December is unique among the calendar months, boasting not one, but four recognized birthstones: Tanzanite, Turquoise, Blue Zircon, and Blue Topaz. Each of these gemstones presents a distinct shade of blue, mirroring the cool, crisp tones of the winter season, and offering December-born individuals a diverse range of options to express their personal style and preferences. While Turquoise holds the distinction as the most traditional choice, admired for centuries, Tanzanite represents a more recent discovery, first unearthed in Tanzania in 1967. These gemstones are associated with powerful meanings, including wisdom, protection, and new beginnings.
A History of Blue Hues
The history of December’s birthstones is a tapestry woven with ancient beliefs and more recent discoveries. Turquoise, perhaps the most historically significant of the four, has been cherished for millennia. Ancient Egyptians adorned themselves with turquoise, and Chinese artisans were carving it over 3,000 years ago. The stone was believed to guarantee health and good fortune, and from the 13th century onward, it was thought to offer protection from falls and ward off disaster. Hindu mystics believed that viewing turquoise after a new moon would bring immense wealth. The very name “turquoise” originates from the French pierre tourques, meaning “Turkish stone,” reflecting the trade routes through which the gem reached Europe in the 13th century. Historically, the most prized turquoise originated from Persia (modern-day Iran), known as “Persian blue,” though the name is now applied to stones of similar color found elsewhere, including the Sinai Peninsula in Egypt, where it was used in religious and cultural artifacts for thousands of years.
Blue Zircon’s history is equally intriguing, with the etymology of its name debated between Arabic and Persian origins, relating to the colors cinnabar or gold. During the Middle Ages, zircon was believed to induce sleep and repel evil spirits, while in Hindu tradition, it alternates with hessonite garnet as one of the nine gems of the navaratna, believed to bestow wealth, wisdom, and good health upon the wearer. Victorian-era jewelry frequently featured fine blue zircon specimens, particularly in English estate pieces from the 1880s.
Blue Topaz, while a popular choice, doesn’t have the same extensive historical record as Turquoise or Zircon. However, its association with royalty and its believed protective qualities have made it a valued gem for centuries.
Tanzanite is the newest addition to the December birthstone family, discovered in Tanzania in 1967. Its relatively recent discovery means it lacks the extensive historical lore of the other three, but its stunning violet-blue hue quickly established its place in the gem world.
Geological Origins and Sources
The geological formation and sources of these birthstones vary considerably. Turquoise is a semi-translucent to opaque gem formed in arid regions, often found close to the surface in copper deposits. Historically, Persia and the Sinai Peninsula were primary sources, but today, significant deposits are found in the United States (Arizona, Nevada, New Mexico, and California), China, and Iran. The presence of matrix, or remnants of the host rock, within the turquoise is a characteristic feature, contributing to its unique appearance.
Blue Zircon is found in a variety of geological settings, including alluvial deposits and primary volcanic rocks. Sources include Cambodia, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Myanmar, Australia, and the United States.
Blue Topaz is typically found in igneous rocks, often associated with volcanic activity. Major sources include Brazil, Nigeria, and Sri Lanka.
Tanzanite, uniquely, is found in only one location worldwide: the Merelani Hills of northern Tanzania. This limited geographical source contributes to its rarity and value. It forms within metamorphic rocks, created by intense heat and pressure.
Gemological Properties
Each of these December birthstones possesses distinct gemological properties. Turquoise is a hydrated phosphate of copper and aluminum, with a hardness of 5-6 on the Mohs scale. Its color ranges from blue to green, often with matrix inclusions.
Blue Zircon is a zirconium silicate (ZrSiO4), with a hardness of 6.5-7.5 on the Mohs scale. It exhibits strong double refraction, which can give it a slightly blurred appearance. Its color can range from colorless to blue, red, orange, yellow, and brown. Colorless zircon is often mistaken for diamond due to its brilliance and fire.
Blue Topaz is a silicate of aluminum and fluorine (Al2SiO4(OH,F)2), with a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale. This makes it a relatively durable gemstone suitable for everyday wear. Its color is attributed to trace amounts of chromium.
Tanzanite is a calcium aluminum silicate (Ca2Al3(SiO4)3(OH), with a hardness of 6.5-7 on the Mohs scale. It exhibits strong trichroism, meaning it displays three different colors (blue, violet, and burgundy) depending on the viewing angle. This pleochroism is a key characteristic of the gem.
A comparative overview of hardness is shown below:
| Gemstone | Mohs Hardness |
|---|---|
| Turquoise | 5-6 |
| Blue Zircon | 6.5-7.5 |
| Blue Topaz | 8 |
| Tanzanite | 6.5-7 |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, these gemstones have been imbued with symbolic meanings and metaphysical properties. Turquoise has long been associated with protection, good fortune, and health. It was believed to safeguard against falls and ward off evil.
Blue Zircon was thought to promote restful sleep and protect against negative energies. In Hindu tradition, it represents wealth, wisdom, and well-being.
Blue Topaz is often associated with communication, loyalty, and affection. It is believed to promote honesty and openness.
Tanzanite is considered a stone of transformation, promoting spiritual growth and intuition. It is believed to connect the wearer to higher consciousness.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care is essential to maintain the beauty of these December birthstones. Turquoise is relatively soft and porous, making it susceptible to damage from harsh chemicals and impacts. It should be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners should be avoided.
Blue Zircon requires gentle cleaning with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid harsh chemicals and ultrasonic cleaners.
Blue Topaz is relatively durable and can be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Ultrasonic cleaners are generally safe, but caution should be exercised.
Tanzanite is also sensitive to heat and chemicals. It should be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners are not recommended.
Affordability and Accessibility
One advantage of December’s birthstones is their relative affordability. Despite their beauty and brilliance, these gems are often more budget-friendly than other precious stones, making them accessible to a wider range of buyers. This allows individuals to choose a stunning gemstone without exceeding their financial means, whether as a meaningful gift or a personal indulgence.
Conclusion
December’s four birthstones – Tanzanite, Turquoise, Blue Zircon, and Blue Topaz – offer a captivating spectrum of blue hues, each with its own unique history, geological origin, gemological properties, and symbolic meaning. From the ancient lore surrounding Turquoise to the recent discovery of Tanzanite, these gemstones represent a rich tapestry of cultural significance and natural beauty. Whether seeking a traditional symbol of protection and good fortune or a modern expression of transformation and intuition, December-born individuals have a wealth of options to choose from, ensuring a birthstone that resonates with their personal style and beliefs.