The date of December 2nd carries a unique gemological significance, offering one of the most varied selections of birthstones in the annual calendar. For individuals born on this day, the official and alternative birthstones present a fascinating trio of gems: turquoise, tanzanite, and zircon. These stones, united by their captivating blue tones, are joined by other notable alternatives such as bloodstone, ruby, and opal across different traditions. This comprehensive guide delves into the history, geological origins, gemological properties, and enduring symbolism of these December 2nd birthstones, providing an expert resource for gemstone enthusiasts, jewelry buyers, and students of gemology.
The birthstone tradition, which links specific gems to calendar months, has evolved over millennia. The modern standardized list was largely established in 1912 by the American National Association of Jewelers, which officially designated turquoise and zircon as the two primary birthstones for December. In subsequent years, tanzanite was added as a modern alternative, reflecting its growing prominence in the gem market. Each of these stones possesses a distinct character, from the ancient, earthy charm of turquoise to the fiery brilliance of zircon and the vivid, modern appeal of tanzanite. Understanding their individual stories allows for a deeper appreciation of their value and significance.
History and Lore
The historical journey of the December birthstones is as diverse as the gems themselves, spanning ancient civilizations and cultural traditions.
Turquoise is arguably the most historically recognized December birthstone, with a lineage that stretches back thousands of years. Its name itself tells a story of trade and geography; the stone was mined in Persia and along the Sinai Peninsula and transported to Europe through the gem markets of Constantinople, Turkey, hence its name, which translates from the French pierre turquoise ("Turkish stone"). The oldest known turquoise mines date to approximately 3200 BCE in ancient Egypt, where the gem was prized for its brilliant robin's egg blue color and used extensively in jewelry and ornamentation. Turquoise was a favored gem for amulets across the Middle East and Native American cultures, valued for its relative ease of cutting and suitability for inscriptions. Ancient beliefs held that turquoise possessed protective powers, capable of warding off danger and bringing good fortune. It was also believed to serve as a health monitor; some traditions claimed the stone would become pale if its wearer was approaching illness. In Tibetan culture, turquoise was considered a birthstone of fortune, health, and success, and was even used as a form of currency. The Incas and Mayas offered turquoise to their gods, while Native Americans of the Southwestern United States associated the gem with youth and strength. For lovers and married couples, turquoise was a cherished gem believed to protect relationships and preserve friendship when given as a gift.
Zircon shares ancient origins with turquoise, with historical mentions found in Hebrew, Arabic, and Greek texts as early as the 5th century BCE. The word "zircon" is derived from the Persian word zargun, meaning "gold-colored," which speaks to one of its historical hues. However, it is the gem's brilliant fire—its exceptional refractive index and dispersion—that has captivated civilizations. The wide range of colors in which zircon occurs, including blue, yellow, green, and brown, led to its frequent imitation of other, more valuable gems. Notably, colorless varieties were historically the most highly prized, often mistaken for diamonds. This gem's ability to exhibit such vivid brilliance has cemented its place in jewelry lore for centuries.
Tanzanite, in contrast, is a relatively modern addition to the birthstone lexicon. While its geological formation is ancient, its discovery and introduction to the gem market are recent. Its official recognition as a December birthstone reflects its rapid ascent in popularity due to its unique and captivating violet-blue color, a hue found in only one geographic location in the world. While not possessing the millennia-long human history of turquoise and zircon, tanzanite has quickly woven itself into the narrative of December birthstones, representing a modern chapter in the long story of gemology.
Geological Formation and Sources
The origins of these gemstones are as varied as their histories, each requiring specific geological conditions to form.
Turquoise is a secondary mineral, meaning it forms in the near-surface environment where pre-existing minerals are altered by water and other elements. It is a hydrated phosphate of aluminum and copper, and its characteristic blue-to-green color is directly influenced by the amount of copper present; higher copper content yields a more intense blue. Major sources of turquoise include the United States (notably Arizona, New Mexico, and Nevada), Iran, and China. The material from these regions can vary significantly in color, matrix (the host rock within the turquoise), and hardness, all of which affect its quality and suitability for jewelry.
Zircon is a primary mineral, meaning it forms directly from magma during the crystallization of igneous rocks. It is a zirconium silicate (ZrSiO₄) and is one of the oldest minerals on Earth, with crystals found in ancient crustal rocks. Significant sources of zircon include Sri Lanka, Australia, and India. The gem's color can be altered through heat treatment, a common practice in the gem trade. For instance, heat can transform brown zircon into a more desirable blue hue, which is often marketed as a December birthstone.
Tanzanite is a variety of the mineral zoisite, specifically the blue to violet-blue form. It is formed by the unique geological conditions in the Merelani Hills of Tanzania, near the base of Mount Kilimanjaro. The process involves the metamorphism of limestone by heat and pressure from nearby igneous intrusions, a geological setting found nowhere else on Earth. This extreme rarity of origin makes tanzanite one of the most geographically restricted gemstones in the world. Its discovery in 1967 led to its rapid popularization, and it is now exclusively mined in this single location in Tanzania.
