For individuals born on December 2nd, the selection of birthstones is notably diverse, encompassing both traditional and modern gems. While many months are assigned a single stone, December 2nd is associated with a unique trio: turquoise, tanzanite, and zircon. Some sources also list bloodstone, ruby, and opal as alternative options, adding to the richness of this date's gemological profile. These stones, united by their captivating blue tones, offer a fascinating study in gemology, history, and cultural significance. This article provides a comprehensive exploration of these gems, detailing their geological origins, gemological properties, historical lore, and the symbolic meanings that have made them enduring choices for jewelry and personal adornment.
Historical Origins and the Path to Birthstone Status
The tradition of assigning specific gemstones to calendar months has ancient roots, but the modern standardization of birthstones is a more recent development. The most influential event in this history occurred in 1912 when the American National Association of Jewelers officially adopted and standardized the modern list of birthstones. This list designated turquoise and zircon as the two official birthstones for the month of December. This formal recognition solidified their status, though the history of these gems stretches back millennia.
Turquoise: An Ancient Talisman
Turquoise is arguably the most historically recognized of the December stones. Its name derives from the French "pierre turquoise," meaning "Turkish stone," as it was brought to Europe through the gem markets of Constantinople (now Istanbul) from its primary sources in Persia (modern-day Iran) and the Sinai Peninsula. The oldest known turquoise mines date back to ancient Egypt around 3200 BCE, where the stone was prized for its brilliant robin's egg blue color. It was extensively used in jewelry, ornamentation, and funerary objects, most famously decorating the burial mask of Tutankhamun alongside gold, lapis, and obsidian.
Throughout history, turquoise has been a favored gem for amulets across numerous cultures. Its relative ease of being cut into various shapes and inscribed made it ideal for protective talismans. In the Middle East and among Native American cultures of the Southwest, it was believed to promote healing, bring good fortune, and warn its wearer of impending illness or danger by changing color. In Tibet, turquoise was considered a stone of fortune, health, and success, and was even used as a form of currency. The Incas and Mayas offered turquoise as gifts to their gods, while Native Americans associated it with youth and strength.
Zircon: The "Gold-Colored" Stone
Zircon has an equally ancient pedigree, with mentions found in Hebrew, Arabic, and Greek texts as early as the 5th century BCE. Its name originates from the Persian word "zargun," meaning gold-colored, which refers to the stone's warm, golden-brown varieties. However, zircon occurs in a wide spectrum of colors, including colorless, yellow, red, brown, and blue. The brilliant fire and high refractive index of zircon, particularly in its colorless varieties, led to it being widely imitated for other gems. Its durability and sparkle made it a favorite in royal jewelry, with rose-cut zircons accenting the tiaras of Marie Antoinette and round zircons featured in Van Cleef & Arpels' iconic 1939 Zip Necklace.
Tanzanite: A Modern Discovery
While turquoise and zircon have millennia of history, tanzanite is a distinctly modern gemstone. Its discovery is relatively recent, adding a contemporary chapter to December's birthstone legacy. Tanzanite was first identified in the 1960s in the Merelani Hills of northern Tanzania, near Mount Kilimanjaro. It was named after its country of origin by Tiffany & Co., who recognized its potential and launched a major marketing campaign in 1968. Its vibrant blue-violet color, which can range from a pure ultramarine to a soft lavender, is unlike any other gemstone. While not mentioned in the standard 1912 list, its popularity and unique beauty led to its inclusion as an official December birthstone in many modern lists, including those for December 2nd.
Geological Formation and Mining Locations
Understanding where these gemstones form provides insight into their rarity and characteristics.
Turquoise
Turquoise is a secondary mineral, meaning it is not formed directly from magma but through the alteration of pre-existing rocks. It forms in arid or semi-arid regions where acidic, copper-rich groundwater percolates through rocks containing aluminum and phosphorus. Over long periods, this process results in the precipitation of turquoise in nodules, veins, or as a matrix within host rock. Major mining locations, as noted in historical sources, include Iran (Persia) and the Sinai Peninsula. Modern sources of high-quality turquoise are found in the United States (particularly Arizona, New Mexico, and Nevada), China, and Afghanistan.
