The gemstone identified for the December birthstone in the provided jewelry listings is Turquoise Magnesite. While the traditional December birthstones are Turquoise, Tanzanite, and Zircon, the materials specifically reference "Turquoise Magnesite" as the gemstone used in the featured hoop earrings. This composite or treated stone, combining the visual characteristics of turquoise with the mineral magnesite, serves as the focal point for modern birthstone jewelry. This article explores the properties, sourcing, and care of this gemstone as presented in contemporary jewelry contexts, focusing on its application in December birthstone hoop earrings and the ethical considerations of its production.
History and Lore of the December Birthstone
The concept of birthstones has a rich historical lineage, though the specific attribution of Turquoise Magnesite as a December stone is a modern commercial adaptation. Traditional December birthstones include Turquoise, a mineral that has been prized for millennia. Turquoise has been mined and used for over 5,000 years, with ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians, Persians, and Native Americans valuing it for its vibrant color and protective qualities. The word "turquoise" itself is derived from the French pierre turquoise, meaning "Turkish stone," reflecting the trade routes through which it reached Europe.
In contrast, magnesite is a magnesium carbonate mineral, typically white or colorless in its natural state, which is often dyed or treated to resemble turquoise. The combination, labeled "Turquoise Magnesite" in the provided sources, represents a contemporary approach to creating affordable, visually appealing gemstones for jewelry. The sources do not provide historical lore specific to this treated stone; however, they position it within the broader tradition of December birthstones, emphasizing its symbolic meaning of calm. The description notes that the gemstones symbolize "calm," a quality often associated with traditional turquoise in various cultural beliefs. This linkage allows the treated stone to inherit the symbolic weight of its namesake, making it a meaningful choice for birthstone jewelry.
The journey of the December birthstone to modern jewelry design is reflected in the products described. The hoop earrings are marketed as a way to "bring your birth month a whole new meaning," indicating a shift from purely symbolic or protective uses to personal expression and fashion. The earrings are designed to be layered or stacked with other December birthstone pieces, such as bracelets or necklaces, creating a cohesive collection for those born in December. This modern interpretation focuses on versatility and personalization, moving away from the singular, talismanic use of ancient times to a more integrated approach in contemporary adornment.
Geological Formation and Sources
The gemstone "Turquoise Magnesite" is not a single natural mineral but a composite or treated material. The sources specify the gemstone as "Turquoise Magnesite," indicating it is likely magnesite that has been dyed or treated to mimic the color of turquoise. Magnesite itself is a magnesium carbonate mineral (MgCO₃) that forms in the presence of magnesium-rich fluids interacting with carbonate rocks. Its natural form is typically white, gray, or colorless, with a porous structure that makes it ideal for dyeing.
In the context of the provided jewelry, the gemstone is described as "faceted natural turquoise magnesite." The term "natural" here may refer to the magnesite base being a natural mineral, though the final "turquoise" color is achieved through treatment. The sources do not provide information on the specific geological formation of this treated stone, nor do they specify mining locations for the magnesite used. However, the jewelry's production details offer insight into the supply chain.
The metal components of the earrings are described as "18k Recycled Gold Vermeil on Recycled Sterling Silver." The vermeil is applied to recycled sterling silver, and the gold is also recycled. The sourcing of the gemstone itself is not detailed, but the overall production emphasizes responsible practices. The company states that its products are "handcrafted by our teams in India and Thailand," with factories regularly audited by the Responsible Jewellery Council. This suggests that while the gemstone's origin is not specified, the manufacturing process is monitored for ethical standards, including the use of conflict-free diamonds (though not relevant here) and recycled metals.
The lack of specific geographic sources for the magnesite is a common characteristic of treated gemstones in the commercial jewelry market. Unlike natural, untreated turquoise, which has well-known mining locations (such as the American Southwest, Iran, and China), the magnesite used in "Turquoise Magnesite" is likely sourced from global mineral markets and then treated to achieve the desired color. This approach prioritizes visual consistency and affordability over the geographic provenance of the base material.
Gemological Properties and Jewelry Design
The gemological properties of "Turquoise Magnesite" as presented in the sources are primarily related to its use in jewelry design rather than its inherent scientific characteristics. The sources provide detailed specifications for the earrings but do not include standard gemological data such as hardness, refractive index, or chemical composition for the stone itself. This absence is typical for treated or composite gemstones in commercial jewelry, where the focus is on aesthetic and physical properties relevant to the jewelry piece.
The earrings described are hoop earrings with a diameter of 11.5mm and a thickness of 1.2mm. The gemstone is set in a removable charm with a diameter of 3.9mm. The total weight of the earrings is 1.55g. These dimensions indicate a delicate, minimalist design, suitable for smaller lobes or for use in second or third piercings. The faceted cut of the gemstone is noted, which would enhance its light reflection and visual appeal, even if the base material is relatively soft.
While the sources do not provide a hardness rating for "Turquoise Magnesite," traditional turquoise has a Mohs hardness of 5 to 6, and magnesite is similar, ranging from 3.5 to 4.5. A composite or treated stone would likely fall within this range, making it relatively soft and susceptible to scratches and abrasion. This property is critical for care and maintenance, as discussed later.
The metal components are specified as 18k gold vermeil over recycled sterling silver. Vermeil is a thick layer of gold (at least 2.5 microns) over sterling silver, offering a luxurious appearance while maintaining affordability. The use of recycled metals aligns with sustainable practices, a growing concern in the jewelry industry.