Gemological Properties
The physical and chemical characteristics of these gemstones determine their durability, appearance, and care requirements. The following table summarizes the key gemological properties of the December 2nd birthstones and their alternatives, based on data from authoritative gemological sources.
| Gemstone | Color | Hardness (Mohs) | Chemical Composition | Refractive Index | Specific Gravity | Transparency | Primary Sources |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Turquoise | Blue-green | 5–6 | Hydrated phosphate of aluminum and copper | 1.60–1.63 | 2.76–2.85 | Opaque | United States, Iran, China |
| Tanzanite | Violet-blue | 6–7 | Calcium aluminum silicate | 1.69–1.70 | 3.10–3.38 | Transparent to translucent | Tanzania |
| Zircon | Blue, yellow, green, brown | 6–7.5 | Zirconium silicate | 1.92–2.01 | 4.60–4.70 | Transparent | Sri Lanka, Australia, India |
| Bloodstone | Green with red spots | 6.5–7 | Chalcedony with iron oxide | 1.55–1.56 | 2.60–2.65 | Translucent to opaque | India, Brazil, United States |
| Ruby | Red | 9 | Aluminum oxide with chromium | 1.76–1.78 | 4.00 | Transparent | Myanmar, Thailand, Sri Lanka |
| Opal | Play-of-color | 5–6.5 | Hydrated amorphous silica | 1.46–1.47 | 1.98–2.21 | Translucent to opaque | Australia, Ethiopia, Mexico |
Turquoise is the softest of the primary December stones, with a hardness of 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale. This makes it susceptible to scratching and abrasion, requiring careful handling. Its opacity is typical, though some high-grade material can be translucent. The specific gravity and refractive index are relatively low, consistent with its mineral structure.
Tanzanite is harder, with a rating of 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale, making it more durable for jewelry use. It is typically transparent to translucent. Its refractive index and specific gravity are higher than turquoise's, contributing to its visual appeal. As a relatively soft gem, it is also prone to chipping and should be protected from hard blows.
Zircon is the hardest and most durable of the three primary December birthstones, with a hardness of 6 to 7.5. Its high refractive index (1.92–2.01) gives it exceptional brilliance and fire, often compared to that of diamond. Its high specific gravity (4.60–4.70) makes it feel noticeably heavy for its size. These properties make zircon an excellent choice for jewelry that will see regular wear, provided it is protected from sharp impacts due to its perfect cleavage, which can make it brittle.
Among the alternative birthstones, bloodstone (a variety of chalcedony with iron oxide inclusions creating red spots) and ruby (a red corundum) offer high durability, with hardnesses of 6.5–7 and 9, respectively. Opal, however, is more delicate (5–6.5) and contains water, making it sensitive to temperature changes and requiring specific care.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Each December 2nd birthstone carries a rich tapestry of symbolic meanings and metaphysical beliefs, many of which have been passed down through generations.
Turquoise is profoundly associated with wisdom, protection, and good fortune. Across cultures, it has been viewed as a talisman for travelers, a guardian against negative energy, and a conduit for spiritual grounding. Its connection to the sky and water in many traditions reinforces its symbolism of tranquility and clarity. In relationships, it is believed to promote loyalty and communication, making it a popular gift between friends and partners.
Zircon has long been linked to honor, wisdom, and spiritual clarity. In medieval times, it was thought to promote sound sleep and ward off evil spirits. Its brilliant fire is often interpreted as a symbol of inner light and enlightenment. The stone is also associated with prosperity and is believed to help its wearer achieve their goals.
Tanzanite, as a modern gem, has accumulated symbolic meanings relatively quickly. It is often called the "stone of transformation" and is associated with intuition, spiritual awareness, and calm. Its unique violet-blue color is said to stimulate the throat and third-eye chakras, enhancing communication and psychic abilities. It is also believed to bring a sense of peace and harmony to its wearer.
The alternative birthstones also carry their own symbolism. Bloodstone is historically linked to courage, strength, and vitality, while ruby symbolizes passion, love, and power. Opal is known for its ability to enhance creativity and emotional expression.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care is essential to maintain the beauty and longevity of these gemstones, and it varies significantly based on their physical properties.
Turquoise is the most delicate of the primary December stones. Due to its porosity and relatively low hardness, it should be protected from chemicals, perfumes, lotions, and prolonged exposure to water or heat, which can cause discoloration or cracking. Cleaning should be done gently with a soft, dry cloth. It is best stored separately to avoid scratches from harder gems.
Tanzanite requires careful handling to prevent chipping or scratching. It should be removed during activities like gardening, sports, or heavy housework. Cleaning can be done with warm, soapy water and a soft brush, but ultrasonic and steam cleaners are not recommended as they can cause thermal shock or damage. It should also be kept away from sudden temperature changes.
Zircon is relatively durable but has perfect cleavage, meaning it can split along certain planes if struck with force. It is best suited for protective settings like bezels. Cleaning is straightforward with warm, soapy water and a soft brush, but avoid ultrasonic cleaners, especially if the stone has been fracture-filled. It is also advisable to keep zircon away from strong heat, as this can alter its color.
For the alternative stones, bloodstone and ruby are quite durable and can be cleaned with standard methods, including ultrasonic cleaners (for untreated ruby). Opal, however, is sensitive and should be cleaned only with a soft, damp cloth, avoiding chemicals and extreme temperatures.
Conclusion
The birthstones for December 2nd—turquoise, tanzanite, and zircon—offer a remarkable spectrum of color, history, and meaning. From the ancient protective amulets of turquoise to the fiery brilliance of zircon and the transformative modern elegance of tanzanite, each gem provides a unique connection to the natural world and human culture. Understanding their geological origins, gemological properties, and historical symbolism allows for a deeper appreciation of their value, whether one is selecting a piece of jewelry, studying gemology, or simply exploring the traditions of birthstones. Together, they form a trio that is as diverse and fascinating as the individuals born on this day.