December boasts a remarkable array of birthstones, offering a spectrum of blue hues and rich histories. Traditionally, Lapis Lazuli and Turquoise held prominence, while modern lists include Blue Zircon and Blue Topaz, and more recently, Tanzanite. This article delves into the origins, properties, and significance of these captivating gemstones, providing a comprehensive overview for enthusiasts and those seeking to understand the December birthstone selection.
History and Lore
The practice of associating gemstones with specific months dates back to ancient times, with roots in medieval traditions. These colored gems were believed to be blessed, offering benefits to those who wore them in rings, pendants, and other jewelry. The tradition isn’t a recent fashion trend, but one deeply connected to historical and cultural practices. Lapis Lazuli and Turquoise represent the traditional December birthstones, each imbued with unique symbolism. Lapis Lazuli, with its deep azure tones, was associated with wisdom and royalty in ancient civilizations, considered a stone of truth and enlightenment. Turquoise, revered for centuries across various cultures, was seen as a talisman for protection and a symbol of good fortune, instilling inner calm and fostering creativity.
The more recent additions of Blue Zircon, Blue Topaz, and Tanzanite reflect evolving preferences and discoveries within the gemological world. While the historical significance of these stones doesn’t stretch back as far as Lapis Lazuli and Turquoise, they have quickly gained popularity due to their beauty and metaphysical properties.
Geological Formation and Sources
Blue Topaz, a silicate mineral composed of aluminum and fluorine, is found in a variety of locations, though the majority of commercially available material originates from Brazil. Other sources include the Ural Mountains of Russia, Pakistan, Zimbabwe, and even Mason County, Texas, where it is designated as the state gem. Naturally occurring Blue Topaz is relatively rare.
Turquoise, a semi-translucent to opaque gem, has been cherished for millennia and sourced from various regions, including ancient Egypt and China.
Blue Zircon, while less detailed in the provided sources regarding specific origins, is noted as one of the modern birthstones for December. Tanzanite’s origins are not detailed in the provided sources.
Gemological Properties
Blue Topaz possesses a chemical composition of Al2SiO4(F,OH)2 and registers an 8 on the Mohs Hardness scale, making it suitable for carving and jewelry. It exhibits a range of blue shades, from pale to dark, with darker hues often resulting from heat treatment. Varieties include London Blue, known for its deep inky color; Swiss Blue, displaying a vibrant medium light blue; and Sky Blue, offering a light aqua shade. The name "topaz" itself derives from the Sanskrit word for "fire."
Turquoise ranges from blue to green and often contains veins of matrix, remnants of the rock in which it formed. It is a semi-translucent to opaque gem.
The provided sources do not offer detailed gemological properties for Blue Zircon or Tanzanite.
The following table summarizes the key properties of Blue Topaz:
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | Al2SiO4(F,OH)2 |
| Hardness (Mohs) | 8 |
| Crystal System | Orthorhombic |
| Color | Pale to dark blue, often heat-treated |
| Luster | Glass-like |
| Transparency | Transparent to opaque |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
December birthstones are often associated with various metaphysical properties. Blue Topaz is considered a stone representing love, loyalty, and fidelity, believed to bring body, mind, and spirit into harmony. It is thought to stabilize emotions, promote forgiveness, and enhance communication, creativity, and psychic abilities. It is also considered a protective stone for empaths, repelling negativity and psychic attacks. Blue Topaz is believed to aid in recognizing one’s truth and finding one’s purpose.
Turquoise, historically, was thought to guarantee health and good fortune. From the 13th century onward, it was believed to protect the wearer from falls and ward off disaster. Hindu mystics believed that beholding turquoise after a new moon ensured wealth.
Lapis Lazuli has long been associated with wisdom and a connection to higher consciousness.
Care and Cleaning
Due to its hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale, Blue Topaz is relatively durable and suitable for everyday wear. However, it possesses strong cleavage, making it somewhat delicate and susceptible to damage from sharp blows. Regular cleaning can be performed with warm, soapy water and a soft brush.
The provided sources do not offer specific care instructions for Turquoise, Blue Zircon, or Tanzanite.
Conclusion
The December birthstones – Blue Topaz, Blue Zircon, Tanzanite, Turquoise, and Lapis Lazuli – offer a diverse range of colors, histories, and metaphysical properties. From the ancient symbolism of Turquoise and Lapis Lazuli to the modern appeal of Blue Topaz and Tanzanite, these gemstones provide a meaningful connection to the month of December. Whether chosen for their aesthetic beauty, historical significance, or perceived energetic benefits, these blue gems continue to captivate and inspire.