December boasts a unique distinction among the birthstone calendar: it is represented by not one, but three gemstones – Zircon, Turquoise, and Tanzanite. Each possesses distinct characteristics, histories, and symbolic meanings, offering a diverse range of choices for those born in the final month of the year. This article will delve into the geological origins, gemological properties, historical significance, and cultural associations of these three December birthstones, drawing exclusively from available sources.
A History of December’s Gemstones
The assignment of birthstones has evolved over time. Initially, the practice stemmed from the belief that gemstones held specific powers and influenced the fortunes of those born in their corresponding months. While the origins of this tradition are ancient, the standardization of birthstone lists is a relatively recent development. In 1912, the Jewelers of America adopted a list of traditional birthstones, which was subsequently revised in 1952 based on market preferences. More recently, additions like Tanzanite have been incorporated, reflecting evolving tastes and discoveries. The American Gem Trade Association added Tanzanite to the December list in 2002, and a marketing strategy in 2006 even suggested presenting Tanzanite with every birth, regardless of the month, to boost sales. This demonstrates the commercial influence on birthstone designations, alongside historical and cultural factors.
Zircon: A Historic and Varied Gemstone
Zircon is described as a historic gemstone, found within the Earth’s crust. It is noted for exhibiting some radioactive properties, though the implications of this are not detailed in the provided sources. Zircon’s hardness ranges between 6 and 7.5 on the Mohs scale, indicating moderate durability. This gemstone is mined in several countries, including Canada, Australia, Thailand, Myanmar, Cambodia, and others. Zircon displays a remarkable range of colors, including blue, red, green, grey, yellow, and reddish-brown.
Turquoise: A Symbol of Value and Rarity
Turquoise has been valued for thousands of years, signifying rarity and special regard. Its color palette includes turquoise, blue, blue-green, and green hues. With a Mohs hardness of 5 to 6, Turquoise is relatively softer than Zircon and requires careful handling.
Tanzanite: The Rarest of the Three
Tanzanite is presented as the rarest of the three December birthstones. Notably, it is found in only one location worldwide: the Kilimanjaro Mountains. The sources emphasize the importance of acquiring good quality Tanzanite, suggesting that a lack of public knowledge can lead to poor purchasing decisions. Tanzanite exhibits colors of blue, violet, and burgundy, with a hardness of 6.5 on the Mohs scale.
Gemological Properties: A Comparative Overview
The following table summarizes the key gemological properties of the three December birthstones, based on the provided sources:
| Gemstone | Chemical Composition | Color(s) | Hardness (Mohs) | Mining Locations |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Zircon | Not specified | Blue, red, green, grey, yellow, reddish-brown | 6-7.5 | Canada, Australia, Thailand, Myanmar, Cambodia |
| Turquoise | Not specified | Turquoise, blue, blue-green, green | 5-6 | Not specified |
| Tanzanite | Not specified | Blue, violet, burgundy | 6.5 | Kilimanjaro Mountains |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
While the sources do not extensively detail the symbolism of Zircon and Turquoise, they provide insights into the meanings associated with Citrine and Topaz, November’s birthstones, which may offer some comparative context. Citrine is described as the “merchant’s stone” or “money stone,” believed to bring prosperity and convert negative energy into positive. Topaz, traditionally representing friendship, was often considered a yellow gem before the 20th century, with a wider range of colors now recognized.
Tanzanite, though a more recent addition to the birthstone list, is presented as a gemstone that can make the recipient feel as though their dreams have come true, emphasizing its association with rarity and value. The sources also mention that Citrine is the foremost birthstone of manifestation, thoughts, and prosperity, and is known to revitalize and prevent the accumulation of negative energy.
Care and Cleaning
The sources offer limited guidance on the care and cleaning of these gemstones. However, based on their respective hardness levels, some inferences can be made. Zircon, with a hardness of 6-7.5, is relatively durable but should still be protected from harsh impacts. Turquoise, being softer (5-6), requires more delicate handling to avoid scratches. Tanzanite, with a hardness of 6.5, falls in between and should be treated with care. General recommendations for gemstone care include cleaning with warm, soapy water and a soft brush, and avoiding ultrasonic cleaners and harsh chemicals.
The Allure of Birthstone Jewelry
The sources highlight the enduring appeal of birthstone jewelry, emphasizing its sentimental value and the unique charm of stones formed within the Earth. Birthstone jewelry, including rings, necklaces, earrings, and bracelets, is presented as treasured gifts for loved ones born in a particular month, and also as appropriate gifts for wedding anniversaries.
Modern Adaptations and Marketing
The history of birthstone designations reveals a dynamic process influenced by both tradition and commercial interests. The attempts to market Tanzanite as a birthstone for all children, regardless of their birth month, exemplify the role of marketing strategies in shaping consumer preferences and driving sales. The standardization efforts by organizations like the Jewelers of America demonstrate a desire to create a consistent and recognizable system for birthstone identification.
Conclusion
December’s birthstones – Zircon, Turquoise, and Tanzanite – represent a fascinating blend of history, geology, and symbolism. Zircon, a long-established gemstone, offers a variety of colors and moderate durability. Turquoise, valued for millennia, symbolizes rarity and special regard. Tanzanite, the most recent addition, stands out as an exceptionally rare gem found only in the Kilimanjaro Mountains. Each stone possesses unique properties and associations, making them meaningful choices for those seeking a connection to their birth month or a treasured gift for a loved one. The evolving story of birthstone designations underscores the interplay between cultural beliefs, scientific understanding, and commercial influences in the world of gemstones.