For those born in the final month of the year, the selection of a birthstone is uniquely diverse, offering a spectrum of blue and green hues that capture the essence of winter skies and icy landscapes. December is associated with four distinct gemstones: Turquoise, Tanzanite, Blue Topaz, and Zircon. Each possesses its own geological origin, historical narrative, and symbolic meaning, providing a rich tapestry of choice for jewelry enthusiasts and those seeking a personal connection to their birth month. This article delves into the characteristics, origins, and significance of these four remarkable gemstones, drawing upon gemological data and historical context to provide a thorough understanding of December's birthstones.
The concept of birthstones has ancient roots, tracing back to civilizations such as ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome, where gemstones were believed to hold mystical and healing properties. Over centuries, these associations evolved, leading to the modern lists of birthstones. For December, the traditional stones have been expanded to include modern favorites, offering flexibility in price, durability, and personal style. While the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) officially lists Turquoise, Tanzanite, and Zircon as December’s birthstones, Blue Topaz has gained significant popularity in the United States and is frequently recognized as a modern alternative. This guide will explore each stone in detail, from its formation deep within the Earth to its placement in contemporary jewelry.
History and Lore: From Ancient Talismans to Modern Additions
The historical journey of each December birthstone reveals a deep connection to human culture and belief systems. Turquoise stands as one of the oldest known gemstones, cherished for millennia. Its history is steeped in symbolism, often associated with protection, friendship, and healing energies. Ancient cultures across the globe, from the Egyptians to the Native American tribes of the Southwest, revered Turquoise for its vibrant color and purported ability to safeguard the wearer.
Tanzanite, in contrast, has a very recent history. This rare and striking gem was only discovered in the 20th century and was officially added as a precious stone for December by the American Gem Trade Association in 2002. Its modernity is part of its appeal, symbolizing transformation, new beginnings, and heightened intuition. Because it is a relatively new discovery, it resonates with people who value modern spirituality and self-growth. Its fame was significantly boosted by the jewelry company Tiffany & Co., which helped introduce it to the global market in the late 1960s.
The history of Topaz is more complex and muddled. The name "Topaz" is believed to originate from the Greek word "Topazios," the ancient name for an island in the Red Sea. However, stones historically sourced from this island were later identified as Peridot, not Topaz. Despite this historical confusion, Blue Topaz has emerged as a popular modern December birthstone, especially in the United States. Its rise in popularity is attributed to its attractive blue hues, which can be enhanced through treatment, making it an accessible and visually impactful gemstone for a wide range of jewelry.
Zircon is one of the oldest minerals on Earth, with some specimens dating back billions of years. While it is available in a variety of colors, the brilliant blue variety is particularly associated with December. Historically, Zircon has been valued for its high refractive index and brilliance, which rivals that of diamond. It is often linked to wisdom, prosperity, and good fortune. Its durability and sparkle have made it a favorite for use in halo rings and accent stones throughout history.
Geological Formation and Sources: A Global and Localized Footprint
The formation and mining locations of these gemstones highlight the diverse geological processes that create beauty beneath the Earth's surface. Turquoise is a secondary mineral that forms when water carrying copper and aluminum seeps into pre-existing rocks. Its deposits are found in arid regions where these conditions are met. While specific mining locations are not detailed in the provided sources, Turquoise is historically associated with regions like the Southwestern United States, Iran, and Egypt.
Tanzanite has a uniquely localized origin. It is found only in one small area in the Merelani Hills near Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. This extreme rarity, with all known sources confined to a single location, makes Tanzanite one of the most scarce gemstones in the world. It is not available for recreational digging, and its scarcity contributes significantly to its value and desirability. The geological conditions that formed Tanzanite are exceptionally rare, occurring only in a specific metamorphic rock environment.
Blue Topaz is a more widely available gemstone. Topaz itself is a silicate mineral that forms in igneous rocks, particularly in pegmatites and rhyolites. While natural blue topaz is rare, most of the blue topaz on the market has been treated to achieve its color. The sources of the base material for this treatment are often from Brazil, Nigeria, or Sri Lanka, though the specific mining locations for the rough material used in the production of blue topaz are not specified in the provided chunks.
Zircon is a mineral that forms in a variety of geological settings, including metamorphic and igneous rocks. It is a common accessory mineral in many rocks and is found in deposits worldwide. The blue variety of zircon is typically heat-treated to achieve its vivid color, a process that has been used for centuries. Major sources for zircon include Cambodia, Sri Lanka, and Thailand, but the provided sources do not specify particular countries for the blue variety.
