December is a month of celebration and reflection, and for those born in this final month of the year, the birthstone tradition offers a meaningful way to honor their birthday. December is uniquely distinguished by having three official birthstones: Turquoise, Tanzanite, and Zircon. Among these, Turquoise stands out not only for its vibrant blue-green hues but also for its deep historical roots and rich cultural symbolism. This article provides a comprehensive exploration of Turquoise, the 11th wedding anniversary stone, delving into its history, geological formation, gemological properties, cultural and metaphysical significance, and care and cleaning requirements. The information is drawn exclusively from the provided sources, ensuring accuracy and adherence to the facts as presented.
Introduction
Turquoise, with its distinctive blue-green coloration and often distinctive matrix patterns, has been cherished for thousands of years by civilizations across the globe. It is the original December birthstone, while Tanzanite and Zircon were added more recently—Tanzanite in 2002, and Zircon in 1972. The name Turquoise is derived from the French phrase pierre tourques, or "Turkish stone," reflecting the historical trade routes through which the gem first entered Europe. Known for its spiritual and protective qualities, Turquoise has been used in jewelry, ceremonial objects, and even as a currency in some cultures.
This article will explore the history and lore of Turquoise, its geological formation and sources, its gemological properties, and its cultural and metaphysical significance. We will also provide practical advice on how to care for and clean Turquoise, based on its physical properties.
History and Lore
Turquoise has one of the longest and most diverse histories among all gemstones. It has been revered for millennia in numerous cultures, from the ancient Egyptians to Native American tribes in the Southwestern United States. The gem’s use as a birthstone and its symbolic associations with protection, good fortune, and health have made it a beloved and enduring symbol in many traditions.
Ancient Civilizations and Turquoise
Turquoise was first used by ancient civilizations in the Near East, Egypt, and Asia. The ancient Egyptians were among the earliest known users of Turquoise, incorporating it into jewelry, amulets, and ceremonial objects. One of the most famous examples is the burial mask of Pharaoh Tutankhamun, which features inlays of Turquoise. The Egyptians referred to the gem as mefkat, a word meaning both "joy" and "delight".
In China, Turquoise was also highly valued, with artisans using it in elaborate carvings and jewelry over 3,000 years ago. Chinese jade carvers sometimes substituted Turquoise for jade when the latter was unavailable, appreciating its similar aesthetic and symbolic importance.
Native American Traditions
Turquoise holds a particularly sacred place in Native American cultures, especially among the Apache, Hopi, Pueblo, and Navajo tribes. For these groups, Turquoise was more than just a gemstone—it was a spiritual symbol and a medium of exchange.
The Apache believed that Turquoise could be found by following a rainbow to its end. They also thought that attaching the stone to a bow or firearm improved accuracy, suggesting a belief in its protective and enhancing powers.
The Hopi and Pueblo tribes associated Turquoise with the sky, believing it derived its color from the heavens. Turquoise was used in ceremonial jewelry and ritual objects, often by shamans, who used it in spiritual practices and healing ceremonies.
For Navajo and Pueblo artisans, Turquoise became an essential component of traditional jewelry, often set in sterling silver. This tradition continues today, and many Southwestern Native American jewelry pieces feature Turquoise prominently.
European and Asian Trade
Turquoise was introduced to Europe primarily through Turkey, which acted as a trade intermediary between the Orient and the West. As a result, the gem was referred to as pierre tourques, or "Turkish stone", in 13th-century France. This name eventually evolved into the modern term "Turquoise".
In Persia, which is modern-day Iran, Turquoise was also highly valued. It was often worn around the neck or wrist to protect the wearer from unnatural death, underscoring its spiritual and protective qualities.
Modern Adoption as a Birthstone
While Turquoise has ancient roots, its designation as a December birthstone is a more recent development. It is also the 11th wedding anniversary stone, a recognition that reflects its enduring value and symbolism.
In 2002, Tanzanite was added to the list of December birthstones, and Zircon was included in 1972, expanding the selection for December birthdays. This expansion allowed for a broader range of colors and styles, but Turquoise remains the most historically significant of the three.
Geological Formation and Sources
Turquoise is a phosphate mineral formed through a complex process involving chemical reactions in rocks rich in copper and aluminum. The gem is typically found in desert regions, where the right combination of temperature, moisture, and mineral composition allows for its formation over millions of years.
Formation Process
Turquoise forms when water enters iron-rich limonite or sandstone that also contains copper, aluminum, and other minerals. Over time, these elements react and precipitate into Turquoise crystals. The blue color of Turquoise is due to the presence of copper, while greenish tones come from aluminum. The resulting gem is semi-translucent to opaque, with a glassy to waxy luster.
One of the most distinctive features of Turquoise is its matrix, or the remnants of the host rock from which it formed. These appear as narrow, vein-like markings on the gem's surface. Limonite creates dark brown matrix lines, while sandstone creates tan markings. The presence of a pronounced matrix can reduce the value of a piece of Turquoise, as it is often seen as a visual distraction.
Major Sources
Turquoise is found in several countries, but the finest quality is often associated with specific regions:
Iran: Historically, Iran was one of the most important sources of high-quality Turquoise. The Nahavand region is particularly known for producing deep blue Turquoise with minimal matrix.
United States: New Mexico, Arizona, and Nevada are significant sources of Turquoise in the U.S. The Cerrillos Hills in New Mexico and the Copper Canyon in Arizona are particularly well-known for their vibrant blue Turquoise.
