The month of December is uniquely distinguished in the world of gemology by offering a trio of captivating blue birthstones: Turquoise, Tanzanite, and Zircon. Unlike most months, which are associated with a single gem, December provides a spectrum of choices, each with its own distinct history, geological origin, and cultural significance. These stones—ranging from the opaque, sky-blue Turquoise to the vivid violet-blue of Tanzanite and the brilliant, clear blue of Zircon—reflect the cool tones of winter and have been cherished for centuries for their beauty and perceived powers. For individuals born under the zodiac signs of Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21) and Capricorn (December 22 – January 19), these gems offer a variety of options to suit personal style and preference.
The journey to establishing this diverse selection was a gradual process, shaped by historical tradition and modern industry decisions. The standardization of birthstones began in 1912 when the National Association of Jewelers sought to create a unified list. This effort was later expanded by the Jewelry Industry Council of America in 1952, which added Zircon to the December list, and again in 2002 with the addition of Tanzanite. This evolution reflects a desire to provide more options, perhaps to offer more affordable or durable alternatives, while also incorporating newly discovered and popular gems. This article will explore the rich history, geological formation, gemological properties, and symbolism of Turquoise, Tanzanite, and Zircon, providing a comprehensive guide to the celebrated birthstones of December.
Turquoise: The Ancient Stone of Protection
Turquoise stands as the oldest and most historically significant of the December birthstones. Its name is derived from the French phrase "pierre tourques," meaning "Turkish stone," a reference to the gem's introduction to Europe through the gem markets of Turkey. For millennia, this opaque, sky-blue to greenish-blue phosphate mineral has been a favored gem for amulets and talismans, valued for its relative ease of cutting and inscribing.
History and Lore
The historical footprint of Turquoise is vast, stretching across numerous ancient civilizations. In Persia and along the Sinai Peninsula, it was mined and revered, eventually making its way to European markets. Its use as an amulet was widespread, with wearers believing it offered protection against danger and brought good fortune. The gem was particularly prized by lovers and married couples, who saw it as a protector of relationships. A notable belief was that the stone could warn its wearer of impending illness or danger by changing color and becoming pale. This property made it a highly sought-after personal guardian stone.
In Tibet, Turquoise was considered a birthstone of fortune, health, and success, so valuable that it was often used as a form of currency. Ancient Incas and Mayas offered the gem to their gods, while Native Americans of the American Southwest associated it with youth and strength. Across these cultures, a consistent theme emerges: Turquoise is a sacred stone, a conduit for positive energy, and a symbol of friendship and protection when gifted. Its traditional significance is deeply rooted in the belief that it provides a shield for the wearer, both physically and spiritually.
Geological Formation and Sources
Turquoise is a phosphate mineral that forms near the surface of the earth in arid regions. Its formation is a secondary process, occurring when water containing copper, aluminum, and phosphorus seeps through rocks, depositing minerals in cracks and voids. This process results in the distinctive nodular or vein-like patterns characteristic of the gem.
According to the provided materials, the major origin countries for Turquoise include Iran, the United States, Tibet, and India. The gem from these locations can vary in color from a uniform sky blue to a greenish-blue, often influenced by the specific mineral content of the region.
Gemological Properties
Turquoise is defined by its unique color and opaque appearance. It is not a hard stone, which contributes to its use in ancient times for carving and inscriptions.
- Mineral Group: Phosphate
- Mohs Hardness: 5 – 6
- Colors Available: Sky blue, greenish-blue
This moderate hardness means that Turquoise is susceptible to scratches and should be handled with care. It is not as durable as some other gemstones and requires proper maintenance to preserve its luster.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
The symbolism of Turquoise is as rich as its history. It is universally associated with protection, truth, and calmness. The belief in its protective powers has been a constant through the ages, from ancient amulets to modern talismans. It is also seen as a stone that fosters friendship and good fortune. For those born in December, Turquoise is said to embody the qualities of wisdom and tranquility, making it a meaningful and powerful birthstone.
Care and Cleaning
Due to its relatively low hardness and potential for porosity, Turquoise requires gentle care. It should be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners are not recommended, as they can damage the stone. It is also important to protect Turquoise from harsh chemicals, cosmetics, and prolonged exposure to sunlight, which can cause its color to fade or become discolored over time.
Tanzanite: The Modern Marvel of a Single Source
Tanzanite is the most recent addition to the December birthstone family, officially added to the list in 2002. It is celebrated for its extraordinary violet-blue color, which is unlike any other gemstone. Its rarity and unique origin story have quickly elevated it to a position of high value and desirability.
History and Lore
Unlike the ancient history of Turquoise, Tanzanite’s story is remarkably modern. It was first discovered in the mid-20th century in a single, small area of Tanzania, hence its name. Its rapid ascent to prominence and inclusion in the birthstone list reflects its immense popularity and the gem industry's desire to offer a truly unique and exclusive gem. The sources identify it as the most valuable and most expensive of the December birthstones, a direct result of its extreme rarity. Its symbolism is often linked to modern concepts of transformation and new beginnings, reflecting its recent discovery and dramatic appearance.
Geological Formation and Sources
Tanzanite’s geological story is one of a singular event. It is a variety of the mineral zoisite and is formed through a unique and complex process involving intense heat and pressure during the formation of the Merelani Hills in Tanzania. What makes it so rare is that this specific geological event is believed to have occurred only once in the history of the earth. Consequently, all Tanzanite ever found originates from a very small mining area—just four square kilometers—in the Merelani region of Tanzania. This single-source origin makes it hundreds of times rarer than Diamond.