Zircon
Zircon is a primary mineral, forming as a crystalline product during the cooling of magma. It is one of the oldest minerals on Earth, with crystals found in sedimentary deposits that are billions of years old. Zircon crystals are resistant to weathering and can be found in placer deposits, where they have been eroded from their original host rock and concentrated by water or wind action. Major sources include Australia (which produces a significant portion of the world's gem-quality zircon), Cambodia, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, and Vietnam. Blue zircon, a popular variety for jewelry, is typically heat-treated from brown zircon.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is a variety of the mineral zoisite. Its formation requires a unique and rare geological environment. It is found only in a small area of the Merelani Hills in Tanzania, making it hundreds of times rarer than diamond. The gem forms when the mineral zoisite is subjected to intense heat and pressure from tectonic activity in the East African Rift Valley, which imparts its signature blue-violet color. This specific geological setting has not been found anywhere else in the world, making tanzanite a true "one-location" gemstone.
Gemological Properties
The physical and chemical properties of a gemstone determine its durability, appearance, and suitability for jewelry. The following table summarizes key properties for turquoise and zircon, based on the provided data.
| Stone | Color | Hardness (Mohs Scale) | Crystal System |
|---|---|---|---|
| Turquoise | Sky blue to blue-green | 5 - 6 | Triclinic |
| Zircon | Colorless, yellow, red, brown, blue | 7.5 | Tetragonal |
| Tanzanite | Blue-violet (varies) | 6.5 - 7 | Orthorhombic |
Turquoise is a relatively soft and porous stone, with a hardness of 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale. Its triclinic crystal system contributes to its opaque, waxy luster. Its porosity means it can absorb oils and chemicals, which can affect its color and stability over time.
Zircon is significantly harder, with a rating of 7.5 on the Mohs scale, making it durable enough for everyday wear in rings and bracelets. Its tetragonal crystal system and high refractive index give it exceptional brilliance and fire, often compared to that of diamond.
Tanzanite has a hardness of 6.5 to 7, placing it in the moderate durability range. It is pleochroic, meaning it can show different colors (blue, violet, and burgundy) when viewed from different crystal directions. This property is carefully managed during the cutting process to highlight the most desirable blue-violet hue. It has an orthorhombic crystal system.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Beyond their physical beauty, these gemstones are steeped in symbolism and metaphysical lore, much of which is derived from their long histories.
Turquoise is universally regarded as a stone of protection, grounding, and healing. Many cultures believed it could ward off negative energy, promote good fortune, and strengthen relationships. It is often seen as a steadying force, providing a sense of calm and stability. For lovers and married couples, it was thought to protect their relationship and preserve friendship if given as a gift.
Zircon is associated with clarity, focus, and mental acuity. It is believed to sharpen the mind, boost mental clarity, and promote wisdom. In some traditions, it is linked to healing and hope, serving as a stone of renewal and spiritual growth.
Tanzanite, as a modern discovery, carries symbolism tied to its unique origin and color. It is linked to shifts, growth, and new beginnings. Its blue-violet tone is said to reflect the feeling of stepping into a new chapter with clarity and curiosity. It is often associated with transformation and spiritual awakening.
Care and Cleaning Instructions
Proper care is essential to maintain the beauty and integrity of these gemstones, given their distinct physical properties.
Turquoise: Due to its porosity and relatively low hardness, turquoise requires gentle care. It should be cleaned with only warm water, a mild soap, and a soft cloth. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners, steam cleaners, and harsh chemicals, as these can damage the stone or its surface treatment (often used to stabilize it). Store turquoise separately to prevent scratching by harder gems.
Zircon: With a hardness of 7.5, zircon is quite durable. It can be cleaned with warm soapy water and a soft brush. It is important to avoid sudden temperature changes, as zircon can be brittle and may fracture under thermal shock. Ultrasonic cleaners are generally safe, but caution is advised if the stone has any inclusions or fractures.
Tanzanite: With a hardness of 6.5 to 7, tanzanite is moderately durable but can be sensitive to pressure and sharp blows. It is best cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners and steam cleaning, as the heat and vibrations can cause damage. Due to its pleochroism and relative softness compared to zircon, it is recommended for earrings, pendants, and occasional-wear rings rather than daily-wear rings.
Conclusion
The birthstones for December 2nd—turquoise, tanzanite, and zircon—represent a remarkable convergence of ancient history, geological rarity, and modern appeal. From the protective talismans of ancient Egypt and Persia to the brilliant fire of zircon in royal European jewelry and the recent discovery of tanzanite in the foothills of Kilimanjaro, each gemstone tells a unique story. Their shared blue color palette evokes the wintry skies of December, yet their individual properties, from the soft porosity of turquoise to the exceptional hardness and brilliance of zircon, offer diverse options for personal expression and jewelry design. Understanding their origins, properties, and the symbolic meanings they carry allows enthusiasts and collectors to appreciate these gems on a profound level, ensuring their legacy continues to dazzle for generations to come.