December Birthstones - Turquoise, Tanzanite & Zircon
by Werneri Grundström
·8 minutes
December babies are blessed with not one, but three stunning birthstones: turquoise, tanzanite, and zircon. Each of these gems offers unique beauty and symbolism, making them perfect choices for holiday-season celebrations or meaningful gifts for December-born loved ones. Let's dive deep into the world of these fascinating gemstones, exploring their properties, history, and significance.
What Are the Birthstones for December?
The three birthstones for December are:
- Turquoise
- Tanzanite
- Zircon
Each of these gemstones has its own distinct characteristics, history, and appeal. From ancient traditions to modern discoveries, December's birthstones span a wide range of geological and cultural significance.
Turquoise
Turquoise is perhaps the most well-known of December's birthstones. This opaque, blue-to-green mineral has been cherished for thousands of years, captivating civilizations across the globe with its unique color and supposed mystical properties.
Key Facts About Turquoise
- Color: Ranges from sky blue to green, often with matrix veining
- Hardness: 5-6 on the Mohs scale
- Origin: Primarily mined in the southwestern United States, Iran, and China
- Chemical composition: Hydrated copper and aluminum phosphate
Turquoise has been prized by ancient civilizations for its supposed healing and protective properties. The Aztecs, Egyptians, and Native Americans all valued this stone highly, using it in jewelry, ceremonial objects, and even as currency.
Historical Significance
The name "turquoise" is derived from the French phrase "pierre turquoise," meaning "Turkish stone," as the trade routes that brought turquoise to Europe typically came through Turkey. However, the gem's history stretches far beyond Europe:
- In ancient Egypt, turquoise was used to decorate the tombs of pharaohs, including the famous mask of Tutankhamun.
- Native American tribes of the southwestern United States considered turquoise a sacred stone, often using it in rituals and as a powerful talisman.
- In Persia (modern-day Iran), turquoise was used to decorate mosque domes, as the blue color was thought to represent heaven.
Turquoise in Modern Jewelry
Today, turquoise remains a popular choice for jewelry, prized for its unique color and cultural significance. It's often used in bohemian or southwestern-style designs, as well as in more contemporary pieces. The stone's relatively soft nature means it's best suited for earrings, pendants, or occasional-wear rings, rather than everyday rings or bracelets that might be subjected to more wear and tear.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is a relative newcomer to the gemstone world, discovered only in 1967 in Tanzania. Despite its short history, it has quickly become one of the most sought-after blue gemstones, rivaling sapphire in popularity.
Tanzanite Quick Facts
- Color: Ranges from deep blue to violet, often with flashes of burgundy or purple
- Hardness: 6-7 on the Mohs scale
- Origin: Found exclusively in a small area near Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania
- Chemical composition: A variety of the mineral zoisite
Tanzanite's rich, velvety blue is often compared to sapphire, but with subtle hints of purple. Its rarity and beauty have quickly made it a favorite among gemstone enthusiasts and jewelry designers.
The Discovery of Tanzanite
The story of tanzanite's discovery is nearly as fascinating as the stone itself. In 1967, a Masai tribesman named Ali Juuyawatu found blue crystals in the Merelani Hills near Mount Kilimanjaro. Initially mistaken for sapphire, the stones were soon identified as a new variety of the mineral zoisite.
The gem was named "tanzanite" after its country of origin. It was quickly recognized as "the most beautiful blue stone to be discovered in 2,000 years."
Tanzanite's Unique Properties
One of the most intriguing aspects of tanzanite is its trichroic nature, meaning it can display different colors when viewed from different angles. Depending on the light and the orientation of the crystal, tanzanite can appear blue, violet, or burgundy.
Most tanzanite on the market is heat-treated to enhance its blue color. The treatment is stable and permanent, bringing out the stone's best hues.
Tanzanite in Jewelry
Due to its rarity and beauty, tanzanite has become a popular choice for high-end jewelry. It's often set in white gold or platinum to enhance its cool blue tones. While not as hard as sapphire or diamond, tanzanite is suitable for all types of jewelry, though care should be taken to protect it from hard knocks or extreme temperature changes.
Zircon
Often overshadowed by its more famous cousins, zircon is actually one of the oldest minerals on Earth, with some crystals dating back 4.4 billion years. This ancient gem offers a range of colors and a brilliance that rivals diamond.
Zircon at a Glance
- Color: Comes in a wide range of colors, including blue, green, red, yellow, brown, and colorless
- Hardness: 6.5-7.5 on the Mohs scale
- Origin: Found in various locations worldwide, including Australia, Cambodia, Sri Lanka, and Tanzania
- Chemical composition: Zirconium silicate
Zircon's fire and brilliance rival that of diamond, making it a stunning and often more affordable alternative for those seeking sparkle.
The Science and History of Zircon
Zircon is a fascinating mineral from a scientific perspective. Its durability and resistance to chemical changes make it an invaluable tool for geologists studying the early history of the Earth. Tiny crystals of zircon found in Western Australia are the oldest known materials on Earth, providing a window into our planet's distant past.
Historically, zircon has been used and valued for thousands of years. In the Middle Ages, it was believed to promote sleep, ward off evil spirits, and bring prosperity and wisdom to its owner.
