December is unique among the months, possessing not one, but two recognized birthstones: amethyst and turquoise. This tradition stems from both historical and modern interpretations of birthstone assignments, offering individuals born in December a choice reflecting diverse aesthetics and symbolic meanings. While amethyst has maintained a consistent association with the month for centuries, turquoise represents a more traditional designation, with modern additions like blue zircon and blue topaz also appearing in some charts. This article will explore the history, geological origins, gemological properties, and cultural significance of both amethyst and turquoise, drawing solely from available sources.
History and Lore
The historical use of both amethyst and turquoise stretches back millennia. Turquoise, in fact, boasts one of the longest histories of human adornment, with evidence of its mining dating back to 6,000 BC in Egypt. Artifacts discovered in ancient Egyptian tombs, including a bracelet found on the wrist of Queen Zer dating to around 3,000 B.C., demonstrate the high regard in which this gemstone was held. It was considered a holy stone and a good luck charm, and its use continued through various civilizations. The name “turquoise” itself is believed to originate from either the French phrase “pierre turquoise,” meaning “Turkish stone,” or the Persian word “fiouze,” also meaning turquoise, reflecting its trade routes through these regions. Exclusive pieces were sourced from Iran, though deposits are also found in areas such as Arizona, New Mexico, Australia, and Afghanistan.
Amethyst also enjoys a rich history, though its earliest documented uses are less specifically detailed in the provided sources. However, it is noted as being part of a tradition where gemstones were believed to bestow powers upon the wearer if chosen according to the time of year. The practice of associating gemstones with specific months evolved over time, leading to the modern birthstone system.
Geological Formation and Sources
Turquoise is a unique gemstone formed through a specific geological process. It is a semi-translucent combination of copper and aluminum phosphate, created when acidic groundwater interacts chemically with minerals containing aluminum and phosphorus. This process results in the distinctive blue-green hue for which turquoise is known. Sources indicate that the finest turquoise originates from Iran, despite the prominence of American Southwest turquoise in popular culture.
The provided sources do not detail the geological formation of amethyst, but it is noted as being part of the quartz family.
Gemological Properties
Turquoise possesses a hardness of 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively soft and susceptible to scratching. It is often cut into cabochons for use in pendants and other jewelry, though it can also be carved. Its color ranges from a normal green-blue to a light sky blue.
Amethyst, while not detailed in terms of its formation, is noted for its association with healing and happiness. It is part of the quartz family. Further gemological details are not available within the provided sources.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
For centuries, turquoise has been regarded as a protective stone, believed to bring good fortune and peace. It is also thought to enhance communication, making it particularly suitable for family gatherings and conversations. In some traditions, turquoise is associated with the throat chakra.
Amethyst is similarly linked to positive attributes, believed to provide relief from ailments like stomachaches, insomnia, and stress. It is also associated with mental clarity. Some sources suggest that wearing birthstones honors the month of one’s birth, though the original belief centered on receiving “awesome powers” by wearing the correct stone at the right time.
Care and Cleaning
Due to its relatively low hardness, turquoise requires careful handling. The provided sources do not offer specific cleaning instructions, but its susceptibility to scratching suggests avoiding abrasive materials and harsh chemicals.
Similarly, no specific care instructions are provided for amethyst.
December’s Varied Gemstone Palette
The modern birthstone chart has expanded beyond traditional assignments, offering a wider selection of gemstones for each month. For December, this includes not only amethyst and turquoise but also beryl, sapphire, agate, garnet, tanzanite, zircon, onyx, ruby, and chrysoprase. The inclusion of spinel and citrine as more recent additions further diversifies the options. Some individuals choose stones based on personal preference, while others may consider the traditional or modern associations. The choice between traditional and modern birthstones often depends on factors such as cost and availability, with traditional stones like turquoise sometimes being more affordable.
Additional Crystals for December
Beyond the official birthstones, several other crystals are believed to complement the energy of December. Blue topaz is associated with clarity and manifesting desires, making it ideal for setting intentions for the new year. Ruby, with its vibrant red color, represents warmth and vitality, combating end-of-year fatigue. Clear quartz, known as a “Master Healer,” amplifies the energies of other stones and facilitates reflection on the past year. Snowflake obsidian is also suggested as a supportive crystal for the month.
The Weekday Gemstone Tradition
An interesting historical tradition links gemstones to the days of the week, based on the belief that each day was named after a planet and that corresponding stones absorbed the planet’s energy. Turquoise is associated with Wednesday, alongside sapphire and lapis lazuli, for Mercury’s protection from negativity. Amethyst is linked to Thursday, representing Jupiter’s energy and promoting mental clarity.
A Table of December Birthstone Options
| Birthstone | Color |
|---|---|
| Turquoise | Blue |
| Amethyst | Purple |
| Blue Topaz | Blue |
| Tanzanite | Blue/Violet |
| Blue Zircon | Blue |
| Garnet | Red |
| Onyx | Black |
| Ruby | Red |
| Chrysoprase | Green |
| Beryl | Various |
| Sapphire | Dark Blue |
| Agate | Various |
Conclusion
December’s birthstone heritage is a fascinating blend of ancient tradition and modern interpretation. While amethyst and turquoise stand as the primary birthstones for this month, a diverse array of other gemstones offer additional options for those seeking to connect with the energy and symbolism of December. Turquoise, with its long history and association with protection and good fortune, and amethyst, linked to healing and mental clarity, both provide meaningful choices for individuals born in the final month of the year. The evolving nature of birthstone traditions reflects a continuing human desire to find meaning and connection through the beauty and power of gemstones.