December is a unique month in the world of birthstones, offering not one, but four distinct gemstones to those born within its span: blue topaz, blue zircon, tanzanite, and turquoise. Each of these gems presents a captivating shade of blue, mirroring the cool tones of the winter season, and carries its own rich history and symbolism. While blue topaz and turquoise are frequently cited as December birthstones, tanzanite and blue zircon also hold official status, providing a diverse range of options for those seeking a meaningful connection to their birth month. This article will delve into the origins, properties, and significance of tanzanite, turquoise, and zircon, exploring what makes each of these gemstones special.
History and Lore
Turquoise boasts the longest history of the December birthstones, having been cherished for millennia across numerous cultures. Ancient Egyptians adorned themselves with turquoise, associating it with health and good fortune. Chinese artisans were carving the stone over 3,000 years ago. Beliefs surrounding turquoise extended to protection; from the 13th century onward, it was thought to safeguard wearers from falls, particularly while riding horses, and even to warn of impending disaster by fracturing. In Hindu traditions, viewing turquoise after a new moon was believed to bring immense wealth.
Tanzanite, in contrast, is a relatively recent discovery. Though the mineral zoisite was identified in 1962, it wasn’t until 1967 that the primary source of this December birthstone was located in the Merelani Hills of Tanzania. Named in honor of its country of origin, tanzanite quickly gained recognition, largely due to the efforts of Tiffany & Co., who launched a major advertising campaign in 1968.
Zircon also has a long and storied past, often found alongside sapphire deposits in locations like Sri Lanka, Australia, Myanmar, Vietnam, and Cambodia.
Geological Formation and Sources
The origins of these gemstones are as diverse as their histories. Turquoise is a semi-translucent to opaque gem, typically ranging in color from blue to green, and often characterized by veins of matrix – remnants of the rock in which it formed. Its formation occurs relatively close to the Earth’s surface, often in arid regions.
Tanzanite is exclusively sourced from the Merelani Hills in northern Tanzania. The mining operations in this region are extensive, with thousands of workers recovering the gem from mines dug over 100 meters deep. The landscape surrounding the mines is characterized by grass-covered hillsides and the looming presence of Mount Kilimanjaro.
Zircon is found in a variety of geological settings, often alongside sapphire. While sources include Sri Lanka and Australia, it is also mined in Myanmar, Vietnam, and Cambodia.
Gemological Properties
Each of these December birthstones possesses unique gemological properties that contribute to its beauty and value.
Turquoise: This gem is known for its varying opacity, ranging from semi-translucent to opaque. Its color spectrum encompasses shades of blue and green, often marked by the presence of matrix.
Tanzanite: Described as “velvety” due to its deep and saturated color, tanzanite exhibits hues ranging from pure rich blue to violet, with blue being the most valuable shade.
Zircon: Zircon displays a wide range of colors, including blue, golden, red, and even colorless varieties that can resemble diamonds. It registers between 6 and 7.5 on the Mohs scale of hardness. Blue zircon is created through heat treatment, a process that can sometimes be reversed with prolonged exposure to bright light, causing the stone to revert to a lighter brown hue. Exposure to heat can also alter the color of some zircon.
The following table summarizes the hardness of these gemstones on the Mohs scale:
| Gemstone | Mohs Hardness |
|---|---|
| Turquoise | Not specified in sources |
| Tanzanite | Not specified in sources |
| Zircon | 6 – 7.5 |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, these gemstones have been imbued with symbolic meaning. Turquoise, as previously mentioned, was believed to guarantee health, good fortune, and protection from harm.
Tanzanite, while a more recent discovery, is associated with transformation and new beginnings. Its vibrant color is often linked to wisdom and dignity.
Zircon, beyond its aesthetic appeal, was historically believed to possess protective qualities.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care is essential to maintain the beauty of these December birthstones. Zircon, due to its tendency to abrade, is best worn with caution and avoided in rough conditions such as gardening, sports, or dishwashing. Cleaning zircon should be done with a soft brush and mild soap in warm water; ultrasonic and steam cleaners are not recommended. Specific care instructions for turquoise and tanzanite are not provided in the available sources.
Conclusion
December’s birthstones – tanzanite, turquoise, and zircon – offer a captivating spectrum of blue hues and a rich tapestry of history and symbolism. From the ancient protective powers attributed to turquoise to the modern allure of tanzanite and the varied colors of zircon, each gem provides a unique and meaningful connection to the month of December. The choice of which stone to embrace is a personal one, reflecting individual preferences and a desire to connect with the enduring beauty and significance of these remarkable gemstones.