December, the month of frosty mornings, twinkling lights, and holiday cheer, is also blessed with not one, but four stunning birthstones! If you're a December baby or shopping for one, you're in for a treat. Let's dive into the magical world of December birthstones and discover the beauty, meaning, and allure of turquoise, tanzanite, zircon, and blue topaz.
Turquoise: The Ancient Protector
Turquoise, with its mesmerizing robin's egg blue hue, has been cherished for millennia. This opaque gemstone has graced the jewelry of pharaohs, adorned Native American art, and captured the hearts of gem lovers worldwide.
History and Lore
Turquoise has a rich history dating back over 7,000 years. Ancient Egyptians believed it brought good fortune and protection, while Native Americans saw it as a sacred stone connecting heaven and earth. The name "turquoise" is thought to come from the French phrase "pierre turquoise," meaning "Turkish stone," as it was first brought to Europe through Turkey.
Meaning and Properties
- Protection: Turquoise is believed to shield its wearer from negative energy and harm.
- Healing: It's said to promote overall well-being and strengthen the body.
- Communication: This stone is associated with the throat chakra, enhancing self-expression.
- Friendship: Turquoise is often given as a token of friendship and affection.
Care and Maintenance
Turquoise is relatively soft (5-6 on the Mohs scale), so handle it with care. Avoid exposure to harsh chemicals and extreme temperatures. Clean your turquoise jewelry with a soft, damp cloth and store it separately to prevent scratching.
Tanzanite: The Violet-Blue Beauty
Discovered in the late 1960s, tanzanite is the newest addition to the December birthstone family. Its captivating violet-blue color and rarity have quickly made it a favorite among gem enthusiasts.
History and Lore
Tanzanite was first found near Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania (hence its name) and is still only mined in this small area. Its discovery is often described as a "geological phenomenon," as the chances of finding tanzanite elsewhere are slim to none.
Meaning and Properties
- Transformation: Tanzanite is believed to facilitate spiritual growth and transformation.
- Intuition: It's said to enhance psychic abilities and intuition.
- Calmness: This stone is associated with promoting peace and tranquility.
- Higher Consciousness: Many believe tanzanite can elevate one's spiritual awareness.
Care and Maintenance
Tanzanite rates 6.5-7 on the Mohs scale, making it suitable for everyday wear with some precautions. Avoid sudden temperature changes and ultrasonic cleaners. Clean your tanzanite jewelry with mild soap and warm water, using a soft brush if necessary.
Zircon: The Sparkling Ancient
Often confused with cubic zirconia, natural zircon is a beautiful and underappreciated gemstone with a long history. While it comes in various colors, blue zircon is the most popular for December birthstones.
History and Lore
Zircon is one of the oldest minerals on Earth, with some crystals dating back 4.4 billion years! In the Middle Ages, people believed zircon could induce sleep, ward off evil spirits, and promote honor and wisdom.
Meaning and Properties
- Wisdom: Zircon is thought to bring clarity of mind and enhance wisdom.
- Prosperity: It's associated with attracting abundance and success.
- Balance: This stone is believed to help balance emotions and energy.
- Grounding: Zircon is said to have grounding properties, connecting the wearer to the Earth.
Care and Maintenance
With a hardness of 6.5-7.5 on the Mohs scale, zircon is suitable for most jewelry applications. However, it can be brittle, so avoid hard knocks. Clean with warm, soapy water and a soft brush, and store separately to prevent scratching.
Blue Topaz: The Sky-Blue Gem
While not traditionally listed as a December birthstone, blue topaz has gained popularity in recent years as an alternative option. Its clear, sky-blue color perfectly captures the crisp winter atmosphere.
History and Lore
Topaz has been known for thousands of years, prized by the ancient Greeks and Romans. The name may come from the Sanskrit word "tapas," meaning "fire." While topaz occurs naturally in various colors, most blue topaz on the market is heat-treated to enhance its color.
Meaning and Properties
- Communication: Blue topaz is associated with the throat chakra, enhancing clear communication.
- Creativity: It's believed to stimulate creative thinking and self-expression.
- Calmness: This stone is said to have a soothing effect on emotions.
- Truth: Blue topaz is thought to promote honesty and openness in relationships.
Care and Maintenance
With a hardness of 8 on the Mohs scale, blue topaz is durable enough for everyday wear. Clean with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid prolonged exposure to strong sunlight, which may fade its color over time.
Choosing Your December Birthstone
With four beautiful options, December babies are spoiled for choice! Here are some tips for selecting your perfect birthstone:
- Consider your personal style: Do you prefer the organic, earthy look of turquoise, the deep violet-blue of tanzanite, the sparkling brilliance of zircon, or the clear sky-blue of topaz?
- Think about symbolism: Each stone carries its own meaning. Choose the one that resonates most with your personal goals or values.
- Factor in durability: If you plan to wear your birthstone jewelry daily, consider the hardness and care requirements of each stone.
- Budget considerations: Prices can vary significantly among these gemstones, with tanzanite generally being the most expensive due to its rarity.
Caring for Your December Birthstone Jewelry
To keep your birthstone jewelry looking its best:
- Store each piece separately to prevent scratching.
- Remove jewelry before engaging in household chores or sports.
- Clean regularly with a soft, damp cloth and mild soap if needed.
- Have your jewelry professionally checked and cleaned annually.
December birthstones offer a beautiful array of blue hues, from the deep violet-blue of tanzanite to the robin's egg blue of turquoise, the sparkling blue of zircon, and the clear sky-blue of topaz. Each stone carries its own unique history, meaning, and beauty, making them perfect choices for December babies or anyone drawn to these captivating gems.
Whether you're treating yourself or shopping for a loved one, these December birthstones offer a world of possibilities. From statement pieces to delicate accents, there's a December birthstone jewelry option for every style and occasion. Embrace the magic of these beautiful blue gems and carry a piece of December's enchanting energy with you all year round!