For those born on December 17th, the birthstone is not one, but a triad of unique and beautiful gems: Tanzanite, Turquoise, and Zircon. Each of these stones carries its own set of characteristics, history, and symbolism, making them not only visually appealing but also rich in cultural and spiritual significance. This article explores the distinct qualities of each of these December 17th birthstones, delving into their geological formation, historical context, gemological properties, and the meanings they have been attributed across cultures and time.
Introduction
The 17th day of December is marked by a special connection to a trio of gemstones that are each rare in their own way: Tanzanite, Turquoise, and Zircon. These three stones have been recognized as birthstones for December 17th due to their unique properties, aesthetic appeal, and historical significance. While many months are assigned a single birthstone, December is notable for having three, each of which contributes a different dimension to the month’s symbolism and gemological legacy.
The December 17th birthstones are not only valuable as jewelry but also carry deep cultural and spiritual meanings. Tanzanite, a relatively modern discovery, is known for its intense blue-violet hue and is associated with spiritual enlightenment. Turquoise, one of the oldest known gemstones, has long been used in jewelry and amulets, and is often linked to protection and wisdom. Zircon, particularly the blue variety, is prized for its brilliance and is believed to bring clarity and strength.
This article will explore each of these three birthstones in detail, covering their geological origins, gemological properties, historical uses, and the meanings and beliefs associated with them. It will also offer practical advice on how to care for and appreciate these precious stones.
History and Lore of the December 17th Birthstones
Tanzanite: A Modern Marvel
Tanzanite is the most recent of the three December 17th birthstones, having been discovered in the late 1960s in the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania. It was found by a miner named Moshi Mani, who stumbled upon the stone while searching for tanzanite. The gem was later developed and marketed by Hearts of the World, a company founded by Richard T. Liddicoat, a well-known gemologist and then-president of the Gemological Institute of America (GIA).
Tanzanite’s discovery was a significant event in the gemstone world because it introduced a new and highly sought-after gemstone. Its vibrant blue-violet color, which is caused by the presence of vanadium, is unique and instantly recognizable. The stone is also extremely rare, as it is only found in the Merelani Hills of Tanzania. In fact, it is estimated that Tanzanite will only be available for about 500 years, making it one of the most exclusive gemstones in the world.
The name “Tanzanite” was derived from the country where it was found—Tanzania—and it was officially introduced as the December birthstone in 2002. Since then, it has become a popular choice for engagement rings, pendants, and other fine jewelry, often symbolizing transformation, intuition, and spiritual awakening.
Turquoise: An Ancient Gem with Enduring Legacy
Turquoise is one of the oldest known gemstones, with a history that dates back thousands of years. It has been used in jewelry and amulets by ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians, Chinese, Persians, and Native Americans. The stone was highly valued for its sky-blue to greenish-blue color, which was believed to bring protection, wisdom, and prosperity.
In Ancient Egypt, turquoise was used in jewelry and decorative objects, and it was often associated with the gods. The Amun-Ra, one of the most important Egyptian deities, was depicted wearing turquoise jewelry. In Ancient China, turquoise was used in imperial regalia and was considered a symbol of imperial power and divine favor.
The Native American tribes, particularly the Navajo and Zuni, have a long tradition of using turquoise in jewelry and ceremonial objects. They believed that the stone connected them to the spirit world and was a source of protection and healing. Today, turquoise continues to be a popular gemstone, especially in Southwestern-style jewelry and is still considered a powerful and meaningful stone.
Zircon: A Sparkling Gem with a Radiant Past
Zircon, particularly the blue variety, has a long and fascinating history. While it has been known for centuries, it was not widely recognized as a gemstone until the 20th century. Blue zircon is created through heat treatment, which enhances its natural brilliance and color. It is often mistaken for diamonds or sapphires due to its sparkling appearance and high refractive index.
Zircon has been found in ancient jewelry from various parts of the world, including Sri Lanka, India, and Thailand. It was especially popular in Victorian and Art Deco jewelry, where it was used as a diamond substitute. Today, blue zircon is a popular gemstone for engagement rings, earrings, and pendants, and it is valued for its radiant color and affordability.
