December gemstones has three beautiful birthstones. Each gemstone displays brilliant blue hues, perfect for the chilly winter weather. The three gemstones are referred to as Zircon, Tanzanite, and Turquoise.
Zircon is the oldest mineral on Earth, it dates back to 4.4 billion years ago. It is found in Earth’s crust in sedimentary deposits. It can also be found in metamorphic rocks as well as crystallized magma. Zircon ranges in colors from yellow-brown to pink and purple. The most sought after color is its blue form. The chemical compound Uranium found in Zircon is the cause of its changing colors. Zircon was used for many different things in Ancient times.
During the Middle Ages, the gemstone was used to induce sleep and ward off evil forces. Zircon was extremely popular in Victorian times, and often found in English estate jewelry.
Tanzanite can be found in beautiful rich blue and violet shades. The blue stones are considered the rarer form of Tanzanite. The gemstone was discovered in Merelani Hills in Arusha Tanzania by Maasai herders in 1967. When Tanzanite was first discovered it was known as a form of Zoisite, but later renamed Tanzanite honoring its origins. Two million carats were mined in the Tanzania mine before the government stopped all mining. Tanzanite is a more modern gemstone, it does not have a long history as its fellow December birthstones do.
Turquoise can be found in blue to green varieties, and often with the matrix running through it resembling veins. Today the largest distributor is the Hubai Province in China. The Kingman mine in Arizona is known for producing the most vibrant blue turquoise. The gemstone has been found in jewelry dating back to 3000 BC, the most famous piece is King Tut’s mask.
Ancient Perisans used Turquoise to decorate palace domes because the color of the stone represented heaven. This exquisite display of turquoise can be found in the Taj Mahal. Daggers and horses bridles were adorned with turquoise, it was believed to guarantee protection by changing colors to ward of doom. The Aztecs also used the gemstone as protection. The Apache Indians believed Turquoise improved shooting accuracy so they had bows with Turquoise accents.
The December birthstones have many unique properties. They display vivid blue hues and strong historical beliefs. Each December birthstone has an interesting and special story. If you are interested in gifting someone or yourself with one of these gemstones, Anne Dale Jewelers can help you find the most exquisite stones this holiday season.