Discover the Birth Stone Color for December: Turquoise, Tanzanite, & Zircon Explained
What are the enchanting stones that represent December birthdays? You’re in the right place if you’re curious about your birthstone or searching for a perfect December birthday gift. December is graced with not one but three fascinating birthstones: turquoise, tanzanite, and zircon.
Beyond their shared hue of captivating blue, each stone has its own tales, symbolism, and charm that have fascinated people for centuries. This article reveals the unique aspects of these gemstones and offers insights into selecting and caring for December birthstone jewelry. When choosing gemstone jewelry, it's essential to consider the aesthetic and the care required to maintain its beauty.
Key Takeaways
December’s birthstones, turquoise, tanzanite, and zircon, have unique qualities, healing properties, and histories. They reflect different shades of blue and embody the winter season.
Turquoise, tanzanite, and zircon are appreciated for their beauty and geographical origins, cultural significance, and protective properties, as told by ancient lore.
Proper care and handling are essential for maintaining the longevity of December birthstone jewelry; alternative lab-grown stones offer ethical and affordable options for consumers.
December Birthstones: A Brief Overview
December is a special month, not only because it marks the end of the year but also because it boasts not one, not two, but four birthstones: Blue Topaz, Blue Zircon, Tanzanite, and Turquoise. Each gemstone has unique characteristics, properties, and meanings, making them special in their way. Whether you’re drawn to the sky blue hues of Blue Topaz or the vibrant blue of Tanzanite, December’s birthstones offer a dazzling array of options for those born in this winter month.
The Allure of December's Birthstones
Immerse yourself in the captivating world of December’s birthstones. Turquoise, tanzanite, and zircon each have unique characteristics, history, and significance, contributing to their mystical allure. These beautiful colored stones, in varying shades of blue, reflect the striking hues of December’s birthstones, perfectly capturing the spirit of the winter season.
Gemstone enthusiasts particularly appreciate the unique characteristics of December birthstones.
Each stone has a story to tell, a story that is as timeless as the gemstones themselves. Whether in a birthstone ring, a necklace, or a pair of earrings, these gemstones always make a statement.
Turquoise: The Timeless Treasure
Turquoise, with its distinct robin’s egg blue colour, is one of the oldest gemstones. It played a significant role in the cultures of ancient civilizations such as Egypt, China, and Native Americans. Its timeless appeal is evident in its use in jewelry and ceremonial practices, symbolizing good fortune and protection. Intricately carved or fashioned into chunky pendants, turquoise is as versatile in design as it is rich in history.
Its colour, ranging from robin egg blue to greenish hues, is attributed to the presence of copper and, to a lesser extent, iron. The beauty of the turquoise birthstone, along with its protective and healing qualities, makes it a timeless treasure.
Tanzanite: The Rare Gemstone
Discovered in 1967 in the Merelani Hills of northern Tanzania, the tanzanite birthstone is a relative newcomer to the gemstone stage. Yet, its vibrant violet-blue colour and pleochroism, which causes it to display different colours when viewed from different angles, have propelled it to stardom in the gemstone world. Initially mistaken for sapphire, tanzanite was soon identified as a distinct variety of the mineral zoisite.
The American Gem Trade Association (AGTA) officially designated tanzanite as a December birthstone in 2002.
Tanzanite is not only a December birthstone but is also associated with the 24th wedding anniversary. Its rarity and unique geographical presence make it truly a gem among gems.
Blue Zircon: The Ancient Stone with Modern Appeal
Zircon, an ancient stone with a modern appeal, showcases its versatility with a rainbow of colours, including blue stones like blue zircon, often compared to London Blue, Swiss Blue topaz, and even colourless zircon. Colorless topaz, through processes like heat treatment and irradiation, is usually transformed into the popular blue topaz, as natural blue topaz is rare. Among these blue stones, Persian Blue and sky blue hues are highly sought after, as well as violet hues:
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Blue
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Brown
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Green
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Orange
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Yellow
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Clear
The gem’s fiery brilliance and rich colour palette have earned it a prominent place in jewelry designs since the Victorian era. The name ‘zircon’ itself echoes its vibrant persona, potentially derived from the Arabic ‘zarkun,’ meaning ‘cinnabar‘ or ‘vermilion,’ or the Persian ‘argue,’ meaning ‘gold coloured.’
Since the 1920s, zircon has been treated with heat to enhance its colour. It continues to captivate jewelry enthusiasts with its modern appeal and ancient charm.
