December is unique among the calendar 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, crisp tones often associated with the winter season. While Turquoise holds the distinction as the most traditionally recognized December birthstone, having been cherished for millennia, Tanzanite represents a more recent discovery, first unearthed in Tanzania in 1967. These gemstones carry diverse meanings, ranging from wisdom and protection to symbolizing new beginnings, offering December-born individuals a rich selection to express their personal identity. The affordability of these stones is also a notable advantage, making beautiful gemstone jewelry accessible to a wider range of buyers.
A History Rooted in Tradition and Recent Discovery
The history of December’s birthstones is a blend of ancient tradition and modern discovery. Turquoise, with a history spanning thousands of years, has been revered by cultures across the globe. Ancient Egyptians, pharaohs and rulers alike, adorned themselves with turquoise, while Chinese artisans were carving the stone over 3,000 years ago. Belief in its protective powers was widespread; from the 13th century onward, it was thought to safeguard wearers from falls, particularly from horseback, and even to warn of impending disaster by fracturing. In Hindu mysticism, viewing turquoise after a new moon was believed to 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 the stone has also been sourced from the Sinai Peninsula in Egypt for millennia.
In contrast to Turquoise’s long history, Tanzanite is a relatively recent addition to the world of gemstones, discovered in Tanzania in 1967. This makes it the newest of the December birthstones.
Blue Zircon and Blue Topaz also have long histories, though their association specifically with December is more recent. Blue Zircon is often found alongside sapphire deposits in locations like Sri Lanka and Australia, as well as Myanmar, Vietnam, and Cambodia.
Geological Origins and Global Sources
The sources of these December birthstones are geographically diverse. Turquoise, as mentioned, historically came from Persia and the Sinai Peninsula, but is now found in various locations worldwide. Tanzanite is unique in that its primary source remains the Merelani Hills of Tanzania, making it a geographically limited gemstone. Blue Topaz is sourced from several locations, while Blue Zircon is often found in association with sapphire deposits in Sri Lanka, Australia, Myanmar, Vietnam, and Cambodia.
Gemological Properties: A Spectrum of Blues
Each of the December birthstones possesses unique gemological properties that contribute to its distinct appearance and value.
Turquoise is a semi-translucent to opaque gem, exhibiting colors ranging from blue to green. A defining characteristic of turquoise is the presence of matrix, which are remnants of the host rock within the gemstone, creating unique patterns and veining. The color “turquoise” itself is derived from the stone, a testament to its distinctive hue.
Blue Topaz, while not always listed among the traditional three, is a beloved choice for its icy blue clarity and calming energy.
Blue Zircon ranges from 6 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale of hardness. It is commonly heat-treated to produce the popular blue and colorless varieties, as well as orange, yellow, and red hues. While generally stable, heat-treated zircon can sometimes revert to its original color (light brown) with prolonged exposure to bright light.
Tanzanite displays a captivating blue to bluish-purple color, often compared to sapphire.
A comparative overview of hardness, based on the Mohs scale, is presented below:
| Gemstone | Mohs Hardness |
|---|---|
| Blue Zircon | 6 - 7.5 |
| Turquoise | 5 - 6 |
| Blue Topaz | 8 |
| Tanzanite | 6.5 - 7 |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, these December birthstones have been attributed with various symbolic meanings and metaphysical properties. Turquoise, steeped in ancient lore, was believed to guarantee health and good fortune, and to offer protection from harm. Blue Zircon, while less explicitly linked to specific ancient beliefs in the provided sources, is appreciated for its brilliance and variety of colors. Blue Topaz is associated with calming energy, while Tanzanite is often linked to transformation and intuition.
Care and Cleaning: Preserving the Brilliance
Proper care is essential to maintain the beauty of December’s birthstones. Blue Zircon, due to its tendency to abrade, should be worn with caution and avoided in rough conditions like gardening or sports. Cleaning should be done with a soft brush and mild soap in warm water; ultrasonic and steam cleaners are not recommended. Turquoise, Tanzanite, and Blue Topaz can generally be cleaned using similar methods. Exposure to heat can alter the color of some zircon, so it should be protected from prolonged heat exposure.
Choosing Your December Birthstone
The choice of a December birthstone is ultimately a personal one. Those drawn to rich, deep tones may favor Tanzanite, with its violet-blue shimmer reminiscent of sapphire. Individuals seeking earthy charm and spiritual connection might gravitate towards Turquoise, with its soft sky-blue glow. Blue Zircon offers a dazzling array of colors, including golden, red, and clear varieties, while Blue Topaz provides icy blue clarity and a sense of calm. The affordability of these stones makes it easier to find a meaningful and beautiful piece of jewelry.
Conclusion
December’s birthstones – Tanzanite, Turquoise, Blue Zircon, and Blue Topaz – represent a diverse and captivating palette of blue hues. From the ancient traditions surrounding Turquoise to the recent discovery of Tanzanite, each gemstone carries a unique history, symbolism, and gemological profile. Whether seeking a timeless classic or a modern treasure, December-born individuals have a wealth of options to choose from, allowing them to express their individuality and connect with the enduring allure of these beautiful gemstones.