The final month of the year is traditionally associated with a unique trio of gemstones: turquoise, zircon, and tanzanite. Unlike months with a single designated birthstone, December offers a diverse palette of colors and histories, from the ancient sky-blue of turquoise to the fiery brilliance of zircon and the modern violet-blue of tanzanite. This article delves into the characteristics, lore, and geological origins of these three remarkable stones, providing a comprehensive guide for gemstone enthusiasts and jewelry collectors. While the provided sources offer a rich tapestry of information about the month of December itself—covering holidays, astronomical events, and historical anecdotes—the specific gemological details for turquoise, zircon, and tanzanite are notably absent. Consequently, this article will focus on the available historical and cultural context provided in the sources, while acknowledging the limitations of the data. For enthusiasts seeking detailed gemological properties such as hardness, refractive index, or chemical composition, consulting specialized gemological databases or authoritative institutions like the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) is recommended.
Historical and Cultural Context of December's Birthstones
The tradition of assigning specific gemstones to each month of the year has evolved over centuries, with roots in ancient beliefs and modern standardization. The concept of birthstones is often traced back to the Breastplate of Aaron, a religious garment described in the Old Testament, which featured twelve stones representing the twelve tribes of Israel. Over time, these stones became associated with the twelve months of the year and, eventually, with individuals born in those months.
According to the provided sources, December’s traditional birthstone is turquoise, which is "considered a symbol of good fortune and success" (Source 1, 4). The sources also note that zircon and tanzanite are considered December birthstones (Source 1, 3, 4). This trio reflects a blend of ancient and modern gemology. Turquoise, with its distinctive blue-green hue, is one of the oldest known gemstones, prized by ancient civilizations including the Egyptians, Persians, and Native Americans. Zircon, a naturally occurring mineral, has been used as a gemstone for centuries and is known for its high refractive index and brilliance. Tanzanite, a relative newcomer to the gemstone world, was discovered in the 20th century and quickly gained popularity for its unique violet-blue color.
The sources highlight that December’s birthstones are often associated with themes of light, clarity, and prosperity. Turquoise, for example, is linked to good fortune, a belief that has persisted across cultures. Zircon, historically mistaken for diamond due to its sparkle, has been valued for its clarity and fire. Tanzanite, discovered in Tanzania in the 1960s, is celebrated for its rarity and vivid color, often associated with transformation and new beginnings.
The cultural significance of December is further emphasized by the month’s many festivals and traditions. The winter solstice, occurring around December 21, marks the shortest day and longest night of the year in the Northern Hemisphere. Historically, this event was celebrated with festivals of light, such as Yule, which symbolized the rebirth of the sun (Source 1, 4). These themes of light and renewal resonate with the brilliance and clarity of December’s birthstones, particularly zircon and tanzanite, which exhibit exceptional light performance.
Geological Formation and Sources
While the provided sources do not detail the specific geological origins of turquoise, zircon, or tanzanite, they do offer insights into broader concepts of mineral formation and extraterrestrial connections, which can indirectly inform our understanding. The sources describe a meteorite event in 1807, where a meteorite fell in Connecticut and was studied by Yale professors Benjamin Silliman and James Kingsley. This event, the first officially recorded meteorite fall in the New World, sparked scientific debate and skepticism, even from President Thomas Jefferson, who found it "easier to believe that two Yankee professors could lie than to admit that stones could fall from heaven" (Source 1, 6). This historical anecdote underscores the evolving understanding of mineral origins, from earthly to extraterrestrial.
Turquoise is typically formed in arid regions where acidic, copper-rich groundwater interacts with aluminum-bearing minerals over millions of years. Major sources include Iran (historically known as Persian turquoise), the southwestern United States, and China. Zircon is a common mineral found in many geological environments, often as a primary constituent of igneous rocks like granite. It can also form in metamorphic and sedimentary rocks. Significant zircon deposits are located in Australia, Cambodia, Myanmar, and Sri Lanka. Tanzanite is found exclusively in the Merelani Hills of Tanzania, near Mount Kilimanjaro. Its formation is linked to the unique geological conditions of the East African Rift, where heat and pressure transformed zoisite into tanzanite.
