December boasts a remarkable selection of birthstones – tanzanite, turquoise, and zircon – each with a unique history, geological origin, and aesthetic appeal. While blue topaz is also mentioned as a December birthstone, the provided sources primarily focus on these three gems, detailing their significance from ancient lore to modern appreciation. This article will explore the origins, properties, and cultural relevance of these captivating gemstones.
A History Rooted in Tradition and Discovery
The concept of birthstones dates back centuries, with ancient civilizations believing that gemstones held specific powers linked to the time of year. These beliefs evolved into the tradition of associating particular stones with each month, offering wearers potential benefits and good fortune. Turquoise, with a history stretching back millennia, is arguably the most ancient of these December stones. Adornments featuring turquoise have been discovered in the tombs of pharaohs, indicating its importance in ancient Egyptian culture. The stone was also highly valued by Chinese artisans over 3,000 years ago, and held significant spiritual meaning for Native American tribes, who believed it could bring accuracy in aim and protection from harm.
Tanzanite, in contrast, is a relatively recent discovery. Identified as the mineral zoisite in 1962, its primary source was located in the Merelani Hills of Tanzania in 1967, leading to its naming in honor of the country. Zircon, while known for much longer, also possesses a rich history, displaying a range of colors and being utilized in jewelry for centuries.
Geological Origins and Mining Locations
The origins of these three birthstones are geographically distinct. Turquoise is primarily mined in Iran, specifically the Nishapur district, where a particularly prized, intense blue variety has been extracted for over 1,000 years. This color, often described as “robin’s egg blue” or “Persian blue,” is now used as a standard descriptor for turquoise of that hue, regardless of its actual origin.
Tanzanite, uniquely, is found exclusively in the Merelani Hills of northern Tanzania. The mines, dug over 100 meters deep, operate amidst the landscape of grass-covered hillsides and in the shadow of Mount Kilimanjaro. This singular source contributes to tanzanite’s rarity and value.
Zircon’s origins are less specifically detailed in the provided sources, but its presence in historical jewelry suggests a wider range of mining locations throughout history.
Gemological Properties: Distinguishing Characteristics
Each of these December birthstones possesses distinct gemological properties. Turquoise is a semi-translucent to opaque gem, typically exhibiting shades of blue and green, often with visible veins of matrix – remnants of the host rock. Its composition is a combination of copper and aluminum phosphate.
Tanzanite is known for its vivid colors, ranging from a pure rich blue to violet, with blue being the most valuable. It is often described as “velvety” due to its deep saturation and clarity.
Zircon displays a wider spectrum of colors, appearing in almost every hue except red. It boasts a high hardness, registering a 9 on the Mohs scale, making it a remarkably durable gemstone. The sources do not provide specific details on the chemical composition or refractive index of zircon.
Here's a comparative table summarizing the hardness of the three stones:
| Gemstone | Mohs Hardness |
|---|---|
| Tanzanite | 6-7 |
| Turquoise | Not specified |
| Zircon | 9 |
Symbolism and Cultural Significance
Throughout history, these gemstones have been imbued with symbolic meaning. Turquoise has long been associated with protection, health, and good fortune. In Tibet, it is considered a national treasure believed to ward off evil. In European tradition, gifting a turquoise ring symbolized a promise of remembrance. Apache tribes believed turquoise could be found by following a rainbow and enhanced accuracy with bows and firearms.
Tanzanite, while newer to the scene, quickly gained recognition for its beauty and became associated with the 24th wedding anniversary.
Zircon, according to the sources, has long been admired for its spiritual attributes, believed to be calming and supportive of religious quests.
Care and Cleaning
Maintaining the beauty of these December birthstones requires specific care. Tanzanite, with a hardness of 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale, is susceptible to scratching and should be protected from impacts. It can be damaged by high temperatures or sudden temperature changes and is vulnerable to hydrochloric and hydrofluoric acids.
The sources do not provide specific care instructions for turquoise or zircon, but given zircon’s high hardness, it is likely more resistant to abrasion than tanzanite.
Tiffany & Co.’s Role in Tanzanite’s Popularity
A significant turning point in tanzanite’s history came with the involvement of Tiffany & Co. Recognizing its international appeal, Tiffany became the primary distributor of the gem in 1968, launching a major advertising campaign that propelled tanzanite to widespread popularity. The gem’s vivid colors, high clarity, and potential for large cut stones contributed to its rapid success, establishing it not only as a December birthstone but also as a symbol of sophisticated style.
Conclusion
The December birthstones – tanzanite, turquoise, and zircon – represent a fascinating blend of ancient tradition and modern discovery. From the historical significance of turquoise in ancient civilizations to the recent emergence of tanzanite as a gemological sensation, and the enduring spiritual qualities of zircon, these stones offer a diverse range of beauty and symbolism for those born in the final month of the year. Their unique geological origins and distinct properties further enhance their allure, making them cherished gemstones for enthusiasts, collectors, and jewelry lovers alike.