Gemological Properties
Tanzanite is prized for its strong trichroism, a property that allows it to display three different colors—blue, violet, and reddish-purple—depending on the viewing angle. Most rough material is brownish, and a controlled heat treatment is standard practice to bring out the desirable blue and violet hues.
- Color: Deep violet-blue
- Hardness: Approximately 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale
- Rarity: Extremely rare, found only in Tanzania
While its hardness is moderate, Tanzanite is known for being relatively brittle and can be susceptible to chipping if knocked. This characteristic requires careful setting and wear, especially in rings.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Tanzanite is imbued with a sense of uniqueness and exclusivity due to its single-source origin. It is often associated with transformation, intuition, and spiritual awakening. Its striking color is said to promote a higher consciousness and a clearer understanding of one's destiny. For those born in December, it represents a rare and precious gift, a stone of individuality and sophisticated style.
Care and Cleaning
Given its relative brittleness, Tanzanite should be handled with care. It is suitable for earrings and pendants but requires protective settings for rings and bracelets. Cleaning can be done with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. As with Turquoise, it is best to avoid ultrasonic cleaners and steam cleaning, which can cause damage.
Zircon: The Traditional Sparkler
Zircon is the traditional birthstone for December, added to the official list in 1952. It is one of the oldest minerals on Earth, and its brilliant luster and high refractive index make it a stunning and affordable alternative to Diamond.
History and Lore
Zircon has a long and storied history, dating back billions of years. Its name is thought to be derived from the Arabic "zarkun," meaning "vermillion" or "gold-colored," though it is most famous today for its blue variety. For centuries, Zircon has been used as a gemstone, and its exceptional sparkle has made it a popular choice for jewelry. In its role as a birthstone, Zircon is associated with clarity, wisdom, and a sense of balance. It is believed to help its wearer achieve spiritual balance and promote a clear mind.
Geological Formation and Sources
Zircon is a mineral belonging to the group of nesosilicates. It forms in igneous and metamorphic rocks during their initial crystallization. It is a durable mineral that is resistant to weathering, and its crystals can be found in many parts of the world.
The sources indicate that blue Zircon is mined in various locations, including Sri Lanka, Brazil, Mexico, Nigeria, and the U.S. The blue color typically seen in jewelry is the result of a heat treatment applied to brownish zircon crystals, a process that has been used for centuries.
Gemological Properties
Zircon possesses a set of properties that make it a premier gemstone, particularly for its brilliance.
- Hardness: 7.5 on the Mohs scale
- Refractive Index: High (1.92–2.01), giving it exceptional brilliance and fire
- Colors: Naturally occurs in a variety of colors, but the blue variety is most common for December birthstones. The blue is often achieved through heat treatment.
Its high refractive index and strong dispersion (fire) give it a sparkle that can rival that of a diamond. With a hardness of 7.5, it is durable enough for most types of jewelry, though care should be taken to avoid hard blows that could chip the stone due to its perfect cleavage in two directions.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Zircon is traditionally associated with wisdom, clarity, and balance. It is believed to help its wearer think more clearly and make decisions with greater insight. Some traditions also link Zircon to prosperity and honor. Its brilliant sparkle is often seen as a metaphor for a clear and bright mind, making it a fitting stone for those seeking knowledge and stability.
Care and Cleaning
Zircon is relatively durable but has cleavage, meaning it can break along certain planes if struck with force. It is best set in protective settings, especially for rings. Cleaning is straightforward: use warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid sudden temperature changes, as they can cause fractures in the stone. As with the other December stones, avoid harsh chemicals and ultrasonic cleaners.
A Comparative Overview of December's Birthstones
To better understand the unique characteristics of each gem, the following table provides a direct comparison of their key properties as detailed in the sources.
| Feature | Turquoise | Tanzanite | Zircon |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Color | Sky blue, greenish-blue | Violet-blue | Bright, clear blue |
| Hardness (Mohs) | 5 – 6 | 6.5 – 7 | 7.5 |
| Origin | Iran, USA, Tibet, India | Tanzania (single source) | Sri Lanka, Brazil, Mexico, Nigeria, USA |
| Key Symbolism | Protection, truth, calmness | Transformation, new beginnings | Clarity, wisdom, balance |
| Durability | Soft, delicate | Brittle, can chip | Durable, but has cleavage |
| Value | Varies, high-grade is valuable | Most valuable and expensive | Affordable, good value |
This comparison highlights the diversity within the December birthstone group. For durability, Blue Zircon is the strongest choice. For historical significance and protective lore, Turquoise is unmatched. For unparalleled rarity and a unique, vibrant color, Tanzanite stands alone.
Conclusion
The birthstones of December—Turquoise, Tanzanite, and Zircon—offer a remarkable range of beauty, history, and significance. From the ancient, protective amulets of Turquoise to the modern, singular rarity of Tanzanite and the brilliant, traditional sparkle of Zircon, each gem provides a unique connection to the month. Their shared blue hues evoke a sense of serenity and wisdom, reflecting the cool tranquility of winter. The evolution of the December birthstone list, from the traditional Turquoise to the modern additions of Zircon and Tanzanite, illustrates a dynamic tradition that honors both ancient customs and contemporary discoveries. For anyone born in December, the choice of a birthstone is not merely a matter of color or style but an opportunity to connect with a gem rich in geological wonder, cultural lore, and personal meaning.