Zircon is also known for its metaphysical properties, including its association with clarity, strength, and spiritual growth. It is believed to help individuals focus their thoughts and enhance their decision-making abilities. In some cultures, zircon is also believed to ward off negative energy and bring good fortune.
Geological Formation and Sources
Tanzanite: A Unique and Limited Resource
Tanzanite is a trigonal mineral that forms under high-pressure and high-temperature conditions in metamorphic rocks. It is a variety of the mineral zoisite, and its intense blue-violet color is due to the presence of vanadium. The stone is only found in the Merelani Hills of Tanzania, which is located near the base of Mount Kilimanjaro.
Because of the limited geographical source and the slow rate of mining, tanzanite is considered a rare and valuable gemstone. The stone is mined in small quantities, and it is estimated that Tanzanite will only be available for about 500 years, making it one of the most exclusive gemstones in the world.
Turquoise: A Stone of Earth and Sky
Turquoise is a phosphate mineral that forms in weathered deposits of copper-rich rocks. It is typically found in arid regions where there is a high concentration of copper and phosphorus. The intense blue-green color of turquoise is due to the presence of copper, and the white or yellow veining is caused by the presence of aluminum or other minerals.
The most well-known sources of turquoise include Iran, China, Egypt, and the United States, particularly in the Southwestern states such as New Mexico and Arizona. These regions are known for producing high-quality turquoise that is used in jewelry, decorative objects, and ceremonial items.
Zircon: A Diverse and Durable Gem
Zircon is a zirconium silicate mineral that occurs in various colors, including brown, yellow, red, and blue. The blue variety, which is the most popular in jewelry, is created through heat treatment, which enhances its brilliance and color. Zircon is known for its high refractive index and dispersion, which gives it a sparkling appearance similar to that of diamonds.
Zircon is found in a variety of geological environments, including granite, metamorphic rocks, and beach sands. The most well-known sources of zircon include Sri Lanka, Thailand, India, and Brazil. These countries are known for producing high-quality zircon that is used in jewelry and decorative objects.
Gemological Properties
Tanzanite: A Rare and Colorful Gem
Tanzanite has a trigonal crystal system and is a variety of the mineral zoisite. It has a Mohs hardness of 6 to 6.5, which means it is relatively soft and requires gentle handling. The stone has a specific gravity of 3.1 to 3.5 and is transparent to translucent in appearance.
One of the most notable properties of tanzanite is its trichroism, meaning that it can display three different colors when viewed from different angles. These colors are blue, purple, and brown, and they are caused by the presence of vanadium and the orientation of the crystal structure.
Tanzanite is also known for its high refractive index, which gives it a sparkling appearance and makes it a popular choice for jewelry. The stone is cut into a variety of shapes, including ovals, cushions, and rounds, to enhance its color and brilliance.
Turquoise: A Classic and Versatile Stone
Turquoise is a trigonal mineral with a Mohs hardness of 5 to 6, making it relatively soft and prone to scratches and damage. The stone has a specific gravity of 2.6 to 2.8 and is opaque to translucent in appearance. It is porous, which means it can absorb oils and other substances, and it should be handled with care to avoid discoloration and deterioration.
Turquoise is known for its distinctive blue-green color, which is caused by the presence of copper and phosphorus. The white or yellow veining in the stone is due to the presence of aluminum or other minerals. The intensity of the color can vary depending on the concentration of these elements, and the most valuable turquoise is typically deep blue with minimal matrix.
Turquoise is often treated with resin or oil to enhance its color and durability, and it is cut into a variety of shapes, including cabochons, beads, and inlays, to create jewelry and decorative objects.
Zircon: A Radiant and Sparkling Gem
Zircon is a zirconium silicate mineral with a tetragonal crystal system. It has a Mohs hardness of 6.5 to 7.5, making it relatively hard and durable. The stone has a specific gravity of 4.6 to 5.3 and is transparent to translucent in appearance.
