December boasts a remarkable array of birthstones, offering a spectrum of blue hues and fascinating histories. Unlike some months with a single designated gem, December is represented by four: Blue Topaz, Blue Zircon, Tanzanite, and Turquoise. Each possesses unique characteristics, geological origins, and cultural significance, providing a diverse selection for those born in the final month of the year. This article will delve into the properties, history, and symbolism of these captivating gemstones, drawing upon available knowledge to provide a comprehensive overview.
A Quartet of December Gems
The tradition of associating specific gemstones with each month of the year dates back centuries, evolving from ancient astrological beliefs to modern gifting practices. While Blue Zircon historically held the position as the primary December birthstone, the inclusion of Blue Topaz, Tanzanite, and Turquoise has broadened the options available to those seeking a meaningful connection to their birth month. The common thread uniting these stones is their predominantly blue coloration, reflecting the cool tones of the winter season.
Historical Significance and Lore
Turquoise holds the longest history of use among the December birthstones, cherished for millennia across numerous cultures. Ancient Egyptians adorned themselves with turquoise, believing it possessed protective powers and guaranteed good health and fortune. As early as the 13th century, it was thought to safeguard against falls, particularly from horseback, and even to warn of impending disaster by fracturing. In Hindu traditions, viewing turquoise after a new moon was believed to bring immense wealth.
Blue Zircon, while less steeped in ancient lore than turquoise, has a history stretching back centuries. Its colorless variety was frequently used as a diamond substitute due to its high refractive index and brilliance.
Tanzanite and Blue Topaz are relative newcomers to the birthstone family. Tanzanite was only discovered in the 1960s and quickly gained prominence thanks to Tiffany & Co.’s marketing efforts. Its unique pleochroism – the ability to display different colors when viewed from different angles – added to its allure. Blue Topaz, while topaz itself has been known for ages, became a popular December alternative more recently.
Geological Formation and Sources
The origins of these gemstones are as diverse as their appearances. Turquoise is a semi-translucent to opaque gem formed in arid regions, often containing veins of matrix – remnants of the host rock.
Blue Zircon is mined primarily in Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam. Interestingly, zircon contains trace amounts of uranium and thorium, making it valuable in radiometric dating and revealing some specimens to be up to 4.4 billion years old – among the oldest minerals on Earth.
Tanzanite is exceptionally rare, found in a limited geographical area near Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. It is not known to exist anywhere else in the world.
Blue Topaz, while found in various locations, doesn’t have a single dominant source detailed in the provided materials.
Gemological Properties
Each December birthstone exhibits distinct gemological properties:
| Gemstone | Color(s) | Transparency | Hardness (Mohs) | Notable Properties |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Blue Topaz | Blue | Transparent | 8 | Durability, affordability, large sizes available |
| Blue Zircon | Blue | Transparent | 6.5-7.5 | High refractive index, potential for brilliance |
| Tanzanite | Blue-Violet | Transparent | 6-7 | Pleochroism, rarity |
| Turquoise | Blue to Green | Semi-translucent to Opaque | 5-6 | Often contains matrix, historical significance |
Blue Topaz is a durable gemstone, making it suitable for everyday wear. Blue Zircon, while brilliant, is somewhat softer and requires more careful handling. Tanzanite, with its moderate hardness, also benefits from gentle care. Turquoise, being the softest of the four, is prone to scratching and requires special attention to preserve its polish.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, these gemstones have been attributed with various symbolic meanings and metaphysical properties. Turquoise, as mentioned previously, was believed to offer protection and good fortune. In India, it is considered the birthstone for Sagittarius (November 21 to December 21) and is thought to promote healing and good health.
Tanzanite, with its deep blue-violet color, is often associated with wisdom, peace, and inner strength. Its pleochroism is seen by some as representing the multifaceted nature of life and the ability to adapt to change.
Blue Topaz is often linked to communication, clarity of thought, and emotional stability.
While the provided sources do not detail specific metaphysical beliefs associated with Blue Zircon, its historical use as a diamond substitute suggests an association with brilliance, clarity, and enduring value.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care is essential to maintain the beauty of December birthstones. Blue Topaz and Blue Zircon can be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Tanzanite requires gentle cleaning with mild soap and lukewarm water, avoiding harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners. Turquoise is particularly sensitive and should be cleaned with a soft, damp cloth only. Avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight, heat, and chemicals, as these can fade its color. Due to its porosity, turquoise is often treated with wax or resin to enhance its durability and color; harsh cleaning methods can remove these treatments.
The Expanding List of December Birthstones
The evolution of December’s birthstone list reflects changing tastes and discoveries. The inclusion of Tanzanite in the latter half of the 20th century demonstrates the dynamic nature of these traditions. The availability of Blue Topaz in larger sizes and at more affordable prices has also contributed to its popularity as a December birthstone. Ultimately, the choice of which stone to embrace is a personal one, guided by individual preferences and the unique qualities of each gem.
Conclusion
December’s birthstones – Blue Topaz, Blue Zircon, Tanzanite, and Turquoise – represent a captivating blend of history, geology, and symbolism. From the ancient protective powers attributed to Turquoise to the modern allure of Tanzanite, each gemstone offers a unique connection to the month of December. Whether seeking a vibrant splash of color, a meaningful symbol, or a durable heirloom, the diverse range of December birthstones provides a wealth of options for those born under the winter sky.