History and Meaning of December Birthstones
December birthstones have a rich history and meaning, with each stone having its unique characteristics and symbolism. The four birthstones for December are blue topaz, blue zircon, tanzanite, and turquoise. December birthstones are particularly popular in the gemstone market due to their vibrant colours and unique properties.
History of Turquoise
Turquoise has been a prized gemstone for thousands of years, with a history dating back to ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians, Persians, and Native Americans. This captivating stone was believed to possess mystical powers and was often used in jewelry and decorative objects. The name “turquoise” is derived from the French word “pierre tourques,” meaning “Turkish stone,” due to its association with the Turkish trade routes. Its vibrant blue-green colour and unique matrix patterns have symbolized protection and good fortune throughout history.
History of Tanzanite
Tanzanite, on the other hand, has a relatively recent history. Discovered in 1967 in the Merelani Hills of Tanzania, it was initially mistaken for a sapphire. However, it was later identified as a variation of the mineral zoisite. Tanzanite quickly gained popularity due to its vibrant blue-violet colour and rarity. Tiffany & Co. played a significant role in introducing tanzanite to the market in 1968, and it has since become a sought-after gemstone for its unique beauty and exclusivity.
Meaning of December Birthstones
Each December birthstone has its unique meaning and symbolism. Blue topaz is associated with honesty, abundance, and forgiveness, making it a meaningful gift for those seeking to foster these qualities. Blue zircon is believed to bring good luck and fortune, adding a touch of serendipity to any jewelry piece.
Tanzanite promotes compassion and tranquillity, making it a perfect stone for those seeking inner peace. With its rich history, turquoise is associated with luck, good fortune, and friendship, making it a timeless and cherished gemstone. These meanings and symbolism make December birthstones a popular choice for jewelry and gifts, adding depth and significance to their beauty.
Physical Properties of December Birthstones
December birthstones have distinct physical properties, including their hardness measured on the Mohs scale, that set them apart from other gemstones.
Properties of Turquoise
Turquoise is a relatively soft gemstone with a Mohs hardness rating of 5-6. Its bold green-blue colour, often with brown or black matrix patterns, makes it easily recognizable. However, turquoise is a porous stone, making it prone to staining and discoloration. It is often treated with plastic lubricants and dyes to enhance its appearance and durability. Despite its softness, turquoise remains a popular choice for jewelry due to its unique colour and historical significance.
Chemical Composition
The chemical composition of December’s birthstones is as diverse as its colours. Blue Topaz, a silicate mineral, is composed of aluminum and fluorine, giving it its striking blue shades. Blue Zircon, conversely, is a zirconium silicate mineral known for its brilliant sparkle and range of blue tones. Tanzanite, a variety of zoisite minerals, is a calcium aluminum silicate that captivates with its violet hues. Lastly, Turquoise, a copper aluminum phosphate mineral, is renowned for its robin’s egg blue to greenish-blue colours. These distinct compositions contribute to each gemstone's unique properties and visual appeal.
Hardness and Durability
When it comes to hardness and durability, December’s birthstones vary significantly. Blue Topaz, with a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale, is relatively durable and suitable for everyday wear. Blue Zircon, with a hardness ranging from 6.5 to 7.5, offers good durability but requires some care to avoid scratches. Tanzanite, with a hardness of 6 to 7, is slightly softer and should be worn cautiously to prevent damage. Turquoise, the softest of the four with a hardness of 5 to 6, requires the most care and handling to maintain its beauty. Understanding the hardness and durability of these gemstones can help you choose the right one for your lifestyle and jewelry preferences.
Origins and Locations of December's Birthstones
Knowing the origins and locations of these December birthstones can add an extra layer of appreciation when wearing or gifting them. Turquoise, tanzanite, and zircon have distinct geographical origins, each contributing to their unique allure. Trace these gemstones' fascinating journey from their natural habitats and geological settings to become the sparkling pieces of jewelry we admire.
Turquoise Formation and Mining
Formed as a secondary mineral during the weathering and oxidation of pre-existing minerals, turquoise has found its major producers in China and the United States. The mining process is labour-intensive, with deposits usually found in arid regions around copper sulphide deposits. Turquoise forms in these regions due to the presence of copper deposits, which play a crucial role in its formation. While Native American Indians originally found turquoise in the Southwestern regions, the demand for this beautiful stone led to the opening of additional mines in:
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Arizona
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Nevada
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New Mexico
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Colorado
Today, however, most of these mines are closed, leaving China as the world’s largest producer of turquoise.
