December boasts a remarkable array of birthstones, offering a spectrum of blue hues to those born in the final month of the year. While turquoise holds a traditional association with December, tanzanite, blue zircon, and even blue topaz are now recognized as official or alternative birthstones for this month. These gemstones, each with a unique history, geological origin, and symbolic meaning, provide a diverse selection for personal adornment and gift-giving. This article will explore the origins, properties, and significance of these captivating December birthstones.
History and Lore
The history of December’s birthstones is rich and varied, stretching back millennia. Turquoise, arguably the most historically significant of the group, has been cherished by civilizations across the globe for thousands of years. Ancient Egyptians adorned themselves with turquoise, incorporating it into pharaonic tombs and jewelry, believing it possessed protective qualities. Chinese artisans were carving turquoise over 3,000 years ago, and it held a prominent place in Native American cultures, where it was valued for its perceived ability to offer wisdom, tranquility, and positive energy.
Beliefs surrounding turquoise extended beyond mere aesthetics. From the 13th century onward, Europeans believed wearing turquoise could prevent falls, particularly from horses, and that the stone would fracture as a warning of impending disaster. Hindu mystics associated viewing turquoise after a new moon with the attainment of great wealth.
While turquoise enjoys the longest documented history, the other December birthstones also carry intriguing lore. Zircon, though often heat-treated to produce the popular blue variety, was once thought to guarantee health and good fortune. Tanzanite, a more recent discovery, quickly gained recognition for its captivating color and is associated with transformative energy.
Geological Formation and Sources
Turquoise is a semi-translucent to opaque gem, typically ranging in color from blue to green, often exhibiting distinctive veins of matrix – remnants of the host rock in which it formed. These veins can appear as brown or black patterns within the stone. The gem’s formation occurs in arid regions, often near copper deposits.
Zircon, ranging from 6 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale of hardness, is frequently found alongside sapphire deposits. Significant sources include Sri Lanka and Australia, with additional occurrences in Myanmar, Vietnam, and Cambodia. The blue and colorless varieties of zircon are commonly produced through heat treatment, while orange, yellow, and red hues also exist.
Tanzanite, a relatively recent addition to the birthstone family, is found in a very limited geographical area: the Merelani Hills of northern Tanzania. This exclusivity contributes to its value and desirability. Blue topaz, while a popular modern choice, is not specifically detailed in terms of geological formation within the provided sources.
Gemological Properties
The December birthstones exhibit a range of gemological properties. Turquoise, with its unique composition, is not graded on the same scale as traditional gemstones. Its value is influenced by color, matrix patterns, and overall quality.
Zircon displays a hardness ranging from 6 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale, making it susceptible to abrasion. Heat treatment is commonly employed to enhance its color, though prolonged exposure to bright light can sometimes cause the color to revert to a lighter shade. It is generally stable when exposed to chemicals.
The sources do not provide detailed gemological properties for tanzanite or blue topaz, beyond noting the blue to bluish-purple color of tanzanite and the popularity of blue topaz as a modern December birthstone.
The following table summarizes the limited hardness data available:
| Gemstone | Mohs Hardness |
|---|---|
| Zircon | 6 - 7.5 |
| Turquoise | Not specified |
| Tanzanite | Not specified |
| Blue Topaz | Not specified |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, each of these December birthstones has been imbued with symbolic meaning. Turquoise, deeply rooted in ancient traditions, is associated with wisdom, tranquility, and positive energy. It was believed to offer protection and promote good health and fortune.
Zircon, beyond its historical association with good luck, is not extensively detailed in terms of symbolism within the provided sources. Tanzanite, a more modern gem, is linked to transformative energy, while turquoise is believed to promote happiness, peace, spirituality, and protection.
The belief that turquoise would break into pieces to warn of impending disaster highlights the strong protective symbolism associated with the stone. Similarly, the Hindu belief linking turquoise to wealth demonstrates its association with prosperity.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care is essential to maintain the beauty of December’s birthstones. Zircon, due to its tendency to abrade, should be protected from rough conditions such as gardening, sports, or dishwashing. Cleaning should be performed with a soft brush and mild soap in warm water; ultrasonic and steam cleaners are not recommended.
Specific care instructions for turquoise, tanzanite, and blue topaz are not detailed within the provided sources. However, given the relative softness of turquoise, it is advisable to avoid harsh chemicals and abrasive materials when cleaning.
Choosing December Birthstone Jewelry
The variety of December birthstones allows for a wide range of jewelry options. Turquoise and tanzanite are particularly well-suited for rings, showcasing their unique colors and symbolism. Rings, pendants, earrings, and bracelets featuring these stones are readily available, offering a timeless connection to personal identity and a cherished bond with loved ones. The birth flower for December, the Narcissus, complements these gems with its elegant beauty and symbolism of renewal and hope.
Conclusion
December’s birthstones – turquoise, tanzanite, and zircon – represent a captivating palette of blue hues, each with a rich history and unique properties. From the ancient lore surrounding turquoise to the modern appeal of tanzanite and zircon, these gemstones offer a diverse selection for those born in the final month of the year. Their symbolism, geological origins, and aesthetic beauty make them cherished possessions and meaningful gifts, connecting wearers to a legacy of tradition and a spectrum of positive energies.