Turquoise, the December birthstone, is a gemstone steeped in history and symbolism. Revered across cultures for millennia, it has been cherished for its calming blue-green hues and its association with protection, wisdom, and emotional balance. This semi-translucent to opaque gemstone has been a symbol of good fortune, healing, and spiritual connection, making it a fitting choice for those born in the final month of the year.
In this article, we explore the geological formation and sources of turquoise, its historical and cultural significance across ancient civilizations, its gemological properties, and its enduring presence in both traditional and modern jewelry. We also examine the metaphysical beliefs associated with turquoise and offer practical care tips to preserve its beauty. By the end, you will understand why turquoise remains a treasured gemstone, not only as a December birthstone but as a symbol of peace and prosperity.
History and Lore
Turquoise has a rich and storied history that spans thousands of years and multiple civilizations. Known for its vivid blue and green tones, it has been a symbol of power, protection, and spiritual connection in ancient cultures from Egypt to the American Southwest.
Ancient Egypt and the Pharaohs
One of the earliest recorded uses of turquoise dates back to ancient Egypt, where it was highly prized by royalty and religious leaders. Pharaohs and other high-ranking officials adorned themselves with turquoise jewelry, believing the gemstone to bring health, prosperity, and divine favor. The most famous example of turquoise in ancient Egypt is the funerary mask of Tutankhamun, created around 1323 BCE. This iconic mask, made of gold and inlaid with lapis lazuli and turquoise, was intended to protect the young pharaoh in the afterlife.
The ancient Egyptians sourced their turquoise from the Sinai Peninsula, a region that was a major center for turquoise mining for over 3,000 years. The gemstone was not only used for adornment but also for religious rituals and as offerings to the gods. In Egyptian mythology, turquoise was associated with the sky and the sun, symbolizing rebirth and immortality.
Ancient China and the East
In ancient China, turquoise was carved into intricate pendants, buttons, and decorative objects as early as 2000 BCE. Chinese artisans valued turquoise for its spiritual and protective qualities, believing it could ward off evil spirits and bring good fortune. It was also used in traditional medicine, where it was ground into powder and applied to wounds or ingested to treat various ailments.
The use of turquoise in East Asia continued through the centuries, with turquoise artifacts found in archaeological sites across China, Tibet, and Central Asia. In Tibetan culture, turquoise is considered a national treasure and is believed to bring health, good fortune, and protection from evil. The stone is often set in silver jewelry, which is worn during religious ceremonies and as a sign of status.
Native American Traditions
In the American Southwest, turquoise has played a central role in the spiritual and cultural lives of Native American tribes for centuries. The Apache, Pueblo, and Navajo peoples, among others, have long associated turquoise with the sky and the earth. Many tribes believed that the gemstone was formed by the meeting of the two elements—rain and earth—making it a powerful symbol of balance and harmony.
For the Apache, turquoise was said to be found at the end of the rainbow, a divine gift from the sky. They also believed that attaching turquoise to a bow or arrow would improve one’s aim in hunting. The Pueblo people held that turquoise derived its color from the sky, while the Hopi believed it was created by lizards that scurried over the earth.
Turquoise jewelry, particularly turquoise rings, necklaces, and bracelets, became an integral part of Native American culture and is still highly valued in contemporary Native American jewelry. These pieces often incorporate silver, a metal that was introduced by Spanish colonizers, and are crafted using traditional techniques passed down through generations.
European and Medieval Beliefs
In medieval Europe, turquoise was believed to have protective powers, especially for those who rode horses. From the 13th century onward, it was thought that turquoise could prevent falls and would break into pieces if disaster was imminent, thus serving as a warning to the wearer. This belief made it a popular gemstone among knights and horsemen.
Another European tradition associated with turquoise is the symbolic meaning of a turquoise ring. In this tradition, a turquoise ring was a sign of "forget me not," a gesture of love and remembrance. This sentiment has continued to influence the use of turquoise in romantic jewelry.
Geological Formation and Sources
Turquoise is a hydrated phosphate of aluminum and copper, with the chemical formula CuAl₆(PO₄)₄(OH)₈·4H₂O. It forms in arid regions where copper-rich minerals, aluminum, and phosphorus interact with water. This process typically occurs in the weathering of copper ores, particularly in volcanic rocks and sedimentary formations.
Formation Process
Turquoise is formed when rainwater or melting snow percolates through copper ore deposits known as copper porphyry. This water interacts with copper sulfides in the ore, creating an acidic solution that carries copper ions. When this copper-carrying water meets aluminum and potassium in surrounding rocks, turquoise is precipitated into cavities and crevices.
The presence of iron and other impurities affects the color of turquoise. The more iron present, the greener the stone; conversely, stones with higher copper content appear blue. The veins of matrix—remnants of the rock in which the turquoise formed—are often visible in the gemstone and add to its unique character.
Major Sources of Turquoise
The most historically significant source of turquoise is the Nishapur district in Iran, where it has been mined for over a thousand years. The intense blue turquoise from this region is known for its even color and is often referred to as “Persian blue,” “robin’s egg blue,” or “sky blue.” These terms are now used to describe turquoise of similar color, regardless of its geographic origin.
