The final month of the year is associated with a unique and captivating array of gemstones, all unified by a cool, wintry palette that evokes icy skies and deep twilight blues. December is one of the few months with multiple official birthstones, offering a diverse selection for those born under its sign. The traditional stones are Turquoise, Zircon, and Tanzanite, with Blue Topaz often recognized as a modern addition, particularly in the United States. This rich variety ensures that every individual born in December can find a gem that resonates with their personal style, from the ancient, earthy allure of Turquoise to the vibrant, transformative hues of Tanzanite. Each of these stones carries a distinct history, a unique set of gemological properties, and a wealth of symbolism, making them a fascinating subject for gemstone enthusiasts, jewelry buyers, and students of gemology alike.
This article will explore the four primary gemstones associated with December: Turquoise, Zircon, Tanzanite, and Blue Topaz. We will delve into their historical journeys from ancient talismans to modern birthstones, examine their geological origins and gemological characteristics, and unpack the meanings and metaphysical beliefs that have been attributed to them across cultures and centuries. Furthermore, we will provide practical guidance on how to care for and clean these beautiful gems, ensuring their longevity and brilliance. By understanding the science, history, and lore behind each stone, one can fully appreciate the depth and diversity of December's azure treasure chest.
History and Lore
The history of December's birthstones is as multifaceted as the stones themselves, with some boasting a legacy that spans millennia while others are celebrated for their more recent discovery and rise to prominence.
Turquoise is arguably the oldest among them, having been cherished for thousands of years. This December birthstone has been adorned by rulers of ancient Egypt, with pharaohs and other elite members of society wearing it as a symbol of power and protection. Chinese artisans were also early masters of Turquoise, carving it into intricate objects more than 3,000 years ago. The stone's protective powers were a central part of its lore. From the 13th century onward, it was widely believed to safeguard the wearer from falls, particularly from horses, and was thought to shatter into several pieces as a warning of an impending disaster. Hindu mystics held that gazing upon a Turquoise after first seeing the new moon would ensure fantastic wealth. The stone also held deep significance for Native American cultures; the Apache believed Turquoise could be found by following a rainbow to its end, and it was considered a sacred stone by many tribes.
Zircon, the third traditional birthstone, also boasts a long and storied history. Its origins are a subject of debate, with some scholars tracing the name to the Arabic word zarkun (cinnabar or vermilion) and others to the Persian word zargun (gold colored), both of which are plausible given the gem's wide color range. For centuries, colorless zircon was so admired for its brilliance and fiery flashes of light that it was often confused with diamond. During the Middle Ages, this December birthstone was believed to have the power to lull one into a deep sleep and ward off evil spirits. In Hindu tradition, Zircon is one of the nine gems, or navaratna, and when worn together with the other eight, it is said to protect the wearer and bestow wealth, wisdom, and good health. The Victorians also held a particular fondness for the blue variety of Zircon.
Tanzanite is the newest of the traditional December stones, discovered by Maasai herders in the Merelani Hills of Tanzania in 1967. Its rapid ascent to prominence as a birthstone is a testament to its exceptional beauty. The stone's deep blue-violet hue captivated Tiffany & Co., who introduced it to the world in 1968 and named it after its country of origin. Due to its rarity—found in only one location on Earth—and its stunning color, it was quickly embraced as a gem of modern luxury and significance. While it lacks the ancient lore of Turquoise or Zircon, its symbolism is deeply tied to its modern origins, representing transformation, new beginnings, and a sense of elevated consciousness.
Blue Topaz, while not one of the three traditional stones, has become a popular modern birthstone for December, especially in the United States. The word "topaz" itself is believed to derive from the Sanskrit word "tapas," meaning fire. Historically, Topaz was associated with strength and protection. In its modern blue form, it has come to represent love and fidelity, making it a popular choice for romantic gifts. Its appeal lies in its clear, vibrant blue hues, ranging from sky blue to the deep, dramatic London Blue, which offer a crisp, wintry aesthetic that perfectly complements the month.
Geological Formation and Sources
Understanding where these gemstones originate provides insight into their unique characteristics and value. Each of December's birthstones has a distinct geological story and is mined from specific, often limited, locations around the globe.
