December is unique among the months, boasting not one, but five recognized birthstones: turquoise, zircon, tanzanite, lapis lazuli, and topaz. This abundance offers a diverse range of color, price, and personal meaning for those born in the final month of the year. While turquoise and zircon have historically held prominence, the inclusion of tanzanite, lapis lazuli, and topaz provides a wider spectrum of choices, each with its own captivating history and allure. The modern focus tends to be on blue zircon, blue topaz, and tanzanite, reflecting contemporary preferences and market availability.
A History Intertwined with Tradition
The tradition of associating gemstones with specific months dates back to ancient times, though the specific correspondences have evolved over centuries. The practice isn’t a recent fashion trend, but rather has roots in ancient medieval times. Birthstones were believed to be blessed with metaphysical properties, offering health, good fortune, and protection to those who wore them. These colored gems were incorporated into engagement rings, wedding bands, and necklaces, signifying not only beauty but also deeper symbolic meaning.
Turquoise, one of December’s traditional birthstones, has a particularly long and storied past. Cherished for millennia, it adorned the pharaohs and rulers of ancient Egypt, and was skillfully carved by Chinese artisans over 3,000 years ago. Ancient cultures attributed numerous beneficial powers to turquoise, believing it guaranteed health and good fortune. From the 13th century onward, it was thought to protect wearers from falls, particularly from horses, and was said to break into pieces as a warning of impending disaster. Hindu mystics believed that viewing turquoise after beholding the new moon would ensure great wealth.
Lapis lazuli, the other traditional December birthstone, has long been associated with wisdom and royalty due to its deep azure tones. In ancient civilizations, it was considered a stone of truth and enlightenment, believed to enhance intellectual abilities and stimulate a quest for knowledge.
Geological Origins and Sources
The sources for these December birthstones are geographically diverse, reflecting their unique geological formations. Turquoise, as its name suggests, is often found in shades of blue to green, frequently exhibiting veins of matrix – remnants of the rock in which it formed. Specific mining locations are not detailed in the provided sources.
Zircon, one of the oldest minerals on Earth, exhibits a remarkable range of colors. The sources indicate that the most popular color is blue zircon, often with greenish undertones, and almost always heat-treated to achieve this hue. Other colors include green (though incredibly rare), yellow to orange ("gold" zircon), red, purple (caused by natural irradiation), and brown to black. The quality of zircon is categorized as “low” or “high,” with “high” zircon being the most desirable for jewelry due to its clarity and color.
Tanzanite, a relatively recent discovery, is uniquely sourced from a single location: the area near Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. This exclusivity contributes to its high value and desirability. It is prized for its distinctive blue to violet color.
Topaz, also a December birthstone, is not detailed in terms of geological formation or sources within the provided materials.
Gemological Properties: A Spectrum of Brilliance
The gemological properties of December’s birthstones vary significantly, contributing to their individual appeal.
Zircon is celebrated for its brilliant fire and rainbow of colors. It can be colorless or white, particularly when it’s a natural or heat-treated colored zircon used as a diamond alternative. However, radioactive elements within zircon can cause changes to its crystalline structure over time, affecting its color and properties.
Turquoise is a semi-translucent to opaque gem, ranging in color from blue to green. Its appearance is often characterized by the presence of matrix, which adds to its unique character.
Tanzanite is highly prized for its unique blue to violet color. The sources do not provide details on its hardness or other gemological properties.
Topaz, while mentioned as a December birthstone, lacks detailed gemological information in the provided sources.
The following table summarizes the color variations of Zircon as described in the sources:
| Zircon Color | Description | Trade Name(s) |
|---|---|---|
| Blue | Usually greenish undertones; Almost always heat-treated | “starlite” or “stremlite” |
| Green | Incredibly rare; Usually brownish, bright green best; May be heat-treated | “beccarite” |
| Yellow/Orange | More affordable; Heated to be golden-yellow | “jargon” (light yellow), “melichrysos” |
| Red | Range in shades, usually reddish-brown | “hyacinth/jacinth” |
| Purple | Caused by natural irradiation, lightened by sunlight and heat | |
| Colorless/White | Little to no impurities (natural) or heat-treated colored zircons | |
| Brown/Black | Most common natural color; Caused by iron oxide impurities |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
December birthstones are renowned for their metaphysical properties and color vibrancy, reflecting brilliance from every angle. The sources suggest that these stones have been used in engagement rings, wedding bands, and necklaces, signifying not only aesthetic beauty but also deeper symbolic meaning.
Turquoise, with its captivating blue-green hues, is believed to bring a sense of tranquility and positive energy. It is often seen as a talisman for protection and a symbol of good fortune, instilling inner calm and fostering creativity.
Lapis lazuli resonates with those who seek inner wisdom and a connection to higher consciousness. Its rich blue color evokes the vastness of the night sky, offering a sense of serenity and expansiveness.
Zircon, as one of the oldest minerals on Earth, carries significant historical and geological value.
Care and Cleaning
The provided sources do not offer specific care and cleaning instructions for December birthstones. However, given the varying hardness and composition of these gems, general guidelines can be inferred. Turquoise, being relatively soft, requires gentle handling and should be protected from scratches and harsh chemicals. Zircon, while durable, may be susceptible to damage from ultrasonic cleaners. Tanzanite and topaz require careful cleaning with mild soap and warm water, avoiding abrasive materials.
Conclusion
December’s birthstones – turquoise, zircon, tanzanite, lapis lazuli, and topaz – represent a diverse and captivating collection of gems. From the ancient lore surrounding turquoise and lapis lazuli to the modern appeal of tanzanite and zircon, these stones offer a range of colors, histories, and symbolic meanings. The abundance of choices ensures that anyone born in December can find a birthstone that resonates with their personal style and beliefs. The variety of options reflects the richness and complexity of the gemological world, offering a glimpse into the beauty and wonder of the Earth’s natural treasures.