In the realm of birthstones, few months offer the vibrant diversity of December. While many months are anchored by a single gem, December is distinguished by a quartet of magnificent blue stones: Tanzanite, Turquoise, Blue Zircon, and Blue Topaz. This abundance provides a remarkable range of choices in color, durability, history, and price, allowing individuals born in the twelfth month to select a gem that truly resonates with their personal style and values. The "December 19th birthstone color" query, while specific, leads directly into this rich tapestry. The color for any December birth, including the 19th, is not a single hue but a spectrum encompassing the soft sky blues of Turquoise, the intense violet-blue of Tanzanite, the bright, clear blue of Zircon, and the icy brilliance of Blue Topaz. This article delves into the geological origins, gemological properties, historical significance, and cultural lore of each of these four December birthstones, providing a comprehensive guide for enthusiasts, collectors, and those seeking a meaningful piece of jewelry.
The modern association of these stones with December is a product of both ancient tradition and more recent standardization. Historical records, such as the 1912 list by the National Association of Jewelers, initially recognized Turquoise and Zircon for December. This list was later updated by the Jewelry Industry Council of America in 1952 to include Zircon, and more recently, in 2002, Tanzanite was added. Blue Topaz, while not officially listed on the traditional or modern standardized lists, has gained immense popularity and is frequently considered a modern birthstone for December, especially in the United States. This evolution reflects a trend in the gemstone industry to offer consumers more variety in color, style, and budget. The Gemological Institute of America (GIA), a leading authority in gemology, lists Turquoise, Tanzanite, and Zircon as December’s birthstones, acknowledging their varied blue-to-green and violet hues. The inclusion of Blue Topaz, while not universal, is a testament to its market presence and durability. Each stone carries its own unique narrative, from ancient protective amulets to rare treasures from a single mine, making the choice for a December-born individual a deeply personal one.
History and Lore
The historical journey of each December birthstone is as distinct as its color. Turquoise, a semi-translucent to opaque gem ranging from blue to green, is arguably the most ancient of the quartet. It has been cherished for millennia, with evidence of its use by the pharaohs and rulers of ancient Egypt. Chinese artisans were carving Turquoise over 3,000 years ago, demonstrating its early and widespread cultural significance. This December birthstone was imbued with a wealth of protective and beneficial powers in various cultures. It was thought to guarantee health and good fortune, and from the 13th century onward, a popular belief held that it would protect the wearer from falling—particularly off horses—and would shatter at the approach of disaster, thereby sacrificing itself to save its owner. Hindu mystics believed that seeing a turquoise after beholding the new moon would ensure fantastic wealth. Among Native American tribes, the Apache believed that turquoise could be found by following a rainbow to its end, and it held a significant role in their spiritual and material life.
Zircon is another of the world’s oldest gems, with its name deriving from the Arabic zargun, meaning "gold-colored." While it occurs in a variety of colors, the blue variety is the one traditionally associated with December. Its history is marked by both admiration and confusion. For centuries, it was a popular gem in the Middle Ages, valued for its fiery brilliance and often mistaken for more valuable stones like diamond or sapphire. The confusion was compounded by the similarity in name to "cubic zirconia," a synthetic diamond simulant, though the two are entirely different minerals. Despite this, Zircon has maintained its place as a gem of wisdom, clarity, and balance, believed to promote honor and purity in its wearer.
Tanzanite is the newest member of the December birthstone family, both in terms of its discovery and its formal recognition. It was not added to the birthstone list until 2002. Its history is incredibly brief and geographically constrained. Tanzanite was first identified in the 1960s in the Merelani Hills of Tanzania, near the foot of Mount Kilimanjaro. The gem was brought to global prominence by the Tiffany & Co. jewelry company, which recognized its unique beauty and marketed it extensively. Given its recent discovery, Tanzanite lacks the ancient lore of Turquoise or Zircon, but it has quickly developed modern symbolism associated with transformation, new beginnings, and a unique connection to its place of origin.
Blue Topaz, while not a traditional December birthstone, has a history that is both ancient and misunderstood. The name "Topaz" is derived from the Greek word Topazios, the ancient name for an island in the Red Sea. Ironically, the stones mined from this island were later discovered to be Peridot, not Topaz, but the name persisted. Historically, Topaz was often confused with other yellow and golden gems. The brilliant blue hues that are so popular today are almost always the result of treating colorless or pale yellow Topaz with radiation and heat. This process, while standard in the industry, means that the vibrant blue Topaz we see in modern jewelry does not occur naturally in such intense shades. Its journey to becoming a popular December birthstone is a story of modern gemological treatment and commercial appeal.
Geological Formation and Sources
The origins of these gems are as varied as their histories, with each stone forming under unique geological conditions and being sourced from specific locations around the globe.
