color centers that give the stone its blue color. The stone is then heated to stabilize the color and make it permanent. The quality of blue topaz is determined by the intensity of its color, clarity, and the absence of inclusions. High-quality blue topaz is typically deep blue with good clarity and is often used in fine jewelry.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Lapis Lazuli
Lapis lazuli has long been associated with wisdom, truth, and enlightenment. In ancient civilizations, it was believed to enhance intellectual abilities and stimulate a quest for knowledge. It was also believed to promote spiritual growth and connection to higher consciousness. In medieval Europe, lapis lazuli was used in religious artifacts and was associated with the Virgin Mary, symbolizing her divine wisdom. In modern times, lapis lazuli is believed to promote mental clarity, emotional balance, and spiritual awareness.
Turquoise
Turquoise is a symbol of protection, good fortune, and positive energy. In ancient Egypt, it was believed to offer protection from the dangers of life and to bring health and good fortune. In Native American cultures, turquoise is still revered as a powerful protective stone and is used in traditional jewelry to promote balance, healing, and spiritual guidance. In Tibet, turquoise is considered a national treasure and is believed to ward off negative energy and promote inner peace.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is believed to promote emotional healing, spiritual growth, and a sense of calm. Because it is found only in Tanzania, it is considered a unique and rare gemstone that connects the wearer to the earth and the universe. Tanzanite is also believed to enhance intuition, promote mental clarity, and stimulate creativity.
Zircon
Zircon is believed to enhance intuition, promote mental clarity, and stimulate creativity. In medieval Europe, zircon was believed to have protective properties and was often worn as a talisman against illness and negative energy. In modern times, zircon is believed to promote emotional healing, spiritual growth, and a sense of calm.
Blue Topaz
Blue topaz is believed to promote calmness, serenity, and emotional balance. In ancient times, it was believed to be a gift from the sun god, Ra, and to have healing properties. In modern times, blue topaz is believed to promote mental clarity, enhance communication, and bring a sense of peace and tranquility.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care and cleaning are essential to maintaining the beauty and longevity of December birthstones. Each gemstone has its own unique properties and requirements for cleaning and handling.
Lapis Lazuli
Lapis lazuli is a relatively soft gemstone with a hardness of 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale. It is not typically used in rings or other jewelry that is subject to daily wear, as it can be easily scratched or damaged. To clean lapis lazuli, use a soft cloth and mild soap and water. Avoid using harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, or steam cleaners, as these can damage the stone. Store lapis lazuli in a soft pouch or cloth to prevent scratches.
Turquoise
Turquoise is also a relatively soft gemstone with a hardness of 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale. It is typically opaque to translucent and has a waxy to greasy luster. To clean turquoise, use a soft cloth and mild soap and water. Avoid using harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, or steam cleaners, as these can damage the stone. Store turquoise in a soft pouch or cloth to prevent scratches. Because turquoise is porous, it can absorb oils and dirt, so it is important to clean it regularly to maintain its appearance.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite has a hardness of 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale and is typically opaque to translucent with a vitreous luster. To clean tanzanite, use a soft cloth and mild soap and water. Avoid using harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, or steam cleaners, as these can damage the stone. Store tanzanite in a soft pouch or cloth to prevent scratches.
Zircon
Zircon has a hardness of 6 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale and is typically transparent to translucent with a vitreous luster. To clean zircon, use a soft cloth and mild soap and water. Avoid using harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, or steam cleaners, as these can damage the stone. Store zircon in a soft pouch or cloth to prevent scratches.
Blue Topaz
Blue topaz has a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale, making it a durable gemstone. It is typically transparent to translucent with a vitreous luster. To clean blue topaz, use a soft cloth and mild soap and water. You can also use an ultrasonic cleaner or steam cleaner, as these are safe for blue topaz. Store blue topaz in a soft pouch or cloth to prevent scratches.
Conclusion
December’s birthstones—lapis lazuli, turquoise, tanzanite, zircon, and blue topaz—offer a rich tapestry of history, symbolism, and beauty. Each stone has its own unique properties, from the deep blue of lapis lazuli and turquoise to the vibrant blue of tanzanite and the brilliant fire of zircon and blue topaz. These gemstones have been cherished for centuries, from the pharaohs of ancient Egypt to the modern jewelry industry, and they continue to captivate and inspire. Whether chosen for their aesthetic appeal, historical significance, or metaphysical properties, December’s birthstones are a testament to the enduring allure of gemstones and their ability to connect us to the past, the present, and the natural world.