December boasts a remarkable array of birthstones – blue topaz, turquoise, tanzanite, and zircon – each offering a unique shade of blue and a rich history. These gemstones, cherished for millennia, represent a spectrum of symbolism and possess distinct geological origins. This article delves into the fascinating world of December’s birthstones, exploring their properties, historical significance, and enduring appeal.
A Quartet of Blue Hues
For those born in December, the choice of a birthstone is not limited to a single gem. Blue topaz, blue zircon, tanzanite, and turquoise all claim a place as December birthstones, offering a diverse range of colors and characteristics. The common thread uniting them is their captivating blue hues, mirroring the cool tones of the winter season. Whether one seeks the vibrant intensity of tanzanite, the timeless beauty of turquoise, the affordability of blue topaz, or the fiery brilliance of zircon, a December birthstone is sure to resonate with individual preferences.
History and Lore
The history of these December birthstones spans continents and millennia. Turquoise, perhaps the oldest of the group, has been revered since ancient times. As early as 5500 BCE, ancient Egyptians mined turquoise in the Sinai region, calling it “mefkat,” meaning “joy” and “delight.” The stone held significant religious and cultural importance, adorning pharaohs and symbolizing health and good fortune. By the 13th century, the gem had reached Europe via trade routes through Turkey, inspiring the French to name it “pierre tourques,” or “Turkish stone.” Historically, the most prized turquoise originated from Persia (modern-day Iran), known as “Persian blue,” though it is now found in various locations.
Zircon’s history is equally intriguing, with its name potentially derived from either the Arabic word “zarkun” (meaning cinnabar or vermilion) or the Persian word “zargun” (meaning gold colored). This reflects the gem’s diverse color range, which includes red, orange, yellow, brown, green, and blue. During the Middle Ages, zircon was believed to induce sleep and ward off evil spirits. In Hindu tradition, it alternates with hessonite garnet as one of the nine gems of the navaratna, believed to bring wealth, wisdom, and good health. Victorian-era jewelry frequently featured blue zircon, particularly in estate pieces from the 1880s.
Tanzanite, in contrast, is a relatively recent discovery. It was first identified in Tanzania in the 1960s and initially named “Blue Zoisite” before being renamed Tanzanite in honor of its country of origin. Its unique pleochroism – the ability to display different colors when viewed from different angles – quickly captivated gem enthusiasts.
Blue topaz, while topaz itself has a long history, gained prominence as a December birthstone more recently. Its association with December is a more modern development, solidifying its place among the month’s gemstone options.
Geological Formation and Sources
The geological origins of these birthstones are as diverse as their histories. Turquoise is a secondary mineral, forming in arid regions through the interaction of copper-rich solutions with aluminum and phosphorus-bearing rocks. Significant sources include Iran, China, Mexico, the Middle East, Kazakhstan, and the United States.
Zircon is a zirconium silicate mineral found in igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks. It forms under a wide range of geological conditions and is sourced from locations around the globe.
Tanzanite, a variety of the mineral zoisite, is exceptionally rare, found in a small area near the Mererani Hills of northern Tanzania. Its formation requires a specific combination of geological conditions, making it a geographically limited gemstone.
Blue topaz is created through irradiation of colorless topaz, which is found in various locations, including Brazil, Nigeria, and Russia. The irradiation process enhances the blue color, making it a popular and affordable choice.
Gemological Properties
Each December birthstone possesses unique gemological properties. Turquoise is a semi-translucent to opaque gem with a hardness of 5-6 on the Mohs scale. Its color ranges from blue to green, often displaying matrix (remnants of the host rock) within the stone.
Zircon exhibits a hardness of 6.5-7.5 on the Mohs scale and is known for its brilliance and “fire,” which is its dispersion of light. Its color varies widely, but blue zircon is particularly prized.
Tanzanite, with a hardness of 6-7 on the Mohs scale, is known for its trichroism, displaying blue, violet, and burgundy hues depending on the viewing angle. It requires careful handling due to its sensitivity to heat.
Blue topaz has a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale, making it a durable gemstone suitable for everyday wear. Its color is typically a vibrant sky blue, achieved through irradiation.
The following table summarizes key properties:
| Gemstone | Chemical Formula | Hardness (Mohs) | Color(s) | Transparency |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Turquoise | CuAl6(PO4)4(OH)8·4H2O | 5-6 | Blue to Green | Opaque |
| Zircon | ZrSiO4 | 6.5-7.5 | Blue, Red, Yellow | Transparent |
| Tanzanite | Ca2Al3(SiO4)3(OH) | 6-7 | Blue, Violet, Red | Transparent |
| Blue Topaz | Al2SiO4(OH,F)2 | 8 | Blue | Transparent |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, these gemstones have been attributed with various symbolic meanings and metaphysical properties. Turquoise was believed to guarantee health and good fortune, and to protect against falls and disaster. Hindu mystics believed that viewing turquoise after a new moon would bring wealth.
Zircon was thought to lull one to sleep and ward off evil spirits, while in Hindu tradition, it was part of a set of nine gems believed to bring prosperity and well-being.
Tanzanite is associated with wisdom, peace, and inner strength, reflecting its deep blue-violet color.
Blue topaz is often linked to communication, loyalty, and clarity of thought.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care is essential to maintain the beauty of these December birthstones. Turquoise is porous and can be affected by body oils and chemicals, so it should be cleaned with a soft cloth and mild soapy water. Avoid ultrasonic and steam cleaners.
Zircon requires gentle cleaning with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid harsh chemicals and abrasive cleaners.
Tanzanite is sensitive to heat and should be cleaned with warm, soapy water. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners are not recommended.
Blue topaz is relatively durable and can be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush.
Affordability and Market Value
One advantage of December’s birthstones is their relative affordability. While prices vary depending on quality, size, and origin, these gems are often more budget-friendly than other precious stones. This makes them accessible for a wider range of buyers, whether seeking a meaningful gift or a personal indulgence.
Conclusion
December’s birthstones – blue topaz, turquoise, tanzanite, and zircon – offer a captivating spectrum of color, history, and symbolism. From the ancient reverence of turquoise to the modern allure of tanzanite, each gemstone holds a unique place in the world of gemology. Whether chosen for their aesthetic beauty, historical significance, or perceived metaphysical properties, these December birthstones continue to enchant and inspire.