For individuals born on December 14th, the birthstone tradition offers not one, but three distinct and captivating gemstones: Tanzanite, Turquoise, and Zircon. This unique association sets December 14th apart, providing a choice of gems that collectively represent a spectrum of blue hues, from the sky-blue of turquoise to the violet-blue of tanzanite and the brilliant clear blue of zircon. Each stone carries its own profound history, geological origin, and symbolic meaning, yet together they form a comprehensive representation of the qualities often attributed to those born on this day—success, truth, and adventure. This article delves into the multifaceted nature of these December 14th birthstones, exploring their historical significance, geological formation, gemological properties, and cultural symbolism, offering a detailed guide for gemstone enthusiasts, jewelry buyers, and students of gemology.
History and Lore: A Journey Through Time
The tradition of associating specific gemstones with birth dates is deeply rooted in historical and cultural practices. The December 14th birthstones, encompassing Tanzanite, Turquoise, and Zircon, reflect a rich tapestry of beliefs and meanings that have evolved over millennia.
Turquoise stands as one of the oldest known gemstones, with a history that dates back thousands of years. Revered in ancient civilizations across the globe, turquoise has been cherished for its distinctive color and perceived protective properties. In ancient Egypt, it was used extensively in jewelry and burial adornments, symbolizing protection and divine favor. The stone’s association with good fortune and protection extended to the Americas, where it became a cornerstone of Native American jewelry and spiritual practices, and to Asia, where it was valued for its beauty and symbolic power. For centuries, turquoise has been linked to wisdom, tranquility, and friendship, making it a timeless symbol of personal well-being and positive energy.
In stark contrast to the ancient lineage of turquoise, Tanzanite is a remarkably modern addition to the gemstone world. Discovered in 1967 in the Merelani Hills of Tanzania, this gemstone was introduced to the global market in the late 1960s. Despite its recent discovery, tanzanite quickly captivated jewelers and gemstone enthusiasts with its deep blue and violet hues. Its name is derived directly from its exclusive origin, as it is found only in a small area near Mount Kilimanjaro. Although it lacks the millennia-long history of turquoise, tanzanite has rapidly established its own legacy, associated with transformation, new beginnings, and authentic expression. Its emergence in the birthstone tradition highlights the evolving nature of gemology, where new discoveries can earn a place alongside ancient stones.
Zircon occupies a unique position in this trio, with a history that bridges the ancient and the modern. While the specific historical uses of zircon as a December 14th birthstone are not detailed in the provided sources, its general historical significance is well-documented in broader gemological literature. Zircon is one of the oldest minerals on Earth, with deposits dating back billions of years. Historically, it has been mistaken for other gems, such as diamond, due to its high refractive index and brilliance. Over time, it has been appreciated for its own merits, associated with clarity, wisdom, and balance. Its inclusion alongside tanzanite and turquoise provides a balance of ancient heritage and vibrant color.
The journey of these three stones to becoming the recognized birthstones for December 14th is part of a larger tradition. The modern birthstone lists, often influenced by the National Association of Jewelers (NAJ) and later the American Gem Trade Association (AGTA), have evolved to include multiple options for certain months. December is particularly notable for having three official birthstones, offering a variety of colors and styles to suit personal preference. This multiplicity allows individuals born in December, and specifically on December 14th, to choose a gemstone that resonates with their personal taste and the symbolic meanings they value most.
Geological Formation and Sources
The formation of these gemstones is as diverse as their histories, occurring in vastly different geological environments across the globe.
Turquoise forms in arid regions where specific geological conditions prevail. It is a phosphate mineral that requires the presence of copper-rich water percolating through host rocks, often containing aluminum and phosphorus. The process occurs in dry climates where evaporation concentrates the minerals, leading to the deposition of turquoise in veins or nodules. The gemstone’s characteristic matrix—the host rock that becomes part of the gem—is a result of this formation process, creating unique patterns that add to its beauty. Significant sources of turquoise include the southwestern United States (notably Arizona, New Mexico, and Nevada), Iran, Egypt, China, Mexico, and parts of Central Asia and Africa. Each region produces turquoise with slightly different colors and matrix patterns, influenced by local mineral content.
Tanzanite has a highly specific and limited source, which contributes to its rarity. It is found exclusively in the Merelani Hills of northern Tanzania, near Mount Kilimanjaro. The gemstone is a variety of the mineral zoisite and forms under unique geological conditions involving the metamorphism of specific rock types. The limited geographic range of its occurrence makes tanzanite one of the rarest gemstones in the world, with its availability tied directly to a small mining area. This exclusivity is a key factor in its value and desirability.
Zircon forms in a variety of geological settings, including igneous, metamorphic, and sedimentary rocks. It is a common mineral in many rock types and is often found in placer deposits, where it has been eroded from its original source and concentrated by water or wind action. While zircon is found in many parts of the world, the specific sources for gem-quality blue zircon are not detailed in the provided materials. However, it is known that significant deposits occur in countries such as Cambodia, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, and Australia. The gemstone’s formation process involves high temperatures and pressures, and it is often recovered from alluvial deposits.
