Turquoise, a captivating gemstone ranging in color from blue to green, holds a prominent position as a December birthstone. Revered for millennia across diverse cultures, turquoise is not only admired for its aesthetic appeal but also for the protective qualities and symbolism attributed to it. This article delves into the history, geological origins, gemological properties, and cultural significance of turquoise, providing a comprehensive overview of this remarkable gem.
History and Lore
The history of turquoise is deeply interwoven with human civilization, stretching back thousands of years. Evidence suggests its use as early as 3000 BCE, with early examples discovered in ancient Egypt. The gemstone adorned pharaohs and rulers, signifying status and believed to possess protective powers. Turquoise held a significant role in ancient Egyptian culture, appearing in funerary masks, most notably that of King Tut, demonstrating its importance even in the afterlife.
Beyond Egypt, turquoise was highly valued in Persia and China. Chinese artisans carved turquoise over 3,000 years ago, and in Persia, it was believed to bring good fortune. The Apache people held unique beliefs about turquoise, associating it with rainbows and believing it enhanced accuracy in hunting when attached to bows or firearms. Similarly, Pueblo tribes believed the gem’s color originated from the sky, while the Hopi attributed its formation to lizards scurrying across the earth.
In European tradition, the gifting of a turquoise ring carried the sentiment of “forget me not,” symbolizing enduring affection. Tibetan culture considers turquoise a national treasure, believing it grants health, good fortune, and protection from evil influences. The gem is also associated with peace and tranquility, imparting a sense of serenity to those who wear it. Furthermore, turquoise is traditionally recognized as the gemstone commemorating the 11th wedding anniversary.
Geological Formation and Sources
Turquoise is a secondary mineral, meaning it forms from the alteration of existing minerals. It typically develops in arid regions, forming in volcanic rocks, particularly in the presence of copper-rich groundwater. The characteristic blue-green color arises from the presence of copper, while aluminum, phosphate, and water contribute to its chemical composition. The presence of iron can lead to a greener hue, while zinc can result in a more bluish tone. The matrix, or veining, often seen within turquoise is composed of remnants of the host rock, adding to its unique character.
Historically, and continuing to the present day, Iran’s Nishapur district has been a significant source of high-quality turquoise. Turquoise from this region, often an intense, even blue, is renowned as “robin’s egg blue,” “sky blue,” or “Persian blue,” terms now used to describe turquoise of this color regardless of its origin. While Iran remains a key source, turquoise is also mined in other locations around the world, though the sources are not detailed in the provided materials.
Gemological Properties
Turquoise is a semi-translucent to opaque gem. Its hardness ranges from 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively soft and susceptible to scratching. This relative softness necessitates careful handling and storage to maintain its luster. The gem’s composition is hydrated copper aluminum phosphate, with the chemical formula often represented as CuAl6(PO4)4(OH)8·4H2O.
The color of turquoise is its most defining characteristic, varying from intense blue to greenish-blue, and even shades of green. The presence of matrix, the host rock material, is common and often enhances the gem’s appeal, creating unique patterns and textures. The provided sources do not detail clarity or carat weight information.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, turquoise has been imbued with profound symbolism. Ancient civilizations believed it possessed protective powers, safeguarding against harm and ensuring good fortune. The Apache believed it improved aim, while other cultures associated it with health, prosperity, and spiritual awakening.
The gem is often linked to communication and tranquility, symbolizing a connection to the natural world and fostering a sense of inner peace. In Tibetan culture, turquoise is considered sacred, offering protection from negative energies and promoting overall well-being. The tradition of gifting a turquoise ring as a token of remembrance further underscores its association with enduring love and affection.
Care and Cleaning
Due to its porous nature and relatively soft hardness, turquoise requires specific care to maintain its beauty. It is sensitive to chemicals, so contact with lotions, perfumes, and harsh cleaning agents should be avoided. Cleaning turquoise jewelry involves gently wiping it with a soft, damp cloth. It is recommended to store turquoise pieces separately from other jewelry to prevent scratches. The provided materials do not mention any specific polishing recommendations, but suggest using a La Côte Club polishing cloth to maintain shine, while cautioning against over-polishing.
December Birthstone Variations
While turquoise is a traditional December birthstone, it is not the only gem associated with this month. Tanzanite and zircon also share the honor. Tanzanite, discovered in 1967, is known for its stunning blue-violet hues and is believed to bring insight and spiritual awakening. Zircon, with its rainbow of colors, offers a sparkling alternative. Each of these gems possesses unique qualities and symbolism, providing a diverse range of options for those seeking a December birthstone.
Purchasing December Birthstone Jewelry
When selecting December birthstone jewelry, it is advisable to inquire about any treatments the gemstones may have undergone. Heat treatment is a common practice for enhancing the color of tanzanite, and understanding this process is important for informed decision-making. Considering the relative softness of tanzanite and turquoise, and the brittleness of zircon, careful handling and appropriate settings are crucial for ensuring the longevity of the jewelry.
Conclusion
Turquoise remains a captivating and culturally significant gemstone. Its rich history, diverse symbolism, and unique geological origins contribute to its enduring appeal. As a December birthstone, turquoise offers a connection to ancient traditions and a promise of protection, tranquility, and good fortune. Whether admired for its aesthetic beauty or cherished for its metaphysical properties, turquoise continues to enchant and inspire.