Turquoise, tanzanite and blue zircon – stones for people born in December
Welcome, stone lovers. Discover with us the mystical world of turquoise, tanzanite and blue zircon, stones traditionally associated with December. Turquoise symbolizes wisdom, protection and courage, violet-blue tanzanite represents spiritual growth and intuition, and blue zircon is a stone of peace, wisdom and clarity of mind. Immerse yourself in their rich history, spiritual meaning and beautiful colors that inspire and enrich our daily lives. Turquoise is the traditional stone for the 11th wedding anniversary, or as an alternative to the 5th anniversary, tanzanite is the traditional jewelry for the 24th anniversary. If you are choosing jewelry for any wedding anniversary, we will be happy to advise you.
December stones are ideal for those seeking to enhance communication, inner peace, and spiritual growth, or seeking protection during the winter season.
- Turquoise – This stone is one of the main stones of December. It symbolizes wisdom, protection and courage. It is also known for its healing effects on the body and mind, promoting peace, inner balance and strengthening communication.
- Blue Zircon – Zircon is popular for its beautiful appearance and brilliance. Blue zircon is associated with calm, wisdom, and clarity of mind. This stone also increases self-confidence and protection.
- Tanzanite – A relatively new stone associated with December, it promotes spiritual growth and intuition, provides inspiration and enhances creativity. Tanzanite is also calming and brings harmony.
- Lapis Lazuli – While not a traditional December birthstone, lapis lazuli is often associated with the winter season due to its deep blue hue. This stone supports intuition, wisdom, and connection to the spiritual world.
- Topaz (especially blue topaz) – Blue topaz is associated with peace and love. It calms the mind, promotes focus, and brings a sense of calm. It also promotes self-expression and aids in communication.
Turquoise – meaning and history
Join us in exploring the interesting history of turquoise
Ancient Egypt
Turquoise was already used in ancient Egypt to make jewelry, amulets, and religious artifacts. Egyptian pharaohs wore it as a symbol of power and protection. The evidence is, for example, the death mask of Pharaoh Tutankhamun, which, in addition to lapis lazuli, obsidian, amazonite, and carnelian, is also inlaid with turquoise.
Persia (present-day Iran)
As in ancient Egypt, turquoise was considered a symbol of protection and good luck in Persia. It was set in jewelry and talismans. Turquoise from Persia was valued for its purity and deep blue color, which is still true of this turquoise today, even though it has the nickname - Iranian.
Mesopotamia and ancient China
In these two areas, turquoise was used primarily for its healing and spiritual properties. It was part of temple ceremonies and used as a talisman.
Mesopotamia is today the territory of Iraq, northeastern Syria, southeastern Turkey, and southwestern Iran.
Native American cultures
Members of some tribes, such as the Navajo, Zuni, and Hopi, believed that turquoise connected heaven and earth and provided protection. It was used in jewelry and religious artifacts, and as a talisman to bring good luck and peace.
Medieval Europe
Superstition has it that turquoise brought good luck to horse riders and protected them from accidents. It was often owned by knights and warriors as a protective talisman.
Turquoise continues to maintain its popularity and significance today. It is worn as a protective amulet, used in meditation and spiritual practice, and is a popular piece of jewelry for its aesthetic and energetic properties.
Turquoise Symbolism and Properties
Protection and safety
Turquoise is traditionally considered a stone of protection, an amulet protecting against negative energy, danger and evil forces.
Communication and self-expression
Turquoise harmonizes the throat chakra with its color, and is a talisman for expressing and overcoming fears about expressing emotions and opinions.
Spiritual growth and intuition
Traditionally, turquoise is used to support intuition, for meditation, and to enhance spiritual growth.
Happiness and prosperity
Turquoise contains positive energy, which is why it is used as a good luck talisman to help make wishes come true.
Tanzanite – meaning and history
Tanzanite was discovered relatively recently, in 1967 in northern Tanzania near the foot of Mount Kilimanjaro. It is unique primarily for its unmistakable blue-violet color and also because it occurs in only one place in the world – in Simanjiro District, also known as Meralani or Merelani Hills.
