December boasts a remarkable array of birthstones – blue topaz, blue zircon, tanzanite, and turquoise – offering those born in this month a diverse selection of beautiful and meaningful gems. Historically, December’s association with birthstones has evolved, with ruby, lapis lazuli, onyx, chrysoprase, and bloodstone also holding significance in various cultures and time periods. Today, however, the focus largely rests on these four captivating blue gemstones, each with its own unique history, properties, and symbolism. This article will delve into the origins, characteristics, and lore surrounding these December birthstones, providing a comprehensive overview for enthusiasts and those seeking to understand their significance.
A History of December’s Gems
The tradition of associating specific gemstones with each month of the year dates back centuries, with roots in ancient astrology and religious beliefs. In ancient times, ruby was linked to December, believed to sharpen the mind and encourage courtly love. Prior to the 1950s, lapis lazuli held a prominent place as a December birthstone, valued by ancient royalty and artists for its association with self-mastery and protection. Old Russian traditions recognized chrysoprase as a December gem, thought to bring good fortune and heal emotional wounds. Tibetan traditions favored onyx, attributing to it energies of self-mastery and protection, alongside happiness and good fortune. Bloodstone was also a traditional December birthstone, representing courage and vitality.
However, the landscape of December birthstones shifted in the 20th century. Zircon was officially recognized as a December birthstone after 1952, and in 2002, tanzanite was added to the list in the United States. Turquoise, while a modern choice, has a long history of use as a talisman and protective stone, dating back thousands of years. The addition of these gems reflects a broadening understanding and appreciation of the diverse world of gemstones.
Blue Topaz: A Modern Favorite
Blue topaz has emerged as a popular modern choice for December birthstones. Sources highlight its gentle and stimulating properties, believed to enhance self-esteem and facilitate learning. It is also considered beneficial for emotional calming and spiritual connection, making it an excellent aid for meditation. The Gemological Institute of America is not referenced in the provided sources, so specific details regarding its geological formation or grading are unavailable.
Blue Zircon: A Quiet Vibration
Blue zircon, another recognized December birthstone, is described as possessing a quiet vibration and comes in a variety of colors. It is believed to encourage joy and emotional balance. The sources do not provide details on its chemical composition or hardness.
Tanzanite: A Recent Discovery with Powerful Energy
Tanzanite is a relatively recent addition to the December birthstone family, officially recognized in 2002. Discovered in Tanzania, it was initially known as “Blue Zoisite” before being renamed in honor of its country of origin. Tanzanite is celebrated for its deep blue-violet color and a phenomenon called pleochroism, where the gem displays different colors when viewed from different angles. This captivating characteristic adds to its allure.
Tanzanite is believed to possess high-vibration healing energy and is often considered a manifestation magnet, aiding in spiritual awareness and guiding one towards wisdom and consciousness. It is also a popular gift for 24th wedding anniversaries. A particularly famous tanzanite, known as the “Queen of Kilimanjaro,” weighs 242 carats and is set with tsavorite garnets and diamonds, showcasing the gem’s exceptional beauty.
Turquoise: An Ancient Talisman
Turquoise, a modern birthstone of December, boasts a history stretching back thousands of years. Its name originates from the French phrase “pierre tourques,” meaning “Turkish stone,” reflecting its historical trade route through Turkey. Ancient Egyptians wore turquoise jewelry as a style statement, and throughout history, it has been valued as a talisman for protection against negative energy. Its soothing blue-green hue represents peace and wisdom, making it particularly resonant for those born in December.
Gemological Properties: A Limited Overview
The provided sources offer limited details regarding the specific gemological properties of these birthstones. A table summarizing the available information, though incomplete, is presented below:
| Gemstone | Color(s) | Symbolism/Beliefs | Historical Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Blue Topaz | Blue | Self-esteem, learning, emotional calm, spirituality | Modern December birthstone |
| Blue Zircon | Variety of colors, primarily blue | Joy, emotional balance | Recognized after 1952 as a December birthstone |
| Tanzanite | Blue, violet-blue, with hints of red | Spiritual awareness, manifestation, wisdom | Discovered in Tanzania, recognized in 2002 |
| Turquoise | Blue-green | Protection, peace, wisdom | Ancient talisman, worn by Egyptians |
Further research utilizing resources beyond the provided sources would be necessary to provide a comprehensive gemological profile for each stone, including details on hardness, refractive index, chemical composition, and crystal structure.
Symbolism and Astrological Associations
The symbolism associated with December birthstones aligns with the characteristics of the zodiac signs associated with the month: Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21) and Capricorn (December 22 – January 19). Tanzanite is specifically linked to Sagittarius, resonating with their charismatic energy. The rich tones of garnet are considered a good match for the ambitious Capricorn. More broadly, these gemstones are believed to offer various benefits, including spiritual awareness, emotional balance, protection, and good fortune.
Care and Maintenance
The sources offer limited guidance on the care and maintenance of these gemstones. However, a general recommendation is provided to regularly energize crystals through exposure to moonlight and cleanse them using selenite or sage smoke. Honoring jewelry by removing it daily to allow it to rest is also suggested. Specific care instructions would vary depending on the individual gemstone’s hardness and susceptibility to damage.
Conclusion
December’s birthstones – blue topaz, blue zircon, tanzanite, and turquoise – represent a captivating blend of history, beauty, and symbolism. From ancient talismans to modern discoveries, these gems have held significance for cultures across the globe. While the provided sources offer a valuable introduction to these stones, further exploration is encouraged to fully appreciate their unique properties and enduring allure. The diverse palette of December’s birthstones provides a meaningful and beautiful choice for those born in this special month.