The following table summarizes the key specifications of the December Birthstone Mini Charm Hoop Earrings based on the provided sources:
| Component | Specification |
|---|---|
| Gemstone | Faceted Natural Turquoise Magnesite |
| Metal | 18k Recycled Gold Vermeil on Recycled Sterling Silver |
| Hoop Diameter | 11.5mm |
| Hoop Thickness | 1.2mm |
| Charm Diameter | 3.9mm |
| Total Weight | 1.55g |
| Design | Removable charms, suitable for smaller lobes or multiple piercings |
| Product Code | BSH-G-E2-TQ |
The design philosophy emphasizes versatility and personalization. The removable charms allow the wearer to customize the earrings, potentially using the hoops with other charms or wearing the charms alone. This modular approach reflects modern jewelry trends that value adaptability and multi-functionality.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
The symbolism attributed to "Turquoise Magnesite" in the provided sources is directly linked to the traditional lore of turquoise. The product description states that the gemstones symbolize "calm." This association draws from the long-standing belief in turquoise's protective and soothing properties. Across many cultures, turquoise has been considered a stone of protection, healing, and good fortune. For example, ancient Persians believed it could ward off the "evil eye," and Native American cultures associated it with the sky and water, elements of peace and tranquility.
By labeling the stone "Turquoise Magnesite," the jewelry leverages this established symbolism, offering the perceived benefits of turquoise in a more accessible form. The sources do not elaborate on metaphysical beliefs specific to magnesite, which is not traditionally associated with significant symbolic meaning. Therefore, the "calm" attributed to the stone is inherited from the turquoise tradition.
The modern birthstone practice, as reflected in these products, often blends traditional symbolism with contemporary aesthetics. The earrings are presented not just as decorative items but as meaningful gifts for those born in December, reinforcing personal identity and connection to a monthly tradition. The ability to layer or stack the earrings with other December birthstone pieces further enhances this symbolic unity, creating a cohesive personal collection.
While the sources focus on the commercial and symbolic aspects, the shift from natural turquoise to treated magnesite represents a pragmatic adaptation in the jewelry market. It allows for consistent color and availability, making the symbolic attributes of the December birthstone accessible to a broader audience. However, it is important to note that the metaphysical properties described are based on traditional beliefs associated with turquoise and are not scientifically verified.
Care and Cleaning of Turquoise Magnesite Jewelry
Proper care is essential for maintaining the beauty and longevity of jewelry featuring "Turquoise Magnesite," given its likely soft and porous nature. The sources provide specific care instructions for the earrings, which are informed by the gemstone's properties.
The primary care instruction is to "store in a cool, dry place and cleaned carefully with a soft non-abrasive cloth to maintain shine." This advice is critical for several reasons. First, the gemstone's softness (inferred from its composition) makes it prone to scratches. A soft cloth prevents abrasion. Second, the porous nature of magnesite and any dye used to achieve the turquoise color can be susceptible to moisture and chemicals. Storing the jewelry in a cool, dry place prevents potential damage from humidity, which could affect the dye or the metal components. The vermeil coating, while durable, can also be affected by moisture and chemicals.
The sources emphasize avoiding harsh chemicals, which is standard advice for most gemstone jewelry but particularly important for treated stones. Exposure to perfumes, lotions, cleaning agents, or even sweat can degrade the dye or damage the stone's surface over time. The recommendation to use a "soft non-abrasive cloth" for cleaning is the safest method. For more thorough cleaning, a mild soap solution and a very soft brush could be used, but the sources do not recommend this, likely to avoid any risk of moisture seeping into the stone or affecting the dye.
The earrings are made of vermeil, which requires additional care. Vermeil can wear over time, especially on high-contact areas. To preserve the gold layer, it is advisable to remove the earrings before swimming, showering, or engaging in activities that involve sweat or chemicals. Regular, gentle cleaning of the metal with a dry cloth can help maintain its luster.
The sources also note that the earring is "best for those with smaller lobes, or perfect for second or third piercings." This suggests a delicate design that may be more susceptible to damage if handled roughly. Careful handling during insertion and removal is recommended to avoid bending the hoops or dislodging the charms.
In summary, the care regimen for "Turquoise Magnesite" jewelry is straightforward but requires diligence. The key principles are: avoid chemicals and moisture, store properly, and clean gently. Adhering to these guidelines will help preserve the appearance and structural integrity of the jewelry, ensuring that the December birthstone remains a beautiful and meaningful accessory.
Conclusion
The "Turquoise Magnesite" gemstone featured in the December birthstone hoop earrings represents a modern interpretation of the traditional December birthstone. By using treated magnesite to mimic the appearance of turquoise, it offers an affordable and visually consistent option for birthstone jewelry. The sources provide detailed specifications for the jewelry design, highlighting its minimalist and versatile nature, with removable charms and dimensions suitable for multiple piercings. Ethical considerations are emphasized through the use of recycled metals and responsible manufacturing practices in India and Thailand, under the audit of the Responsible Jewellery Council.
While the gemstone itself is not a natural mineral but a treated composite, it carries the symbolic weight of traditional turquoise, specifically the attribute of "calm." This connection allows it to serve as a meaningful token for those born in December. The care instructions provided underscore the need for gentle handling and proper storage to maintain the jewelry's beauty, given the likely soft and porous nature of the stone. Overall, this jewelry piece exemplifies the contemporary approach to birthstones, blending historical symbolism with modern design and ethical production values.