He named it and made it famous by the famous jewelry house Tiffany & Co. It was named after its country of origin. Tanzanite became very popular and is considered one of the most valuable gemstones of the 20th century. Due to its rarity and limited supply, it is often referred to as the "gem of a generation".
The meaning and symbolism of attractive tanzanite
Tanzanite is considered a stone of transformation, intuition and deep understanding. With its rare color, which ranges from deep blue to soft purple, it symbolizes the connection between the main energies - peace, wisdom and spirituality.
Tanzanite is a stone associated primarily with the sign of Sagittarius, but its influence can be beneficial to all those seeking inner balance and spiritual growth. It is also considered the birthstone of people born in December.
Interesting fact
Tanzanite exhibits a unique optical phenomenon called trichroism – its color changes between blue, purple, indigo, and sometimes bronze-brown under different lighting. This property makes it a fascinating gemstone, captivating with its beauty at first sight.
Because of its unique beauty and spiritual significance, tanzanite is not only a gem, but also a symbol of the connection between the material and spiritual worlds.
Symbolism and properties of tanzanite
Tanzanite is a precious gemstone with rich symbolism and deep spiritual properties. Its unique blue-violet color makes it a stone associated with intuition, transformation, and the connection between body, mind, and spirit.
Transformation and change
Tanzanite is considered a stone of transformation, helping its wearer to cope with significant life changes and find new meaning in them. It is a symbol of growth, evolution, and the transition to a higher level of consciousness.
Intuition and spiritual connection
Because it harmonizes the crown and third eye chakras, tanzanite promotes intuition, spiritual insights, and connection to higher levels of consciousness. It is often associated with meditation and spiritual awakening.
Wisdom and inner peace
Tanzanite symbolizes peace and harmony. It helps calm the mind, removes stress and tension, and thus allows access to deeper wisdom.
The connection between masculine and feminine energy
Tanzanite's color expresses a balance between strong masculine blue and gentle feminine purple energy. It promotes harmony between logic and emotions.
Who is tanzanite suitable for?
- For those seeking spiritual growth or need guidance in life transformation.
- For creative individuals who want to develop their potential.
- For people who desire a balance between emotions and logic.
- For those who want to relieve stress and find inner peace.
- For those who desire something exceptional, interesting and beautiful.
Turquoise shrouded in myths and legends
Turquoise, one of the oldest and most popular gemstones in history, has been considered a stone of magical power, protective properties and spiritual significance since time immemorial. Its sky-blue or greenish color has inspired many cultures to create myths and legends that still accompany this gemstone today.
Ancient legends about turquoise
Egyptian mysticism
Turquoise was revered in Egypt as the “stone of life.” The ancient Egyptians believed that turquoise had the ability to bring divine protection, prosperity, and good fortune. Not only Queen Cleopatra wore turquoise jewelry as a symbol of power and connection with the gods, but so did the pharaohs. It was also used in the creation of protective amulets that were supposed to protect against evil and disease.
Persian sky and happiness
In Persia, turquoise was called the "stone of heaven" because its color resembled a clear sky. People believed that if turquoise changed color, it warned its wearer of impending danger. Persian nobility often decorated their swords and helmets with turquoise stones to protect them in battle.
Mayan and Aztec spirituality
Among the Mayan and Aztec civilizations, turquoise was considered a sacred stone, symbolizing the connection between heaven and earth. It was used in religious rituals and was dedicated to the gods. The Aztecs placed it on altars as an offering to the gods of the sun and sky.
Turquoise in Native American legends
In many Native American cultures, turquoise was considered a gift from Mother Earth and was valued for its protective and healing properties.
- Protective talisman
Native Americans believed that turquoise protected warriors and hunters from injury and misfortune. It was often attached to bows, arrows, or knives to ensure a successful hunt and return home. - A gift from heaven
According to one legend, turquoise was created from the tears shed by people in the desert while praying for rain. These tears mixed with the earth and created turquoise as a symbol of heavenly protection and fertility. - Stone of the spiritual path
For the Navajo tribes, turquoise was associated with the spiritual path and connection to nature. It was used in rituals as protection against evil spirits and to enhance intuition and wisdom.