Turquoise is a hydrous phosphate of copper and aluminum, formed when water-rich solutions percolate through rocks rich in aluminum and copper. This process occurs in arid regions, and as a result, major Turquoise sources are located in the Southwestern United States, Iran, Tibet, and India. The stone is often found in veins or nuggets, and its famous matrix—the web-like remnants of the host rock—is a key identifier of its origin. The stone is a "sacred" one in many cultures, and its sources are as varied as the cultural traditions that value it.
Zircon is a mineral belonging to the nesosilicate group and is one of the oldest minerals on Earth, with some crystals dating back billions of years. It forms in igneous and metamorphic rocks. While Zircon is found in many places, including Australia, Sri Lanka, and Thailand, the sources do not specify the primary mining locations for the blue varieties used in jewelry. Colorless zircon was historically a popular diamond simulant, but the blue form has its own distinct appeal.
Tanzanite is a variety of the mineral zoisite and owes its captivating blue-violet color to trace amounts of vanadium. Its geological formation is exceptionally rare. It is found exclusively in a very small mining area in the Merelani Hills of northern Tanzania, near the base of Mount Kilimanjaro. This single-source origin makes Tanzanite significantly rarer than diamond. The gem's formation is believed to be linked to a unique geological event that altered the chemical composition of the zoisite crystals, creating this one-of-a-kind gemstone.
Blue Topaz is a silicate mineral that forms in igneous rocks, specifically in silica-rich magmas. While Topaz itself can be found in various locations, the sources highlight that Blue Topaz can be found in the United States, specifically in Texas, Utah, and California. Notably, Blue Topaz is the official state gem of Texas. It is important to note that naturally occurring blue topaz is extremely rare. The vast majority of blue topaz on the market is created through the irradiation and heat treatment of colorless topaz, a process that is permanent and does not affect the stone's durability.
Gemological Properties
The gemological properties of a stone—its hardness, chemical composition, and optical characteristics—are crucial for both identification and determining its suitability for jewelry. Each of December's birthstones has a unique profile.
Turquoise, Zircon, Tanzanite, and Blue Topaz all belong to different mineral groups and possess distinct physical properties. The following table summarizes their key gemological characteristics based on the provided information:
| Gemstone | Mineral Group | Chemical Composition | Mohs Hardness | Key Characteristics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Turquoise | Phosphate | Hydrous copper/aluminum phosphate | 5 - 6 | Semi-translucent to opaque; ranges from blue to green; often contains matrix (veins of host rock). |
| Zircon | Nesosilicate | ZrSiO₄ | Not specified | Known for its brilliance and "fire"; colorless varieties are often confused with diamonds; available in a broad color palette. |
| Tanzanite | Zoisite | Ca₂Al₃(SiO₄)₃(OH) | Not specified | Trichroic (displays three different colors); deep blue-violet hue; best set in earrings or pendants due to fragility. |
| Blue Topaz | Silicate | Al₂SiO₄(F,OH) | Not specified | Naturally rare; most market stones are heat-treated colorless topaz; available in shades from sky blue to deep London Blue. |
Turquoise has a Mohs hardness of 5 to 6, making it a relatively soft gem. This means it can be scratched by harder materials and requires careful handling. Its semi-translucent to opaque nature and characteristic matrix are key identifiers.
Zircon is known for its exceptional refractive index and high dispersion, which gives it a brilliance and fire that rivals that of diamond. While the sources do not specify its hardness, its history as a diamond simulant speaks to its impressive optical properties. It is available in a wide array of colors, but the bright, clear blue is the one associated with December.
Tanzanite is a relatively new gem, and its properties are unique. It is known for its trichroism—the ability to display three different colors (blue, violet, and red-violet) when viewed from different angles. This property contributes to its dynamic appearance. The sources note that Tanzanite is fragile and best suited for jewelry with protective settings, such as pendants and earrings, rather than for daily-wear rings.