Turquoise is a secondary mineral formed in the arid regions of the world where copper-rich acidic water reacts with aluminous rocks. This process occurs over millions of years, creating veins and nodules of the gemstone. It is mined on every continent except Antarctica, but the most significant and historically important sources have been in the Middle East and the Southwestern United States. Persian (Iranian) turquoise, particularly from the Nishapur region, has long been prized for its intense sky-blue color and lack of matrix. In the United States, mines in Arizona (such as the Sleeping Beauty mine), New Mexico, and Nevada produce turquoise with a wide range of colors and matrix patterns, each with its own local character. The geographic diversity of turquoise sources contributes to its varied appearance and cultural significance across different regions.
Zircon is a zirconium silicate mineral that forms in igneous and metamorphic rocks. It is a common accessory mineral found in many rock types, but gem-quality crystals suitable for cutting are rarer. The primary sources for gem zircon are found in Sri Lanka (historically a major source for blue zircon), Cambodia, Australia, and Myanmar. The blue color in zircon is typically achieved through heat treatment of brownish crystals. The geographic distribution of zircon is broader than that of Tanzanite but more concentrated than Turquoise, with specific regions known for producing the highest quality gems.
Tanzanite is exceptionally rare, as it is found in only one location in the world: the Merelani Hills in the Simanjiro District of the Manyara Region in Tanzania. This single source area, covering just a few square kilometers near Mount Kilimanjaro, makes Tanzanite one of the most geographically restricted of all colored gemstones. Its formation is linked to a unique geological event: the metamorphism of certain rocks by the heat from magma intrusions, which altered the mineral zoisite, imparting the violet-blue color. The rarity of its source is a primary factor in its value and desirability.
Blue Topaz is found in a variety of locations worldwide, reflecting its more common occurrence. Major sources include Sri Lanka, Brazil, Mexico, Nigeria, and the United States. In fact, Blue Topaz is the official state gem of Texas, highlighting its presence in American geology. Unlike the other December stones, natural blue topaz is typically pale. The intense, commercially popular blue colors are produced by irradiating and heating colorless or pale blue topaz crystals. This treatment is stable and permanent, but it is a critical factor to understand when evaluating the stone. The global distribution of Topaz sources makes it more accessible and affordable compared to the rarer Tanzanite.
Gemological Properties
Understanding the physical and chemical properties of each December birthstone is essential for appreciating their unique characteristics and for making informed decisions about care and jewelry setting.
Turquoise is a hydrated phosphate of copper and aluminum, with a chemical formula of CuAl₆(PO₄)₄(OH)₈·4H₂O. It is semi-translucent to opaque, with a waxy to dull luster. Its hardness on the Mohs scale ranges from 5 to 6, making it relatively soft and susceptible to scratching and chipping. It often contains veins or patches of matrix, which are remnants of the host rock. Turquoise is sensitive to chemicals, heat, and prolonged exposure to moisture and sunlight, which can cause discoloration or deterioration. Stabilization, a process where the stone is impregnated with a clear resin or wax to enhance its durability and color, is common for turquoise used in jewelry.
Zircon is a zirconium silicate (ZrSiO₄) and is one of the hardest natural gemstones, with a Mohs hardness of 6.5 to 7.5. This makes it more durable than turquoise and tanzanite, though it can be brittle along its cleavage planes. Zircon has a high refractive index (1.92-2.01) and strong dispersion (0.039), which gives it a brilliance and fire that can rival diamond. The blue variety is typically produced by heating brown zircon crystals. While durable, zircon can be sensitive to sharp impacts and should be protected in jewelry settings that guard the edges.
Tanzanite is a variety of the mineral zoisite, with a chemical formula of Ca₂Al₃(SiO₄)₃(OH). It has a hardness of 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively soft for a gemstone. It is strongly trichroic, meaning it displays three different colors—blue, violet, and burgundy—depending on the crystal orientation and viewing angle. Most tanzanite is heat-treated to enhance its blue color. It is important to note that tanzanite is not naturally found in a deep violet-blue; the color we associate with it is almost always the result of heat treatment of brownish zoisite. Due to its softness and cleavage, it is susceptible to chipping and requires careful handling.
Blue Topaz is a silicate mineral with a chemical formula of Al₂SiO₄(F,OH)₂. It has a high hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale, making it one of the hardest and most durable of the December birthstones, suitable for everyday wear in rings and bracelets. It is typically transparent with a vitreous luster. As mentioned, the vivid blue color is achieved through irradiation and heat treatment of naturally pale topaz. It is sensitive to sharp impacts but otherwise requires only mild care. Its durability and affordability have made it a popular choice for large, statement jewelry pieces.