Gemological Properties: A Scientific Comparison
Understanding the physical and chemical properties of a gemstone is crucial for both appreciation and practical care. The following table, compiled from data within the provided sources, offers a direct comparison of the four December birthstones.
| Gemstone | Color & Varieties | Mohs Hardness | Symbolism / Meaning | Typical Uses in Jewelry |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Turquoise | Blue to green (often opaque, sometimes with matrix) | 5 – 6 | Protection, healing, friendship | Necklaces, pendants, statement pieces |
| Tanzanite | Violet-blue to deep blue (pleochroic) | 6 – 7 | Transformation, intuition, spiritual growth | Earrings, pendants, occasional rings |
| Blue Topaz | Sky Blue, Swiss Blue, London Blue | 8 | Clarity, communication, calmness | Rings, necklaces, daily wear pieces |
| Zircon | Brilliant blue (also multi-color) | 6.5 – 7.5 | Wisdom, prosperity, good fortune | Earrings, halo rings, accent stones |
Turquoise has a Mohs hardness of 5 to 6, making it relatively soft compared to other gemstones. It is often opaque and can feature a distinctive matrix (the host rock) within its structure. Its color ranges from light sky blue to greenish-blue, influenced by the presence of copper (blue) and iron (green).
Tanzanite is slightly harder, with a Mohs hardness of 6 to 7. It is known for its strong pleochroism, meaning it displays different colors (violet-blue and deep blue) when viewed from different angles. This property gives it a captivating depth and changeability. Its typical color is described as a rich blue-violet hue.
Blue Topaz is a very durable gemstone with a Mohs hardness of 8, making it suitable for all types of jewelry, including rings meant for daily wear. It exhibits a spectrum of blue shades, from pale, almost translucent hues (Sky Blue) to rich, vibrant aqua tones (Swiss Blue) and deep, saturated blues (London Blue). Its clarity and radiant sparkle are notable.
Zircon is also a hard gemstone, with a Mohs hardness ranging from 6.5 to 7.5. It possesses a high refractive index and strong dispersion, giving it a brilliant sparkle that can rival diamonds. The blue variety is typically a brilliant, vivid blue. Zircon is available in a variety of colors, but the blue hue is most commonly associated with December.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs: Meanings Attributed to Blue and Green
Beyond their physical beauty, each December birthstone carries a legacy of symbolic meaning and metaphysical belief. These associations, rooted in history and culture, add a layer of personal significance for the wearer.
Turquoise is universally regarded as a stone of protection. It is believed to safeguard the wearer from negative energy and harm. Historically, it has also been linked to friendship, healing, and emotional balance. For many, it represents a connection to the earth and a sense of tranquility.
Tanzanite's symbolism is deeply tied to its modern discovery. It is seen as a stone of transformation, encouraging spiritual growth and the pursuit of new beginnings. Its striking color is said to enhance intuition and psychic abilities, making it a favorite among those who engage in modern spiritual practices.
Blue Topaz is associated with clarity, communication, and calmness. It is believed to help clear the mind, reduce stress, and promote honest expression. Its soothing blue color is thought to have a calming effect on emotions, making it a symbol of peace and tranquility.
Zircon is traditionally linked to wisdom, prosperity, and good fortune. It is believed to attract wealth and success while enhancing mental clarity and focus. Its brilliant sparkle is often seen as a symbol of light and positivity.
Care and Cleaning: Preserving the Beauty of December's Gems
The durability of a gemstone dictates how it should be cared for and cleaned. Proper maintenance ensures that jewelry remains beautiful for generations.
Turquoise, with its lower hardness (5-6) and potential porosity, requires gentle care. It should be protected from harsh chemicals, perfumes, and prolonged exposure to water, which can damage the stone or its polish. Cleaning should be done with a soft, dry cloth. It is not suitable for ultrasonic or steam cleaners.
Tanzanite (hardness 6-7) is relatively durable but can be brittle. It is best cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. It should be kept away from sudden temperature changes and harsh blows. While it can be set in rings, it is more commonly used in earrings and pendants where it is less likely to be knocked.
Blue Topaz (hardness 8) is very durable and can withstand normal wear. It is safe to clean with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. It can also be cleaned using an ultrasonic cleaner, though caution is advised if the stone is set in a delicate jewelry setting. It is an excellent choice for everyday jewelry, including engagement rings.
Zircon (hardness 6.5-7.5) is also quite durable but can be brittle. It is best cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. It is generally safe for ultrasonic cleaners, but it is advisable to check with a jeweler if the stone has been treated or if it is set in a fragile setting. Its brilliance can be maintained with regular, gentle cleaning.
Conclusion
The four birthstones of December—Turquoise, Tanzanite, Blue Topaz, and Zircon—offer a remarkable range of choices, each with its own unique story and characteristics. From the ancient, protective allure of Turquoise to the modern, transformative energy of Tanzanite; from the accessible and durable brilliance of Blue Topaz to the timeless wisdom and sparkle of Zircon, there is a gemstone to suit every preference and personality. This diversity allows those born in December to select a stone that not only captures the cool, blue palette of their birth month but also resonates with their personal style and the meanings they hold dear. Whether chosen for its historical significance, geological rarity, or symbolic power, each of these gemstones provides a beautiful and meaningful connection to the world of gemology and the celebration of a December birthday.