December is unique among the months, boasting not one, but several recognized birthstones. These gems – Blue Zircon, Blue Topaz, Tanzanite, Turquoise, and Lapis Lazuli – each offer a distinct allure and a rich history, providing December-born individuals with a diverse palette of choices. This article will delve into the origins, properties, symbolism, and significance of these captivating gemstones, drawing upon historical accounts and gemological insights.
History and Lore
The tradition of associating specific gemstones with each month dates back to ancient times, with roots in medieval practices. These colored gems were believed to bestow blessings upon those who wore them, and the practice extended beyond mere adornment, influencing engagement rings, wedding bands, and necklaces. The historical significance of December’s birthstones is particularly noteworthy.
Lapis Lazuli, with its deep azure tones, held a prominent place in ancient civilizations. It was considered a stone of truth and enlightenment, enhancing intellectual abilities and stimulating a quest for knowledge. Ancient Egyptians adorned themselves with turquoise, believing it possessed beneficial powers, guaranteeing health and good fortune. Turquoise was also thought to protect the wearer from physical harm, even breaking into pieces to warn of impending disaster.
Zircon’s history is equally fascinating, with its name potentially originating from Arabic or Persian words relating to its varied colors. During the Middle Ages, it was believed to induce sleep and ward off evil spirits, while in Hindu tradition, it was one of the nine gems believed to bring wealth, wisdom, and good health. Victorian-era jewelry frequently featured blue zircon, showcasing its beauty in estate pieces.
Geological Formation and Sources
The sources for these December birthstones are geographically diverse. Turquoise, as the name suggests, has strong ties to Turkey, though significant deposits are also found elsewhere. The origins of the word “zircon” are debated, but the gem itself is found in a variety of colors and locations. While specific mining locations for all December birthstones aren’t detailed in the provided sources, the historical use of turquoise in ancient Egypt and by Chinese artisans indicates early sourcing from those regions. Tanzanite is a more recent discovery, and its origins are not detailed in the provided sources.
Gemological Properties
December’s birthstones exhibit a wide range of gemological properties. Turquoise is a semi-translucent to opaque gem, ranging in color from blue to green, often displaying matrix patterns – remnants of the rock in which it formed. Lapis Lazuli is known for its deep azure tones. Zircon displays a broad color palette, including red, orange, yellow, brown, green, and blue. Colorless zircon is particularly prized for its brilliance and “fire,” the flashes of multicolored light it exhibits.
Blue Topaz, while mentioned as a December birthstone, lacks detailed gemological information within the provided sources. Tanzanite is described as having a unique violet-blue allure. The sources emphasize the importance of color intensity, clarity, and cut when assessing the quality of these gemstones. For turquoise, a vibrant and even color is desirable. Zircon’s brilliance is enhanced by well-cut facets, and tanzanite’s appeal lies in its vivid blue tones.
Here's a table summarizing the color ranges of the December birthstones as described in the sources:
| Gemstone | Color Range |
|---|---|
| Turquoise | Blue to Green |
| Lapis Lazuli | Deep Azure |
| Zircon | Red, Orange, Yellow, Brown, Green, Blue |
| Tanzanite | Violet-Blue |
| Blue Topaz | Blue (general mention, no specifics) |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, these gemstones have been imbued with symbolic meaning and metaphysical properties. Turquoise is associated with tranquility and positive energy, often considered a talisman for protection and a symbol of good fortune. It is believed to instill inner calm and foster creativity. Lapis Lazuli, with its association with wisdom and royalty, is believed to enhance intellectual abilities and stimulate a quest for knowledge.
Zircon was thought to lull one into a deep sleep and ward off evil spirits. In Hindu belief, it, along with other gems, offered protection and brought wealth, wisdom, and good health. The sources highlight the protective symbolism of turquoise, the brilliance of zircon, and the unique allure of tanzanite.
Care and Cleaning
The provided sources offer specific care instructions for only one of the December birthstones: tanzanite. Warm, soapy water is recommended for cleaning tanzanite, but ultrasonic and steam cleaners should be avoided. No specific cleaning instructions are provided for turquoise, lapis lazuli, zircon, or blue topaz. However, given the potential for treatments applied to turquoise and tanzanite, it is advisable to consult a professional jeweler for cleaning and care recommendations.
December Birthstone Variations by Day
The sources provide a fascinating, though somewhat unusual, breakdown of birthstones by day within December. This suggests a more personalized approach to birthstone selection, with different gems assigned to different 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 of birthstones throughout the month offers a unique and personalized touch to the tradition.
Conclusion
December’s birthstones – Blue Zircon, Blue Topaz, Tanzanite, Turquoise, and Lapis Lazuli – represent a captivating array of colors, histories, and symbolic meanings. From the ancient civilizations that revered turquoise and lapis lazuli to the Victorian era’s fondness for blue zircon, these gems have held a special place in human culture for millennia. Whether seeking protection, wisdom, good fortune, or simply a beautiful adornment, December-born individuals have a wealth of options to choose from, each offering a unique connection to the past and a vibrant expression of personal style. The diverse range of these gems ensures that every December baby can find a stone that resonates with their individual spirit and preferences.