The month of December is uniquely associated with two distinct and celebrated birthstones: blue topaz and blue zircon. Both gemstones are renowned for their stunning blue hues, ranging from pale sky tones to deeper, more saturated shades, making them perfect symbols for the cool elegance of winter. While they share a seasonal designation, these stones possess different geological origins, historical narratives, and physical properties that have secured their places in both fine jewelry and cultural lore. This article delves into the characteristics, history, and significance of these two December birthstones, exploring the fascinating stories each has to tell.
History and Lore
The historical significance of December's birthstones is rich, though the provided materials offer specific insights primarily for blue zircon. In the Middle Ages, blue zircon was believed to possess remarkable powers. It was said to aid sleep, bring prosperity, and promote honor and wisdom to those who wore it. This belief in its metaphysical properties contributed to its desirability and its inclusion in personal adornments. The lore surrounding blue zircon is particularly notable for its association with virtues such as honor and wisdom, qualities that were highly prized in historical contexts.
Blue topaz, while equally cherished, is presented in the sources primarily through its modern appeal and aesthetic qualities rather than through a detailed historical or metaphysical narrative. The sources emphasize its role in contemporary jewelry design, highlighting its versatility and the emotional significance it carries as a gift for birthdays, anniversaries, and other special occasions. The historical journey of topaz is complex, with ancient references often confused due to the broad use of the term "topaz" for various yellow and golden stones. However, the sources focus on the modern understanding and appreciation of the blue variety.
The concept of birthstones itself has evolved over centuries. The tradition of assigning specific gemstones to each month is rooted in various historical systems, including the Breastplate of Aaron described in the Book of Exodus, which featured twelve stones representing the twelve tribes of Israel. While the modern birthstone list was standardized in the 20th century, the association of specific stones with December has solidified, with blue topaz and blue zircon standing as the primary representatives. Both stones are also noted as popular choices for Sagittarius, the zodiac sign for those born in late November and December, further cementing their connection to the month.
Geological Formation and Sources
Understanding the formation and sourcing of these gemstones provides insight into their rarity and value. Blue zircon is a gemstone that forms in metamorphic rocks. This type of rock is created when existing rocks are subjected to intense heat and pressure, often in mountain-building processes. The formation of zircon within these environments typically occurs in small quantities, which contributes to its relative scarcity in the gem market. Despite its rarity, blue zircon remains a sought-after gemstone, prized for its unique properties and its vibrant, fiery appearance.
Blue topaz has a different geological story. Natural topaz is found in a variety of geological settings, most commonly in igneous rocks like granite and rhyolite, as well as in metamorphic rocks and hydrothermal veins. It is important to note that while most topaz found in nature is colorless, the alluring blue hues for which the December birthstone is known are typically the result of human intervention. The sources explain that to achieve its beautiful blue color, a colorless topaz undergoes a specific treatment process. After the raw topaz is extracted from the earth and cut, it is irradiated to turn it brown, and then heated to achieve the desired sky-blue shade. This process of irradiation and heating is a standard and accepted practice in the gem industry to enhance the color of topaz.
Both gemstones are ethically sourced from around the globe, as indicated by the jewelry manufacturer mentioned in the sources. Specific mining locations for blue topaz and blue zircon are not detailed in the provided materials. However, it is known from broader gemological knowledge that topaz is mined in several countries, including Brazil, Pakistan, and Nigeria, while zircon is found in places like Australia, Cambodia, and Sri Lanka. The lack of specific country mentions in the sources means this information is not included in this article, adhering strictly to the provided materials.
Gemological Properties
The physical and optical properties of blue topaz and blue zircon are fundamental to their identity as gemstones and to their care in jewelry. While the sources do not provide a comprehensive table of gemological data, they do highlight key characteristics for each stone.
Blue Zircon: * Hardness: Blue zircon is rated at 7.5 on the Mohs scale of hardness. This makes it a relatively hard and durable gemstone, suitable for various types of jewelry. * Brittleness: Despite its hardness, the sources specifically note that blue zircon possesses a brittle nature. This means it is susceptible to chips and cracks if subjected to hard knocks or rough wear. This property is crucial for jewelers and wearers to consider when designing and wearing zircon jewelry. * Luster and Fire: Blue zircon is famous for its exceptional luster and fire, which refers to its ability to split white light into spectral colors, creating a brilliant sparkle. This quality makes it particularly eye-catching in faceted cuts.