Egypt: The ancient Egyptians sourced their Turquoise from Sinai, where it was mined for thousands of years. This region is one of the oldest known sources of the gem.
China: Turquoise has also been mined in China, particularly in Gansu and Xinjiang, where it has been used in jewelry and carvings for centuries.
Australia and Asia: Turquoise is sometimes found in Australia and Asia, particularly in Myanmar, Vietnam, and Cambodia, where it overlaps with Sapphire sources.
Despite its global distribution, Turquoise is relatively rare in high-quality, unadulterated form. Much of the Turquoise available today has been treated to enhance its color or durability.
Gemological Properties
Understanding the physical and chemical properties of Turquoise is essential for both gemologists and jewelry enthusiasts, as these properties influence the value, durability, and care requirements of the gem.
Chemical Composition and Hardness
Turquoise is a phosphate mineral with the chemical formula CuAl₆(PO₄)₄(OH)₈·4H₂O. It is hydrated, meaning it contains water within its structure, which can affect its stability and color.
On the Mohs scale of hardness, Turquoise has a rating of 5 to 6, meaning it is relatively soft compared to other gemstones like Sapphire (9) or Diamond (10). This low hardness makes it susceptible to scratches and abrasion, especially when worn in everyday jewelry.
Color and Appearance
Turquoise exhibits a wide range of colors, from deep blue to pale green, depending on the proportions of copper and aluminum present. The presence of iron can also affect the color, adding yellow, brown, or black tones.
The translucency of Turquoise varies as well, with some stones being semi-translucent and others opaque. The glassy to waxy luster is another distinguishing feature, making it visually distinct from crystalline gemstones like Quartz or Zircon.
Treatments and Enhancements
Because of its natural variability, Turquoise is often treated to enhance its color and durability. The most common treatments include:
Stabilization: Involves impregnating the stone with resins or waxes to prevent dehydration and cracking. This is especially common in low-quality Turquoise with a pronounced matrix.
Dyeing: Used to intensify the blue color or add contrasting hues to the matrix. This treatment is permanent but can affect the value of the gem.
Heat treatment: Can alter the color of Turquoise, sometimes turning it a lighter or more vivid blue.
While these treatments are widely used in the jewelry industry, it is important for buyers to be aware of them, as they can affect the longevity and value of the gem.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Turquoise has long been associated with protection, healing, and spiritual growth. Across cultures and eras, it has been believed to enhance well-being, ward off evil, and bring good fortune.
Protective Powers
One of the most enduring beliefs about Turquoise is its protective qualities. In the 13th century, it was believed that Turquoise could protect the wearer from falling, especially off horses, and would break into pieces if disaster was imminent. This belief led to the stone being used as an amulet for travelers and warriors.
Hindu mystics also attributed powerful properties to Turquoise, believing that seeing it after beholding the new moon could bring fantastic wealth.
Health and Healing
In many cultures, Turquoise has been considered a healing stone. It was believed to guarantee health and good fortune, and in Persian tradition, it was worn around the neck or wrist to protect against unnatural death.
Modern healers and practitioners continue to use Turquoise in metaphysical practices, believing it promotes calmness, emotional balance, and mental clarity.
Spiritual and Cultural Significance
Turquoise was central to the spiritual practices of Native American tribes, where it was often used by shamans in ceremonial jewelry and ritual objects. It was believed to enhance spiritual growth and connect the wearer to the heavens.
In ancient Egypt, Turquoise was used in burial rites, symbolizing eternal life and protection in the afterlife. Its presence on Tutankhamun's burial mask underscores its importance in royal and religious contexts.
Care and Cleaning
Given its relatively soft composition and susceptibility to damage, Turquoise requires special care to maintain its beauty and longevity.
Avoiding Damage
Because Turquoise is soft and porous, it can be damaged by heat, chemicals, and abrasive surfaces. It is not recommended for rough activities such as gardening, sports, or manual labor, as these can scratch or chip the gem.
It is also important to avoid exposure to strong chemicals, including cosmetics, perfumes, and household cleaners, as these can alter the color or damage the surface of the gem.
Cleaning Methods
To clean Turquoise, it is best to use warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Gently scrub the surface to remove dirt and debris, then rinse thoroughly and pat dry with a soft cloth.
Ultrasonic and steam cleaners are not recommended, as they can damage the gem or alter its color, especially in treated or stabilized Turquoise.
If your Turquoise has been dyed or treated, it is especially important to avoid harsh cleaning methods, as these can fade or remove the enhancements.
Conclusion
Turquoise is a gemstone of ancient legacy and enduring charm, cherished for its vibrant blue-green hues, symbolic significance, and cultural importance. From the pharaohs of Egypt to Native American shamans, Turquoise has been revered for millennia as a stone of protection, healing, and spiritual connection.
Its geological formation in copper- and aluminum-rich rocks, its association with various cultures, and its designation as the December birthstone and 11th wedding anniversary stone all contribute to its rich and varied history. While Tanzanite and Zircon were added to the December birthstone list more recently, Turquoise remains the most historically significant and culturally resonant of the three.
For those born in December, or for anyone who appreciates the beauty and meaning of Turquoise, this gemstone is a timeless and meaningful choice—offering not only visual appeal but also a deep connection to the past and a sense of enduring protection and well-being.