December is a month celebrated with festivities and gift-giving, and for those born within it, a choice of four beautiful gemstones serves as a birthstone: blue topaz, blue zircon, tanzanite, and turquoise. Each offers a unique history, symbolism, and aesthetic appeal, making December the most diverse in terms of birthstone options. This article will delve into the origins, properties, and significance of these four gemstones, providing a comprehensive overview for enthusiasts and those seeking the perfect December birthstone jewelry.
A Quartet of December Gems
Traditionally, turquoise held the sole designation as the December birthstone. However, over time, blue zircon, tanzanite, and blue topaz were added to the list, expanding the choices available to those born in the final month of the year. This expansion reflects both evolving consumer preferences and successful marketing efforts within the jewelry industry. The National Association of Jewelers initially recognized turquoise in 1912, with blue zircon added mid-century to cater to those desiring a more sparkling stone. Tanzanite gained official recognition in 2002, and blue topaz followed in 2016, solidifying the current quartet.
Blue Topaz: Soothing and Calming
Blue topaz is a popular modern choice for a December birthstone, known for its calming and soothing properties. The gem is believed to promote good communication, quiet chaos, and encourage restful sleep. Historically, it was even used to cool hot tempers and alleviate fevers, demonstrating a belief in its cooling energy. Blue topaz comes in a range of shades, categorized as sky blue, Swiss blue, and London blue, each offering a distinct aesthetic. Its Mohs hardness of 8 indicates good durability, making it suitable for everyday wear.
Tanzanite: A Recent Discovery
Tanzanite is the newest addition to the December birthstone family, discovered relatively recently on the slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, East Africa. Its unique formation conditions, occurring only in this specific location, contribute to its rarity and value. The gemstone was accidentally discovered in the late 1960s by a member of an ancient tribe who noticed its sparkling brilliance. After consultation with jewelers, it was officially introduced to the world as a unique and rare gem. Tanzanite’s color ranges from light purple with blue shades to a deep velvet color with prominent purple tinges, making it a favored choice for engagement rings and wedding bands.
Turquoise: The Ancient Stone
Turquoise boasts a long and fascinating history, dating back thousands of years. Known as the “OG gemstone,” it was historically worn as a talisman for protection against negative energy. The name “turquoise” originates from the French phrase “pierre tourques,” meaning “Turkish stone,” as it was believed to have been brought to Europe by Turkish explorers. Ancient Egyptian rulers also favored turquoise jewelry as a symbol of status and style.
Blue Zircon: A Sparkling Alternative
While not extensively detailed in the provided sources, blue zircon was added to the December birthstone list to provide an option with more sparkle than turquoise. It serves as an alternative for those seeking a brilliant, blue gemstone.
Gemological Properties and Durability
All four December birthstones share a Mohs hardness of 8, indicating good durability and resistance to scratching. This makes them suitable for a variety of jewelry settings and everyday wear. Topaz, in its natural state, is often colorless, orange, or golden-brown, but is frequently treated to achieve the desired blue hues. Turquoise, while beautiful, is an opaque gemstone and requires careful handling. Tanzanite’s color is highly prized, with deeper, more saturated shades commanding higher values. Zircon, while durable, can be brittle and may require protective settings.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Each December birthstone carries its own unique symbolism. Blue topaz is associated with communication, tranquility, and good fortune. Tanzanite is believed to promote transformation and spiritual growth. Turquoise symbolizes wisdom, protection, and good luck. Topaz, historically linked to the sun gods, is said to spark purpose, zeal, and passion. These beliefs, rooted in ancient traditions and folklore, continue to influence the appeal of these gemstones today.
Care and Cleaning
Maintaining the beauty of December birthstones requires specific care. Blue topaz and tanzanite can be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Turquoise, being a more porous stone, requires gentle cleaning with a soft cloth and should avoid harsh chemicals. Zircon should also be cleaned gently to avoid damage. It is generally recommended to avoid ultrasonic cleaners and harsh chemicals for all gemstones.
December Birthstone Gift Ideas
The provided sources suggest a variety of gift ideas featuring December birthstones. These include pendant necklaces, earrings, bracelets, and rings. The versatility of these gemstones allows for a wide range of designs, catering to different styles and preferences. The availability of different shades and price points ensures that there is a December birthstone option to suit every budget.
The Expanding List of December Birthstones
The evolution of the December birthstone list highlights the dynamic nature of gemological traditions and marketing influences. The addition of blue zircon, tanzanite, and blue topaz broadened the appeal of December birthstone jewelry, offering consumers more choices and catering to diverse tastes. The Gemological Institute of America’s recognition of all four gemstones underscores the growing acceptance of this expanded palette of blues.
Conclusion
The December birthstones – blue topaz, blue zircon, tanzanite, and turquoise – represent a diverse and captivating collection of gemstones. Each stone possesses a unique history, symbolism, and aesthetic appeal, making December a particularly special month for gemstone enthusiasts. From the calming energy of blue topaz to the ancient mystique of turquoise and the recent discovery of tanzanite, these gems offer a wealth of options for those seeking meaningful and beautiful jewelry. The expanded list of December birthstones reflects both evolving traditions and the desire to provide consumers with a wider range of choices, solidifying their place as cherished symbols of the month.