December is a unique month in the world of birthstones, celebrated with not one, but three prominent gemstones: turquoise, blue topaz, and zircon. All three are best known for their beautiful shades of blue, offering a variety of options for those born in the final month of the year. These gemstones represent a fascinating range, from ancient stones with deep historical roots to more recently discovered treasures. This article will explore the history, geological origins, gemological properties, and symbolism associated with these December birthstones.
History and Lore
December’s birthstones boast a rich and varied history. Turquoise, considered the official birthstone for December, has a particularly long and storied past. While the sources do not provide specific dates for its earliest use, they indicate its presence in Egyptian jewelry as early as 3100 B.C. as inlays. The more traditional December birthstones are lapis lazuli and turquoise.
Zircon, while often appearing as a modern December birthstone alongside blue topaz and tanzanite, also has ancient origins. Blue zircon is recognized as one of the modern December birthstones.
Blue topaz, while not detailed in terms of ancient history within these sources, is presented as a popular choice for those seeking a blue December birthstone. The sources emphasize the variety of options available to December-born individuals, allowing them to select a stone that best suits their preferences.
Geological Formation and Sources
The provided sources offer limited detail regarding the specific geological formation of these gemstones. Tanzanite is uniquely sourced, discovered in the late 1960s in Tanzania and found exclusively in this region. It is often found near sapphire sources, with additional locations including Sri Lanka, Australia, Myanmar, Vietnam, and Cambodia.
The sources do not specify the geological processes involved in the formation of turquoise or zircon, but indicate they are mined around the world.
Gemological Properties
Each of these December birthstones possesses distinct gemological properties. Turquoise is easily identified by its distinctive robin’s egg blue to greenish-blue color and opaque nature, often displaying unique veining patterns. It is a porous stone, meaning it can absorb chemicals.
Blue topaz is noted for its beautiful shades of blue. The sources do not provide specific details about its chemical composition or refractive index.
Zircon ranges from 6 to 7.5 on the Mohs scale of hardness. It is commonly heat-treated to produce blue and colorless varieties, as well as orange, yellow, and red hues. Some heat-treated stones may revert to their original colors with prolonged exposure to bright light.
Here's a table summarizing the hardness of the December birthstones, based on the Mohs scale:
| Gemstone | Mohs Hardness |
|---|---|
| Tanzanite | 6-7 |
| Zircon | 6-7.5 |
| Turquoise | Not specified |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
The sources attribute various symbolic meanings to these December birthstones. Turquoise is believed to dispel negative energy and provide protection against environmental pollutants. It is also thought to enhance intuition and release inhibitions.
Blue topaz is associated with channeling inner wisdom and finding pathways to successful opportunities.
The sources do not detail specific metaphysical beliefs associated with zircon, but present it as a modern choice alongside tanzanite and blue topaz.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care is essential to maintain the beauty of these December birthstones. Turquoise jewelry should be stored in a pouch or box to prevent scratching. Due to its porous nature, turquoise should be protected from chemicals like lotions, creams, and perfumes, as these can alter its color.
Tanzanite, with a hardness of 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale, is generally resistant to heat, light, and common chemicals, but can crack if exposed to very high temperatures or sudden changes. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners are not recommended. Warm, soapy water is the best cleaning method.
Zircon should be cleaned with a soft brush and mild soap in warm water. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners are not recommended, and it should be avoided in rough conditions to prevent abrasion.
Choosing a December Birthstone
The sources emphasize that the choice of a December birthstone ultimately depends on personal preference. Whether one prefers the distinctive blue of turquoise, the vibrant hues of blue topaz, or the brilliance of zircon, each gemstone offers unique characteristics and appeal. The variety of colors available – including red, yellow, green, purple, and brown – further expands the options for those born in December.
Conclusion
The December birthstones – turquoise, blue topaz, and zircon – represent a captivating blend of history, beauty, and symbolism. From the ancient origins of turquoise to the more recent discovery of tanzanite, these gemstones offer a diverse range of options for those born in the final month of the year. Understanding their unique properties and proper care ensures that these treasures will continue to be cherished for generations to come.