Blue Topaz is a durable gem, which is one reason for its popularity in modern jewelry. The transformation from colorless to blue topaz is achieved through a permanent treatment process, which does not compromise the stone's integrity. Its clarity and range of blue shades, from the pale sky blue to the rich, saturated London Blue, make it a versatile and attractive option.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Beyond their physical beauty, December's birthstones are imbued with a rich tapestry of symbolic meanings and metaphysical beliefs that have been passed down through generations.
Turquoise is primarily associated with protection, good fortune, and friendship. Its long history as a protective amulet is central to its identity. It was believed to guard against negative forces and physical harm, such as falls. Many also see it as a stone of calm and serenity, a steadying force that provides grounding and a sense of peace when life feels chaotic. Its connection to good fortune and wealth is a recurring theme in its lore, from Hindu traditions to the beliefs of Native American cultures.
Zircon is linked to clarity, wisdom, and balance. The stone's brilliant, clear appearance is thought to mirror its metaphysical properties, helping to sharpen the mind and promote mental clarity. In the Middle Ages, its ability to ward off evil spirits and induce restful sleep positioned it as a stone of spiritual protection and inner peace. The Hindu belief in its power to bring wisdom and good health further solidifies its reputation as a gem that enhances one's mental and spiritual well-being.
Tanzanite, being a modern discovery, carries symbolism that is equally contemporary. It represents transformation, new beginnings, and intuition. Its unique, shifting color is seen as a reflection of personal growth and the journey into new chapters of life. The stone is associated with a higher consciousness and is believed to aid in spiritual awakening and the development of psychic abilities. It is a gem for those navigating change and seeking clarity and purpose.
Blue Topaz is a symbol of calmness, love, and fidelity. Its serene, cool blue hue is naturally associated with tranquility and clear communication. It is often given as a gift to express love and commitment, making it a popular choice for romantic jewelry. Historically linked to the concept of "fire" or "tapas," it is also seen as a stone that can help one achieve their goals with strength and determination, while maintaining a calm and loving heart.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care is essential to maintain the beauty and longevity of any gemstone. Due to their varying levels of hardness and stability, the December birthstones require different approaches to cleaning and handling.
Turquoise, with its modest hardness of 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale, is susceptible to scratches and damage. It is also porous and can be affected by chemicals, cosmetics, and even skin oils, which can cause discoloration over time. The best way to clean Turquoise is with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth. It should be dried thoroughly after cleaning. Harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, and steam cleaners should be strictly avoided.
Tanzanite is a fragile gem that requires gentle handling. As the sources recommend, it is best set in protective mountings like pendants or earrings, rather than in rings that are exposed to daily wear and tear. The recommended cleaning method is warm, soapy water. It is crucial to note that both ultrasonic and steam cleaners are never recommended for Tanzanite, as the vibrations and heat can cause or worsen fractures in the stone.
Zircon and Blue Topaz are generally more durable than Turquoise and Tanzanite. While the sources do not provide specific cleaning instructions for these two, their greater hardness and stability mean they can typically withstand standard cleaning methods. However, as a general rule for all fine jewelry, using warm soapy water with a soft brush is a safe and effective method. It is always advisable to rinse the jewelry thoroughly to remove any soap residue and to dry it with a soft, lint-free cloth. For any piece of valuable jewelry, consulting a professional jeweler for cleaning and maintenance is a prudent choice.
Conclusion
December's birthstones offer a remarkable selection of gems, each with a unique identity yet all sharing a cool, blue-centric color palette that perfectly captures the essence of the month. Turquoise, the ancient protector, provides a connection to history and the earth with its opaque, matrix-veined beauty. Zircon, with its diamond-like fire and centuries-old lore of wisdom and protection, offers brilliance and depth. Tanzanite, the rare and transformative newcomer from a single source in Tanzania, mesmerizes with its shifting blue-violet hues and modern symbolism of new beginnings. Finally, Blue Topaz, the durable and accessible modern choice, enchants with its clear, serene blue shades, symbolizing calmness and love. Understanding the distinct histories, geological origins, gemological properties, and symbolic meanings of these four stones allows for a deeper appreciation of their value, both as beautiful adornments and as powerful cultural touchstones. Whether chosen for personal significance, aesthetic appeal, or historical intrigue, the birthstones of December provide a wealth of options for anyone seeking a gem that is as unique and special as the month itself.