The month of December is uniquely endowed with a quartet of birthstones, each offering a distinct palette of blue hues that mirror the serene yet vibrant spirit of the winter season. For individuals born on December 17th, the choice extends beyond a single gem, encompassing Turquoise, Tanzanite, Zircon, and Blue Topaz. This abundance of options reflects a rich tapestry of history, geology, and cultural significance. While the traditional and modern birthstones for December are well-established, the specific date of December 17th aligns with the astrological sign of Sagittarius, which introduces its own set of associated gemstones. This article delves into the intricate world of these December birthstones, exploring their historical journeys, geological origins, gemological properties, and the symbolic meanings that have captivated humanity for centuries.
The evolution of the modern birthstone list is a story of both tradition and adaptation. The standardization of birthstones began in 1912 with the National Association of Jewelers, which aimed to combine historical customs with gemstones practical for the jewelry trade. This list has been updated over time, with Zircon added to December's list in 1952 by the Jewelry Industry Council of America, and Tanzanite officially recognized in 2002. The reason for December's four birthstones is often attributed to a desire to offer more affordable and varied options to consumers, a practice that has grown alongside the gemstone market and consumer demand. This evolution ensures that the December-born individual has a gemstone that not only fits their aesthetic preference but also their budget and personal connection.
Historical Origins and Lore
The history of December's birthstones is as layered as the gems themselves, with each stone carrying a legacy that spans continents and millennia. Turquoise, one of the oldest known birthstones, boasts a history that traces back to ancient Persia and the Sinai Peninsula. Its name is derived from its journey through the gem markets of Constantinople, Turkey, where it was known as "turkis" or "turkeystone." This gem was a favorite for amulets due to its relative ease of being cut and inscribed. Ancient cultures imbued Turquoise with protective powers, believing it could ward off danger and bring good fortune. It was particularly cherished by lovers and married couples as a guardian of relationships and a preserver of friendship when given as a gift. Lore suggested that the stone could warn its wearer of impending illness or danger by losing its color and becoming pale. In Tibetan culture, Turquoise was considered a birthstone of fortune, health, and success, and was even used as a form of currency. The ancient Incas and Mayas offered Turquoise to their gods, while Native Americans of the Southwest associated it with youth and strength.
In contrast, Tanzanite is a relative newcomer to the gemological world. Discovered in the 20th century, it is a rare gemstone found only in a specific region of Tanzania, which contributes to its high value and cost. Its addition to the birthstone list in 2002 reflects the modern practice of updating the list to include newly discovered and popular gemstones. While its historical lore is not as ancient as Turquoise, its unique violet-blue color and rarity have quickly made it a prized possession, often cited as the most valuable of the December stones.
Zircon, added to the December list in 1952, has a long history but is often confused with the synthetic cubic zirconia. Natural Zircon is one of the oldest minerals on Earth, with some specimens dating back billions of years. It has been used for centuries and is known for its incredible sparkle, which can rival that of a diamond. Its historical significance is tied to its durability and brilliance, making it a gemstone of both practical and aesthetic value.
Blue Topaz, while not one of the original traditional birthstones, has become a popular modern option. Its exact historical origin is unknown, but it has been found throughout history in various regions. It is the official state gem of Texas, cementing its place in American gemology. The stone's rise in popularity is linked to its availability and vibrant blue color, which aligns with the cool-toned aesthetic of December.
Geological Formation and Global Sources
The formation and sourcing of these gemstones are as diverse as their histories. Each stone originates from distinct geological processes and is mined in specific, often limited, regions of the world.
Turquoise is a phosphate mineral that forms in arid regions where acidic, copper-rich groundwater seeps through pre-existing rocks. This process creates nodules or veins of turquoise in host rocks. Major sources of high-quality Turquoise include Iran, the United States (particularly Arizona and Nevada), Tibet, and India. The color of turquoise can vary from sky blue to greenish-blue, depending on the presence of copper (blue) or iron (greenish) during its formation.
Tanzanite is a variety of the mineral zoisite and is found exclusively in the Merelani Hills of Tanzania, near the base of Mount Kilimanjaro. Its formation is linked to the unique geological conditions of the East African Rift Valley. The scarcity of its source location is a primary factor in its rarity and high market value.
Zircon is a zirconium silicate mineral that forms in igneous and metamorphic rocks. It is commonly found in many parts of the world, including Sri Lanka, Australia, and the United States. However, the blue variety used in jewelry is often heat-treated to achieve its desirable color.
Blue Topaz is a silicate mineral of aluminum and fluorine. While natural blue topaz exists, the vivid blue stones commonly found in jewelry are often the result of irradiation and heat treatment of colorless or pale topaz. Major mining locations for topaz include Sri Lanka, Brazil, Mexico, Nigeria, and the United States. The U.S. state of Texas recognizes blue topaz as its official state gem.
