December boasts a remarkable selection of birthstones – turquoise, tanzanite, and zircon – each possessing a unique history, captivating color, and symbolic significance. While traditionally associated with turquoise and zircon, tanzanite has emerged as a popular modern choice, offering December-born individuals a diverse range of options to express their personal style and resonate with the gem’s inherent qualities. This article will delve into the history, geological origins, gemological properties, and cultural meanings of these three December birthstones.
History and Lore
For centuries, turquoise and zircon have held the distinction of being December’s birthstones. Turquoise, one of the oldest known gemstones, has been cherished for millennia across numerous cultures. Ancient Egyptians adorned themselves with turquoise, while Chinese artisans skillfully carved the stone over 3,000 years ago. The gem was believed to guarantee health and good fortune, and from the 13th century onward, it was thought to offer protection, even warning of impending disaster by fracturing at the approach of danger. In Hindu traditions, viewing turquoise after a new moon was believed to ensure wealth. European cultures gifted turquoise rings as tokens of affection.
Zircon, while less prominently featured in ancient lore compared to turquoise, also has a long history of use. Its varied colors have been appreciated for centuries, and it has been found alongside sapphire deposits in locations like Sri Lanka and Australia.
Tanzanite is the newest addition to the December birthstone family, discovered relatively recently in 1967 in Tanzania. Consequently, it lacks the extensive historical lore associated with turquoise and zircon. However, some believe tanzanite can activate the throat, third-eye, and crown chakras, facilitating psychic abilities and communication with higher dimensions. It is also associated with healing, protection, and self-transformation.
Geological Formation and Sources
Turquoise is formed through a chemical reaction involving water, copper, and aluminum, often near copper deposits. Primary sources of turquoise include Iran, renowned for its distinctive “Persian blue” variety, as well as the United States, particularly Arizona and Nevada, and China, each producing unique variations of the gem.
Zircon forms in igneous rocks and alluvial deposits. It is found in a variety of locations, including Sri Lanka, Australia, Myanmar, Vietnam, and Cambodia. The gem is often found near sapphire sources, suggesting a shared geological origin in certain regions.
Tanzanite, uniquely, is found in only one location worldwide: Tanzania. This limited source contributes to its rarity and value. It is a variety of the mineral zoisite, and its formation is linked to specific geological processes within the Merelani Hills of northern Tanzania.
Gemological Properties
These three birthstones exhibit distinct gemological properties. Turquoise is a semi-translucent to opaque gem, ranging in color from blue to green, often displaying veins of matrix – remnants of the host rock.
Zircon displays a wider range of colors, from blue and colorless to orange, yellow, and red. It registers between 6 and 7.5 on the Mohs scale of hardness. Zircon is commonly heat-treated to enhance its color, particularly to produce blue and colorless varieties. However, prolonged exposure to bright light can sometimes cause heat-treated zircon to revert to its original color, typically a light brown. Exposure to heat can also alter the color of some zircon.
Tanzanite is characterized by its deep blue-violet color, though it exhibits pleochroism – displaying different colors when viewed from different angles, including shades of blue, violet, and red. This phenomenon adds to its allure and complexity.
The following table summarizes key gemological properties:
| Gemstone | Color | Hardness (Mohs) | Transparency | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Turquoise | Blue to Green | 5-6 | Opaque to Semi-translucent | Often contains matrix |
| Zircon | Blue, Colorless, Orange, Yellow, Red | 6-7.5 | Transparent to Opaque | Can be heat-treated; may revert color with light exposure |
| Tanzanite | Blue-Violet | 6-7 | Transparent | Pleochroic – displays different colors from different angles |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, these gemstones have been imbued with symbolic meanings. Turquoise has long been associated with health, good fortune, and protection. It was believed to safeguard against falls and warn of impending danger.
Zircon, while not as richly steeped in symbolism as turquoise, is often associated with prosperity and wisdom.
Tanzanite, despite its recent discovery, is linked to self-transformation, healing, and psychic abilities. Its association with the throat, third-eye, and crown chakras suggests a connection to communication, intuition, and spiritual awareness. For those born under the Sagittarius zodiac sign (November 22 – December 21), tanzanite is considered a particularly resonant birthstone, complementing their charismatic energy.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care is essential to maintain the beauty of these December birthstones. Zircon, with a hardness of 6 to 7.5, is susceptible to abrasion and should be protected from rough wear during activities like gardening or sports. Turquoise, being relatively soft, also requires careful handling.
Cleaning these gemstones can be achieved using a soft brush and mild soap in warm water. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners are not recommended for zircon. Heat-treated zircon should be protected from prolonged exposure to bright light to prevent color reversion. Tanzanite, while relatively durable, should also be cleaned gently to avoid damage.
Conclusion
December’s birthstones – turquoise, tanzanite, and zircon – offer a captivating array of colors, histories, and symbolic meanings. From the ancient allure of turquoise and zircon to the modern brilliance of tanzanite, these gems provide a diverse selection for those born in the twelfth month of the year. Each stone embodies unique qualities, making them cherished gifts and personal treasures, destined to shine for generations.