December is unique in the realm of birthstones, as it is associated with not one, but three distinct gemstones: turquoise, tanzanite, and zircon. Each of these stones carries its own set of physical properties, historical significance, and cultural symbolism. This article explores the geological, gemological, and metaphysical attributes of these December birthstones, offering a comprehensive overview of their origins, characteristics, and care. Whether you are a gemstone enthusiast, a jewelry buyer, or a student of gemology, this article aims to provide an in-depth understanding of the stones that mark the December birthstone tradition.
Introduction
December is a month of transition, marking the end of one year and the beginning of another. This symbolic duality is reflected in the diversity of its birthstones. Turquoise, tanzanite, and zircon each represent different aspects of the December spirit—turquoise for protection and good fortune, tanzanite for transformation and spiritual growth, and zircon for wisdom and prosperity. These gemstones have been cherished for centuries across various cultures and are now celebrated in modern jewelry for their beauty and symbolism.
This article will delve into the history and lore of these stones, their geological formation and sources, their gemological properties, and the metaphysical beliefs associated with them. It will also provide practical advice on how to care for each of these gems, ensuring their longevity and brilliance. Through this exploration, we aim to highlight the enduring appeal of the December birthstones and their significance in both historical and contemporary contexts.
History and Lore
Turquoise
Turquoise has a long and storied history, dating back thousands of years. It is one of the oldest known gemstones, with evidence of its use in ancient Egypt, where it was highly prized by the pharaohs and other rulers. Chinese artisans have been carving turquoise for over 3,000 years, and it was also used in various other ancient civilizations, including the Americas and the Middle East.
In ancient Egypt, turquoise was believed to possess protective qualities and was often used in amulets and jewelry to ward off evil and bring good fortune. It was also associated with the goddess Hathor, who was the deity of love, music, and fertility. The stone was used in the construction of tombs and was often found in burial sites, indicating its importance in the afterlife.
During the 13th century, turquoise was believed to protect the wearer from falling, particularly from horses. It was said that the stone would break into pieces if a disaster were imminent, serving as a warning to the wearer. In Hindu mysticism, it was believed that seeing a turquoise stone after viewing the new moon would ensure wealth and prosperity.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is a relatively recent discovery in the world of gemstones. It was first identified as the mineral zoisite in 1962, but it wasn’t until 1967 that the primary source for tanzanite was discovered in the Merelani Hills of northern Tanzania. The stone was named tanzanite in honor of its country of origin, and it quickly gained international recognition.
Tanzanite is known for its "velvety" deep blue to violet hues, with the blue color being the most valuable. The gem was popularized by Tiffany & Co., which launched a major advertising campaign in 1968 to promote the stone. This campaign helped tanzanite become a sensation, and it soon became a December birthstone and a gemstone for the 24th wedding anniversary.
Tanzanite is unique in that it is found only in the Merelani Hills, making it one of the rarest gemstones in the world. The area is characterized by grass-covered hillsides, scrub brush, rocky soil, and an occasional tree. The mines there are dug over 100 meters deep into the earth, and the local landscape is dominated by the snow-covered slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro.
Zircon
Zircon is a gemstone with a long and varied history, though it is often overshadowed by more popular stones like diamonds and sapphires. Zircon has been used in jewelry for centuries, and it has been found in ancient archaeological sites across the world. It is known for its brilliance and is available in a range of colors, including blue, colorless, orange, yellow, red, and green.
Zircon is believed to bring wisdom and prosperity to the wearer. It has also been associated with various metaphysical properties, including the ability to enhance spiritual growth and promote clarity of thought. In some cultures, zircon was used in protective amulets and was believed to ward off negative energies.
Zircon is often found in areas where sapphire is also mined, including Sri Lanka, Australia, Myanmar, Vietnam, and Cambodia. The gem is known for its high refractive index, which gives it a fire and brilliance that is similar to diamonds. This makes zircon a popular choice for those looking for a gemstone that combines beauty with affordability.
Geological Formation and Sources
Turquoise
Turquoise is a phosphate mineral that forms in the oxidation zones of copper deposits. It is typically found in arid regions where it forms through the interaction of copper and aluminum in the presence of phosphorus. The stone is often found in association with other minerals such as chalcopyrite and quartz.
