December is unique among the months, boasting not one, but four recognized birthstones: Tanzanite, Turquoise, Blue Zircon, and Blue Topaz. Each of these gemstones presents a distinct shade of blue, mirroring the cool tones of the winter season. While Turquoise holds the distinction as the most traditional choice, admired for centuries, Tanzanite is a more recent discovery, first unearthed in Tanzania in 1967. These gemstones are associated with powerful meanings such as wisdom, protection, and new beginnings, offering December-born individuals a diverse range of options for personal expression.
A History of Blue Hues
The history of December’s birthstones is a tapestry woven with ancient beliefs and more recent discoveries. Turquoise, with its captivating blue-to-green hues, has been cherished for millennia. Ancient Egyptians adorned themselves with it, and Chinese artisans carved it over 3,000 years ago. The stone was believed to guarantee health and good fortune, and from the 13th century onward, it was thought to protect wearers from falls and warn of impending disaster. Hindu mystics believed that viewing turquoise after a new moon would bring immense wealth. The very name “turquoise” originates from the French “pierre tourques,” meaning “Turkish stone,” reflecting the trade routes through which the gem reached Europe in the 13th century. Historically, the most prized turquoise originated from Persia (modern-day Iran), known as “Persian blue,” though it is now found in other locations, including the Sinai Peninsula in Egypt, where it was used in religious and cultural artifacts for thousands of years.
Zircon’s history is equally intriguing, with the etymology of its name debated between Arabic and Persian origins, relating to words for “cinnabar” or “gold colored,” acknowledging the gem’s broad color range. During the Middle Ages, zircon was believed to induce sleep and ward off evil spirits. In Hindu tradition, it alternates with hessonite garnet as one of the nine gems of the navaratna, believed to bestow wealth, wisdom, and good health upon the wearer. Victorian-era jewelry frequently featured blue zircon, with fine specimens still found in estate pieces from the 1880s.
Blue Topaz and Tanzanite represent more recent additions to the December birthstone family. Blue Topaz, while not always listed among the traditional three, is a beloved choice for its icy blue clarity and calming energy. Tanzanite, discovered in Tanzania in 1967, quickly gained popularity for its rich violet-blue shimmer, often compared to sapphire.
Geological Origins and Sources
The geological origins of these December birthstones are as diverse as their histories. Turquoise is a semi-translucent to opaque gem formed in arid regions, often found in association with copper deposits. Historically, Persia and the Sinai Peninsula were significant sources, but today, turquoise is also mined in the United States, China, and other locations.
Zircon is found in a variety of colors and is mined primarily in Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam. Interestingly, zircon contains trace amounts of uranium and thorium, making it valuable in radiometric dating, with some specimens calculated to be up to 4.4 billion years old – among the oldest minerals on Earth. While large zircon specimens are occasionally found, most gems on the market are relatively small.
Blue Topaz is a variety of topaz that receives its color through heat treatment. Topaz is found in various locations worldwide, but specific sources for the blue variety are not detailed in the provided materials.
Tanzanite is exclusively found in the Merelani Hills of northern Tanzania, making it a geographically unique gemstone. Its discovery in 1967 was relatively recent, and Tanzania remains the sole source of this captivating violet-blue gem.
Gemological Properties
The gemological properties of these four birthstones vary significantly, contributing to their distinct characteristics and appeal. The provided sources do not offer detailed gemological data such as refractive index or chemical composition. However, some properties are noted.
Zircon possesses a very high refractive index, contributing to its brilliance, and has been used as a diamond substitute for centuries. It is important to note that natural zircon should not be confused with synthetic cubic zirconia.
Blue Topaz is known for its icy blue clarity.
Turquoise ranges from blue to green and often contains veins of matrix, remnants of the rock in which it formed.
Tanzanite displays a violet-blue shimmer, often reminiscent of sapphire.
A comparative table of hardness (based on the Mohs scale, though not explicitly stated in the sources) would be helpful, but the provided materials do not contain this information.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, each of these December birthstones has been imbued with symbolic meaning and metaphysical beliefs. Turquoise, as mentioned previously, was believed to guarantee health, good fortune, and protection from harm. It was considered a powerful talisman against accidents and disaster.
Zircon was thought to induce sleep and ward off evil spirits, and in Hindu tradition, it was part of a set of nine gems believed to bring wealth, wisdom, and good health.
While the sources do not detail specific metaphysical beliefs associated with Blue Topaz or Tanzanite, they are generally associated with calming energy and elegance, respectively. The overall symbolism of December’s birthstones centers around wisdom, protection, and new beginnings.
Care and Cleaning
The provided sources offer limited guidance on the care and cleaning of these gemstones. However, specific recommendations are given for Tanzanite: warm, soapy water is the best cleaning method, and ultrasonic and steam cleaners should never be used. General care for gemstones involves avoiding harsh chemicals and extreme temperatures. Given the varying hardness and composition of these stones, individual care instructions would be beneficial, but are not available within the provided materials.
Affordability and Market Considerations
One advantage of December’s birthstones is their relative affordability. Despite their beauty and brilliance, these gems are often more budget-friendly than other precious stones, making them accessible to a wider range of buyers. Large, high-quality blue zircons can be expensive, but Blue Topaz offers a similar look at a more affordable price point.
Conclusion
December’s selection of birthstones – Tanzanite, Turquoise, Blue Zircon, and Blue Topaz – offers a diverse palette of blue hues and a rich history of symbolism and lore. From the ancient origins of Turquoise to the recent discovery of Tanzanite, each gem holds a unique place in the world of gemstones. Their affordability and varied characteristics make them appealing choices for those born in December, providing a meaningful way to express individuality and connect with the traditions of the past.