Newly Introducing Tanzanite, Zircon, and Turquoise
The month of December has three birthstones – tanzanite, zircon, and turquoise. Each of these stones is known for their vivid blue color, making each them apt representatives for the cool ceramic shades of December – fitting December’s reputation as one of the coldest months of the year. Their variety also offers people born in December a selection to suit their personal taste and style.
| ASPECT | DETAILS |
|---|---|
| Birthstone Month | December |
| Birthstones | Tanzanite, Zircon, and Turquoise |
| Symbolism | Tanzanite: Transformation and Wisdom; Zircon: Honor and Wealth; Turquoise: Protection and Tranquility |
| Origins | Tanzanite: Exclusive to Tanzania; Zircon: Found globally with notable deposits in Cambodia and Australia; Turquoise: Majorly from Iran and the Southwestern region of the United States |
| Mythology and Beliefs | Tanzanite: Associated with spiritual exploration and mindfulness; Zircon: Honor, wealth, and long life; Turquoise: Holy stone fostering fortune and protection |
| Physical Properties | Tanzanite: Mohs rating 6.5; Zircon: Mohs rating 7.5; Turquoise: Mohs rating 5-6 |
| Use in Jewelry | Tanzanite: Necklaces, Earrings; Zircon: Shall be cut into any shape for use in any type of jewelry; Turquoise: Most popular for Native American used in the form of cabochons and beads |
| Care and Maintenance | Tanzanite: Handle with care as it is relatively softer; Zircon: Immune to almost all forms of cleaning except ultrasonic cleaners; Turquoise: Clean in warm, soapy water and keep away from chemicals and cosmetics |
| Psychological and Emotional Significance | Tanzanite: Calming and contemplation; Zircon: Purpose and focus on goals; Turquoise: Leadership and clarity in communications |
| Choosing a Birthstone | The captivating Tanzanite, Zircon and Turquoise are hues in the month of December with their different symbolism and significance |
Origin and History of Tanzanite, Zircon, and Turquoise
Tanzanite, after which Tanzania, its country of discovery is named, form one of the newest gemstones discovered just in 1967. The gemstone is found in the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro only.
Zircon has a much more extensive history as it begins its development in the time of 4.4 billion years ago. The word “zircon” was derived from the Arabian language “zarqun”, which literally means “vermillion”
Turquoise
It is one of the oldest gemstones on Earth; turquoise covered the bodies of Ancient Egypt, the Aztecs, Persia, Mesopotamia, the Indus Valley, and China rulers. Named “Turkish stone” because it penetrated Europe from Turkey.
Mythology and Symbolism of Tanzanite, Zircon, and Turquoise
Tanzanite – is at many times associated with cooling it down and soothing. It is believed that it converts the negative thinking and energy into positive.
Zircon – in Hindu mythology, Zircon is related to Uranus. It is believed that it is a bringer of honor and prosperity accompanied by name and fame in political arena too.
Turquoise, in most cultures, is considered as the symbol of wealth and fortune that changes the wheel of fortune and saves against all evil forces.
Explore The Different Facts About Tanzanite, Zircon, and Turquoise
Tanzanite varies from blue to bluish purple. The most valuable tanzanites are deep blue with a slight purplish wash.
Zircon is available in a range of colors, but the vivid and sparkling blue zircon is one of the most coveted shades for December.
Turquoise varies in color from powdery blue to bluish green. Its pleasant coloring attracts people, and turquoise is usually cut into cabochons or beads.
Physical Properties of Tanzanite, Zircon, as Well as Turquoise
Tanzanite has a 6 to 7 hardness on the Mohs scale and, therefore, is wanting in durability compared to most other gems. Consequently, intermittent wear is more appropriate than everyday jewelry for tanzanite jewelry.
Zircon, rated at 7.5 on the Mohs scale, can generally be used for most types of jewellery and stand the rigours of wearing in rings as long as care is taken to avoid chipping facets.
Turquoise holds a relative softness of hardness 5 to 6 and is often treated to push the durability up for purpose in jewelry.
Jewelry Design Featuring Tanzanite, Zircon & Turquoise
Its remarkable clarity and high degree of intensity cause tanzanite to become one of the most beloved gemstones in various jewelry designs whether it comes to earrings or statement necklaces.
Zircon is often round and oval in cut for revealing its brilliant fire. Particularly, blue zircon is popular for the high refractive index and a strong dispersion range making it an ideal material for gem jewel design.
Turquoise comes in stunning colour with texture, which makes it a favourite of the designers and is extensively used as Southwestern and Native American jewellery.
How to Clean and Take Care of Tanzanite, Zircon and Turquoise Jewellery
All the three stones require care so that they don’t suffer from scratching and cracking. Wash them softly with warm soapy water and never use an ultrasonic cleaner or steam cleaner.
Final Thoughts: Tanzanite, Zircon, and Turquoise in Conclusion
The trio of December birthstones offers a unique choice of attractive blue gems to suit a variety of tastes. From the intense blues of Tanzanite and Zircon to the intriguing hue and texture of Turquoise, December’s birthstones are sure to entrance their wearer in this splendid choice for December birthday or other special occasions.