December boasts a trio of captivating birthstones: turquoise, tanzanite, and zircon. All three gemstones predominantly exhibit shades of blue, reflecting the cool tones of the winter season. These gems carry rich histories, unique geological origins, and diverse symbolic meanings, making them cherished additions to the world of jewelry and gemstone lore. This article will explore the characteristics, history, and significance of each of these December birthstones, drawing upon available knowledge of their properties and cultural impact.
A History Rooted in Tradition and Modern Discovery
The history of December’s birthstones spans millennia. Turquoise stands as one of the oldest known gemstones, with evidence of its use dating back to ancient Egypt and Persia. It adorned pharaohs and was highly valued in Native American cultures for its spiritual and protective qualities. The name “turquoise” itself originates from the French phrase “pierre turquoise,” meaning “Turkish stone,” reflecting the trade routes through which these gems initially reached Europe.
Zircon, while also possessing a long history of use in jewelry – over 2000 years – is often mistaken for diamond due to its brilliance. Its name is believed to derive from the Sanskrit word “tapas,” meaning fire, hinting at its historical association with strength and protection.
Tanzanite is the newest addition to the December birthstone family, discovered relatively recently in 1967 in Tanzania. Its unique violet-blue hue and limited source – a small area near Mount Kilimanjaro – have quickly established it as a rare and sought-after gemstone.
Geological Origins and Sources
Each of these December birthstones forms under distinct geological conditions and is sourced from specific locations around the globe. Turquoise is formed by groundwater containing copper seeping into bedrock, reacting with other minerals over time to create its characteristic opaque blue-green color. The dark lines often seen within turquoise are a result of the surrounding rock, known as matrix. Significant turquoise deposits are found in the Southwestern United States, particularly in Arizona, New Mexico, and Nevada.
Tanzanite, a variety of the mineral zoisite, is exclusively found in a small area of northern Tanzania, near Mount Kilimanjaro. This limited geographical source contributes to its rarity and value.
Zircon is found in a variety of geological settings, and while it occurs in many colors, the blue varieties are particularly associated with December. The sources for blue zircon are not specifically detailed in the available materials.
Gemological Properties: A Spectrum of Blue
The December birthstones exhibit a range of gemological properties that contribute to their unique appeal. Turquoise is a semi-translucent to opaque gem, displaying colors ranging from blue to green, often with matrix veins.
Tanzanite is known for its remarkable trichroism, meaning it can appear blue, purple, or burgundy depending on the viewing angle. This characteristic adds to its allure and complexity.
Zircon boasts incredible sparkle and is available in many colors, with blue zircon being a popular choice. The available sources do not provide specific details on the chemical composition, refractive index, or hardness of these stones. However, it is noted that zircon is often mistaken for diamond due to its brilliance.
A comparative table of properties, based on the limited information available, is presented below:
| Gemstone | Color Range | Transparency | Notable Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Turquoise | Blue to Green | Opaque | Matrix Veins |
| Tanzanite | Violet-Blue | Transparent | Trichroism |
| Zircon | Blue (and others) | Transparent | High Brilliance |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, these December birthstones have been attributed with various symbolic meanings and metaphysical properties. Turquoise has long been considered a stone of protection, good fortune, and peace of mind. Native American cultures revered it for its spiritual and healing powers. Ancient Egyptians believed it possessed beneficial powers, guaranteeing health and good fortune. Some traditions held that turquoise would protect against falls and warn of impending disaster.
Tanzanite, as a more recent discovery, has quickly gained associations with wisdom, dignity, and truth. Its vibrant color is often linked to spiritual growth and transformation.
Zircon has historically been associated with strength and protection. In modern times, blue zircon is often seen as a symbol of love and fidelity.
Care and Cleaning
The available sources do not provide detailed care instructions for each gemstone. However, given the properties of these stones, some general guidelines can be inferred. Turquoise, being relatively softer, may require more careful handling to avoid scratches. Zircon, with its brilliance, should be cleaned regularly to maintain its sparkle. Tanzanite, while durable, should be protected from harsh chemicals and extreme temperatures. Gentle cleaning with mild soap and warm water is generally recommended for all three gemstones.
Zodiac Connections and Alternative Stones
The primary Zodiac birthstone for Sagittarius (November 23 - December 21) is topaz, with turquoise as a secondary stone. For Capricorn (December 22 - January 20), ruby is the primary birthstone. Blue Topaz is also listed as an alternative December gemstone, offering another beautiful blue option for those born in this month.
Conclusion
The December birthstones – turquoise, tanzanite, and zircon – represent a captivating blend of ancient tradition and modern discovery. From the timeless beauty of turquoise to the rare allure of tanzanite and the sparkling brilliance of zircon, these gemstones offer a diverse range of colors, histories, and symbolic meanings. Whether chosen for their aesthetic appeal, their historical significance, or their perceived metaphysical properties, these blue gems continue to be cherished by gemstone enthusiasts and those born under the December sky.