The sources do not provide specific mining locations or formation processes for these gemstones. However, the mention of meteorites and their study highlights the importance of geological and astronomical events in understanding mineral origins. For gemstone enthusiasts interested in the provenance of these stones, further research into gemological reports and mining regions is essential.
Gemological Properties
The provided sources lack detailed gemological data for turquoise, zircon, and tanzanite. However, they do include a table-like structure in Source 1 that lists December’s birthstones and birth flowers, which can be used to present a summary of the available information:
| Gemstone | Symbolism | Birth Flower | Cultural Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Turquoise | Good fortune, success | Holly | Ancient symbol of protection and luck |
| Zircon | Clarity, brilliance | Paperwhite Narcissus | Historically valued for its sparkle |
| Tanzanite | Transformation, rarity | Holly and Narcissus | Modern gemstone, associated with new beginnings |
While the sources do not elaborate on specific physical properties, general knowledge indicates that turquoise has a hardness of 5-6 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively soft and susceptible to damage. Zircon is harder, with a Mohs hardness of 6.5-7.5, and is known for its high refractive index and dispersion, which give it exceptional brilliance. Tanzanite has a hardness of 6.5-7 and is pleochroic, displaying different colors when viewed from different angles.
For precise gemological properties, such as refractive index, specific gravity, or chemical composition, the sources are insufficient. Gemologists and collectors should refer to authoritative texts or databases for this information. The absence of such details in the provided materials underscores the importance of cross-referencing with reliable gemological sources when making purchasing decisions or conducting research.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
The symbolism of December’s birthstones is deeply intertwined with the month’s cultural and historical events. Turquoise, as mentioned, is considered a symbol of good fortune and success (Source 1, 4). This belief is ancient; turquoise was worn as a protective amulet by warriors and travelers in many cultures. For example, ancient Egyptians valued turquoise for its supposed ability to ward off evil and bring health. Similarly, Native American tribes, such as the Navajo and Zuni, have long incorporated turquoise into jewelry and ceremonies, associating it with the sky and water.
Zircon has been historically linked to clarity and purity. In medieval Europe, it was believed to promote honor and purity in its wearer. Its brilliance led to associations with light and enlightenment. However, the sources do not provide specific metaphysical beliefs for zircon, so these interpretations are based on broader historical context.
Tanzanite, discovered in the 1960s, is a modern gemstone with contemporary symbolism. It is often associated with transformation, intuition, and spiritual awakening. Its unique color, which ranges from ultraviolet to blue, is said to represent the duality of day and night, making it a stone of balance and insight.
The sources also highlight broader December symbolism through holidays and festivals. The winter solstice, celebrated with Yule, represents rebirth and the return of light (Source 1, 4). This theme of renewal aligns with the transformative symbolism of tanzanite and the clarity of zircon. Additionally, the mention of St. Lucia’s Day (December 13), a festival of light, reinforces the connection between December’s gemstones and themes of illumination and hope.
Care and Cleaning
The sources do not provide specific care instructions for turquoise, zircon, or tanzanite. However, based on general gemological knowledge, each stone requires different handling due to its physical properties. Turquoise, with its relatively low hardness and porous nature, should be cleaned with mild soap and water, avoiding harsh chemicals and ultrasonic cleaners. It should also be protected from prolonged exposure to sunlight, which can cause fading.
Zircon, being harder, is more durable but can be brittle due to its cleavage. It is best cleaned with warm soapy water and a soft brush, avoiding sudden temperature changes. Tanzanite, while moderately hard, is also sensitive to heat and should be cleaned gently without ultrasonic devices. It is advisable to store these stones separately to prevent scratching.
For detailed care guidelines, consulting a professional jeweler or gemologist is recommended, as the sources do not cover this aspect.
Conclusion
December’s birthstones—turquoise, zircon, and tanzanite—offer a fascinating blend of history, culture, and geology. While the provided sources emphasize the cultural and historical context of December, including its festivals, astronomical events, and traditional symbols, they do not delve into the specific gemological properties of these stones. This highlights the importance of seeking additional authoritative resources for comprehensive gemological data. Nevertheless, the available information underscores the significance of these gemstones as symbols of good fortune, clarity, and transformation, resonating with the themes of light and renewal that define the month of December. For enthusiasts and collectors, understanding the broader cultural narrative can enrich the appreciation of these beautiful gems.