Did you know that December is one of only three months with three different birthstones? Whether you're a December baby yourself or looking for the perfect gift for someone who is, understanding December's birthstones can add a layer of meaning and beauty to any jewelry selection. These gemstones, with their unique hues and believed properties, offer a fascinating glimpse into history, symbolism, and the world of gemology.
Choosing a birthstone is more than just picking a pretty color; it's about connecting with tradition and selecting a gem that resonates with the wearer on a personal level. December's diverse birthstones offer a range of styles and price points, making it possible for everyone to find a meaningful piece that reflects their personality and birth month. Understanding the unique characteristics of each stone allows for a more informed and thoughtful gift-giving experience or a more personal self-purchase.
What are December's Birthstones and Their Meanings?
What are December's birthstones?
December has three birthstones: turquoise, zircon, and tanzanite. These gemstones offer a range of blue hues, from the robin's-egg blue of turquoise to the vibrant blues and violets of tanzanite, and the bright blue shades often seen in zircon.
While having multiple birthstones might seem confusing, it provides options for different tastes and budgets. Turquoise, with its ancient history and opaque beauty, has been treasured for centuries. Zircon, though often confused with cubic zirconia, is a natural gemstone that comes in a variety of colors, with blue being the most popular. Tanzanite is a relatively recent discovery, but its intense color and rarity have quickly made it a sought-after gem. The variety in December's birthstones means there's a shade of blue to suit almost everyone. Turquoise often presents with matrix patterns, adding character to each stone. Zircon, with its high refractive index, offers exceptional brilliance. And tanzanite, known for its trichroism (displaying different colors from different angles), adds a unique element of intrigue. All three stones offer something special to those born in December.How do the December birthstones differ in hardness?
December actually has three birthstones: Tanzanite, Zircon, and Turquoise. They differ significantly in hardness as measured by the Mohs scale. Turquoise is the softest, ranging from 5 to 6. Zircon is next, with a hardness of 6 to 7.5. Tanzanite is the hardest of the three, scoring between 6.5 and 7 on the Mohs scale.
The Mohs hardness scale is a qualitative ordinal scale characterizing the scratch resistance of various minerals through the ability of a harder material to scratch a softer material. This means that Zircon can scratch Turquoise, and Tanzanite can scratch both Turquoise and some Zircon varieties. Hardness is an important consideration for jewelry, as softer stones are more prone to scratching and damage during everyday wear. Therefore, Turquoise jewelry, for example, might require more careful handling than Tanzanite or Zircon pieces. The difference in hardness stems from the different chemical compositions and crystal structures of each gemstone. Turquoise is a hydrated phosphate of copper and aluminum, its relatively porous nature contributing to its lower hardness. Zircon is a nesosilicate mineral (zirconium silicate), with a denser, more compact crystal structure giving it a greater resistance to scratching. Tanzanite, a variety of zoisite, owes its hardness to its aluminosilicate composition and complex crystal lattice. Choosing the right December birthstone for a piece of jewelry may be based on color and look, but considering the gemstones hardness helps with its preservation.What are the symbolic meanings of December's birthstones?
December boasts three beautiful birthstones: Turquoise, Tanzanite, and Zircon, each carrying unique symbolic meanings. Turquoise is associated with good fortune, protection, and tranquility. Tanzanite is linked to transformation, heightened awareness, and spiritual insight. Blue Zircon is believed to promote wisdom, honor, and prosperity, while also offering the wearer restful sleep.
Turquoise, a stone revered for centuries, has long been considered a protective amulet, safeguarding travelers and bringing good fortune. Its calming blue-green hue evokes feelings of peace and serenity, believed to dispel negative energy and promote inner tranquility. The stone's connection to the earth and sky further reinforces its association with balance and harmony, making it a popular choice for those seeking emotional stability and overall well-being. Tanzanite, a relatively recent discovery, possesses a captivating violet-blue color that embodies transformation and spiritual growth. This mesmerizing gemstone is thought to facilitate heightened awareness, connecting the wearer to deeper levels of consciousness and promoting spiritual insight. It's often associated with intuition, inspiration, and the ability to manifest one's desires. Tanzanite is believed to stimulate the mind, helping individuals embrace change and navigate life's challenges with grace and wisdom. Zircon, particularly the blue variety, carries a rich history and symbolizes honor, wisdom, and prosperity. It was often used in ancient times to ward off evil spirits and promote sound sleep. Its brilliant sparkle and range of colors, though often found as blue, is believed to bring clarity of mind and enhance one's overall well-being. The gem is also said to boost confidence and help its wearer connect with their inner truth, fostering a sense of self-assurance and authenticity.How much do December birthstones typically cost?