In the United States, turquoise was once primarily mined in New Mexico, but today most of the production comes from Arizona and Nevada. Notable mines include the Kingman mine in Arizona, known for producing intense blue turquoise, and the now-closed Sleeping Beauty mine, which was a prolific producer for over four decades.
China is currently the world's largest producer of turquoise, with the majority of gem-quality turquoise coming from Hubei Province in central China. The stone is also found in other parts of the world, including Iran, Egypt, and Mexico.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is a variety of the mineral zoisite, which is a calcium aluminum silicate. It is found only in the Merelani Hills of northern Tanzania, a region that is geologically unique. The area is characterized by a combination of metamorphic and igneous rocks, which created the conditions necessary for the formation of tanzanite.
The Merelani Hills are located in a region with grass-covered hillsides, scrub brush, rocky soil, and an occasional tree. The mines there are dug over 100 meters deep into the earth, and the area is dominated by the snow-covered slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro. The gem is formed through a combination of heat and pressure, which transformed the original brown zoisite into the vibrant blue and violet hues that characterize tanzanite.
Tanzanite is a relatively rare gemstone, and its limited availability makes it highly valuable. The gem is mined using both mechanized and manual methods, with thousands of workers involved in the extraction process. The stone is then heat-treated to enhance its color, making it more vibrant and desirable.
Zircon
Zircon is a zirconium silicate that is found in a variety of geological settings, including igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks. It is one of the oldest minerals on Earth, with some zircon crystals dating back over 4 billion years. The gem is often found in areas where sapphire is also mined, including Sri Lanka, Australia, Myanmar, Vietnam, and Cambodia.
Zircon is known for its high refractive index, which gives it a brilliance that is similar to diamonds. The gem is available in a range of colors, including blue, colorless, orange, yellow, red, and green. The blue and colorless varieties are the most common, and they are often heat-treated to enhance their color.
Zircon is a relatively hard gemstone, with a hardness of 6 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale. This makes it suitable for use in jewelry, though it requires some care to prevent damage. The gem is also known for its high dispersion, which gives it a fire that is similar to diamonds.
Gemological Properties
Turquoise
Turquoise is a semi-translucent to opaque gemstone that ranges in color from blue to green. It is often found with veins of matrix, which are remnants of the rock in which it formed. The stone has a hardness of 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively soft compared to other gemstones.
Turquoise is often treated to improve its durability, appearance, and polish. Some turquoise is dyed or chemically enhanced by adding an epoxy or acrylic resin to increase its hardness and improve its color. Cavities in the stone may also be filled with a metal-loaded epoxy to imitate pyrite inclusions.
Turquoise is generally stable to light, but high heat can cause discoloration and breakage. The stone can be damaged by acids and certain chemicals, as well as by skin oils and perspiration. It is best to clean turquoise with warm, soapy water, and it should never be cleaned with steam or ultrasonic cleaners, as these can damage the treated surfaces.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite has a hardness of 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale, making it a relatively durable gemstone. However, it can be easily abraded and may crack if exposed to very high temperatures or sudden temperature changes. The gem is also susceptible to damage from hydrochloric and hydrofluoric acids.
Tanzanite is heat-treated to enhance its color, transforming the original brown zoisite into the vibrant blue and violet hues that characterize the stone. The resulting color is permanent, and there are no additional durability concerns. Tanzanite is best set in earrings or pendants, as it is not recommended for daily wear in a ring. With a protective mounting and some care, however, it can be an attractive special-occasion jewel.
The gem is resistant to the effects of normal heat, light, and common chemicals, making it suitable for everyday wear. However, it should be cleaned with warm, soapy water, and ultrasonic and steam cleaners should never be used, as they can cause damage.
Zircon
Zircon has a hardness of 6 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale, making it a durable gemstone that is suitable for use in jewelry. However, it can abrade over time, especially if it is exposed to rough conditions such as gardening, sports, or doing dishes. The gem is also known for its high refractive index, which gives it a brilliance that is similar to diamonds.
Zircon is often heat-treated to produce blue and colorless varieties, as well as orange, yellow, and red. Some heat-treated zircon may revert to their original colors (usually light brown) after prolonged exposure to bright light. The gem is generally stable when exposed to light, but it can be affected by heat, which may alter its color.