Zircon Colors and Treatments
While zircon occurs naturally in a wide range of colors, the most popular are:
- Blue zircon: Often created by heat-treating reddish-brown zircon
- Colorless zircon: Sometimes used as a diamond simulant due to its high refractive index
- Green zircon: Relatively rare and highly prized
- Yellow and orange zircon: Often referred to as "hyacinth" in historic jewelry
It's important to note that zircon is a completely different mineral from cubic zirconia, a synthetic material used as a diamond simulant.
Zircon in Jewelry
Zircon's high refractive index gives it exceptional brilliance, making it a favorite for evening wear and special occasions. It's suitable for all types of jewelry, though care should be taken as it can be brittle if struck at certain angles.
Choosing Your December Birthstone
When selecting a December birthstone, several factors come into play. Consider the following to make an informed choice:
-
Personal preference for color and appearance:
- Turquoise offers a unique opaque blue-green
- Tanzanite provides a rich blue to violet hue
- Zircon comes in a variety of colors, including blue, green, and colorless
-
Durability for intended use:
- Turquoise (5-6 on Mohs scale) is best for occasional wear or protected settings
- Tanzanite (6-7) is suitable for most jewelry but requires care
- Zircon (6.5-7.5) is more durable but can be brittle if struck
-
Budget considerations:
- Turquoise is often the most affordable option
- Tanzanite's rarity makes it typically more expensive
- Zircon prices vary widely depending on color and quality
-
Cultural or personal significance:
- Turquoise has deep cultural roots in many societies
- Tanzanite is associated with modern luxury
- Zircon carries historical significance as an ancient gem
-
Rarity and value retention:
- Turquoise from specific mines can be highly valued
- Tanzanite's limited source may increase future value
- Zircon, while common, has specific rare colors that hold value
Each stone offers unique benefits:
- Turquoise provides a distinctive look and rich history
- Tanzanite offers rare beauty and a modern allure
- Zircon provides sparkle and variety at often more accessible price points
Consider your lifestyle, personal taste, and the intended use of the jewelry when making your choice. Each December birthstone has its own charm and can be a meaningful addition to any jewelry collection.
Care and Maintenance of December Birthstones
While each gemstone has its own properties, the care guidelines for December's birthstones have more similarities than differences. Here's a more accurate and generalized approach:
General Care for All December Birthstones
- Clean gently with a soft, damp cloth and mild soap if needed
- Avoid harsh chemicals, including household cleaners
- Store separately from harder gemstones to prevent scratching
- Remove jewelry before engaging in rigorous activities, household chores, or sports
Specific Considerations
- Turquoise: This is the softest of the three and most porous. Avoid prolonged exposure to water and never use ultrasonic cleaners.
- Tanzanite and Zircon: While slightly harder than turquoise, they can still be sensitive to extreme temperature changes and impact.
For all three stones, it's best to avoid ultrasonic cleaners and steam cleaning, as these can potentially damage the gems. Regular professional cleaning and inspection can help maintain your jewelry's beauty and integrity.
The Symbolic Meaning of December Birthstones
December's birthstones carry rich symbolic meanings, rooted in various cultures and traditions. These meanings add depth and personal significance to the jewelry, making them more than just beautiful adornments.
Turquoise
- Protection: Across many cultures, turquoise is believed to be a powerful protective stone, guarding against negative energy and evil spirits.
- Wisdom and Balance: It's thought to promote mental clarity and emotional balance, enhancing one's wisdom and decision-making abilities.
- Tranquility and Good Fortune: Turquoise is associated with calm energy and is believed to bring good luck to its wearer.
- Friendship and Loyalty: In some traditions, turquoise is given as a token of friendship, symbolizing trust and faithfulness.
- Healing: Many cultures attribute healing properties to turquoise, particularly for ailments of the respiratory and immune systems.
Tanzanite
- Transformation: As a relatively new gem, tanzanite is often associated with new beginnings and personal transformation.
- Spiritual Awakening: Its deep blue color is linked to higher consciousness and spiritual insight.
- Enhanced Communication: Tanzanite is believed to help in articulating thoughts and feelings more clearly.
- Compassion: It's thought to open the heart chakra, promoting empathy and kindness.
- Alignment with One's True Calling: Some believe tanzanite can help in discovering and pursuing one's life purpose.
Zircon
- Prosperity and Abundance: Historically, zircon has been associated with wealth and success.
- Wisdom and Honor: It's believed to bring wisdom to its wearer and was often worn by scholars.
- Confidence and Self-esteem: Zircon is thought to boost self-worth and help overcome self-doubt.
- Virtue and Piety: In some traditions, zircon is seen as a stone of virtue, promoting moral and ethical behavior.
- Grounding and Balancing: Despite its fiery appearance, zircon is believed to have a grounding effect, helping to balance emotions.
These symbolic meanings make December birthstone jewelry not just beautiful, but also deeply meaningful as gifts or personal talismans. Whether worn for their supposed metaphysical properties or simply for their beauty, these gems can serve as powerful reminders of personal goals, cherished relationships, or important milestones.
In many cultures, the act of giving a birthstone is seen as bestowing these positive qualities upon the recipient. This adds an extra layer of thoughtfulness to gifting December birthstone jewelry, whether it's for a birthday, holiday, or special occasion.
The Bottom Line
December birthstones - turquoise, tanzanite, and zircon - offer a diverse range of colors, properties, and meanings. Whether you prefer the ancient allure of turquoise, the rare beauty of tanzanite, or the sparkling brilliance of zircon, each gem provides a unique way to celebrate December birthdays or create meaningful jewelry pieces.
