December is unique among the months, boasting not one, but four recognized birthstones: Tanzanite, Turquoise, Blue Zircon, and Blue Topaz. Each of these gemstones presents a distinct shade of blue, mirroring the cool tones of the winter season. While Turquoise holds the distinction as the most traditional choice, admired for centuries, Tanzanite is the most recent discovery, first unearthed in Tanzania in 1967. These gemstones are associated with meanings such as wisdom, protection, and new beginnings, offering December-born individuals a diverse selection to express their individuality. The choice isn’t limited to a single day either; different stones are associated with different dates within the month, offering a personalized connection to the birthstone tradition.
A History Rooted in Tradition and Recent Discovery
The tradition of associating gemstones with specific months and even days of the year dates back centuries. Ancient civilizations believed that wearing the correct stone at the right time could bestow powerful benefits. This practice evolved into the modern tradition of choosing birthstones to honor one’s birth month. While the practice began with astrological associations, today, individuals often select birthstones based on aesthetic preference or personal resonance.
Turquoise, with its long and storied past, has been cherished for millennia. Ancient Egyptian pharaohs adorned themselves with this gem, and Chinese artisans were carving it over 3,000 years ago. It was believed to guarantee health and good fortune, and from the 13th century onward, it was thought to offer protection from physical harm, even breaking into pieces to warn of impending disaster. Hindu mystics believed that viewing turquoise after a new moon would bring wealth.
In contrast, Tanzanite is a relatively recent addition to the birthstone family, discovered in Tanzania in 1967. Initially named ‘Blue Zoisite,’ it was later renamed Tanzanite in honor of its country of origin. This gem quickly gained popularity due to its striking color and rarity.
Geological Origins and Sources
Turquoise is a semi-translucent combination of copper and aluminum phosphate, formed through a chemical interaction between acidic groundwater and minerals containing aluminum and phosphorus. It is mined in areas where these conditions are met.
Tanzanite, on the other hand, is found in a very limited geographical area: the Merelani Hills of northern Tanzania. This singular origin contributes to its rarity and value.
Blue Zircon and Blue Topaz sources are not specifically detailed within the provided materials, though the sources indicate that Zircon comes in a variety of colors, including golden, red, and clear, in addition to blue.
Gemological Properties: A Spectrum of Blues
The December birthstones exhibit a range of gemological properties, contributing to their unique appeal. Turquoise is a semi-translucent to opaque gem, typically displaying shades of blue to green, often with matrix – remnants of the host rock – visible within the stone.
Tanzanite is renowned for its pleochroism, a phenomenon where the gem displays different colors when viewed from different angles. It exhibits varying shades of blue, violet, and red. This characteristic adds to its allure and complexity.
Blue Topaz, while not extensively detailed in the provided sources, is noted for its icy blue clarity and calming energy. Blue Zircon is also mentioned as a sparkling alternative, available in a rainbow of colors.
A comparative table of key properties, based on the available information, is presented below:
| Gemstone | Color(s) | Transparency | Notable Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Turquoise | Blue to Green | Semi-translucent to Opaque | Matrix inclusions |
| Tanzanite | Blue, Violet, Red | Transparent | Pleochroism |
| Blue Topaz | Blue | Transparent | Clarity |
| Blue Zircon | Various, including Blue | Transparent | Sparkle |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, each of these gemstones has been imbued with symbolic meaning. Turquoise, with its ancient roots, represents wisdom and peace. It was historically worn as a talisman for protection against negative energies and physical harm.
Tanzanite is associated with wisdom, peace, and inner strength. Its deep blue-violet color is believed to inspire confidence and enhance focus. It is seen as a gem that complements a vibrant and ambitious personality.
Blue Topaz is linked to calming energy, while the sources do not detail specific metaphysical beliefs associated with Blue Zircon beyond its aesthetic appeal.
December Birthstone by Day
The provided materials offer a specific birthstone assignment for each day of December:
- December 4th: Blue Topaz
- December 5th: Tanzanite
- December 6th: Turquoise
- December 7th: Blue Zircon
- December 8th: Blue Topaz
- December 9th: Tanzanite
- December 10th: Turquoise
- December 11th: Blue Zircon
- December 12th: Blue Topaz
- December 13th: Tanzanite
- December 14th: Turquoise
- December 15th: Blue Zircon
- December 16th: Blue Topaz
- December 17th: Tanzanite
- December 18th: Turquoise
- December 19th: Blue Zircon
- December 20th: Blue Topaz
- December 21st: Tanzanite
- December 22nd: Turquoise
- December 23rd: Blue Zircon
- December 24th: Blue Topaz
- December 25th: Tanzanite
- December 26th: Turquoise
- December 27th: Blue Zircon
- December 28th: Blue Topaz
- December 29th: Tanzanite
- December 30th: Turquoise
- December 31st: Blue Zircon
This daily assignment allows for a highly personalized connection to the December birthstone tradition.
Care and Cleaning
Specific care instructions for each gemstone are not detailed in the provided sources. However, given the range of hardnesses likely present among these stones, general guidelines for gemstone care should be followed. Avoid harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, and extreme temperature changes. Cleaning with warm, soapy water and a soft brush is generally safe.
Conclusion
December’s selection of birthstones – Tanzanite, Turquoise, Blue Zircon, and Blue Topaz – offers a captivating spectrum of blues, each with its own unique history, geological origin, and symbolic meaning. From the ancient allure of Turquoise to the modern discovery of Tanzanite, these gemstones represent a rich tapestry of tradition and beauty. Whether chosen for their aesthetic appeal, historical significance, or perceived metaphysical properties, these December birthstones provide a meaningful connection to the month of one’s birth and a lasting symbol of personal identity.