December boasts a unique distinction among the calendar months: it is associated with not one, but three distinct birthstones – turquoise, blue zircon, and tanzanite. This offers a diverse range of options for those seeking meaningful jewelry, each stone possessing its own history, aesthetic qualities, and symbolic significance. This article will explore each of these December birthstones, detailing their origins, properties, and the jewelry styles in which they are commonly found, with a particular focus on the popular tennis bracelet design.
A Historical Trio
The tradition of associating specific gemstones with each month evolved over time. Turquoise holds the longest-standing connection to December, being the most traditionally recognized birthstone. Its use dates back centuries, with evidence of its appreciation in ancient civilizations. Blue zircon was later adopted as a December birthstone, though its prominence has fluctuated over the years. Tanzanite is the most recent addition to the December birthstone family, officially recognized in 1952. This relatively recent inclusion reflects the stone’s discovery and growing popularity in the mid-20th century. The availability of multiple birthstones for December allows for a personalized selection based on individual preference and aesthetic appeal.
Turquoise: Loyalty and Good Fortune
Turquoise, a hydrated phosphate of copper and aluminum, is celebrated for its vibrant color, ranging from sky blue to greenish-blue. It has been valued for millennia, appearing in archaeological finds from ancient Egypt, Persia, and the Americas. Symbolically, turquoise is associated with loyalty, great love, health, good fortune, and peace.
Contemporary jewelry featuring turquoise includes beaded bracelets, pendants, and earrings. The versatility of turquoise makes it suitable for both casual and formal wear. Fink’s Jewelers highlights the stone’s adaptability, suggesting turquoise earrings or necklaces as excellent choices. For men, turquoise is often incorporated into beaded bracelets or even functional items like pocket knives.
Blue Zircon: Virtue and Trustworthiness
Blue zircon, while less commonly encountered in modern jewelry than turquoise or tanzanite, offers a striking alternative for December birthdays. Zircon is a zirconium silicate mineral, and the blue variety is often achieved through heat treatment. Historically, blue zircon was associated with chastity, virtuousness, and trustworthiness.
While the sources do not detail specific jewelry styles featuring blue zircon beyond general mentions, its deep blue color makes it a potentially stunning choice for pendants and earrings. It is noted that zircon is the oldest mineral on Earth, offering a connection to the planet’s formation. Zircon is mined in locations including Australia, Thailand, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, Cambodia, Canada, and the United States.
Tanzanite: A Rare Treasure from Tanzania
Tanzanite, a relatively recent discovery, has quickly gained prominence as a highly sought-after gemstone. Named after its sole origin – Tanzania, near Mount Kilimanjaro – this blue-purple variety of the mineral zoisite is remarkably rare. Tanzanite is associated with the heart, intellect, intuition, and purity.
The sources emphasize the rarity of tanzanite, describing it as a “rare treasure.” Most tanzanite undergoes heat treatment to enhance its blue shades, bringing them closer in appearance to sapphire. Due to its relative softness (prone to scratching), tanzanite is often best suited for earrings and pendants rather than rings intended for daily wear. Jewelry options include pendant necklaces, drop earrings, and stud earrings.
The Tennis Bracelet: A Modern Classic
The tennis bracelet, characterized by a continuous line of identically cut gemstones set closely together, has become a popular choice for showcasing birthstones. The sources specifically mention birthstone tennis bracelets crafted from stainless steel with CZ (cubic zirconia) stones, 18K gold over brass with CZ gemstones, and platinum finish sterling silver with simulated topaz.
These bracelets typically range in length from 6.5 to 7.5 inches, with options for adjustable sizing. The use of materials like surgical-grade stainless steel and hypoallergenic metals ensures comfort and durability. The tennis bracelet design allows for a sophisticated and elegant display of the chosen birthstone, making it an ideal gift for December birthdays.
Gemstone Properties and Materials in Modern Jewelry
The sources highlight the materials used in contemporary birthstone jewelry, particularly in the context of tennis bracelets. Stainless steel, often coated with 18K gold PVD (Physical Vapor Deposition), provides a durable and hypoallergenic base. CZ stones are frequently used as affordable and visually appealing alternatives to natural gemstones. Sterling silver with a platinum finish is another common material, offering a luxurious look.
The following table summarizes the materials and properties mentioned in the sources:
| Material | Properties | Applications |
|---|---|---|
| Stainless Steel (PVD) | Durable, hypoallergenic, non-tarnishing | Bracelet base, settings |
| Sterling Silver | High-quality, hypoallergenic | Bracelet base, settings |
| Platinum Finish | Luxurious appearance | Coating for sterling silver |
| CZ (Cubic Zirconia) | Affordable, visually appealing | Gemstone substitute |
| Created Topaz | Simulates Topaz, calming properties | Gemstone in bracelets |
| 18K Gold Over Brass | Luxurious appearance | Bracelet base, settings |
Care and Maintenance
While the sources do not provide extensive care instructions, the properties of the gemstones suggest certain considerations. Tanzanite, being prone to scratching, requires careful handling and storage. Turquoise, being a softer stone, should also be protected from impacts. Stainless steel and sterling silver are relatively low-maintenance, but regular cleaning with a soft cloth will help maintain their shine. Avoid harsh chemicals and abrasive cleaners when cleaning birthstone jewelry.
Symbolism and Gifting
The selection of a December birthstone is not merely a matter of aesthetic preference; it is also an opportunity to convey meaningful symbolism. Turquoise represents loyalty and good fortune, blue zircon embodies virtue and trustworthiness, and tanzanite symbolizes the heart, intellect, and intuition. Choosing a piece of jewelry that resonates with the recipient’s personality and values adds a personal touch to the gift. The sources emphasize the thoughtfulness of selecting a birthstone gift, particularly during the busy holiday season.
Conclusion
December’s trio of birthstones – turquoise, blue zircon, and tanzanite – offers a diverse and captivating selection for those seeking meaningful jewelry. From the ancient allure of turquoise to the modern elegance of tanzanite and the historical significance of zircon, each stone possesses unique qualities and symbolism. The tennis bracelet, a contemporary classic, provides a stunning platform for showcasing these December birthstones, making them ideal gifts for celebrating birthdays and special occasions. The versatility of these stones and the range of materials used in their settings ensure that there is a perfect piece of December birthstone jewelry for every taste and budget.