Turquoise is a captivating gemstone, renowned for its distinctive blue-green hues and a history stretching back millennia. As the primary birthstone for December, it holds a significant place in both ancient lore and modern jewelry. This article will explore the origins, geological formation, historical significance, gemological properties, and care of this fascinating gem, drawing solely from available sources.
History and Lore
Turquoise boasts one of the longest histories among gemstones, with evidence of its use dating back to 4000 BC in Egypt. Archeological findings reveal that ancient Egyptians prized turquoise, setting it in gold necklaces and rings, often carved into the shape of a scarab beetle – a symbol associated with the morning sun and the god Khepri. The stone’s journey to Europe occurred through Turkish trade routes in the thirteenth century, leading to its French name, “pierre tourques,” or “Turkish stone.”
Beyond Egypt, turquoise held deep cultural significance for various civilizations. Ancient Persians utilized turquoise in palace domes, believing its blue color mirrored the heavens. They also attributed protective qualities to the stone, incorporating it into dagger handles and jewelry, believing it would change color to warn of impending danger. Native American cultures, particularly the Apache, also valued turquoise, incorporating it into bows to enhance accuracy and later, into silver jewelry, a style that gained popularity in North America in the 1880s. The Navajo craftsman who first set a turquoise stone in a silver coin setting established a standard for turquoise jewelry still prevalent today.
Throughout history, turquoise was believed to possess beneficial powers, guaranteeing health and good fortune. From the thirteenth century onward, it was thought to protect wearers from falls, even breaking into pieces when disaster approached. Hindu mystics believed that viewing turquoise after a new moon would bring immense wealth. The stone is still considered lucky in general, making it a popular choice for jewelry beyond just those born in December.
Geological Formation and Sources
Geologists define turquoise as a copper aluminum phosphate. These minerals typically form near water tables in semi-humid and dry environments where rock is present. The distinctive blue and green colors arise from the presence of copper and iron, respectively, as chemicals seep from surrounding rocks through rainwater and groundwater. The often-seen veined appearance is due to remnants of the host rock in which it formed, appearing as black, silver, tan, or gold matrix.
Historically, turquoise was sourced from regions including Egypt, Persia (modern-day Iran), and Turkey. Today, while New Mexico was once a major producer, most U.S. turquoise now originates from Arizona and Nevada, with mines bearing names like Dry Creek, Easter Blue, and Kingman. The Kingman mine in Arizona is particularly notable for its intense blue turquoise. Arizona’s Sleeping Beauty mine was also a prolific producer for over four decades before its closure.
Currently, China is the world’s largest producer of turquoise, with the Hubei Province being the primary source of gem-quality material. Each region yields turquoise with unique characteristics, contributing to the stone’s diverse appearance.
Gemological Properties
Turquoise is an opaque, semi-translucent to opaque gem that ranges in color from blue to green. The most recognizable turquoise displays a bright blue-green hue, though variations exist, including greenish-yellow shades. The presence of matrix, or remnants of the host rock, often creates distinctive patterns within the stone, considered part of its unique character.
On the Mohs hardness scale, turquoise registers between 5 and 6, making it relatively soft and susceptible to damage. This softness means that turquoise can be easily scratched and requires careful handling. Some turquoise undergoes treatment to improve its durability, appearance, and polish. Treatments include dyeing, chemically enhancing the stone with epoxy or acrylic resin to increase hardness or improve color, and filling cavities with metal-loaded epoxy to mimic pyrite inclusions.
Turquoise is porous, meaning it can absorb liquids and chemicals, potentially altering its color. It is stable to light, but high heat can cause discoloration and breakage. Acids, cosmetics, skin oils, and perspiration can also affect its appearance.
Here's a summary of key gemological properties:
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | Copper Aluminum Phosphate |
| Color | Blue to Green, often with matrix |
| Hardness (Mohs) | 5 - 6 |
| Transparency | Opaque, Semi-Translucent to Opaque |
| Luster | Waxy to Subvitreous |
| Porosity | Porous – absorbs liquids and chemicals |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, turquoise has been imbued with symbolic meaning. It represents prosperity, love, and good fortune. Those interested in gemstone healing properties believe that wearing turquoise can boost positive energy, promote happiness and contentment, encourage honesty in relationships, and enhance spiritual awareness.
The stone’s association with the sky and heavens in Persian culture further reinforces its connection to spirituality and protection. The belief that turquoise would change color to warn of danger highlights its perceived protective qualities. Even today, wearing turquoise is considered good luck, and it is often chosen for jewelry based on personal connection to its color or meaning.
Care and Cleaning
Due to its porous nature and relatively low hardness, turquoise requires specific care to maintain its beauty. It is crucial to remove turquoise jewelry before showering or swimming, as water can be absorbed. Similarly, jewelry should be removed before applying lotions, creams, or perfumes, as these chemicals can alter the stone’s color.
Cleaning should be done gently with a dry or slightly damp cloth. Water or cleaning products should be avoided. Steam or ultrasonic cleaners are also unsuitable, as they can damage treated surfaces. Pairing turquoise with diamond jewelry can create a striking contrast, but care should still be taken to protect the turquoise from scratches caused by the harder diamond.
Conclusion
Turquoise remains a captivating gemstone, steeped in history, symbolism, and cultural significance. From its ancient origins in Egypt and Persia to its modern status as a December birthstone, turquoise continues to be cherished for its unique beauty and perceived protective qualities. Its geological formation, relatively soft nature, and porous structure necessitate careful handling and cleaning. As a gemstone with a rich past and enduring appeal, turquoise continues to hold a special place in the world of gemstones and the hearts of those who wear it.