For individuals born on December 14, 1999, the selection of a birthstone is not limited to a single gem but encompasses a distinguished trio: Tanzanite, Turquoise, and Zircon. These three stones, each possessing unique geological origins and cultural histories, collectively represent the birthstone heritage for this date. While sources vary slightly in their specific assignments—some listing Tanzanite as the primary stone for the specific date and others grouping them as the traditional and modern stones for the month of December—their association with this winter birthday is firmly established.
The significance of these stones extends far beyond their visual appeal. They are deeply woven into the fabric of historical lore, geological rarity, and modern gemology. Tanzanite, a relative newcomer to the gem world, offers a spectrum of vivid blues and a story of singular origin. Turquoise, an ancient talisman, carries the weight of millennia of protective symbolism. Zircon, the oldest mineral on Earth, provides a connection to the primordial crust of our planet. Together, they form a comprehensive representation of the qualities attributed to those born in mid-December: resilience, wisdom, and a unique perspective on the world.
This article explores the multifaceted nature of the December 14th birthstones, delving into their historical and cultural significance, geological formation and sources, gemological properties, symbolism, and practical care considerations. Through this exploration, we uncover the enduring legacy of these remarkable gemstones and their relevance in both modern and historical contexts.
Historical and Cultural Significance
The tradition of associating gemstones with specific dates and months is deeply rooted in historical and cultural practices. The December 14th birthstones—Tanzanite, Turquoise, and Zircon—reflect a rich tapestry of beliefs and meanings across different civilizations. Each stone carries a distinct narrative that contributes to its status as a meaningful gem for those born on this day.
Turquoise is arguably the most historically significant of the three, with a lineage of use that stretches back thousands of years. It has been a prized possession for ancient civilizations, including the Egyptians, Persians, and Native American tribes. In many of these cultures, Turquoise was not merely an ornament but a powerful talisman. It was believed to offer protection, ward off evil spirits, and bring good fortune to the wearer. Its association with love and success is also well-documented, making it a symbol of both emotional and material prosperity. The stone’s name itself is derived from the French phrase pierre tourquoise, meaning "Turkish stone," reflecting its introduction to Europe through Turkish traders.
Zircon possesses a history that is geological as much as it is cultural. It is the oldest mineral known to humanity, with crystals found in Australia dating back over 4.4 billion years. This immense age lends Zircon a sense of ancient wisdom and continuity. Historically, Colorless Zircon was a popular diamond simulant, valued for its high refractive index and brilliance. However, colored varieties, particularly the golden and reddish-brown hues, have been cherished in their own right. In various cultures, Zircon has been associated with honor, purity, and confidence. Its enduring presence in the Earth’s crust serves as a testament to its resilience, a quality often ascribed to those born under the sign of Capricorn, which governs the latter half of December.
Tanzanite, in contrast, has a very modern history, yet one that is no less compelling. This gemstone was discovered in the late 1960s in the Merelani Hills of Tanzania, near the iconic Mount Kilimanjaro. Its sudden appearance on the gemological scene and its rapid rise to prominence led to its designation as a modern birthstone for December. The story of its discovery and exclusive origin has imbued it with an aura of rarity and specialness. Its vibrant, saturated color captured the imagination of the jewelry world, and it was quickly embraced as a stone of uniqueness and sophistication. For a generation born in the late 1990s, such as those born on December 14, 1999, Tanzanite represents a contemporary yet timeless choice, a gem born of a specific moment in geological time, much like themselves.
Geological Formation and Sources
The origins of these three gemstones are as diverse as their histories. They are formed through distinct geological processes and are sourced from specific, often limited, locations around the globe. Understanding their formation provides insight into their rarity and unique characteristics.
Tanzanite is a variety of the mineral zoisite and owes its existence to a unique geological event. The conditions required for its formation are so specific that it is found in only one location on Earth: a small, four-square-kilometer mining area in the Merelani Hills of northern Tanzania. The process began approximately 585 million years ago during the metamorphism of the Neoproterozoic Mozambique Belt. Intense heat and pressure transformed the original rocks, and the presence of specific elements, particularly vanadium, was crucial in imparting the stone's signature blue and violet hues. The crystals formed in tabular shapes and were later brought closer to the surface by tectonic activity, making them accessible to mining. This singular source is a key factor in its value and allure, as the depletion of the deposit is a geological certainty.
