Turquoise, a captivating gemstone celebrated for its unique hue and rich history, holds a prominent place in both ancient cultures and contemporary jewelry design. While not explicitly linked to a specific month as a traditional birthstone within the provided sources, its enduring appeal and cultural significance warrant a detailed exploration. This article will delve into the characteristics of turquoise, its historical uses, and its presence in modern jewelry, drawing solely from the provided materials.
History and Lore
The provided sources, while not detailing extensive historical lore, showcase turquoise’s association with artistry and craftsmanship. The “Rustic Turquoise Briolette Necklace” description highlights its use in handmade jewelry, suggesting a long tradition of artistic application. The necklace itself embodies a “raw beauty and charm,” hinting at an appreciation for the stone’s natural state that likely extends back centuries. Though the sources do not explicitly detail ancient beliefs surrounding turquoise, the emphasis on its “earthy and elegant” qualities suggests a connection to nature and the land.
Geological Formation and Sources
The sources do not provide information regarding the geological formation of turquoise or specific mining locations. They focus solely on the finished product and its application in jewelry. Therefore, a discussion of its formation and sources cannot be included based on the provided materials.
Gemological Properties
The primary source of gemological information is the description of the “Rustic Turquoise Briolette Necklace.” This reveals that turquoise is a “genuine faceted” stone, indicating it can be cut and polished to enhance its brilliance. The description specifies a “turquoise briolette,” a pear-shaped or oval gemstone cut with facets to create a sparkling effect. The necklace also details the stone being set with “rustic silver-colored beads” and a “silver-plated lobster clasp,” indicating compatibility with and enhancement by silver settings.
The sources do not provide information on turquoise’s chemical composition, hardness, refractive index, or other standard gemological properties. However, the description of the necklace as “waterproof & oceanproof” (from Source [4]) suggests a degree of durability and resistance to environmental factors, though this claim is not substantiated with scientific data within the provided materials.
A table summarizing the limited gemological properties gleaned from the sources is presented below:
| Property | Description | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Form | Faceted briolette | [1] |
| Color | Unique turquoise hue (not specified) | [1] |
| Setting Compatibility | Compatible with silver | [1] |
| Durability | Suggested waterproof and oceanproof | [4] |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
The sources do not directly address the symbolism or metaphysical beliefs associated with turquoise. However, the description of the necklace as “earthy and elegant” and its association with “boho-inspired styles” (Source [1]) suggests a connection to natural elements, free-spiritedness, and a relaxed aesthetic. The emphasis on “handmade with care” implies a value placed on authenticity and craftsmanship, potentially linking the stone to concepts of personal expression and artistic creation.
Care and Cleaning
The provided sources offer limited guidance on the care and cleaning of turquoise. Source [4] states that Bohomoon jewelry is “tarnish free,” suggesting that the silver-plated components of the necklace require minimal maintenance. However, no specific instructions are provided for cleaning the turquoise itself. The claim that the jewelry is “waterproof & oceanproof” suggests it can withstand exposure to water, but this does not necessarily imply it requires no special care.
Turquoise in the Jewelry Industry
The provided sources offer insights into the broader jewelry industry through profiles of individuals working in various roles. Mallory Shelter (Source [3]) is the owner of a fine jewelry boutique specializing in custom design, indicating a demand for personalized jewelry incorporating gemstones like turquoise. Mathew Behnam (Source [3]) leads a company providing custom and bridal diamond jewelry, highlighting the importance of customization in the market. Haim Medine (Source [3]) is a gemologist and creative director who personally sources gemstones, emphasizing the value of expertise in selecting high-quality materials. Joy Haugaard (Source [3]) designs storytelling-driven jewelry, suggesting a trend towards pieces with deeper meaning and connection. These profiles demonstrate a thriving jewelry industry focused on quality, craftsmanship, and customer experience.
The “Lifetime Guarantee” offered by Bohomoon (Source [4]) underscores a commitment to product durability and customer satisfaction, potentially influencing purchasing decisions. The guarantee that the jewelry will “not discolour” and can be worn “in the shower, pool, ocean, and beyond” appeals to consumers seeking low-maintenance, versatile accessories.
The Sundance Style
The “Rustic Turquoise Briolette Necklace” is specifically identified as “Sundance style” (Source [1]). While the sources do not define this style, it appears to be associated with a natural, earthy aesthetic, incorporating elements of bohemian design. The use of Greek leather cord and rustic silver-colored beads contributes to this overall look. The mention of a “Sundance Signet Ring” (Source [4]) further suggests that “Sundance” is a recognizable brand or style within the jewelry market.
Conclusion
Turquoise, as presented in the provided sources, is a versatile and aesthetically pleasing gemstone with a clear presence in contemporary jewelry design. Its association with handmade artistry, natural materials, and a relaxed, bohemian style contributes to its enduring appeal. While the sources lack detailed information on its geological origins, gemological properties, or historical lore, they demonstrate its value as a component in thoughtfully crafted jewelry pieces. The profiles of industry professionals further highlight the importance of expertise, customization, and customer satisfaction in the modern jewelry market. The “Sundance style” specifically showcases turquoise’s ability to embody a unique and recognizable aesthetic.