December is a month celebrated with a remarkable array of birthstones – Blue Zircon, Blue Topaz, Tanzanite, Lapis Lazuli, and Turquoise – each possessing unique characteristics, historical significance, and captivating colors. Unlike some months with a single designated gem, those born in December have a choice, reflecting the diverse beauty found in the natural world. These stones are not merely aesthetically pleasing; they are imbued with rich cultural narratives and, historically, believed to offer protection, wisdom, and good fortune.
History and Lore
The tradition of associating gemstones with specific months dates back to ancient times, with roots in medieval practices. These colored gems were considered blessed, offering benefits to those who wore them in rings, pendants, and other jewelry. The practice wasn’t a fleeting fashion but a deeply ingrained belief system. Lapis Lazuli and Turquoise hold particular weight as traditional December birthstones. Lapis Lazuli, with its deep azure tones, was associated with wisdom and royalty in ancient civilizations, considered a stone of truth and enlightenment, believed to enhance intellectual abilities. Turquoise, revered for centuries across various cultures, was seen as a talisman for protection and a symbol of good fortune.
More recently, Blue Zircon, Blue Topaz, and Tanzanite have been recognized as modern December birthstones, expanding the options for those seeking a gem with personal resonance. The association of these stones with December reflects a continuing evolution of birthstone traditions, adapting to new discoveries and preferences.
Geological Formation and Sources
The provided sources do not detail the geological formation of these gemstones or specific mining locations beyond a general statement that they are “mined from various regions.” However, the sources do mention the historical origins of Turquoise, noting that it was cherished by the pharaohs of ancient Egypt and carved by Chinese artisans over 3,000 years ago. This suggests ancient sources in these regions, though specific mine locations are not provided. The sources also mention Russia, South Africa, Botswana, Australia, and Brazil as global origins for fancy colored diamonds, but this is presented in comparison to December birthstones, not as a source for the December stones themselves.
Gemological Properties
The sources primarily focus on the color of the December birthstones. The main color linked with December birthstones is blue, encompassing shades from soft sky blue to rich ocean blue and even violet-blue, depending on the gemstone. Turquoise, however, exhibits a range of blue-green hues, often with matrix (remnants of the rock in which it formed) running through it.
The sources do not provide detailed gemological properties such as hardness, chemical composition, refractive index, or clarity for any of the December birthstones. They do classify Turquoise as a “semi-translucent to opaque gem.” A comparison is made between December birthstones and fancy colored diamonds, noting that diamonds have “exceptional hardness” and may contain inclusions, while December birthstones vary in durability according to their properties and may not usually have inclusions.
A table summarizing the color ranges of the December birthstones, as described in the sources, is provided below:
| Gemstone | Color Range |
|---|---|
| Blue Zircon | Blue |
| Blue Topaz | Blue |
| Tanzanite | Blue to Bluish Purple |
| Turquoise | Blue to Green |
| Lapis Lazuli | Deep Azure |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, December birthstones have been attributed with various symbolic meanings and metaphysical properties. Turquoise was thought to possess beneficial powers, guaranteeing health and good fortune. From the 13th century onward, it was believed to protect the wearer from falling, and would even break into pieces at the approach of disaster. Hindu mystics believed that seeing turquoise after beholding the new moon ensured fantastic wealth.
Lapis Lazuli, due to its deep blue color, evokes a sense of serenity and expansiveness and is associated with inner wisdom and a connection to higher consciousness. The sources suggest that these stones embody protection, brilliance, and rarity, offering wearers a connection to historical and cultural narratives. They are more than just aesthetically pleasing; they are believed to reflect the wearer’s personality.
Care and Cleaning
The sources offer brief guidance on maintaining the beauty of December birthstones, advising simple care instructions to ensure they remain vibrant for years to come. However, specific cleaning methods tailored to each gemstone’s properties are not detailed. Given the varying hardness and composition of the stones, it is reasonable to assume that different cleaning approaches would be appropriate for each.
December Birthstone by Day
The provided sources include a list associating a specific birthstone with each day of December. This is a unique feature not commonly found in general birthstone guides.
- 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
December Gemstones Versus Fancy Colored Diamonds
The sources draw a comparison between December birthstones and fancy colored diamonds. While both offer a range of colors, the key difference lies in their origins and characteristics. December birthstones celebrate a variety of colored gems, while fancy colored diamonds showcase extraordinary hues within the diamond structure. Diamonds possess exceptional hardness and may contain inclusions, whereas the durability and inclusion characteristics of December birthstones vary. December birthstones are connected to ancient civilizations and cultures, while diamonds have their own historical importance.
Conclusion
December’s birthstones—Blue Zircon, Blue Topaz, Tanzanite, Lapis Lazuli, and Turquoise—offer a rich mix of history and symbolism, making each unique for those born in this month. These stones are more than just beautiful; they reflect the wearer's personality and bring a variety of cultural significances. When choosing between these gemstones and fancy color diamonds, December’s stones stand out with their vibrant colors and deep cultural roots, providing a distinct way to express individuality. Purchasing these gemstones requires careful research and consultation with experts to ensure quality and authenticity. Their unique traits demand thoughtful handling and care to maintain their beauty over time. As fine jewelry, December’s birthstones are not only stylish but also connect wearers to historical and cultural narratives, enhancing both their aesthetic appeal and personal meaning.