December boasts a remarkable selection of birthstones – turquoise, zircon, and tanzanite – each offering a unique allure and a rich history. While blue topaz is also frequently cited as a December birthstone, this article will focus on the trio highlighted across multiple sources as primary choices for those born in the final month of the year. These gemstones, ranging in origin and geological formation, have captivated cultures for millennia, imbued with symbolism and appreciated for their distinct beauty.
History and Lore
The history of December birthstones is diverse, spanning ancient civilizations to more recent discoveries. Turquoise holds the longest documented history, with evidence of its use dating back over 5,000 years. Ancient Egyptians, pharaohs and rulers alike, adorned themselves with turquoise, believing it possessed protective and health-bestowing properties. Chinese artisans were also early adopters, carving the stone more than 3,000 years ago. Belief in its protective powers persisted for centuries, with a 13th-century superstition holding that turquoise would break into pieces when disaster approached, and Hindu mystics associated it with wealth after observing the new moon.
Zircon, as a December birthstone, has a similarly long lineage, with the mineral itself dating back over 4.4 billion years. However, its recognition as a birthstone is more recent, officially replacing lapis lazuli in 1952. Prior to this, lapis lazuli held the position, particularly in ancient times, associated with royalty and artists.
Tanzanite is the youngest of the three, a 20th-century discovery, first identified in 1967. Despite its recent arrival on the scene, it quickly gained popularity and was officially recognized as a December birthstone in the United States in 2002. Its relatively recent discovery means its historical lore is less extensive than that of turquoise or zircon, but it has quickly become associated with spiritual connection and soothing energy.
Geological Formation and Sources
The origins of these December birthstones are geographically diverse. Turquoise, a semi-translucent to opaque gem ranging in color from blue to green, forms in relatively dry, arid environments. Historically, the Nishapur district of Iran was a prized source, producing turquoise known for its intense “robin’s egg blue” or “Persian blue” hue. Today, while Iran remains a source, significant production also comes from the United States, particularly Arizona and Nevada, with mines like Kingman and the now-closed Sleeping Beauty mine being historically important. Notably, China is currently the world’s largest producer of turquoise, with the Hubei Province being a major source.
Zircon is a natural mineral, zirconium silicate, and is remarkably dense, approximately 50% denser than diamond. It occurs in a variety of colors, including red, brown, yellow, green, and colorless, with blue being a particularly popular shade. The sources for zircon are not specifically detailed in the provided materials beyond its general mineralogical occurrence.
Tanzanite’s origin is unique; it is found in only one place in the world: the Merelani Hills of northern Tanzania. The gem begins as brownish zoisite and requires heat treatment to reveal its characteristic blue to violet hues. This heat treatment is a standard practice and does not affect the gem’s durability.
Gemological Properties
Each of these December birthstones possesses distinct gemological properties. Turquoise is a semi-translucent to opaque gem, often exhibiting veins of matrix – remnants of the host rock – within its structure. Its hardness is not explicitly stated in the provided sources, but tanzanite is rated between 6 and 7 on the Mohs scale of hardness.
Zircon is noted for its high refractive index, contributing to its exceptional sparkle and brilliance. It is a dense mineral, and while it can be found colorless, the blue variety is particularly favored. The sources emphasize distinguishing it from cubic zirconia, a synthetic gem.
Tanzanite, while durable enough for jewelry, can crack if exposed to sudden temperature changes or very high heat. It is susceptible to attack by hydrochloric and hydrofluoric acids. The color of tanzanite is permanent after heat treatment, with no additional durability concerns arising from the process.
A comparative table summarizing key properties, based on the provided sources, is shown below:
| Gemstone | Color Range | Transparency | Notable Properties |
|---|---|---|---|
| Turquoise | Blue to Green | Semi-translucent to Opaque | Often contains matrix; long history of use |
| Zircon | Red, Brown, Yellow, Green, Colorless, Blue | Transparent | High refractive index; very dense |
| Tanzanite | Blue to Violet | Transparent | Requires heat treatment to achieve color; found only in Tanzania |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, these gemstones have been attributed with various symbolic meanings and metaphysical properties. Turquoise has long been associated with protection, health, and good fortune. Ancient beliefs suggested it could prevent falls and warn of impending disaster.
Zircon is linked to joy and emotional balance, particularly the blue variety. While the sources do not detail specific metaphysical beliefs associated with other zircon colors, its brilliance has historically made it a substitute for diamond, symbolizing enduring love and commitment.
Tanzanite is described as a protective and soothing stone, facilitating the sharing of spiritual information. Blue topaz, also considered a December birthstone, is believed to stimulate self-esteem and learning, aligning meridians and calming emotions, making it suitable for meditation. Lapis Lazuli, a former December birthstone, was historically associated with self-mastery and protection.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care is essential to maintain the beauty of these December birthstones. Tanzanite, due to its sensitivity to heat and chemicals, requires gentle cleaning with warm, soapy water. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners are not recommended. Zircon and turquoise require similar gentle care. Turquoise, in particular, can be porous and may be affected by harsh chemicals or prolonged exposure to sunlight.
Conclusion
The December birthstones – turquoise, zircon, and tanzanite – represent a captivating blend of history, geological wonder, and symbolic meaning. From the ancient protective powers attributed to turquoise to the modern allure of tanzanite and the enduring sparkle of zircon, these gemstones offer a diverse range of choices for those born in the twelfth month. Their unique origins, distinct properties, and rich lore ensure their continued appreciation as treasured adornments and symbols of December’s beauty.