In the United States, turquoise was once primarily mined in New Mexico. However, today the majority of U.S. turquoise production comes from Arizona and Nevada. Notable mines include the Kingman mine in Arizona, known for its intense blue turquoise, and the now-closed Sleeping Beauty mine, which was a prolific producer for over four decades.
Other notable turquoise sources include:
- China: Known for producing turquoise with a greenish hue.
- Mexico: Produces turquoise with a unique golden matrix.
- Nepal: Known for its high-quality turquoise with a deep blue color.
The name "turquoise" itself is derived from the French word turquoise, meaning "Turkish," as the gemstone was historically imported to Europe through Turkey. This reflects its ancient trade routes and the cultural exchange that helped spread the gemstone across continents.
Gemological Properties
Turquoise is a relatively soft gemstone with a Mohs scale hardness of 5 to 6. This means it is susceptible to scratches and damage from hard materials. It is also porous and can be easily discolored by exposure to oils, pigments, and changes in moisture content. These properties require special care to preserve the gemstone’s appearance and integrity.
Color and Clarity
Turquoise ranges in color from deep blue to green, with the most prized specimens exhibiting a rich blue hue. The presence of matrix—veins of the surrounding rock—can add visual interest and uniqueness to the gemstone. Turquoise is generally opaque, though some varieties may be semi-translucent.
Cut and Carat
Turquoise is often cut into cabochons, as its softness and lack of refractive brilliance make it unsuitable for faceting. It is commonly found in small to medium sizes, though larger stones can be found in certain mines. The carat weight of turquoise can vary widely, depending on the size and quality of the stone.
Chemical and Physical Properties
- Chemical Formula: CuAl₆(PO₄)₄(OH)₈·4H₂O
- Hardness: 5–6 on the Mohs scale
- Density: 2.0–2.5 g/cm³
- Refractive Index: 1.61–1.65
- Luster: Waxy to greasy
- Transparency: Opaque to semi-translucent
Due to its softness and porosity, turquoise is often stabilized with resins or oils to enhance its durability and color. Stabilized turquoise is more suitable for everyday wear in jewelry, while natural turquoise requires more careful handling.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Turquoise has been associated with a wide range of symbolic meanings and metaphysical properties across different cultures and time periods. These beliefs reflect the gemstone’s deep cultural significance and its enduring appeal.
Protection and Good Fortune
One of the most common beliefs associated with turquoise is its protective qualities. In medieval Europe, it was believed that turquoise could prevent falls, especially for horse riders, and would break into pieces if disaster was imminent. In Native American traditions, turquoise was seen as a protective stone that could ward off harm and bring good fortune.
Healing and Emotional Balance
Turquoise has long been regarded as a healing stone. In ancient Egypt, it was used in medicinal practices and was believed to promote physical and emotional well-being. Today, many people continue to believe that turquoise can help reduce stress, promote calmness, and enhance emotional balance.
Spiritual Connection
In many cultures, turquoise is associated with spiritual connection and enlightenment. It is believed to enhance communication with the divine and to help individuals access higher states of consciousness. In Tibetan and Chinese traditions, turquoise is also associated with the throat chakra, promoting truthful and effective communication.
Wealth and Prosperity
Hindu mystics believed that seeing a turquoise stone after viewing the new moon could bring great wealth. In Tibet, turquoise is considered a national treasure and is believed to bring prosperity and protection from evil.
Care and Cleaning
Due to its softness and porosity, turquoise requires special care to maintain its beauty and durability. Here are some tips for caring for turquoise jewelry:
- Avoid Exposure to Oils and Lotions: Oils from skin, lotions, and perfumes can discolor turquoise. Remove jewelry before applying these products.
- Keep Away from Harsh Chemicals: Turquoise is sensitive to household cleaners, detergents, and other chemicals. Store jewelry separately from other items.
- Store in a Dry Environment: Turquoise can lose its color if it dries out. Store it in a cool, dry place, ideally in a sealed container with a small amount of water to maintain humidity.
- Clean Gently: Clean turquoise with a soft, damp cloth. Avoid using ultrasonic or steam cleaners, as these can damage the gemstone.
- Avoid Heat and Sunlight: Prolonged exposure to heat and sunlight can cause turquoise to fade or crack.
By following these care guidelines, you can help preserve the beauty and integrity of turquoise jewelry for years to come.
Conclusion
Turquoise, the December birthstone, is a gemstone with a rich history and deep cultural significance. From the pharaohs of ancient Egypt to the Native American tribes of the American Southwest, turquoise has been cherished for its protective qualities, spiritual connections, and symbolic meanings. Its vibrant blue-green hues and unique matrix patterns make it a beautiful and meaningful gemstone.
Whether worn as a symbol of protection, prosperity, or emotional balance, turquoise continues to captivate and inspire. Its presence in both historical and modern jewelry ensures that this timeless gemstone will remain a beloved choice for those born in December and for all who appreciate its enduring beauty.