The birthstone for December 26th is not a single gem but a distinguished quartet: Tanzanite, Turquoise, Zircon, and Blue Topaz. While turquoise holds the traditional designation, the modern list has expanded to include these other captivating blue stones, each offering a unique blend of history, geological rarity, and symbolic meaning. For individuals born on this day, the choice of gemstone allows for a personal expression of identity, whether drawn to the ancient heritage of turquoise, the modern allure of tanzanite, or the brilliant clarity of blue topaz. This article provides a detailed exploration of these four gemstones, examining their gemological properties, historical origins, and the cultural lore that surrounds them.
The significance of these stones extends beyond mere adornment. They represent a spectrum of blue hues that have fascinated humanity for millennia, from the sky-blue tones of ancient Egyptian artifacts to the vivid violet-blue of a recently discovered African treasure. Understanding the distinct characteristics of Tanzanite, Turquoise, Zircon, and Blue Topaz offers a deeper appreciation for the December 26th birthstone and the rich tapestry of science and history it embodies.
History and Lore of the December Gems
The history of the December birthstones is as varied as the stones themselves, spanning ancient civilizations and modern discoveries. Each gem carries a legacy of cultural significance and symbolic power.
Turquoise, arguably the most historically significant of the group, boasts a lineage stretching back thousands of years. Its name is derived from the French phrase pierre tourque, meaning "Turkish stone," reflecting its introduction to Europe through Turkish markets. However, its use predates this by millennia. Ancient Egyptians adorned themselves with turquoise, inlaying it into jewelry, including the famous burial mask of Pharaoh Tutankhamun. For the ancient Persians, it was a sacred stone, believed to ward off unnatural death and protect the wearer from harm. Native American cultures, particularly the Navajo, Zuni, and Pueblo tribes, have a profound connection to turquoise, viewing it as a piece of the sky that fell to earth. It has been used in ceremonial objects and jewelry for centuries, symbolizing life, health, and protection from evil spirits.
In stark contrast to the ancient heritage of turquoise is Tanzanite, a gem of modern discovery. First identified in the mid-20th century, its origin story is remarkably recent. The stone was found in the Merelani Hills of Northern Tanzania in 1967 by a Tanzanian prospector named Manuel d’Souza. Initially, the blue crystals were mistaken for zircon but were soon identified as a new variety of the mineral zoisite. The gem’s intense violet-blue color and rarity quickly captured the attention of the international gem market. The Tiffany & Co. jewelry company, recognizing its potential, launched a major marketing campaign in 1968, naming the gem "Tanzanite" after its country of origin and promoting it as a once-in-a-lifetime discovery. This strategic introduction cemented its status as a modern classic and a symbol of contemporary elegance.
Blue Zircon carries the lore of the Middle Ages. During that era, it was believed to be a powerful stone that could induce sound sleep, ward off evil spirits, and bring prosperity to its owner. It was also thought to possess the ability to help the wearer distinguish between friends and foes. While zircon is one of the oldest minerals on Earth, the blue variety used in jewelry is typically heat-treated from brown zircon, a process that enhances its popular blue color. This gem offers a bridge between ancient beliefs and modern gemological science.
Blue Topaz, while available in a range of natural shades, is most famous today for its deep, saturated blue hues, which are often achieved through irradiation and heat treatment of colorless topaz. Historically, topaz was often confused with other yellow gemstones, but its use in jewelry dates back to ancient Egypt. The stone has been associated with clarity of thought and communication, and its brilliant clarity has made it a popular choice for statement jewelry pieces in modern times.
Geological Formation and Mining Locations
The formation and sourcing of these four gemstones are as diverse as their histories, ranging from rare geological events to widespread mineral deposits.
Tanzanite is an example of a gemstone found in only one location on Earth, making it exponentially rarer than diamond. It is found exclusively in a small, four-square-kilometer area in the Merelani Hills of Northern Tanzania, near the base of Mount Kilimanjaro. The geological conditions required for its formation are exceptionally rare. It is believed that the intense heat and pressure from a tectonic event caused the metamorphism of the host rock, transforming the mineral zoisite into the vibrant blue-violet crystals we know as tanzanite. This singular source location contributes significantly to its value and allure.
Turquoise is a secondary mineral that forms when water containing copper and aluminum seeps through rocks, depositing these minerals into cracks and voids. It is found in arid regions around the world. Major historical and current sources include the United States (specifically Arizona, Nevada, and New Mexico), Iran (which historically produced the prized "robin's egg blue" turquoise), and China. The specific mineral composition of the host rock determines the color and matrix (the vein patterns within the stone), leading to a wide variety of appearances from different mines.
Zircon is a mineral that is found in many parts of the world, including Australia, Thailand, Sri Lanka, and Cambodia. Australia is a primary source for brown zircon, which is then heat-treated to produce the desirable blue color. Zircon forms in igneous and metamorphic rocks and is one of the oldest minerals on Earth, providing valuable information about the geology of our planet.
Blue Topaz is a silicate mineral that forms in pegmatites and cavities in rhyolite lava. While topaz occurs in many locations, including Brazil, Sri Lanka, and Russia, the large crystals needed for significant gemstones are often found in Brazil and the United States (Texas). The naturally occurring blue topaz is very pale, so the deep blue stones seen in the market are a result of treatments applied to colorless or pale blue material.