The following table summarizes key gemological properties for comparison:
| Property | Tanzanite | Turquoise | Zircon | Blue Topaz |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Natural Color | Blue to violet | Sky blue to greenish | Blue (often treated) | Pale blue to dark blue (treated) |
| Mohs Hardness | 6 to 7 | 5 to 6 | 6.5 to 7.5 | 8 |
| Best For | Occasional rings, earrings, pendants | Earrings, pendants, beads | Earrings, pendants, protected rings | Daily wear rings, all jewelry |
| Geographic Origin | Tanzania only | Worldwide | Sri Lanka, Cambodia, Australia | Worldwide (Sri Lanka, Brazil, etc.) |
| Care Needs | Gentle cleaning only, avoid chemicals | Very gentle, avoid all chemicals | Avoid steam and ultrasonic | Mild care, avoid sharp hits |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Beyond their physical beauty, each December birthstone is rich with symbolic meaning and metaphysical beliefs, which have been attributed to them across different cultures and eras.
Turquoise is universally regarded as a stone of protection, healing, and good fortune. Its symbolism is deeply rooted in its long history. It is believed to shield the wearer from negative energy, accidents, and violence. Many cultures associate it with calming emotions, promoting inner peace, and enhancing communication. In traditional medicine, it was thought to cure ailments ranging from headaches to jaundice. The Apache belief that turquoise could be found by following a rainbow to its end links it to hope, promise, and the connection between the earthly and the divine.
Zircon is traditionally associated with clarity, wisdom, and spiritual balance. It is believed to promote honor and purity in the wearer, helping to align the mind and spirit. In some traditions, zircon is thought to aid in sleep and bring prosperity. Its fiery brilliance is often linked to the spark of inspiration and the illumination of truth. As a gem of the earth, it is also considered a grounding stone that can help one connect with the planet's energy.
Tanzanite, being a modern discovery, has developed a more contemporary set of symbolic meanings. It is often called the "stone of transformation" and is believed to facilitate major life changes, encouraging new beginnings and a higher perspective. Its unique trichroic nature—showing blue, violet, and burgundy—is seen as a metaphor for the multifaceted nature of the human spirit. Some associate it with enhanced intuition, spiritual awareness, and the ability to communicate more effectively from the heart. Its rarity is also symbolic of the unique journey each individual undertakes.
Blue Topaz is associated with clarity of thought, calmness, and emotional balance. It is believed to soothe the mind, reduce stress and anxiety, and promote honest communication. As a stone of the throat chakra, it is thought to aid in expressing one's truth with clarity and compassion. Its cool blue color is linked to the sky and sea, symbolizing peace, tranquility, and the flow of creative energy. While its metaphysical properties are not as ancient as those of turquoise, it has been embraced in modern crystal healing practices for its calming and clarifying effects.
Care and Cleaning
The durability of each December birthstone dictates the care it requires. Proper maintenance is essential to preserve the beauty and longevity of the gemstone.
Turquoise, with its low hardness and sensitivity to chemicals, requires the most careful handling. It should never be exposed to harsh chemicals, including household cleaners, cosmetics, perfumes, or even excessive perspiration. Cleaning should be done with a soft, damp cloth and mild, soapy water, followed by immediate and thorough drying. It should be stored separately from harder gemstones to avoid scratches. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners and steam cleaners, as they can damage the stone and any stabilizing treatments.
Zircon, while harder, is brittle and can be chipped by sharp blows. It is also sensitive to heat and sudden temperature changes. The best way to clean zircon is with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. It is advisable to avoid ultrasonic cleaners and steam cleaners, as the vibrations and heat can potentially cause fractures in the stone, especially if it has inclusions. Store it carefully to protect its edges.
Tanzanite is relatively soft and has perfect cleavage in one direction, making it prone to chipping and breaking if knocked hard. It should be handled with care, especially in rings, which are more exposed to impact. Clean tanzanite with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners and steam cleaners, as the vibrations and heat can cause severe damage. It is also advisable to remove tanzanite jewelry before engaging in physical activities or manual work.
Blue Topaz, with a hardness of 8, is the most durable of the four and can withstand more daily wear. However, it can still be chipped by sharp impacts. Cleaning is straightforward: use warm, soapy water and a soft brush. It is generally safe for ultrasonic cleaning, but it is always best to check with a professional jeweler, especially if the stone is set in a delicate or older piece. Avoid exposing it to extreme heat, as this could potentially alter its color, though the treated blue color is generally stable.
Conclusion
The December birthstones—Tanzanite, Turquoise, Zircon, and Blue Topaz—offer a remarkable and diverse palette of blue hues, each with a unique story, origin, and character. From the ancient, protective Talisman of Turquoise, found worldwide, to the fiery, brilliant Zircon, prized for its clarity; from the rare, transformative Tanzanite, exclusive to a single valley in Tanzania, to the durable and icy Blue Topaz, available globally, these gemstones provide unparalleled choice for those born in the final month of the year. Their selection is not merely a matter of color preference but a connection to history, geology, and personal symbolism. Whether one is drawn to the earthy allure of Turquoise, the sparkling fire of Zircon, the shifting blues of Tanzanite, or the brilliant clarity of Blue Topaz, each stone stands as a testament to the beauty and diversity of the mineral kingdom, offering a meaningful and cherished emblem for every December-born individual.