There are numerous gemstones associated with December.
Blue topaz, lapis, tanzanite, turquoise, chrysoprase, onyx, ruby and blue zircon are birthstones for the calendar month of December. In addition to these stones, the zodiac signs of Sagittarius (Nov. 23 to Dec. 21) and Capricorn (Dec. 22 to Jan. 20) include sapphire, beryl, garnet, agate and amethyst. The stones for the month of December include ancient, modern and traditional varieties. Blue zircon is the traditional stone for December, though blue topaz is the modern stone for those born between Nov. 23 and Dec. 21. Blue topaz is the December stone recognized in ancient Hindu.
Turquoise
Turquoise is a versatile gem and widely appreciated.
Dating back 3,000 years before Christ, this opaque stone was found in many Mesopotamian, Egyptian and Sumerian artifacts. The robin's-egg-blue stone's name is a derivative of "Turkey," because it originated in that country. Solders believed the stone protected them from falling off their horses, and children in some cultures thought the stone protected them, helped them sleep and prevented nightmares. The stone also adorned the necks of Egyptian pharaohs, Cleopatra and Native Americans. With mining sources in Mexico, China and Australia, the stone remains available and affordable. Turquoise is recommended for the first and fifth wedding anniversaries.
Blue Zircon
Blue zircon is the traditional birthstone for the month of December. It is heavier than any other stone with the same measurements. Zircon comes in many colors and is a popular gem for collectors. In clear form, the appearance is that of a diamond; however, for this reason many choose the less expensive manufactured cubic zirconia. Mining for zircon occurs in Sri Lanka, Thailand, Cambodia, Australia and many other countries. In the past, the stone was thought to bring good health, wisdom, honor, prosperity and a good night's sleep to its owner. It was also believed to relieve pain, increase appetite and protect travelers from harm.
Tanzanite
Tanzanite is the only stone since 1912 added to the official birth month list.
Tanzanite is a violet-blue stone discovered in the last 90 years. Tanzanite joined turquoise and blue zircon as a birthstone for the month of December. It was discovered in the mid-1960s and resembles the sapphire. The stone was found in the hills of Tanzania, East Africa, which remains its single mining source. In 1968, Tiffany & Co. introduced the stone to the world. Tanzanite is a brittle stone that should be protected from extreme heat, knocks and harsh chemicals. It is the suggested gemstone for a 24th wedding anniversary.
Sapphire
Sapphire is the birthstone for the zodiac sign Sagittarius (Nov. 23 to Dec. 21). It is the second hardest mineral and consists of browns, greens, clear, white, purple, orange and blue varieties. The color-change sapphire, which is blue in nature, changes hues in different light. Some sapphires have star shapes visible in the stone. These star sapphires are rare, and consequently, are exquisite and pricey. Mining for sapphires occurs in Brazil, Africa, Thailand, Australia, Vietnam, India, Ceylon and Burma. According to folklore, sapphires promote spiritual enlightenment and inner peace and relieve rheumatism, colic, mental illness and depression. Sapphire is a suggested gemstone for the fifth, 23rd and 45th wedding anniversary. For the 65th wedding anniversary, the star sapphire is typically used.
Usage and Care
The stones, which represent the month of December, are used for necklaces, rings, earrings, watches, pendants and bracelets. Turquoise stones are complimentary to silver and can be used to decorate hats, belts and other accessories. Turquoise stones are porous; therefore, the stone should not be placed near chemical, oils, or other liquids. Zircon, soft in nature, need protection from scratches, hard blows, hot water and chemicals. With all gems, particular care should be taken, in terms of, storing and cleansing to prevent damage to the gems cut and natural qualities.
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