Gemological Properties
Understanding the physical and chemical properties of these gems is essential for gemologists, jewelers, and buyers. These properties determine a stone's durability, appearance, and value. The following table summarizes the key gemological characteristics of the December birthstones.
| Gemstone | Mineral Family | Chemical Formula | Mohs Hardness | Crystal System | Key Distinguishing Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tanzanite | Zoisite | Ca₂Al₃(SiO₄)₃(OH) | 6.5 - 7 | Orthorhombic | Strong trichroism (blue, violet, burgundy) |
| Turquoise | Phosphate | CuAl₆(PO₄)₄(OH)₈·4H₂O | 5 - 6 | Triclinic | Opaque, often with a matrix or vein pattern |
| Zircon | Zircon | ZrSiO₄ | 6.5 - 7.5 | Tetragonal | High refractive index and strong dispersion ("fire") |
| Blue Topaz | Topaz | Al₂SiO₄(F,OH)₂ | 8 | Orthorhombic | Excellent clarity and high brilliance |
Tanzanite is a relatively new gem to the market, and its properties are unique. It exhibits strong trichroism, meaning it shows three different colors when viewed from three different crystallographic directions: blue, violet, and a reddish-brown or burgundy. This property is responsible for its captivating play of color. With a hardness of 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, it is durable enough for most jewelry but can be susceptible to chipping if struck with force.
Turquoise is an opaque phosphate of copper and aluminum. Its hardness ranges from 5 to 6, making it one of the softer gemstones used in jewelry. This relative softness means it can be easily scratched and requires careful handling. It is often stabilized (treated with resin or wax) to improve its durability and color. Its color ranges from sky blue to bluish-green and greenish-blue, determined by the amount of copper (blue) and iron (green) present in its chemical makeup.
Zircon is the oldest mineral on this list and should not be confused with the man-made cubic zirconia. It has a high refractive index, which gives it a brilliance and sparkle comparable to diamond, and a high dispersion that creates a "fire" or flashes of rainbow colors. With a hardness of 6.5 to 7.5, it is durable enough for most jewelry settings. The blue variety is typically created by heating brown zircon at high temperatures.
Blue Topaz is one of the hardest of the December gems, with a Mohs hardness of 8, making it exceptionally resistant to scratching and ideal for rings and other jewelry worn daily. It is also typically found as very clear, transparent crystals, allowing for brilliant faceting that maximizes its sparkle. The deep blue color of the commercially available stones is almost always the result of treatment, as natural blue topaz is very rare and pale.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Each of the December birthstones is imbued with a rich array of symbolic meanings and metaphysical beliefs, many of which have been passed down through generations.
Tanzanite, as a modern discovery, has quickly accrued a following for its purported spiritual properties. It is often associated with spiritual enlightenment and is believed to enhance spiritual awareness, fostering a deeper understanding of oneself. It is also linked to communication and clarity, thought to facilitate honest expression and clear thinking. Many believe it promotes a sense of inner peace and can serve as a protective talisman against negative energies.
Turquoise is one of the most powerful protective stones in many cultures. It is widely believed to be a conduit for good fortune, tranquility, and protection. Ancient warriors would inlay it into their weapons and armor, believing it would shield them from harm. It is also associated with healing and balance, thought to align and stabilize the chakras and provide a calming energy. For many, it is a stone of friendship and love, fostering harmony in relationships.
Zircon has long been associated with prosperity and honor. In medieval times, it was believed to encourage wealth and ward off evil. It is also linked to sleep and clarity of mind, with some believing it can help induce restful sleep and aid in overcoming negative thoughts. Blue zircon, in particular, is said to promote peace and rest.
Blue Topaz is often called the "stone of communication and truth." It is believed to aid in clear and honest expression, making it a favored stone for public speakers, teachers, and those in communication-heavy fields. It is also associated with calm, serenity, and emotional balance, thought to soothe the mind and release tension. Its brilliant clarity is said to help one see their own truth and the truth of others.
Care and Cleaning
Due to their differing physical properties, the December birthstones require specific care to maintain their beauty and integrity.
Tanzanite (Hardness 6.5-7) should be handled with care. It is best cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners should be avoided, as the heat and vibrations can cause fractures. It is also wise to store tanzanite jewelry separately to prevent it from being scratched by harder gems.
Turquoise (Hardness 5-6) is the most delicate of the group. It is porous and sensitive to chemicals, including cosmetics, lotions, and even the oils from skin contact, which can cause discoloration over time. It should be cleaned gently with a soft, damp, lint-free cloth. Avoid any harsh chemicals, soaps, or ultrasonic cleaners. It is best to store it in a soft cloth bag.
Zircon (Hardness 6.5-7.5) is fairly durable but can be brittle. It is susceptible to chipping if knocked against a hard surface. Cleaning is relatively straightforward with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. While it can withstand an ultrasonic cleaner, it is often safer to use steam or a simple manual cleaning method, especially if the stone has been treated or has inclusions.
Blue Topaz (Hardness 8) is one of the most durable and easy-to-care-for gems. It can be safely cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. It is also safe to use an ultrasonic cleaner and, in most cases, a steam cleaner. However, it is important to ensure that the topaz has not been fracture-filled, as is sometimes the case with lower-quality stones, in which case heat and chemical cleaners should be avoided.
Conclusion
The birthstones for December 26th—Tanzanite, Turquoise, Zircon, and Blue Topaz—offer a remarkable diversity of color, history, and character. From the ancient, protective legacy of turquoise to the singular, modern elegance of tanzanite, these gems provide a meaningful choice for anyone born on this day. Their distinct gemological properties, from the brilliant fire of zircon to the exceptional clarity of blue topaz, make them not only beautiful but also fascinating subjects for study and appreciation. Whether chosen for its historical significance, symbolic power, or sheer aesthetic beauty, each of these blue gems stands as a timeless treasure.