Tanzanite's Unique Geographical Presence
Tanzanite's exclusivity is not just in its striking violet-blue colour but also in its geographical presence - it is found only in Tanzania. The mining area for tanzanite is restricted to approximately eight square miles, further exemplifying the stone's scarcity. The mining process is complex and time-consuming, with the gemstones now mined in tunnels about 1000 meters beneath the surface.
The very specificity of its geographical presence enhances the allure of tanzanite, making it a gemstone that is as rare as it is beautiful.
Zircon's Global Distribution
Unlike tanzanite, zircon has a wider global distribution, with notable deposits in countries including:
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Australia
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Brazil
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Sri Lanka
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Madagascar
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South Africa
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Norway
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India
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United States
Zircon naturally occurs in various geological settings, showcasing its robust geological presence. From the granitic rocks of Norway to the blue and green zircon gemstones of Sri Lanka, the global spread of zircon adds to its charm and appeal.
Symbolism and Lore Surrounding December's Birthstones
The mystique of December’s birthstones extends beyond their physical beauty, journeying into symbolism and lore. Turquoise, the traditional birthstone for December, tanzanite, and zircon, are not just stones; they carry ancient beliefs and symbolic meanings, imbued with protective and spiritual properties.
It's time to unravel these fascinating narratives.
Turquoise: Protection and Good Fortune
Turquoise has been cherished for thousands of years for its protective powers. Believed to guard against injuries from falls, particularly off horses, and seen as an effective treatment for various ailments, turquoise was a talisman of protection in many ancient cultures.
Beyond its protective qualities, it has also been revered as a stone of good fortune. Its distinctive colour, reminiscent of a robin's egg blue sky, inspired mystical associations, making turquoise a symbol of hope and a talisman against evil. In this context, a turquoise ring means a powerful and positive symbol for the wearer.
Tanzanite Birthstone: Intuition and Spiritual Growth
Tanzanite is not just a gemstone; it's a tool for spiritual exploration. Believed to unite the mind and heart, tanzanite promotes living from a compassionate heart with an illumined mind. Its pleochroistic nature, showing different colours from different angles, symbolizes the multiple dimensions of our perception and enriches our spiritual insight.
Zircon: Wisdom and Prosperity
Zircon, not to be confused with its imitation cubic zirconia, was a revered stone in the Middle Ages. It was believed to possess grounding properties, protect travellers, and induce sound sleep. It was also considered a remedy for relieving pain and a talisman against evil spirits.
Beyond its protective qualities, zircon was considered a ‘Stone of Virtue' that helped individuals feel more physically, emotionally, and spiritually balanced.
December Birthstone Jewelry Styles and Trends
The allure of December’s birthstone is not just in its individual beauty or symbolism but in how it is transformed into stunning jewelry pieces. The blue topaz birthstone is particularly popular in jewelry designs. Turquoise, tanzanite, and zircon, December’s birthstones, are incorporated into various jewelry styles and trends, from statement pieces to minimalist designs.
Let's examine these jewelry trends.
Turquoise Jewelry Designs
Turquoise jewelry designs are as versatile as the gemstone itself. Whether it's bold statement rings, edgy earcuffs adorned with turquoise stones, or boho-chic necklaces featuring turquoise beads, there's a design to suit every style.
Small, discreet turquoise stones featured in minimalist designs cater to those who appreciate subtle elegance. In contrast, layered necklaces with various Turkish stone shapes and sizes offer a more personalized style option.
Tanzanite Jewelry Trends
Tanzanite's vivid colour and high clarity have made it a popular choice in jewelry designs. Investment-grade pieces, known for their fine colour, clarity, and exceptional cutting, are particularly sought after.
Tanzanite's stable price per carat across different sizes makes it an exceptional choice for those looking to invest in larger gemstones without incurring exponential cost increases.
Zircon Jewelry Styles
Zircon jewelry offers an array of styles for the discerning jewelry enthusiast. From statement pieces and cocktail designs to engagement rings, zircon caters to a wide range of styles. Its compatibility with various metal settings, including gold, platinum, and silver, makes it even more appealing.
Whether you prefer lavish and intricate designs or understated elegance, zircon has a style to suit your taste.
Caring for Your December Birthstone Jewelry
Caring for your December birthstone jewelry is crucial to maintaining its longevity and brilliance. Each gemstone - turquoise, tanzanite, and zircon - requires specific care techniques to ensure they retain their allure over time. Avoid using ultrasonic cleaners as they can damage these delicate gemstones.
Dive into the care techniques for these gemstones.
Turquoise Care and Maintenance
Being a relatively soft gemstone, turquoise requires careful handling. It should be cleaned with warm, soapy water, avoiding extremes of heat and harsh cleaning methods such as steam or ultrasonic cleaners. To prevent damage, it is advisable to remove turquoise jewelry before using cosmetics.
