Turquoise is the traditional birthstone for December, a gemstone steeped in history, symbolism, and captivating beauty. Revered for its unique blue-green hues and often striking veined patterns, turquoise has been cherished for millennia, appearing in the adornments of pharaohs, the artistry of ancient China, and the spiritual practices of Native American cultures. This article will delve into the origins, geological properties, historical significance, and enduring symbolism of this remarkable gem.
History and Lore
The story of turquoise stretches back over 5,000 years. Evidence suggests it was among the first gems to be mined and worn as jewelry, with its earliest known use dating back to 5000 BCE in Egypt. Referred to as “mefkat,” meaning joy and delight, the stone was highly valued by the ancient Egyptians, who incorporated it into necklaces, rings, and even funerary masks, believing it brought good fortune.
Its historical significance extends beyond Egypt. Chinese artisans were carving turquoise over 3,000 years ago, and the gem held a prominent place in the traditions of various cultures. For the Apache people, turquoise was considered a sacred stone, believed to be found by following a rainbow to its end. They also attributed talismanic virtues to it, believing that attaching turquoise to a bow or firearm would improve accuracy. The Pueblo people associated the gem’s color with the sky, while the Hopi believed it was created by lizards scurrying across the earth.
In Tibet, turquoise is considered a national treasure, thought to grant health, good fortune, and protection from evil. A turquoise ring, in European tradition, symbolized the sentiment “forget me not.” Even more recently, turquoise has graced the jewelry of royalty, notably appearing in a famous amethyst and turquoise necklace worn by Wallis Simpson, the Duchess of Windsor. It is also traditionally associated with the 11th wedding anniversary.
Geological Formation and Sources
Turquoise is an opaque, crystalline mineral composed of copper aluminum phosphate. Its formation occurs in semi-arid and dry environments, typically near water tables, where chemicals seep from surrounding rocks through rainwater and groundwater. The distinctive blue hue is primarily attributed to the presence of copper, while iron contributes to the green coloration. The veining often seen in turquoise is a result of the remnants of the host rock in which it formed.
Historically and presently, some of the most significant sources of turquoise are found across the globe. For over 1,000 years, the Nishapur district of Iran has been prized for its turquoise, known for its intense, even blue color, often described as “robin’s egg blue,” “sky blue,” or “Persian blue.” These terms are now used by trade professionals to describe turquoise of this color, regardless of its origin.
Egypt also boasts ancient turquoise mines, located in the Sinai Desert, which were utilized by the pharaohs. Today, the United States is a significant producer of turquoise, with mines in Arizona, California, New Mexico, Nevada, and Colorado. Each region yields turquoise with unique characteristics in terms of color and pattern. Other sources include China, Afghanistan, India, Chile, and Australia.
Gemological Properties
Turquoise is characterized by its unique combination of properties. It is an opaque stone, meaning light cannot pass through it, and is better suited for polishing and carving than for faceting. Its color ranges from a vibrant sky blue to a greenish-blue, and can even exhibit whitish-blue or yellow-green tones. The presence of matrix, or remnants of the host rock, often creates distinctive veining patterns, which can be black, brown, or creamy white.
While the provided sources do not offer specific details regarding hardness, refractive index, or chemical formulas beyond its basic composition (copper aluminum phosphate), turquoise is generally recognized as a relatively soft gemstone, requiring careful handling and protection.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, turquoise has been imbued with a wealth of symbolic meaning. It is widely regarded as a stone of protection, believed to ward off negative energy and safeguard the wearer from harm. It is also associated with balance, healing, and wisdom.
Ancient cultures believed turquoise possessed beneficial powers, guaranteeing health and good fortune. From the 13th century onward, it was thought to protect against falls, particularly from horses, and was believed to break into pieces when disaster was imminent. Hindu mystics believed that viewing turquoise after beholding the new moon would bring immense wealth.
Turquoise is also linked to concepts of tranquility, clarity, and friendship. It is said to impart peace to those who wear it and to symbolize a connection to nature. The stone is also associated with Sophia, the Goddess of Wisdom, representing the nurturing and feminine aspects of the life force. For those born under the sign of Sagittarius, turquoise is considered a zodiac stone, embodying optimism, kindness, and an adventurous spirit.
Care and Cleaning
Due to its relatively soft nature, turquoise requires careful handling and cleaning. The sources do not provide specific cleaning instructions, but given its composition and properties, it is advisable to avoid harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, and prolonged exposure to sunlight. Gentle cleaning with a soft cloth and lukewarm water is recommended. It is also advisable to store turquoise jewelry separately from harder gemstones to prevent scratching.
Conclusion
Turquoise remains a captivating gemstone, bridging the gap between ancient traditions and modern aesthetics. Its rich history, diverse origins, and enduring symbolism continue to resonate with people around the world. As the birthstone for December, turquoise offers a beautiful and meaningful connection to the past, a symbol of protection, healing, and the enduring power of nature’s artistry. Its unique color and often striking matrix patterns make it a distinctive and cherished addition to any jewelry collection.