Gemological Properties
Understanding the physical and chemical properties of these gemstones is crucial for both appreciation and care. The following table summarizes the key gemological data for the primary December birthstones, based on the provided sources.
| Gemstone | Mineral Group | Chemical Composition | Mohs Hardness | Typical Colors | Notable Properties |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Turquoise | Phosphate | Hydrated copper aluminum phosphate | 5 - 6 | Sky blue, greenish-blue | Often contains a matrix (webbed pattern) from host rock. |
| Tanzanite | Zoisite | Calcium aluminum hydroxyl silicate | 6.5 - 7 | Violet-blue | Trichroic (shows three different colors). |
| Zircon | Zirconium Silicate | ZrSiO₄ | 6.5 - 7.5 | Colorless, blue, brown | High refractive index, brilliant sparkle. |
| Blue Topaz | Silicate | Al₂SiO₄(F,OH)₂ | 8 | Sky blue to deep blue | Most durable December birthstone for everyday wear. |
Turquoise is the softest of the group, with a Mohs hardness of 5 to 6. This relative softness makes it susceptible to scratches and chemicals, requiring careful handling. Its porous nature means it can absorb oils and liquids, which can alter its color over time.
Tanzanite has a Mohs hardness of 6.5 to 7, making it suitable for jewelry but requiring protection from sharp blows. It is also known for its trichroism, meaning it can display three different colors—blue, violet, and burgundy—depending on the crystal orientation and lighting.
Zircon is a durable gemstone with a hardness of 6.5 to 7.5. Its high refractive index gives it a brilliant, diamond-like sparkle. It is important to distinguish natural zircon from synthetic cubic zirconia, which is a completely different material.
Blue Topaz is the hardest and most durable of the December birthstones, with a Mohs hardness of 8. This makes it an excellent choice for rings and jewelry that will be worn daily. Its color is typically consistent and vibrant, making it a popular and affordable option for those seeking a bright blue gem.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Beyond their physical beauty, these gemstones are rich in symbolic meaning and metaphysical beliefs, which have been passed down through generations.
Turquoise is universally associated with protection, truth, and calmness. It is considered a sacred stone in many cultures, believed to bring good fortune and guard against negative energies. Its connection to friendship and love makes it a meaningful gift, symbolizing enduring bonds. The belief that it can warn of danger by fading adds a layer of mystical intrigue to its lore.
Tanzanite, as a modern gemstone, is often linked to transformation and spiritual awakening. Its unique violet-blue color is associated with the throat and third-eye chakras, promoting communication and intuition. Its rarity is seen as a symbol of individuality and a connection to a unique spiritual path.
Zircon is believed to promote honor, purity, and wisdom. Its brilliant sparkle is thought to inspire clarity of thought and spiritual growth. Historically, it was also considered a protective stone that could ward off evil spirits and bring prosperity.
Blue Topaz is associated with serenity, communication, and clarity. Its cool blue hue is linked to the throat chakra, enhancing truthful expression and emotional balance. It is often seen as a stone of peace and calm, helping to soothe stress and anxiety.
For those born on December 17th under the sign of Sagittarius, additional gemstones are traditionally associated with the sign. According to one source, Topaz is linked to the personality trait of love and affection for Sagittarius, while Citrine is listed as an alternative gemstone for the sign. This adds another layer of choice for the December 17th individual, who may feel a stronger connection to the stones aligned with their zodiac sign.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care is essential to maintain the beauty and longevity of these gemstones. The recommended cleaning methods vary significantly based on their hardness and chemical stability.
Turquoise requires the most gentle care. It should be cleaned with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid using ultrasonic cleaners, steam cleaners, or any harsh chemicals, as these can damage the stone's porous surface and cause discoloration. It is best to remove turquoise jewelry before swimming, bathing, or applying lotions and perfumes.
Tanzanite should be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. It is advisable to avoid ultrasonic and steam cleaners, as the vibrations and heat can cause fractures in the stone. Due to its moderate hardness, it is best to store it separately from harder gems to prevent scratching.
Zircon is relatively durable but can be brittle. It is best cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. While it can withstand an ultrasonic cleaner, it is safer to avoid it if the stone has inclusions. Steam cleaning is not recommended.
Blue Topaz, being the hardest of the group, is the easiest to care for. It can be cleaned with warm, soapy water, a soft brush, and can generally withstand ultrasonic cleaners. However, it is still wise to avoid extreme temperature changes and harsh chemicals to preserve its color and integrity.
Conclusion
The birthstones for December 17th offer a remarkable diversity of history, geology, and symbolism. From the ancient protective amulet of Turquoise to the rare and valuable Tanzanite, the brilliant sparkle of Zircon, and the durable vibrancy of Blue Topaz, each gemstone tells a unique story. The addition of zodiac-associated stones like Topaz and Citrine for Sagittarius further enriches the options available to those born on this date. This variety ensures that every individual can find a gemstone that resonates with their personal style, budget, and spiritual beliefs. As a testament to their enduring appeal, these December stones continue to captivate gemstone enthusiasts, jewelry buyers, and students of gemology, reflecting the timeless beauty of the winter season and the deep human connection to the mineral world.