December is represented by two recognised birthstones: onyx and blue topaz. Both gemstones offer distinct aesthetic qualities and have been incorporated into jewellery for centuries, representing different facets of the December personality. This article will explore the characteristics of these gemstones, their historical context, and their presence in contemporary jewellery, drawing solely from available sources.
History and Lore
Onyx has a long and storied history, associated with strength and protection. Sources indicate that onyx is known for its protective properties, absorbing negative energy and sharpening intuition. While specific historical details are limited within the provided materials, the emphasis on its protective qualities suggests a long-held belief in its metaphysical powers.
Blue topaz, as represented in modern jewellery, is a more recent association with December. The sources highlight its use in pendants and necklaces, often crafted in 9ct yellow gold, and presented as a thoughtful, personal gift. The synthetic nature of the blue topaz used in Hanratty Jewellers’ pendants is explicitly stated, indicating a shift towards lab-created gemstones in contemporary birthstone jewellery.
Geological Formation and Sources
The provided sources do not contain information regarding the geological formation of either onyx or blue topaz, nor do they specify mining locations. The focus is entirely on the finished jewellery pieces and their properties as they relate to the consumer market.
Gemological Properties
Onyx, as presented in the sources, is a gemstone used in necklaces. A specific necklace features a 9mm x 6mm onyx stone set in sterling silver. Sterling silver itself is described as 92.5% pure silver, reinforced for strength, durable, timeless, and hypoallergenic, making it suitable for everyday wear and sensitive skin.
Blue topaz, specifically the synthetic variety, is featured in a 9ct yellow gold pendant. The pendant includes an anti-tarnish plating, suggesting a need for protection against oxidation. The dimensions of a silver pendant featuring various gemstones, including topaz, are given as 7.0 x 16.0 x 5.5 mm, with a weight of 1g. The sources do not provide details on the hardness, refractive index, or chemical composition of either gemstone.
A table summarizing the properties as presented in the sources is provided below:
| Gemstone | Metal | Cut/Shape | Dimensions (approx.) | Weight (approx.) | Plating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Onyx | Sterling Silver | N/A | 9mm x 6mm | N/A | N/A |
| Blue Topaz | 9ct Yellow Gold | N/A | 7.0 x 16.0 x 5.5 mm | 1g | Anti-tarnish |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Onyx is explicitly linked to strength and protection. It is described as a stone to be worn to “face life with courage and add a touch of mystique.” This suggests a symbolic association with resilience, fortitude, and a connection to the unseen.
The sources do not offer specific metaphysical beliefs associated with blue topaz. Its symbolism is primarily tied to its role as a December birthstone and its suitability as a personal and thoughtful gift.
Care and Cleaning
The sources provide limited information on gemstone care. However, the description of sterling silver highlights its durability and ease of care, making it suitable for everyday wear. The anti-tarnish plating on the blue topaz pendant suggests a need for some level of protection against environmental factors. General advice for silver jewellery includes keeping it clean and avoiding harsh chemicals.
Jewellery Styles and Purchasing Information
The provided sources showcase a range of jewellery styles featuring both onyx and blue topaz. Onyx is presented in a silver necklace, emphasizing a handmade, eco-friendly approach with recycled metals. Blue topaz is featured in a 9ct gold pendant, offering the option of engraving for a personalized touch.
Hanratty Jewellers offers a variety of delivery options, including standard, next-day, and click & collect, with detailed information on shipping costs and timelines for both UK and Republic of Ireland customers. They also have a 30-day return policy, ensuring customer satisfaction. The company emphasizes discreet packaging for gift orders.
Jewells.com offers a range of pendant necklaces featuring birthstone detailing with semi-precious gemstones. Griffin Fine Jewellery offers pendants with a variety of gemstones, including garnet, amethyst, aquamarine, topaz, chalcedony, pearl, quartz, peridot, lapis lazuli, opal, citrine, and turquoise, all set in sterling silver with a platinum plating.
Conclusion
December’s birthstones, onyx and blue topaz, represent a blend of ancient lore and modern aesthetics. Onyx, with its historical association with strength and protection, offers a connection to the past. Blue topaz, often presented in contemporary designs, provides a vibrant and personalized touch. The available sources demonstrate a focus on the gemstones within the context of jewellery, highlighting their aesthetic qualities, symbolic meanings, and the purchasing experience. While detailed gemological information is limited, the sources provide a valuable overview of these December birthstones as they are currently presented and perceived in the UK jewellery market.