Proper storage is equally important. Turquoise pieces should be stored separately, wrapped in a soft cloth, or placed in a fabric-lined box to prevent scratches from harder gemstones.
Tanzanite Cleaning and Precautions
Tanzanite requires gentle cleaning using a soft cloth and mild soap solution, followed by thorough rinsing with water to remove any soap residue. Ultrasonic cleaners should be avoided, as they can damage the gemstone due to its relative softness. Protecting tanzanite from sudden temperature changes and harsh chemicals is essential to prevent damage or colour alterations.
When not worn, tanzanite jewelry should be stored separately from other jewelry in a soft cloth or a padded container.
Zircon Preservation Techniques
Regular cleaning is essential to maintaining the brilliance and sparkle of zircon jewelry. Here are some tips for cleaning your zircon jewelry:
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Use a soft brush and mild soap in warm water to clean your zircon jewelry.
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Avoid using ultrasonic and steam cleaners, as they can cause damage to the stone.
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Do not expose your zircon jewelry to harsh chemicals and cleaning agents, which can dull its lustre.
By following these cleaning tips, you can keep your zircon jewelry looking beautiful for years to come.
To prevent scratching, zircon jewelry should be stored separately from other jewelry, particularly away from harder gemstones.
Lab-Grown Alternatives: Ethical and Affordable Options
In today's era of ethical consciousness, lab-grown alternatives to natural gemstones offer an affordable and environmentally friendly option. Discover the world of lab-created turquoise, synthetic tanzanite imitations, and lab-created zircon.
Lab-Grown Turquoise
Lab-grown turquoise offers an environmentally friendly alternative to natural turquoise. Produced in a controlled environment replicating the natural formation process, lab-grown turquoise has the same chemical structure as its natural counterpart. It is used in jewelry and decorative items like ornaments, sculptures, and wall fittings, extending its appeal beyond the realm of jewelry.
Synthetic Tanzanite Imitations
While synthetic tanzanite imitations do not fully emulate the naturally found gemstone's specific chemical and physical attributes, they successfully mimic its appearance. High-quality synthetic tanzanite can be very convincing, making it visually challenging to distinguish from authentic tanzanite without expert analysis. These synthetic imitations are created through various processes, including hydrothermal, flux-growth, and Verneuil methods.
Lab-Created Zircon
Lab-created zircon is more affordable and ethical than its natural counterpart. Lab-created zircon offers higher purity and quality due to fewer defects and less evidence of stress within its crystal structure. It is a brilliant choice for those conscious of both budget and environment.
Summary
In this fascinating journey through the world of December's birthstones - turquoise, tanzanite, and zircon - we have unravelled their unique allure, rich history, and symbolic significance. We've delved into their geological origins, explored the captivating designs they are transformed into, and learned about caring for these precious gemstones. We also looked at affordable and ethical alternatives in the form of lab-created gemstones. So, whether it's a birthstone ring, a necklace, or a pair of earrings, these gemstones will always add a touch of mystique and timeless elegance to your jewelry collection.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best December birthstone?
The best December birthstones are blue zircon, blue topaz, tanzanite, lapis lazuli, and turquoise. Blue zircon, blue topaz, and tanzanite are modern choices, while lapis lazuli and turquoise are traditional options.
What is December's birthstone colour called?
The December birthstone colour is called turquoise, a semi-translucent to opaque gem ranging from blue to green and often has veins of matrix running through it. Turquoise has been cherished for millennia.
Why does December have multiple birthstones?
December has multiple birthstones, including zircon, turquoise, and tanzanite, to provide more affordable options for individuals born in this month. Turquoise December birthstones are particularly valued for their unique metaphysical properties and vibrant colors. Tanzanite was added as a third birthstone option in October 2002.
What are the birthstones for December?
The birthstones for December are turquoise, tanzanite, and zircon, offering a range of beautiful options for those born in this month.
Conclusion
In conclusion, December’s birthstones are a unique and special group of gemstones, each with its own characteristics, properties, and meanings. Whether you’re drawn to the vibrant blue of Blue Topaz, the brilliant sparkle of Blue Zircon, the rare beauty of Tanzanite, or the timeless appeal of Turquoise, there’s a December birthstone that’s perfect for you. With their rich histories and captivating colors, these gemstones are sure to make a statement and bring joy to anyone who wears them. So, whether you’re celebrating a December birthday or simply looking for a meaningful gift, consider the enchanting allure of December’s birthstones.