December boasts a unique distinction among birthstones – not one, but three primary gemstones associated with the month: turquoise, tanzanite, and blue zircon. These stones, all predominantly shades of blue, offer a diverse range of aesthetic and historical significance, reflecting the varied landscapes and beliefs connected to those born in the final month of the year. This article will delve into the history, geological origins, gemological properties, and symbolism of these December birthstones, providing a comprehensive overview for enthusiasts and those seeking to understand their enduring appeal.
History and Lore
The history of December’s birthstones spans millennia. Turquoise, arguably the oldest of the three, has been cherished for its beauty and perceived protective qualities since ancient times. Evidence suggests its use in ancient Egypt, where pharaohs adorned themselves with the stone, and in Chinese artistry dating back over 3,000 years. Throughout history, turquoise was believed to guarantee health and good fortune, and from the 13th century onward, it was thought to safeguard against accidental falls, even breaking into pieces to warn of impending disaster. In Hindu traditions, viewing turquoise after a new moon was believed to bring wealth.
Zircon, while available in a spectrum of colors, has a long history of use in jewelry, extending back over 2,000 years. Its popularity as a December birthstone specifically centers on the blue variety.
Tanzanite, however, is a relatively recent discovery, first identified in the 1960s in northern Tanzania. Its unique violet-blue hue quickly captivated the gem world, establishing it as a modern and highly sought-after birthstone.
Geological Formation and Sources
The formation of these gemstones occurs through distinct geological processes. Turquoise is formed by groundwater containing copper seeping into bedrock, reacting with other minerals over time to create an opaque stone characterized by its striking blue and green shades. The distinctive dark lines and patterns within turquoise, known as matrix, originate from the surrounding rock. Major sources of turquoise include Iran, the United States, Tibet, and India.
Tanzanite’s origin is geographically limited. Currently, the only known deposit of this gemstone is located in the Merelani Hills of northern Tanzania. This singular source contributes to its rarity and value.
Zircon forms in a variety of geological environments, including igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks. While found globally, specific sources for the blue zircon variety, favored as a December birthstone, are not detailed in the provided sources.
Gemological Properties
Each of these December birthstones possesses unique gemological properties that contribute to its distinct character.
Turquoise: A semi-translucent to opaque gem, turquoise falls within the phosphate mineral group. Its hardness ranges from 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively soft and susceptible to scratching. Turquoise is known for its sky-blue to greenish-blue colors, often displaying matrix patterns. The most valuable turquoise exhibits an intense, even blue color without undertones.
Tanzanite: This gemstone displays a vibrant range of colors, from purple to blue, and is highly prized for its trichroism – exhibiting different colors when viewed from different angles. The most valuable tanzanite displays a vivid, pure blue hue, though bright purplish-blue and violet-blue shades are also highly sought after. Its tone, ideally between 75 and 85 percent, contributes to its brilliance.
Blue Zircon: Zircon is known for its high refractive index, giving it a brilliant, diamond-like sparkle. While available in many colors, blue zircon is the most popular variety for December birthstone jewelry. The most valuable blue zircon exhibits a clear, intense hue.
The following table summarizes key gemological properties:
| Gemstone | Mineral Group | Mohs Hardness | Color(s) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Turquoise | Phosphate | 5 – 6 | Blue, Greenish-Blue |
| Tanzanite | N/A | N/A | Purple, Blue, Violet-Blue |
| Blue Zircon | N/A | N/A | Blue |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, these gemstones have been imbued with symbolic meaning and metaphysical properties. Turquoise has long been associated with protection, friendship, and good fortune. It was believed to safeguard wearers from harm and ensure well-being.
Tanzanite, as a more recently discovered gemstone, has developed symbolism linked to transformation and spiritual growth. Its connection to the crown chakra is believed to enhance intuition and facilitate communication with higher realms.
Blue zircon, while not explicitly detailed in the sources regarding specific metaphysical beliefs, is generally associated with wisdom, prosperity, and honor due to its long history of use and its brilliant appearance.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care is essential to maintain the beauty of these December birthstones. Turquoise, being relatively soft, requires gentle handling and should be protected from scratches and harsh chemicals. Cleaning can be done with a soft cloth and mild soapy water.
Tanzanite, while more durable than turquoise, is susceptible to damage from heat and ultrasonic cleaners. Cleaning should be performed with warm, soapy water and a soft brush.
Blue zircon, with its brilliance, benefits from regular cleaning to remove dirt and oils. Gentle cleaning with warm, soapy water and a soft brush is recommended. Avoid harsh chemicals and ultrasonic cleaners.
Zodiac Connections
The sources indicate a connection between December birthstones and the zodiac signs Sagittarius (November 23 – December 21) and Capricorn (December 22 – January 20). Topaz is identified as the primary birthstone for Sagittarius, with turquoise as a secondary stone. Ruby is the primary birthstone for Capricorn. The sources also mention that ancient astrologers assigned gemstones to planets, believing them to reflect celestial influences.
Conclusion
The December birthstones – turquoise, tanzanite, and blue zircon – represent a captivating blend of history, geological wonder, and symbolic meaning. From the ancient origins of turquoise to the modern discovery of tanzanite and the enduring sparkle of blue zircon, these gemstones offer a diverse range of options for those born in December. Each stone possesses unique properties and a rich cultural heritage, making them cherished symbols of the month and meaningful gifts for those celebrating a December birthday. Their varying shades of blue connect them to the winter season, evoking feelings of serenity, wisdom, and protection.