December boasts a unique distinction among the calendar months: it is represented by not one, but three distinct birthstones – turquoise, blue zircon, and tanzanite. Each gem offers a different aesthetic and carries its own rich history and symbolism, providing a diverse range of options for those seeking meaningful jewelry. This article will explore the origins, properties, and significance of each of these December birthstones, drawing upon available information to provide a comprehensive overview.
A Historical Perspective
Turquoise holds the longest-established history of the three, cherished for millennia across numerous cultures. Evidence suggests its use dates back to ancient Egypt, where pharaohs and rulers adorned themselves with turquoise jewelry. King Tutankhamun was even discovered buried with examples of this captivating stone. Further east, Chinese artists were carving turquoise into intricate masterpieces over 3,000 years ago, demonstrating its enduring appeal and artistic value.
Blue zircon, while possessing a longer geological history, gained prominence as a gemstone more recently. It has been historically prized for its brilliance and dispersion, qualities rivaling those of diamond. However, it is often confused with synthetic cubic zirconia due to the similarity in names.
Tanzanite is the youngest addition to the December birthstone family, officially added to the list in 1952. Its discovery is relatively recent, and its name originates directly from its sole known source: Tanzania.
Geological Origins and Sources
The geological formation and sourcing of these three birthstones differ significantly. Turquoise, as the name suggests, is characterized by its unique matrix – remnants of the rock in which it formed. It is found in several locations worldwide, including Iran, China, New Mexico, and Arizona. The presence of this matrix gives each piece of turquoise jewelry a distinctive and individual character.
Blue zircon, achieved through heat treatment of naturally occurring zircon, is sourced from various locations, including Australia, Thailand, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, Cambodia, Canada, and the United States. Zircon itself is considered one of the oldest minerals on Earth, offering a glimpse into the planet’s formative stages.
Tanzanite, uniquely, is found exclusively in a small area near Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. This limited geographical origin contributes to its rarity and value. The stone is a variety of the mineral zoisite, and most tanzanite undergoes heat treatment to enhance its blue shades, making them more akin to those of sapphire and minimizing natural brown tones.
Gemological Properties
Each birthstone possesses distinct gemological properties that contribute to its unique appearance and durability.
Turquoise: Turquoise ranges in color from blue to green and is typically semi-translucent to opaque. Its versatility allows for a wide range of jewelry designs.
Blue Zircon: Zircon naturally occurs in a spectrum of colors, including red, orange, yellow, green, blue, and brown. The vibrant blue color associated with the December birthstone is achieved through heat treatment. Zircon is known for its unusually bright luster and high dispersion.
Tanzanite: Tanzanite exhibits a captivating range of blue-purple hues. It is a relatively soft stone, making it more prone to scratching and therefore best suited for earrings and pendants.
The following table summarizes key properties:
| Birthstone | Color Range | Transparency | Hardness (Mohs) | Origin |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Turquoise | Blue to Green | Semi-translucent to Opaque | 5-6 | Iran, China, USA |
| Blue Zircon | Blue | Transparent | 6.5-7.5 | Australia, Thailand, Sri Lanka |
| Tanzanite | Blue-Purple | Transparent | 6-7 | Tanzania |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, each of these gemstones has been imbued with symbolic meaning. Turquoise is associated with loyalty, great love, health, good fortune, and peace. Blue zircon is traditionally linked to chastity, virtuousness, and trustworthiness. Tanzanite, a more recent addition to the symbolic lexicon, represents the heart, intellect, intuition, and purity.
These symbolic associations make each stone a particularly meaningful gift, allowing the giver to express specific sentiments and wishes for the recipient.
Jewelry and Care
All three birthstones are suitable for a variety of jewelry applications. Turquoise is frequently used in earrings, necklaces, and bracelets, showcasing its versatility. Blue zircon’s brilliance makes it ideal for rings and pendants, while tanzanite, due to its relative softness, is often favored for earrings and pendants to minimize the risk of scratching.
Proper care is essential to maintain the beauty of these gemstones. Tanzanite, being the softest of the three, requires particularly gentle handling. All three stones should be cleaned with mild soap and warm water, avoiding harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners. Regular cleaning will help preserve their luster and brilliance.
December Birthstone Jewelry for All
December birthstone jewelry isn’t exclusively for women. Classic men’s turquoise beaded bracelets or functional turquoise pocket knives offer stylish options for men. The possibilities are endless, allowing for thoughtful and lasting gifts for everyone.
Conclusion
The December birthstones – turquoise, blue zircon, and tanzanite – offer a captivating array of choices for those born in the final month of the year. From the ancient history of turquoise to the recent discovery of tanzanite and the brilliance of blue zircon, each stone carries a unique story and symbolism. Whether seeking a timeless classic or a modern treasure, the December birthstones provide a wealth of options to celebrate and cherish those born under the winter solstice.