December boasts a remarkable array of birthstones – turquoise, blue zircon, and tanzanite – offering a spectrum of blues and purples to represent the winter season. While historically ruby and bloodstone were associated with December, modern designations, established by various gemological authorities, recognize these three gemstones as primary choices. This article will explore the history, geological origins, gemological properties, and cultural significance of these December birthstones, drawing solely from available sources.
History and Lore
The history of December birthstones is one of evolution. For centuries, ruby and bloodstone held the position of December’s gems, a tradition extending back to the twelfth century. However, by 1912, the United States designated lapis lazuli and turquoise as December birthstones. England followed suit in 2013, officially recognizing turquoise and tanzanite. Today, the American Gem Trade Association and Jewelers of America list turquoise, blue zircon, and tanzanite as the stones for December.
Turquoise, in particular, possesses a rich and ancient history. Cherished for millennia, it adorned the pharaohs of ancient Egypt and was skillfully carved by Chinese artisans over 3,000 years ago. The name “turquoise” itself originates from the French phrase pierre tourques, meaning “Turkish stone,” reflecting the trade routes through Turkey that brought the gem to Europe in the 13th century. Historically, the most prized turquoise originated from Persia (modern-day Iran), known as “Persian blue,” a designation still used even for turquoise found elsewhere. The Sinai Peninsula in Egypt also served as an ancient source, with the gem utilized in religious and cultural artifacts for thousands of years.
Beliefs surrounding turquoise are equally extensive. Throughout history, it was thought to guarantee health and good fortune. From the 13th century onward, it was believed to protect against falls, even being incorporated into horse bridles. A superstition held that the gem would fracture into pieces when disaster loomed. Hindu mystics believed that viewing turquoise after a new moon would ensure wealth.
Zircon, while sometimes confused with cubic zirconia, is a naturally occurring gemstone with a long history of its own. Tanzanite, however, is a relatively recent discovery, gaining prominence in the gemstone market more recently.
Geological Formation and Sources
The sources for these December birthstones are geographically diverse. Turquoise is found in various shades of blue and green, dependent on the amount of copper present. Historically, Persia and the Sinai Peninsula were significant sources. Today, turquoise is mined in several locations, though specific details are not provided in the available sources.
Zircon occurs in a variety of colors, with blue being particularly favored for December birthstone jewelry. The sources for blue zircon are not detailed in the provided materials.
Tanzanite is unique in that it is found in only one limited geographic region: Tanzania. This exclusivity contributes to its value and desirability. It is a blue-purple variety of the mineral zoisite.
Gemological Properties
The December birthstones exhibit a range of gemological properties. Turquoise is described as semi-translucent to opaque, often displaying veins of matrix – remnants of the host rock – running through it. These veins can appear brown or black. It can feel waxy to the touch and have a glassy or dull appearance.
Zircon, a natural gemstone, comes in a variety of colors, with blue being the most popular for December. It is important to distinguish it from cubic zirconia, a synthetic alternative.
Tanzanite is a spectacular blue-purple variety of zoisite. The sources do not provide specific details regarding its hardness, refractive index, or chemical composition.
A table summarizing the color ranges of each stone is provided below:
| Gemstone | Color Range |
|---|---|
| Turquoise | Sky blue, blue-green, apple green |
| Tanzanite | Blue to bluish purple |
| Blue Zircon | Various shades of blue |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Each of the December birthstones carries symbolic meaning. Turquoise, steeped in ancient lore, is associated with positive energy, health, good fortune, happiness, peace, protection, and spirituality. The belief in its protective qualities extended to preventing falls, and its ability to forewarn of danger through fracturing was a widely held superstition. Hindu mystics linked it to wealth.
While the sources do not detail specific metaphysical beliefs associated with blue zircon or tanzanite, turquoise’s long history and cultural significance suggest a strong connection to well-being and positive influence.
Care and Cleaning
The sources do not provide specific care and cleaning instructions for these gemstones. However, given that turquoise is described as fragile and relatively soft, it is reasonable to assume it requires gentle handling and cleaning. Further research would be needed to provide detailed guidance on maintaining the luster and integrity of each stone.
Affordability and Market Value
One significant advantage of December’s birthstones is their relative affordability. Despite their beauty, these gems are often more budget-friendly than other precious stones, making them accessible for a wider range of buyers. This allows for meaningful gifts or personal indulgences without excessive expense.
December Birthstone by Day
Interestingly, the provided sources include a day-by-day breakdown of birthstone assignments within December. This suggests a more nuanced approach to birthstone selection, with different stones associated with specific dates:
- 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 cyclical assignment highlights the variety available to those born in December.
Conclusion
December’s birthstones – turquoise, blue zircon, and tanzanite – represent a captivating blend of history, beauty, and symbolism. From the ancient origins of turquoise and its association with protection and good fortune, to the relatively recent discovery of tanzanite and the versatile appeal of blue zircon, these gemstones offer a diverse range of options for those seeking a meaningful connection to their birth month. The affordability of these stones further enhances their appeal, making them accessible to a wide audience. The varied assignments by date further personalize the selection process, allowing individuals to choose a gem that resonates with their specific birthdate within December.