Turquoise is an opaque, blue-to-green mineral that is a hydrated phosphate of copper and aluminum. It forms in arid regions where acidic, copper-rich groundwater seeps through rocks containing aluminum and phosphorus minerals. Over thousands of years, this process results in the precipitation of turquoise in veins and nodules within the host rock. The color of turquoise is heavily dependent on the presence of copper (which produces blue) and iron (which produces green). Major sources of Turquoise include the United States (particularly Arizona, Nevada, and New Mexico), Iran, and China. The American Southwest has a long history of turquoise mining, with many famous mines producing stones with distinct characteristics, such as the spiderweb matrix patterns found in some Nevada turquoises.
Zircon is a zirconium silicate (ZrSiO4) and is one of the most durable minerals found in the Earth's crust. It forms in igneous and metamorphic rocks, such as granite and gneiss. As magma cools, zircon crystals are among the first to crystallize. Their high durability allows them to survive weathering and erosion, eventually being concentrated in sedimentary deposits like sand and gravel. This makes Zircon a common mineral, but gem-quality crystals are rarer. Significant sources include Australia, which produces a majority of the world's zircon, as well as Thailand, Sri Lanka, and Cambodia. The colorless variety is often heat-treated to remove brownish tones and enhance its brilliance, while natural colored Zircon, such as the golden "hyacinth" variety, is highly valued.
Gemological Properties
The value and identity of a gemstone are defined by its physical and optical properties. Tanzanite, Turquoise, and Zircon each possess a distinct set of characteristics that gemologists use to identify and evaluate them.
| Property | Tanzanite | Turquoise | Zircon |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chemical Composition | Ca2Al3(SiO4)3(OH) | Hydrated copper/aluminum phosphate | ZrSiO4 |
| Crystal System | Orthorhombic | Triclinic | Tetragonal |
| Hardness (Mohs Scale) | 6.5 - 7 | 5 - 6 | 6.5 - 7.5 |
| Refractive Index | 1.690 - 1.705 | 1.610 - 1.650 | 1.920 - 2.010 |
| Luster | Vitreous | Waxy to Vitreous | Adamantine |
| Key Feature | Trichroism (displays three colors) | Opaque, often with matrix | High Brilliance, Radioactivity (some) |
Tanzanite is a member of the zoisite family. Its most defining gemological feature is trichroism, the ability to display three different colors when viewed from three different crystallographic directions. Typically, these colors are blue, violet, and a reddish-brownish hue. This property is responsible for the dynamic color play seen in well-cut stones. Most tanzanite sold today has been heat-treated to a stable blue or violet-blue color, a process that is accepted in the trade and does not diminish its value. With a Mohs hardness of 6.5 to 7, it is moderately durable but requires care to avoid scratching and rough handling.
Turquoise is valued for its unique, opaque texture and its captivating sky-blue to apple-green colors. Unlike the transparent stones above, Turquoise is prized for its solid color. Its hardness on the Mohs scale ranges from 5 to 6, making it relatively soft and susceptible to scratching and chemical damage. It is often stabilized with resin or wax to enhance its durability and color, a common and accepted practice. A key identifying feature is the presence of a "matrix," which is the remnant of the host rock, often appearing as a black, brown, or golden web-like pattern within the stone.
Zircon is renowned for its exceptional brilliance and fire, which rival that of diamond. Its high refractive index (1.920 - 2.010) is responsible for this dazzling display of light. Zircon is also strongly doubly refractive, meaning that light splits into two rays as it passes through the crystal, a property that can be observed with magnification. Zircon has a hardness of 6.5 to 7.5, making it a durable gemstone suitable for jewelry, though it can be brittle due to its crystal structure. An important note regarding some zircon, particularly from certain localities, is that it can be naturally radioactive. This is due to the presence of uranium and thorium impurities, which can cause the crystal to metamictize (become amorphous) over geological time. This radioactivity is typically negligible in cut stones but is a key consideration in geological studies.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Beyond their physical properties, the December 14th birthstones are rich in symbolism and have been attributed with various metaphysical powers throughout history. These beliefs add a layer of personal meaning and spiritual significance to the gems, making them more than just decorative objects.