European myths and medieval legends
In Europe, turquoise has been considered a stone of good luck and protection for centuries. Knights in the Middle Ages wore turquoise amulets because they believed the stone would protect them on the battlefield. Turquoise was also said to protect riders from falling off their horses, which is why it was often set in horse saddles.
Turquoise and the magic of colors
The color turquoise has always had a mystical meaning. It is associated with the elements of water and sky, which makes it a symbol of harmony, peace and connection with nature. According to legends, turquoise changes color depending on the mood of its wearer or their health - if it turns pale, it warns of danger or illness.
Modern mysticism and spirituality
Turquoise is still considered a stone of protection, strength, and healing in modern times. Many believe that:
- Protects against negative energy and evil spirits.
- It strengthens intuition and connects with higher dimensions.
- It helps with communication – it is connected to the throat chakra, which supports clear and honest expression.
Interesting fact: Symbol of friendship
According to an old legend, giving turquoise to a friend strengthens the bond of trust and loyalty. If the stone fades, it indicates a weakening of the friendship or connection.
Turquoise is not only a beautiful gemstone, but also a symbol of the connection between heaven and earth, protection and life force. Its color and the legends that accompany it give it a timeless meaning and magical appeal.
Tanzanites shrouded in myths and legends
Tanzanite, a fascinating gemstone with a blue-violet shimmer, is not only a symbol of beauty and rarity, but also the subject of many myths and legends. Its recent discovery in 1967 does not prevent it from being associated with ancient stories and mystical meanings, especially due to its uniqueness and location at the foot of Mount Kilimanjaro.
African legend of the "fire in the earth"
According to local Maasai legend, tanzanite was created during a huge fire that swept through the countryside of northern Tanzania. It is said that during the storm, lightning struck the ground, transforming the surrounding brown minerals into beautiful blue-violet crystals – tanzanite. This story still reflects the mystical meaning of tanzanite as a stone born from fire and lightning, symbolizing strength, transformation and a new beginning.
Maasai tradition and spiritual significance
The Maasai, the indigenous people of the region where tanzanite was found, consider it a sacred stone. Traditionally, they give a piece of tanzanite to newborn babies as a blessing for health, prosperity, and protection on their journey through life. Tanzanite is also considered a stone that strengthens intuition and connection with ancestors and nature spirits.
Mystical properties and spiritual power
- Stone from another world
Some legends say that tanzanite is of extraterrestrial origin, as its vibrant color is so unique that it could not have come from Earth. It is considered a gift from the universe to help people awaken spiritual consciousness and connect them to higher dimensions. - Protective stone for travelers
The Maasai believed that tanzanite protected pilgrims and travelers from danger. The stone was said to create an "energy shield" that repelled negative forces and attracted good luck. - Stone of Destiny and Miracles
In some modern myths, tanzanite is described as a stone that helps change the direction of life and attracts miracles. Its ability to reflect different colors is associated with the presence of many possibilities that it opens up to the wearer.
Connection with Kilimanjaro
Mount Kilimanjaro, at the foot of which tanzanite was discovered, is itself steeped in myth and considered a spiritual place. Tanzanite, found near it, is seen as a stone that carries the energy of this sacred mountain – strength, peace and connection with nature. Some believe that whoever wears tanzanite carries a piece of this mystical energy within themselves.
Modern myths and magic of tanzanite
In today's world, tanzanite is associated with the magic of transformation, intuition, and personal growth. Some esotericists claim that it has the ability to unlock hidden abilities, promote spiritual development, and help people better understand their life path. Tanzanite is often called the "soul stone" because it is believed to help us see into our inner secrets and connect with our higher self.
Tanzanite as a stone of a generation
According to legend, tanzanite will only be mined for a limited time, as its supply is limited and the deposit is unique. It is said that the current generation is the only one who can enjoy this exceptional gemstone – which adds to its mystical and rare significance.
Tanzanite is not only a beautiful gemstone, but also a symbol of transformation, spiritual connection, and mystery, which carries both natural and legendary origins.
Where are turquoises found?
