December has two gorgeous gemstones associated with it – the icy blue topaz and the vivid violet tanzanite. Both are beautiful in their own right and deeply meaningful as birthstones. But which is the true December birthstone? Let’s take a closer look at these stunning gems.
The History and Meaning of Topaz
Topaz has been prized for centuries for its alluring golden honey color. The name “topaz” comes from the Greek word “topazos” meaning “to seek” which refers to the way early gem hunters would search for these stones on remote islands. According to legend, topaz could heal physical ailments, protect against harm, and even make its wearer invisible. The ancient Egyptians and Romans associated topaz with the sun god, believing it was colored by the golden rays of sunshine. Blue topaz was rare and unknown until the early 18th century when jewelers in Europe and Russia figured out that they could heat treat yellow topaz to turn it a sky blue color. While naturally occurring blue topaz is extremely scarce, the treated blue version became widely available and popular.
In mystic lore, topaz symbolizes love, affection, strength, healing, wisdom and protection. It is said to calm tempers, enhance truthfulness and forgiveness, ward off nightmares, and bring about clarity of mind. As an astrological stone, golden topaz is associated with Sagittarius while blue topaz aligns with Virgo. Topaz is the traditional gift for the 4th wedding anniversary.
The History and Meaning of Tanzanite
Unlike ancient topaz, tanzanite is a relatively new discovery. The exotic violet-blue stone was first found in 1967 by local tribesmen near Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. Tiffany & Co. acquired the mining rights and named the gem after its country of origin. Tanzanite quickly became popular for its vivid color and reasonable price compared to sapphire. But the tanzanite deposit turned out to be very limited and is expected to be depleted within just a few decades. This rarity means that fine tanzanite grades over 5 carats are far more valuable than similarly sized diamonds.
With its rich blue-violet tones, tanzanite symbolizes mystery, magic and allure. In crystal healing, it is said to activate psychic visions and heighten intuition. As an astrological stone, tanzanite is associated with Pisces and Sagittarius. It is also considered a stone that celebrates new life and motherhood.
When Did These Stones Become December Birthstones?
Here is a brief history of topaz and tanzanite becoming December’s official birthstones:
- 1912 – The American National Association of Jewelers established an official list of modern birthstones. Only turquoise was listed for December.
- 1952 – The list was updated and zircon was added as a second December birthstone.
- 2002 – Tanzanite was added as a third December birthstone option by the Jewelry Industry Council.
- 2022 – Blue topaz was also added as a December birthstone, giving four options for this month.
So while both tanzanite and blue topaz are now considered December birthstones, tanzanite has a longer history of being associated with December.
December’s blue birthstones compared
Let’s take a closer look at how these two blue gems stack up against each other:
| Blue topaz | Tanzanite | |
|---|---|---|
| Color | Pale to medium blue | Violetish blue |
| Clarity | Typically eye clean | Usually eye clean |
| Hardness | 8 on Mohs scale | 6 – 7 on Mohs scale |
| Composition | Aluminum silicate | Calcium aluminium silicate |
| Refractive index | 1.61 – 1.65 | 1.69 – 1.70 |
| Treatment | Heat treated | Unheated |
| Price per carat | $80 – $500 | $300 – $600 |
| Sources | Brazil, Sri Lanka, Africa | Tanzania |
In summary:
- Blue topaz is lighter in tone while tanzanite is a more vivid violetish blue.
- Tanzanite is slightly softer and more fragile than topaz.
- Tanzanite is naturally occurring while topaz is heated treated.
- Tanzanite is rarer and more expensive per carat than abundant topaz.
How to Choose Between December’s Birthstones
So which of these blue beauties should December babies select? Here are some factors to consider when picking between the topaz vs tanzanite:
- Budget – Topaz is significantly less expensive than scarce tanzanite, so shoppers on a tighter budget may prefer blue topaz. Large sized tanzanites can be very costly.
- Color Preferences – Those who prefer softer pastel hues may like blue topaz, while people drawn to vivid, regal shades may favor tanzanite.
- Styling – Tanzanite’s saturated color lends itself well to glamorous styles like cocktail rings. Light blue topaz has a more subdued elegance perfect for everyday earrings and pendants.
- Durability – Topaz’s higher hardness makes it suitable for rings and bracelets worn daily. The more fragile tanzanite is better suited for occasional wear jewelry.
Beyond these practical factors, choose the stone that speaks to you emotionally based on its color energies and mystical properties. Let your heart guide you to the right birthstone that feels like it was made for you.
Alternative December Birthstones
While tanzanite and blue topaz are the primary options, turquoise and zircon are also considered December birthstones, giving you even more choices. Here is a quick look at these alternate selections:
Turquoise
- Color ranges from sky blue to blue-green.
- Ancient protection amulet valued by many cultures.
- Southwest Native American jewelry staple.
- Relatively fragile, best for earrings and occasional rings.
Zircon
- Colorless, yellow, brown, red, green or blue.
- Most blue zircons are heat treated.
- Durable, affordable, brilliant fire.
- Can substitute for diamonds on a budget.
December babies definitely have birthstone options spanning the cool and warm color spectrum!
How to Wear and Care for December Birthstones
Here are some tips for keeping December’s blue birthstones looking their best:
- Clean tanzanite and topaz with warm soapy water and a soft brush. Ultrasonic or steam cleaners are usually safe for both.
- Avoid exposing tanzanite to high heat or acids like chlorine and bleach that can damage the stone.
- Wrap tanzanite in soft fabric when storing to prevent scratches.
- Don’t let topaz or tanzanite gems come into contact with pearls or opals as these softer stones can get scraped.
- When wearing topaz rings or tanzanite bracelets, take them off before physical activities to prevent damage.
- For maximum brilliance, periodically have December birthstones professionally cleaned by a jeweler.
Conclusion
While the stunning tanzanite has a more prominent history as a December birthstone, blue topaz joins it today as the perfect featured gem for people born in the icy winter month. Both December blue birthstones have their own unique beauty, symbolism and lore. Tanzanite’s rarity and high price point give it an elite allure. Yet the affordable glow of blue topaz means that those born in December can all enjoy wearing their signature birthstone shades. Whether you pick one or pair these December blue gems together, their icy sparkle is the ideal representation of winter’s majesty.
