December is a unique month in the world of gemstones, distinguished by the presence of not one, but four official birthstones: Blue Topaz, Turquoise, Tanzanite, and Zircon. Each gem possesses a distinct color, history, and symbolic meaning, offering a diverse selection for those born in the final month of the year. This article will delve into the characteristics of each of these December birthstones, exploring their origins, properties, and significance.
A Quartet of Choices
The tradition of associating specific gemstones with each month of the year dates back centuries, evolving over time. December’s multiple birthstone options reflect this evolution, with Turquoise holding the position as the traditional stone, while Blue Topaz and Tanzanite represent more modern choices. Zircon, though less commonly recognized today, also holds a place as a December birthstone. The availability of multiple options allows individuals to select a gem that resonates with their personal preferences, aesthetic sensibilities, or symbolic inclinations.
Blue Topaz: A Contemporary Favorite
Blue Topaz has emerged as a particularly popular choice for those seeking a December birthstone. Its radiant blue hues, ranging from the delicate pastel of Sky Blue to the deep, luxurious shades of London Blue, contribute to its widespread appeal. The name “Topaz” itself originates from the Sanskrit word “tapas,” meaning fire, a somewhat ironic origin given the gem’s cool and serene appearance.
Historical Significance and Color Variations
While historically valued for its perceived healing and calming properties, Blue Topaz is now associated with communication and creativity. This makes it a fitting stone for individuals in artistic or leadership roles. The variations in color within Blue Topaz further enhance its desirability: Sky Blue offers a soft, ethereal beauty; Swiss Blue presents a vibrant and bold appearance, ideal for statement jewelry; and London Blue, the most valuable shade, boasts a deep, dark blue often with subtle gray or green undertones.
Gemological Properties and Sources
Blue Topaz possesses a chemical composition of aluminum fluorosilicate and registers an 8 on the Mohs hardness scale, indicating excellent durability for everyday wear. However, it is susceptible to cleavage under sharp impacts. The primary sources of Blue Topaz are Brazil, Nigeria, and Sri Lanka, with Brazil being the largest producer.
Care and Maintenance
Maintaining the beauty of Blue Topaz is relatively straightforward. Cleaning can be accomplished with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth. Harsh chemicals and ultrasonic cleaners should be avoided to prevent damage.
Turquoise: A Stone Steeped in Tradition
Turquoise holds the distinction of being the traditional December birthstone, with a history stretching back millennia. It was among the first gems mined by humans and has been cherished across numerous cultures, including ancient Egypt, Persia, Afghanistan, and the Native American tribes.
Ancient Origins and Cultural Significance
Evidence of Turquoise’s historical importance is striking. King Tutankhamun of Egypt was found buried with Turquoise jewelry, and Chinese artists were carving the stone into masterpieces over 3,000 years ago. Throughout history, Turquoise has been regarded as a symbol of protection, peace, and prosperity. Some cultures believed it could ward off evil and attract good fortune.
Geographic Sources and Unique Characteristics
Turquoise is mined in various locations worldwide, including Iran (historically known as Persian Turquoise), China, New Mexico, and Arizona. A defining characteristic of Turquoise is its often semi-translucent to opaque nature, displaying colors ranging from robin’s egg blue to greenish-blue. The presence of a “matrix” – veins of the surrounding rock – within the stone adds to its unique character, ensuring that each piece of Turquoise jewelry is one-of-a-kind.
Tanzanite: A Modern Addition
Tanzanite is the newest addition to the December birthstone family, officially recognized in 1952. This relatively recent discovery has quickly gained popularity due to its captivating deep blue tones and violet hues.
Discovery and Rarity
Tanzanite is found exclusively in the Merelani Hills of northern Tanzania, near Mount Kilimanjaro, making it a remarkably rare gemstone. Its unique coloring makes it particularly well-suited for special-occasion jewelry, such as engagement rings or anniversary gifts.
Zircon: An Ancient Mineral
Zircon, often confused with synthetic cubic zirconia due to the similarity in name, is a naturally occurring gemstone with a long and fascinating history. It exists in a wide spectrum of colors, including red, orange, yellow, green, blue, and brown. The blue Zircon commonly found in jewelry is typically created through heat treatment.
Historical Context and Misconceptions
Despite its ancient origins, Zircon is not as commonly found in contemporary jewelry. This is partly due to the prevalence of cubic zirconia as a diamond alternative. However, Zircon remains a beautiful and durable gemstone with a rich history.
Durability Comparison
When considering durability, Blue Topaz emerges as the most resilient of the December birthstones, boasting a Mohs hardness of 8. This makes it well-suited for everyday wear, including rings and bracelets. Turquoise, while beautiful, is softer and requires more careful handling. Tanzanite and Zircon fall somewhere in between, requiring moderate care to maintain their luster and prevent damage.
Selecting the Perfect December Birthstone
The choice of a December birthstone ultimately comes down to personal preference. Blue Topaz offers a contemporary and durable option, while Turquoise provides a connection to ancient traditions. Tanzanite presents a unique and captivating beauty, and Zircon offers a glimpse into the earth’s ancient history. Each gemstone holds its own distinct allure, making December a truly special month for gemstone enthusiasts.
Conclusion
December’s four birthstones – Blue Topaz, Turquoise, Tanzanite, and Zircon – represent a diverse and captivating collection of gemstones. From the traditional symbolism of Turquoise to the modern brilliance of Blue Topaz and the rarity of Tanzanite, each stone offers a unique story and aesthetic appeal. Understanding the origins, properties, and significance of these gems allows for a more informed and meaningful selection, whether as a personal adornment or a thoughtful gift for a December-born loved one.