Zircon is known for its high refractive index and dispersion, which gives it a sparkling appearance and makes it a popular choice for jewelry. The blue variety, which is the most popular in jewelry, is created through heat treatment, which enhances its brilliance and color.
Zircon is also known for its metaphysical properties, including its association with clarity, strength, and spiritual growth. It is believed to help individuals focus their thoughts and enhance their decision-making abilities. In some cultures, zircon is also believed to ward off negative energy and bring good fortune.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Tanzanite: A Stone of Transformation and Intuition
Tanzanite is often associated with spiritual growth, intuition, and emotional balance. It is believed to help individuals connect with higher realms of consciousness and to enhance their ability to receive and interpret intuitive messages. The stone is also believed to promote emotional healing and balance, helping individuals navigate complex emotions with grace and poise.
Tanzanite is also associated with communication and self-expression, particularly through the throat chakra. It is believed to help individuals articulate their thoughts and feelings more clearly, fostering open and honest communication in both personal and professional relationships.
Turquoise: A Stone of Protection and Wisdom
Turquoise has long been associated with protection, wisdom, and prosperity. It is believed to ward off negative energy and bring positive energy into one’s life. The stone is also associated with good fortune and success, making it a popular choice for those seeking to enhance their career or business ventures.
Turquoise is also believed to enhance one’s connection to the earth and the spiritual realm, making it a popular stone for meditation and spiritual practices. It is believed to help individuals connect with their inner wisdom and higher self, and to enhance their ability to make wise and informed decisions.
Zircon: A Stone of Clarity and Strength
Zircon is associated with clarity, strength, and spiritual growth. It is believed to help individuals focus their thoughts and enhance their decision-making abilities. The stone is also believed to ward off negative energy and bring positive energy into one’s life.
Zircon is also associated with transformation and change, making it a popular stone for those undergoing major life transitions. It is believed to help individuals navigate change with confidence and clarity, and to embrace new opportunities with enthusiasm and optimism.
Care and Cleaning
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is a relatively soft gemstone with a Mohs hardness of 6 to 6.5, and it should be handled with care. It is also susceptible to heat and light, and prolonged exposure to sunlight or heat can cause it to fade or lose its color.
To clean tanzanite, use a soft cloth and mild soap and water. Avoid using harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners, as these can damage the stone. Store tanzanite in a soft pouch or separate compartment to prevent scratches and damage.
Turquoise
Turquoise is a relatively soft gemstone with a Mohs hardness of 5 to 6, and it is porous, which means it can absorb oils and other substances. It should be handled with care to avoid discoloration and deterioration.
To clean turquoise, use a soft cloth and mild soap and water. Avoid using harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners, as these can damage the stone. Store turquoise in a soft pouch or separate compartment to prevent scratches and damage.
Zircon
Zircon is a relatively hard gemstone with a Mohs hardness of 6.5 to 7.5, and it is durable and resistant to scratches and damage. However, it is susceptible to heat and light, and prolonged exposure to sunlight or heat can cause it to fade or lose its color.
To clean zircon, use a soft cloth and mild soap and water. Avoid using harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners, as these can damage the stone. Store zircon in a soft pouch or separate compartment to prevent scratches and damage.
Conclusion
The December 17th birthstones—Tanzanite, Turquoise, and Zircon—are a remarkable trio of gemstones that each carry their own unique properties, history, and symbolism. Tanzanite, with its rare and vibrant blue-violet color, is associated with spiritual growth, intuition, and emotional balance. Turquoise, one of the oldest known gemstones, has been used for thousands of years and is associated with protection, wisdom, and prosperity. Zircon, particularly the blue variety, is known for its sparkling appearance and association with clarity, strength, and spiritual growth.
These gemstones are not only visually appealing but also rich in cultural and spiritual significance, making them meaningful and valuable choices for jewelry and personal adornment. Whether you are looking to enhance your jewelry collection or seeking a gemstone that resonates with your personal or spiritual journey, the December 17th birthstones offer a beautiful and meaningful option.