Turquoise is a copper or iron oxide mineral used often in gems. Turquoise is usually found as a light blue with a few tints of green. It is also the birthstone of December.
Turquoise is one of the most popular gemstones to date. Its clear sea-green color has captivated many. It can also make any ring, bracelet, or necklace shine. However, turquoise stones were not always just for the glamor.
In this article, we’ll discuss what the turquoise stone means, its symbolism, its healing properties, and what to wear with a turquoise piece.
What is Turquoise?[]
Turquoise is an opaque stone with colors ranging from blue to green. The name ‘turquoise’ comes from a French word that means ‘Turkish’. This is likely because the stone was first introduced to Medieval Europe by Turkish sources.
Turquoise was prominent in several ancient cultures, all of which had their own myths and beliefs about the stone.
What Does Turquoise Symbolize?[]
The meaning of turquoise changes depending on the culture. However, there are three strong associations that persist in all cultures, even in the modern day.
Types of Turquoise[]
There are more than a dozen types of turquoise, each of which is named after their respective mines. Some mines produce a variety of turquoise while others create only the same kind. We’ve listed some of the most popular and unique types of turquoise below.
Turquoise History[]
Turquoise, a stone ranging in color from blue to green to yellow, is filled with wonderful patterns of brown and black matrix that are composed mainly of copper deposits. Although turquoise has captivated man's imagination for centuries, no one is sure exactly when it was discovered. It is believed that prehistoric people used and prized it for its blue-green colors because carved pieces have been found in burial and archeological sites spanning the globe.
The beauty and history of turquoise is hard to match! Steeped in history and intrigue, it is truly a captivating stone. It has been used in religion, art, trade, treaty negotiations and of course as treasured jewelry to many kingdoms and peoples. Whether you study ancient Egyptians, Chinese Dynasties, Aztec Mythology or Native American people, it seems clear that turquoise has always been and always will be considered a stone of life, beauty and good fortune.
Turquoise is always a popular choice in jewelry and fashion. Learn what turquoise is, where it comes from, its use throughout history and buying tips for this popular blue-green gemstone.
Turquoise Metaphysical Properties[]
Turquoise is one of the official birthstones for the month of December, and is heralded as the stone of communication. It encourages enthusiasm, thus inspiring new projects and bringing to light undiscovered artistic abilities. Turquoise also provides understanding and encourages attention to detail while attracting prosperity and success.
The sprawling lines of coppery matrix provide a large amount of energy to its wearer. This may be one reason why the stone has long been prized as a powerful talisman with healing properties. It is believed that turquoise can help balance the blue throat chakra, enhancing the ability to communicate while increasing resistance to viruses, helping to relieve sore throats and allergies.
Turquoise Geological Properties[]
Turquoise has a waxy luster. It is typically blue-green with brown/black veins of matrix running through it. Some turquoise is dyed to give it an evenly vivid color. Most turquoise is stabilized to improve overall strength and polish.
It is mined across the globe, and each location yields specific stone colors and characteristics ranging from the bright sky blue-matrix free Sleeping Beauty turquoise from Arizona to the rough, organic yellow colors and heavy matrix mined from Africa.
Chalk turquoise is a form of natural turquoise that has a white chalk-like consistency. It is dyed pleasing colors and stabilized to produce beads that are hard enough to use in jewelry.
Proper Care of Turquoise[]
Turquoise is a hydrous compound of copper and aluminum, so it loses color when it loses water. To keep your turquoise from becoming dehydrated, it is a good idea to water it, as you would your houseplants, with pure saline water periodically to revive or maintain color. (If salty ocean mist makes the statue of liberty, which is made of solid copper, turn green, it will do the same for your turquoise.)
Turquoise is porous, so chemicals can damage it. Use only pure water and a soft cloth to wipe it clean, and you can clean your turquoise frequently without causing damage. The natural oil of your skin is good for turquoise, and it will naturally polish it when you wear it. If it is set in silver, wearing if often will also keep the silver from tarnishing. Silver polish will damage the surface of turquoise.
Don't store turquoise with harder gemstones or other materials that might rub against it and cause damage. Turquoise can fade in sunlight, excessive sweat, chlorine bleach and dishwater.
To learn more about turquoise and other gemstones, order your copy of Walter Schumann's revised and expanded edition of Gemstones of the World.
Designing with Turquoise[]
The blue-green of turquoise has been traditionally combined with silver and red coral in southwestern jewelry. Turquoise, with its strong greenish hues, combines well with amber, sparkling crystal, dyed mountain jade, HemalykeTM or serpentine. Textured beads also work well with turquoise: heishi shells, sunstone, labradorite and rainbow moonstone. For a look that really turns heads, try mixing it with contrasting colors, such as red coral or fire-orange carnelian for attention-grabbing style.
Chalk turquoise, another variety of turquoise, is available in bright fuchsia pink, lime green, and robin egg blue to further expand your designing options. For absolute elegance, use precious metal beads with pure Sleeping Beauty blue turquoise mined from Arizona.