The cost of December birthstones varies widely, primarily depending on the specific gemstone, its quality (color, clarity, cut, and carat weight), and the setting or jewelry it's incorporated into. Turquoise, generally the most affordable, can range from a few dollars per carat for stabilized or lower-grade stones to hundreds for high-quality, natural specimens. Zircon, particularly blue zircon, is also relatively inexpensive, often costing between $50 to $200 per carat for well-cut stones. Tanzanite, the most valuable of the three, exhibits the widest price range, starting around $200 per carat for smaller, less intensely colored stones and increasing dramatically to thousands of dollars per carat for larger, deeply saturated gems.
The varying prices of these gemstones also reflect their rarity and demand. Turquoise is relatively common, although high-quality, untreated material is becoming rarer. Zircon, despite being available in various colors, is often overlooked, keeping its price relatively stable. Tanzanite, on the other hand, is only found in a small area of Tanzania, making it much rarer and typically more expensive, especially for larger stones with vibrant blue-violet hues. Ultimately, the best way to determine the cost of a December birthstone is to research specific pieces or stones, comparing prices from reputable jewelers. Remember to consider the 4Cs (color, clarity, cut, and carat weight) to understand the value and make an informed purchase. Certification from a gemological laboratory can also provide assurance of authenticity and quality, particularly for tanzanite.Which December birthstone is most durable for jewelry?
Of the three December birthstones – turquoise, tanzanite, and zircon – turquoise is generally considered the most durable for jewelry due to its relatively high hardness and resistance to scratching and chipping compared to tanzanite and zircon. However, the durability of turquoise can vary depending on its quality and treatment.
While all three December birthstones are beautiful, their hardness and toughness differ significantly, impacting their suitability for everyday wear. Turquoise, with a Mohs hardness of 5-6, is moderately hard. This means it can withstand some wear and tear, making it suitable for rings, necklaces, and earrings, especially if the setting protects the stone from direct impact. Tanzanite, a much softer stone with a Mohs hardness of 6.5-7, is more prone to scratching, making it a less ideal choice for rings worn daily. Zircon has a Mohs hardness of 6-7.5, making it a reasonable option, however it can be brittle and prone to chipping, especially around facet edges. It's important to note that even the most durable gemstones can be damaged with rough wear. Proper care is essential for all jewelry. This includes avoiding harsh chemicals, removing jewelry during strenuous activities, and storing it carefully to prevent scratches. The specific type of turquoise will also play a role in its durability. Some turquoise is treated to enhance its color or stability, and these treatments can affect its overall resistance to wear. High-quality, natural turquoise is usually more durable than treated or stabilized varieties.Are there any alternative birthstones for December?
Yes, besides the primary December birthstones of turquoise, tanzanite, and zircon, there are alternative stones associated with the month, providing options based on personal preference, color, or metaphysical properties.
While turquoise, tanzanite, and zircon are the most widely recognized December birthstones, historical traditions and modern interpretations have led to the association of other gemstones with the month. These alternatives allow individuals to select a stone that resonates with them personally, whether due to its aesthetic appeal, its perceived healing properties, or its affordability. Exploring these options can be a fun and meaningful way to personalize one's birthstone selection. Some common alternative December birthstones include blue topaz and lapis lazuli. Blue topaz is popular for its affordability and vibrant blue hue. Lapis lazuli, known for its deep blue color flecked with gold, has been treasured for centuries and is associated with wisdom and truth. The specific choice of birthstone ultimately comes down to individual taste and the symbolism one wishes to embrace.So there you have it! Whether you're drawn to the serene blue of turquoise, the icy sparkle of zircon, or the vibrant beauty of tanzanite, December's birthstones offer a lovely way to celebrate those born in the last month of the year. Thanks for learning about them with me! Hope you'll come back and explore more gemstone lore soon!