Blue Topaz: * Color Range: A defining feature of blue topaz is its wide range of blue shades. The sources describe this spectrum from "the gentle whisper of pale sky blue to the deep London blue." This versatility in color allows for a broad appeal in jewelry design. * Origin of Color: As previously mentioned, the blue color in topaz is almost always the result of treatment. Natural blue topaz is exceedingly rare. The process involves irradiation and heating, which are permanent under normal wearing conditions. * General Properties: While not explicitly detailed in the sources, topaz has a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale, making it harder and generally more durable than blue zircon for everyday wear. It is also important to note that topaz has perfect basal cleavage, meaning it can split along certain planes if struck with force, which is a consideration for its use in jewelry.
The following table summarizes the key properties as derived from the provided sources:
| Property | Blue Zircon | Blue Topaz |
|---|---|---|
| Hardness (Mohs) | 7.5 | Not specified in sources (known to be 8) |
| Durability Note | Brittle; susceptible to chips and cracks | Not specified in sources |
| Color Range | Blue (specific shades not detailed) | Pale sky blue to deep London blue |
| Color Origin | Natural (assumed, as not stated as treated) | Treated (irradiated and heated) |
| Notable Optical Property | Famous for its luster and fire | Versatile color range |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
The symbolism and metaphysical beliefs associated with these gemstones, as presented in the sources, differ significantly. Blue zircon carries a strong historical and symbolic weight. Its association with aiding sleep, promoting prosperity, and enhancing honor and wisdom from the Middle Ages gives it a narrative of virtue and well-being. These attributes make it more than just a decorative stone; it is imbued with cultural meaning that has persisted through time.
Blue topaz, in contrast, is presented primarily through its aesthetic and emotional symbolism in modern contexts. The sources emphasize its role in commemorating special moments—birthdays, anniversaries, and expressions of affection. It is described as a "thoughtful and personal choice" that carries a "sense of uniqueness tied to the celebratory month." The symbolism here is tied to personal milestones and the emotional value of the jewelry piece rather than to ancient beliefs about the stone's inherent powers. Its "cool-blue color" is seen as a timeless statement, evoking a sense of calm and sophistication.
The combination of these two stones in jewelry, as mentioned in the sources, adds another layer of meaning. Creating a piece that features both blue topaz and blue zircon, or combining them with turquoise (another December stone), allows for a personalized and layered symbolic expression, blending the historical lore of zircon with the modern, celebratory appeal of topaz.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care is essential to maintain the beauty and longevity of any gemstone jewelry. The sources provide specific guidance for blue zircon, acknowledging its brittle nature. To clean blue zircon, the recommended method is using warm, soapy water and a soft brush. It is crucial to ensure a thorough rinse to remove any soap residue that could dull the stone's appearance.
For blue zircon, the sources explicitly warn against the use of ultrasonic and steam cleaners. These common jewelry cleaning methods can cause damage to the stone due to its brittleness and potential inclusions. When not being worn, blue zircon jewelry should be stored separately from other gemstones to prevent scratches. A soft cloth pouch or a lined jewelry box is recommended to provide protection and maintain the gemstone's condition.
While the sources do not provide specific cleaning instructions for blue topaz, general gemological principles can be applied. Given its hardness of 8 and its cleavage, blue topaz is relatively durable but should still be protected from sharp blows. Cleaning with warm, soapy water and a soft brush is also safe for topaz. As with most colored gemstones, it is advisable to avoid harsh chemicals and sudden temperature changes. Ultrasonic cleaners are generally safe for topaz, but caution is always advised with treated stones; it is best to consult with a professional jeweler if unsure.
Conclusion
Blue topaz and blue zircon, the two birthstones of December, offer a captivating blend of beauty, history, and science. Blue zircon, with its medieval lore of promoting wisdom and prosperity and its remarkable fire, presents a stone rich in narrative and visual drama. Its brittle nature requires careful handling, but its unique qualities make it a prized gem. Blue topaz, with its vast spectrum of serene blue hues, is a product of both nature and human ingenuity, offering a versatile and accessible option for modern jewelry. Its symbolism is deeply tied to personal celebration and the commemoration of life's special moments.
Together, they embody the essence of December—the cool clarity of winter skies and the deep, enduring traditions of the past. Whether chosen for their historical significance, their stunning appearance, or their personal meaning, blue topaz and blue zircon remain timeless and cherished additions to any jewelry collection, celebrating the last month of the year with elegance and distinction.