Zircon is stable when exposed to chemicals, making it suitable for use in jewelry that is worn daily. However, it should be cleaned with a soft brush and mild soap in warm water. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners are not recommended for zircon, as they can cause damage.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Turquoise
Turquoise has long been associated with protection, good fortune, and health. In ancient Egypt, it was used in amulets and jewelry to ward off evil and bring good fortune. It was also believed to protect the wearer from falling, particularly from horses. The stone was said to break into several pieces at the approach of disaster, serving as a warning to the wearer.
In Hindu mysticism, turquoise was believed to ensure wealth and prosperity if seen after viewing the new moon. The stone was also associated with the goddess Hathor, who was the deity of love, music, and fertility. Turquoise was used in the construction of tombs and was often found in burial sites, indicating its importance in the afterlife.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is associated with transformation and spiritual growth. It is believed to help the wearer navigate changes in life and promote emotional healing. The gem is also associated with the throat chakra, which is linked to communication and self-expression. Tanzanite is believed to enhance the ability to speak one's truth and to listen with empathy.
The stone is also believed to promote a sense of calm and balance, making it a popular choice for those seeking inner peace. Tanzanite is associated with the night sky and is believed to connect the wearer to the universe, promoting a sense of wonder and connection to the cosmos.
Zircon
Zircon is associated with wisdom and prosperity. It is believed to enhance the wearer's ability to make sound decisions and to bring clarity of thought. The gem is also associated with the crown chakra, which is linked to spiritual growth and higher consciousness. Zircon is believed to help the wearer connect with their higher self and to access higher states of awareness.
The stone is also believed to promote protection and to ward off negative energies. It is often used in protective amulets and is believed to provide a shield against negative influences. Zircon is also associated with love and is believed to enhance the wearer's ability to attract and maintain healthy relationships.
Care and Cleaning
Turquoise
Turquoise requires special care due to its relative softness and sensitivity to chemicals and heat. It should be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners should never be used, as they can damage the treated surfaces of the stone.
Turquoise should be stored separately from other gemstones to prevent scratches. It should also be kept away from direct sunlight and high heat, as these can cause discoloration and breakage. The stone should be worn with care, and it should be removed before engaging in activities that involve rough conditions.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is relatively durable but can be easily abraded and may crack if exposed to very high temperatures or sudden temperature changes. It should be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners should never be used, as they can cause damage to the gem.
Tanzanite should be stored separately from other gemstones to prevent scratches. It should also be kept away from acids and other harsh chemicals, as these can damage the stone. The gem is best set in earrings or pendants, as it is not recommended for daily wear in a ring.
Zircon
Zircon is a durable gemstone but can abrade over time, especially if it is exposed to rough conditions such as gardening, sports, or doing dishes. It should be cleaned with a soft brush and mild soap in warm water. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners are not recommended for zircon, as they can cause damage.
Zircon should be stored separately from other gemstones to prevent scratches. It should also be kept away from high heat, as this can alter its color. The gem is generally stable when exposed to chemicals, making it suitable for use in jewelry that is worn daily.
Conclusion
December is a month of transition and renewal, and its birthstones—turquoise, tanzanite, and zircon—reflect this theme in their unique properties and symbolism. Turquoise is associated with protection, good fortune, and health, and it has been cherished for thousands of years across various cultures. Tanzanite, a relatively recent discovery, is associated with transformation and spiritual growth and is known for its vibrant blue and violet hues. Zircon, with its brilliance and availability in a range of colors, is associated with wisdom and prosperity.
Each of these gemstones has a rich geological history and is found in unique locations around the world. Turquoise is primarily mined in the United States and China, tanzanite is found only in the Merelani Hills of Tanzania, and zircon is found in various parts of the world, including Sri Lanka, Australia, and Myanmar.
In terms of care and cleaning, each of these gemstones requires specific attention to ensure their longevity and brilliance. Turquoise is relatively soft and sensitive to chemicals and heat, tanzanite can be abraded and may crack if exposed to high temperatures, and zircon is durable but should be cleaned carefully to avoid damage.
Understanding the properties, history, and care of these December birthstones allows for a deeper appreciation of their beauty and significance. Whether worn as a personal adornment or as a symbol of a special occasion, these gemstones continue to captivate and inspire those who appreciate their unique qualities.