December is a month celebrated with festive traditions and, uniquely, boasts three recognized birthstones: tanzanite, turquoise, and zircon. Each gem possesses a distinct history, captivating color palette, and symbolic meaning, making them cherished choices for jewelry and personal adornment. This article delves into the origins, properties, and significance of these December birthstones, offering a comprehensive overview for enthusiasts and those seeking to understand their allure.
A History of Diverse Associations
For centuries, turquoise and zircon have been linked to the month of December, representing established traditions. However, tanzanite was added more recently, providing a contemporary alternative and expanding the options available to those born in the twelfth month. This variety reflects evolving tastes and ensures a gemstone resonates with individual preferences. The earliest evidence of turquoise use dates back to 3000 BCE, demonstrating its long-standing appeal across civilizations. While tanzanite’s history is comparatively brief, its discovery in 1967 quickly established it as a desirable gem.
Tanzanite: A Modern Marvel
Tanzanite, a relatively recent addition to the birthstone family, is celebrated for its striking blue-violet hues. Discovered in Tanzania, its name honors its country of origin. This gem is notable for its pleochroism, a phenomenon where it displays different colors when viewed from varying angles, showcasing shades of blue, violet, and red. Though its lore is not as extensive as older gemstones, tanzanite is associated with spiritual awakening and the activation of chakras, particularly the throat, third-eye, and crown chakras, believed to enhance psychic abilities and facilitate communication with higher realms. It is also linked to healing, protection, and personal transformation.
Tanzanite’s rarity is a defining characteristic, as it is found exclusively in Tanzania, making it among the rarest gemstones globally. Initially named “Blue Zoisite,” it was later renamed Tanzanite in recognition of its Tanzanian origins.
Turquoise: An Ancient Treasure
Turquoise, with its iconic blue-to-green coloration, is one of the oldest known gemstones, revered by numerous cultures throughout history. Ancient Egyptians, Chinese artisans, and Native Americans all held turquoise in high esteem. It symbolizes health, good fortune, and protection. In European traditions, turquoise rings were often gifted as tokens of affection, while in Tibet, the gem is considered a national treasure.
The stone’s unique appearance often includes veins of matrix, remnants of the rock in which it formed, adding to its character. Turquoise was believed to possess beneficial powers, guaranteeing health and good fortune. From the 13th century onward, it was thought to protect wearers from falls, particularly while riding horses, and was believed to break into pieces as a warning of impending disaster. Hindu mystics believed that viewing turquoise after a new moon would bring immense wealth. Turquoise is mined in Iran, known for its highly prized “Persian blue” variety, as well as in the United States (Arizona and Nevada) and China, each region producing unique variations of the stone.
Zircon: A Sparkling Brilliance
While less detailed information is provided regarding zircon within the sources, it is recognized as one of the three birthstones for December. It is known for its sparkling brilliance and comes in a variety of colors.
Gemological Properties
While a comprehensive gemological profile for each stone isn’t fully available within the provided sources, some key characteristics can be outlined:
- Tanzanite: Exhibits a blue-violet color and is known for its pleochroism.
- Turquoise: Ranges from blue to green and often contains matrix inclusions. It is semi-translucent to opaque.
- Zircon: Known for its brilliance and available in a rainbow of colors.
Further detailed gemological data, such as hardness, refractive index, and chemical composition, are not provided in the sources.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Each December birthstone carries distinct symbolic meanings. Turquoise embodies peace, health, and good fortune, rooted in ancient traditions. Tanzanite is associated with spiritual awakening, psychic abilities, healing, protection, and self-transformation. Zircon, while less detailed in the sources, is valued for its brilliance and is believed to offer positive energy. The choice of birthstone often reflects the wearer’s personality and desired attributes. For example, the deep blue-violet hues of tanzanite resonate with the charismatic energy of Sagittarius, one of the zodiac signs associated with December.
Care and Cleaning
Specific care instructions for each stone are not detailed in the provided sources. However, given their varying properties, general guidelines can be inferred. Turquoise, being a softer stone, requires gentle handling and should be protected from harsh chemicals and impacts. Tanzanite and zircon, being more durable, can withstand more regular wear but should still be cleaned with mild soap and warm water.
Finding the Perfect December Birthstone
Selecting a December birthstone is a personal journey. Whether one is drawn to the ancient allure of turquoise, the contemporary charm of tanzanite, or the sparkling brilliance of zircon, each gem offers unique qualities. When purchasing a birthstone, consulting buying guides is recommended to ensure a high-quality gem that aligns with style and budget. With proper care, these stones will continue to shine for generations.
Conclusion
December’s birthstones – tanzanite, turquoise, and zircon – represent a diverse and captivating collection of gems. From the ancient symbolism of turquoise to the modern appeal of tanzanite and the sparkling brilliance of zircon, each stone offers a unique connection to history, culture, and personal meaning. These gems are not merely beautiful adornments but also symbols of health, fortune, spirituality, and transformation, making them cherished gifts and treasured possessions for those born in the final month of the year.