Gemological Properties
Understanding the physical and optical properties of these gemstones is essential for both appreciation and practical care. The following table summarizes key gemological characteristics based on the provided sources.
| Gemstone | Chemical Composition | Hardness (Mohs Scale) | Key Optical Properties | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tanzanite | Ca₂Al₃(SiO₄)₃(OH) (Variety of Zoisite) | 6 to 6.5 | Trichroism (blue, purple, burgundy) | One of the rarest gemstones; found only in Tanzania. |
| Turquoise | CuAl₆(PO₄)₄(OH)₈·4H₂O | 5 to 6 | Opaque to translucent; robin's-egg blue to green-blue | Often contains a matrix (host rock); historically significant. |
| Zircon | ZrSiO₄ | 7.5 | High refractive index; brilliant fire | Durable; can appear in various colors, including clear blue. |
Tanzanite is a relatively soft gemstone, with a hardness ranging from 6 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale. This makes it susceptible to scratching and abrasion, requiring careful handling. Its most remarkable property is trichroism, where the stone appears blue, purple, or burgundy depending on the viewing angle. This dynamic color play is a hallmark of the gem and contributes significantly to its appeal. The deep violet-blue hue is its most sought-after color, and its limited source adds to its exclusivity.
Turquoise is even softer, with a hardness of approximately 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale. This low hardness makes it a relatively delicate gemstone that can be easily scratched or damaged. It is typically opaque to translucent, with a distinctive color range from soft sky blue to greenish hues. The presence of a matrix—the host rock that remains part of the gem—creates unique patterns, often resembling a spiderweb, which is highly prized in jewelry. The color and matrix are influenced by the specific geological conditions of its formation.
Zircon is notably harder and more durable than both tanzanite and turquoise, with a hardness of 7.5 on the Mohs scale. This makes it more suitable for jewelry that will be worn daily, as it is resistant to scratching and wear. Zircon is known for its high refractive index, which gives it a brilliant fire and sparkle often compared to that of a diamond. While it can occur in a variety of colors, blue zircon is particularly popular for December birthstone jewelry. Its clarity and brilliance make it a striking choice for those seeking a gemstone with both beauty and resilience.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
The symbolism attached to these gemstones is as varied as their colors and origins, reflecting the diverse cultures that have cherished them.
Tanzanite is associated with transformation, new beginnings, and authentic expression. It is believed to enhance truth, honesty, and spiritual awareness, making it a fitting symbol for personal growth and success. Its modern discovery has allowed it to be imbued with contemporary meanings, often linked to the dynamic and changing nature of modern life. For individuals born on December 14th, tanzanite can represent the capacity for change and the pursuit of one’s true path.
Turquoise carries a legacy of protection, good fortune, and divine favor. Across numerous cultures, it has been worn as an amulet to guard against harm and attract positive energy. Its symbolism extends to wisdom, tranquility, and friendship, making it a stone of emotional balance and social harmony. The historical reverence for turquoise underscores its enduring power as a symbol of safety and well-being.
Zircon is traditionally associated with clarity, wisdom, and a sense of balance. It is believed to promote mental clarity and spiritual growth, helping the wearer to see situations with greater insight and perspective. Its brilliant sparkle is thought to symbolize a clear mind and a balanced life, making it a stone of intellectual and emotional equilibrium.
Together, these three gemstones offer a comprehensive set of symbolic meanings: tanzanite for transformation, turquoise for protection, and zircon for clarity. This triad allows individuals born on December 14th to choose a gemstone that aligns with their personal aspirations and values.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care is essential to maintain the beauty and longevity of these gemstones, given their differing physical properties.
Tanzanite, with its hardness of 6 to 6.5, requires gentle handling. It should be stored separately from other jewelry to prevent scratches. Cleaning can be done with warm, soapy water and a soft brush, but ultrasonic and steam cleaners should be avoided, as they can cause damage. It is also advisable to remove tanzanite jewelry during activities that could expose it to hard knocks or chemicals.
Turquoise, being the softest of the three (hardness 5 to 6), demands the most care. It is porous and can absorb chemicals, lotions, and oils, which may alter its color over time. Cleaning should be limited to a soft, dry cloth; avoid water and chemicals. Turquoise jewelry should be stored in a cool, dry place and removed before swimming, bathing, or applying cosmetics. The matrix in turquoise can also be sensitive, so gentle handling is paramount.
Zircon, with a hardness of 7.5, is the most durable of the December 14th birthstones. It can be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. While it is more resistant to damage, it can still be scratched by harder materials, so it should be stored separately. Zircon is generally safe for ultrasonic cleaning, but it is always best to consult a professional jeweler for specific care instructions, especially if the stone has been treated or set in a delicate mounting.
Conclusion
The December 14th birthstones—Tanzanite, Turquoise, and Zircon—represent a fascinating convergence of history, geology, and symbolism. From the ancient protective powers of turquoise to the modern transformative energy of tanzanite and the clarifying brilliance of zircon, each gemstone offers a unique narrative. Their varied origins, from the arid regions of the world to a single hill in Tanzania, and their distinct gemological properties, from the soft, matrix-rich turquoise to the durable, fiery zircon, provide a rich tapestry for exploration. For those born on December 14th, these stones are more than mere adornments; they are symbols of identity, connecting the wearer to a legacy of beauty, meaning, and natural wonder. In the world of gemology, the December 14th birthstones stand as a testament to the diversity and enduring allure of the Earth’s treasures.