December boasts a remarkable array of birthstones – blue topaz, blue zircon, tanzanite, and turquoise – each possessing a unique history, gemological profile, and cultural significance. Those born in this month are offered a spectrum of blue hues, alongside the captivating green of turquoise, providing a diverse selection for personal adornment and symbolic meaning. This article will delve into the origins, properties, and lore surrounding these four December birthstones.
A Quartet of December Gems
For individuals born in December, the choice of a birthstone is not limited to a single gem. Blue topaz, blue zircon, tanzanite, and turquoise all represent the month, offering a range of colors and characteristics to suit individual preferences. Each stone carries its own distinct symbolism and has been valued by different cultures throughout history. The availability of multiple options allows for a personalized connection to the birthstone tradition.
Historical Significance and Lore
Turquoise holds the longest history of use, cherished for millennia by cultures across the globe. Ancient Egyptians adorned themselves with turquoise, believing it possessed protective qualities and guaranteed health and good fortune. By the 13th century, it was thought to safeguard against falls, particularly from horseback, and even to warn of impending disaster by fracturing. In Hindu traditions, viewing turquoise after a new moon was believed to bring immense wealth.
Zircon and topaz have also enjoyed long histories, though their association with December is more recent. Turquoise’s name originates from the French phrase ‘pierre tourques,’ meaning “Turkish stone,” reflecting its passage to Europe through Turkish traders. Tanzanite, however, is the newest addition to the December birthstone family, discovered relatively recently in Tanzania.
Geological Formation and Sources
Turquoise is a semi-translucent to opaque gem, often exhibiting veins of matrix – remnants of the host rock in which it formed. It is not typically found in large, flawless crystals.
Zircon is often found near sapphire deposits, with notable sources including Sri Lanka, Australia, Myanmar, Vietnam, and Cambodia. The gem is commonly heat-treated to produce the desirable blue and colorless varieties, as well as orange, yellow, and red hues.
Tanzanite is sourced exclusively from the Merelani Hills of Tanzania, making it a geographically unique gemstone. The “Queen of Kilimanjaro,” a remarkable 242-carat tanzanite set with tsavorite garnets and diamonds, exemplifies the stone’s potential for breathtaking displays.
Blue topaz is found in various locations, though specific sources are not detailed in the provided materials.
Gemological Properties
Each of these December birthstones possesses distinct gemological properties that contribute to its unique appeal and durability.
Turquoise: Ranking between 5 and 6 on the Mohs hardness scale, turquoise is the softest of the December birthstones. Its composition is complex, resulting in varying shades of blue and green.
Blue Zircon: Zircon ranges from 6 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale. It is commonly heat-treated to enhance its color, but prolonged exposure to bright light can sometimes cause heat-treated stones to revert to their original light brown color. Exposure to heat can also alter the color of some zircon.
Blue Topaz: The hardness of blue topaz is not specified in the provided sources.
Tanzanite: The hardness of tanzanite is not specified in the provided sources.
The following table summarizes the Mohs hardness scale comparison for turquoise and zircon:
| Gemstone | Mohs Hardness |
|---|---|
| Turquoise | 5-6 |
| Blue Zircon | 6-7.5 |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Beyond their aesthetic qualities, these birthstones are imbued with symbolic meaning. Turquoise is associated with wisdom and peace, representing a soothing and compassionate energy. Tanzanite is believed to possess high-vibration healing energy, acting as a spiritual guide and aiding in manifestation. The provided sources do not detail specific metaphysical beliefs associated with blue topaz or blue zircon.
Care and Cleaning
Due to its relative softness, turquoise requires careful handling. It is susceptible to damage from makeup, perfume, and natural oils, and prolonged exposure to sunlight can also affect its color. It is best worn as earrings or pendants to minimize wear and tear. Cleaning should be done gently with warm water and mild dish soap, avoiding steam or ultrasonic cleaners.
Zircon, while harder than turquoise, should also be treated with care. It is best to avoid wearing it during activities that could cause abrasion. Cleaning can be performed with a soft brush and mild soap in warm water, but ultrasonic and steam cleaners are not recommended.
The provided sources do not offer specific care instructions for blue topaz or tanzanite.
Choosing December Birthstone Jewelry
The variety of December birthstones allows for a wide range of jewelry options. While the softness of turquoise, tanzanite, and zircon makes them less ideal for rings due to their susceptibility to wear, they are well-suited for earrings, pendants, and bracelets. When selecting December birthstone jewelry, it is advisable to consider the intended use and choose settings that provide adequate protection for the gemstone.
Conclusion
The December birthstones – blue topaz, blue zircon, tanzanite, and turquoise – offer a captivating blend of history, beauty, and symbolism. From the ancient protective powers attributed to turquoise to the modern spiritual associations of tanzanite, these gems have resonated with humanity for centuries. The choice of a December birthstone is a personal one, reflecting individual preferences and a connection to the rich heritage of these remarkable gemstones.