Tanzanite is often associated with transformation and higher consciousness. Its discovery in the modern era has led to its association with the "New Age" and spiritual awakening. It is believed to facilitate a deeper connection to one's own spirit and to enhance intuition and psychic abilities. The stone's vibrant energy is said to stimulate the throat and crown chakras, promoting clear communication and a higher perspective. For those born on December 14, it can symbolize a journey of self-discovery and the courage to embrace change. Its unique trichroic nature is seen as a metaphor for seeing all sides of a situation, fostering wisdom and understanding.
Turquoise is perhaps the most universally recognized protective stone. It has long been regarded as a "master healer" and a conduit for celestial energy. Ancient warriors would inlay it in their armor and shields, believing it would protect them from harm. In many traditions, it is considered a stone of good fortune, success, and love. It is said to calm the mind, soothe negative emotions, and promote inner peace. The blue color is associated with the sky and water, elements of tranquility and infinite possibility. As a birthstone for December, Turquoise offers the wearer a sense of security and a connection to ancient wisdom, encouraging a life lived with honesty and integrity.
Zircon carries the symbolism of purity, clarity, and abundance. As the oldest known mineral, it is believed to hold the memories of the Earth, providing a link to the past and a sense of stability and endurance. It is often associated with honor and wealth, and is thought to help achieve one's goals with confidence and perseverance. Colorless Zircon is believed to enhance spiritual growth, while the golden and reddish varieties are linked to prosperity and vitality. For a December-born individual, Zircon can serve as a powerful grounding force, a reminder of their own resilience and the vast timeline of existence they are a part of.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care is essential to maintain the beauty and longevity of any gemstone jewelry. Due to their differing physical properties, Tanzanite, Turquoise, and Zircon require distinct care routines.
Tanzanite, with a hardness of 6.5 to 7, is moderately durable but can be susceptible to chipping or scratching if knocked against a hard surface. It is best cleaned using warm water, a mild soap, and a soft brush. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners should be avoided, as the vibrations and heat can cause existing fractures within the stone to worsen. When storing Tanzanite, it should be kept separate from other jewelry to prevent scratching.
Turquoise is the most delicate of the three, with a hardness of only 5 to 6. It is also porous and can be damaged by chemicals, lotions, perfumes, and even the natural oils of the skin, which can cause discoloration over time. Cleaning should be done gently with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid water, soap, and any chemical cleaners. To preserve its color and integrity, it is often treated or stabilized; however, care should still be taken to protect it from heat and harsh conditions.
Zircon, despite its higher hardness of 6.5 to 7.5, is known to be somewhat brittle due to its crystal structure. It can be prone to chipping if subjected to sharp blows. Cleaning is relatively straightforward: warm water, a mild detergent, and a soft brush are effective. As with Tanzanite, it is advisable to avoid ultrasonic cleaners, especially for stones that may have fractures. Zircon can be sensitive to heat, so it is important to avoid exposing it to sudden temperature changes. When not being worn, it should be stored carefully in a fabric-lined box to protect it from damage.
Conclusion
The birthstones for December 14—Tanzanite, Turquoise, and Zircon—offer a remarkable trio of choices that are rich in history, geological wonder, and symbolic meaning. Each stone provides a distinct narrative, from the ancient protective power of Turquoise and the primordial age of Zircon to the modern rarity and transformative energy of Tanzanite. Together, they embody a legacy of beauty and significance that is perfectly suited to celebrate a December birthday.
Whether chosen for its captivating color, its historical lore, or its unique gemological properties, any of these stones serves as a powerful and personal emblem. They are not merely accessories but are tangible connections to the Earth's history and the cultural tapestry of humanity. For those born on this day, these gems represent a heritage of resilience, clarity, and enduring beauty, making them a timeless treasure to be cherished for a lifetime.