The most important sites are:
Iran |
Persian turquoise from the Nishapur region is one of the highest quality in the world, prized for its intense blue color. |
U.S.A. |
|
China |
China produces a large amount of turquoise, often in greener shades. Turquoise from China has become popular in recent years due to its good quality and availability. |
Mexico |
It stands out for its high-quality green turquoise, often with characteristic inclusions. |
Tibet and Mongolia |
Turquoise from these areas tends to be intensely blue or green and is often used in traditional jewelry. |
Egypt |
Historically, turquoise was mined on the Sinai Peninsula and is one of the oldest known mining areas for this gemstone. |
Afghanistan |
The Hindu Kush region is another source of high-quality turquoise. |
Turquoises are gemstones found in various parts of the world, especially in areas with arid (dry climate) or semi-desert climates, where this mineral is formed.
The most famous TURQUOISE
Turquoises, together with diamonds, are found in the tiara – diadem , which Napoleon I gave to the French Empress Marie Louise (1791 to 1847).
The most famous TANZANIA
Queen of Kilimanjaro is a stunning tanzanite weighing approximately 242 carats, set in a tiara along with 803 diamonds.
The Mawenzi tanzanite is the largest tanzanite found to date, measuring approximately 7 x 8 x 22 cm and weighing 16,839 carats, or approximately 3.367 kg. It was named after the second highest peak, Kilimanjaro. It is considered a national treasure of Tanzania.
Stone cleaning
Turquoise is easy to clean with lukewarm water and a drop of mild soap, such as baby soap. Do not use any harsh chemicals. You can use a soft cloth or soft toothbrush to clean it, then rinse thoroughly with clean water and dry with a soft cloth or let the stone dry. You can wipe the turquoise with a jewelry cloth to create a fine protective layer on the surface.
Do not use:
- Ultrasonic cleaners: vibrations are unsuitable for turquoise, they could damage the structure of the mineral.
- steam and high temperatures: risk of discoloration and cracking of the stone.
- Chemicals: harsh cleaning agents, bleaches and alcohol can cause unwanted discoloration of the stone, damage its surface or dry it out.
Turquoise is sensitive to cosmetics (creams, perfumes, hairsprays), chlorinated and salt water, extreme heat and mechanical damage. It is advisable not to wear turquoise jewelry while working, swimming, playing sports or in contact with chemicals.
Proper cleaning and maintenance will extend the life of turquoise and preserve its beauty for many years.
Tanzanite has a hardness of 6-7 on the Mohs scale, so it requires gentle care. Tanzanite can be cleaned with lukewarm water (neither hot nor cold) with a drop of mild soap without aggressive chemicals. As with turquoise, you can use a soft cloth to remove any dirt. Then rinse the stone with lukewarm water and dry it with a cloth.
Do not use:
- Ultrasonic cleaners: vibrations are unsuitable for turquoise, they could damage the structure of the mineral.
- chemicals and abrasives such as bleach, ammonia, acids, etc., which could damage the stone surface.
- Coarse brushes: they could scratch the tanzanite.
Tanzanite retains its blue-violet color naturally, but protect it from prolonged exposure to sunlight, which could cause fading.
Protect tanzanite from:
- shocks: to prevent damage when falling.
- from contact with chemicals: such as hairspray, perfumes, creams and other cosmetics. Remove tanzanite jewelry when working, bathing, playing sports or working with chemicals.
It is advisable to store tanzanite separately from other stones, in a soft jewelry box or in a soft cloth.
If you take care of your tanzanite with love, it will remain beautiful and shiny for many years. If you are unsure, it is always best to leave the cleaning of your gemstone to a professional.
You can find all cleaning and recharging methods in our article here.
For whom, what stone to buy and many reasons why this one and not another can be found in our guides: Precious stones by birth month and Stones by zodiac sign . Are you choosing jewelry for your wedding anniversary? We will be happy to help you with that too.
We have jewelry from our suppliers verified for the authenticity of the stones by the Czech Gemological Laboratory Ltd., you can find the certificates here.
Are you interested in stones according to your birth month? Learn more here.
We wrote the article for you on November 26, 2024.
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