Turquoise is a gemstone celebrated for its distinctive bluish-green to greenish-blue hues, often marked with a network of dark inclusions known as its matrix. Recognized as one of December’s birthstones, this opaque gem holds a significant place in both history and contemporary jewelry. While primarily known for its vibrant color, turquoise’s properties, uses, and cultural significance are diverse, ranging from ornamental decorations to beliefs surrounding luck and emotional well-being.
History and Lore
The history of turquoise is deeply interwoven with human civilization, stretching back millennia. While specific dates of initial discovery are not detailed in the provided sources, its use is evident in ancient cultures. The sources indicate its presence in Mediterranean regions and the United States, suggesting a long history of accessibility and utilization in these areas. Turquoise is popularly fashioned into beaded jewelry, a practice that likely dates back to ancient times.
The sources highlight the gem’s association with positive attributes, specifically “bestowing luck and eliminating negative thoughts.” This suggests a long-held belief in its protective and beneficial powers. The gem’s use extends beyond mere adornment, encompassing spiritual and metaphysical applications.
Geological Formation and Sources
Turquoise is a member of the phosphate family, a hydrated copper aluminum phosphate. Its characteristic color arises from the presence of copper, while the matrix—the dark vein-like inclusions—often consists of other minerals. The sources specify that turquoise is found in Mediterranean regions and the United States, indicating these as primary historical and contemporary sources.
The sources do not provide detailed geological information regarding its formation, but its association with arid regions suggests it forms through secondary enrichment processes involving copper-rich solutions percolating through fractured rock.
Gemological Properties
Turquoise exhibits a range of properties that define its suitability for various applications. Its Mohs hardness score falls between 5 and 6, classifying it as a relatively soft gemstone. This makes it “suitable for occasional wear,” as stated in the sources, and less durable than harder gems like diamonds or sapphires.
The color of turquoise is its most defining characteristic, varying from sea blue to medium green. The presence of a matrix is also a notable feature, often enhancing the gem’s unique character. The sources do not provide information on its refractive index, specific gravity, or chemical formula beyond its classification as a hydrated copper aluminum phosphate.
Here's a table summarizing the gemological properties of Turquoise:
| Property | Value | Suitability |
|---|---|---|
| Mohs Hardness | 5 - 6 | Occasional Wear |
| Chemical Family | Phosphate | N/A |
| Color | Bluish-Green to Greenish-Blue | N/A |
| Transparency | Opaque | N/A |
| Notable Feature | Matrix | N/A |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, turquoise has been imbued with symbolic meaning and metaphysical properties. The sources state that it is “useful for bestowing luck and eliminating negative thoughts,” indicating a belief in its protective and positive energy. This aligns with its historical use in amulets and talismans.
The sources also mention its connection to Aboriginal people in Australia, where it holds cultural significance. While the specific beliefs are not detailed, the gem is associated with accelerating weight loss and supporting the heart, suggesting a holistic approach to health and well-being.
Care and Cleaning
Due to its relatively low hardness, turquoise requires careful handling and cleaning. The sources recommend it is “suitable for occasional wear,” implying that it is not ideal for everyday jewelry subjected to significant abrasion. Cleaning should be done gently with a soft cloth and mild soap and water. Harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, and abrasive materials should be avoided, as they can damage the surface and alter its color.
Other Green Gemstones
The provided sources also offer brief descriptions of other green gemstones, providing a comparative context for turquoise.
Variscite is a hydrated aluminum phosphate, often mistaken for turquoise due to its green hue. However, it has less blue undertones and a more distinct medium green color. It is found in Germany, Austria, Australia, Czech Republic and the Congo. Its hardness is lower than turquoise, ranging from 3.5 to 5, making it “suitable for collecting, but poor wearability.”
Zoisite, also known as saulapite, is a member of the epidote mineral group. It can be pink, gray, or lavender, but its green variety is often heat-treated to enhance its color. It is sourced from Tanzania and has a hardness of 6 to 7.
Green Garnet is a silicate mineral, though red garnet is more commonly known. It exhibits yellow and green inclusions and is found in Kenya and Madagascar. Its hardness is 6.5 to 7, making it suitable for “collecting, occasion jewelry.”
Green Sapphire is a rarer variety of sapphire, ranging from yellow-green to olive green. It is mined in Sri Lanka, Tanzania, Australia, Madagascar, and Montana, and has a hardness of 9, making it suitable for “everyday wear, collecting.”
Green Zircon is not detailed beyond its existence as a green gemstone.
Tourmaline is a versatile gemstone used for birthstone and fine jewelry, with a hardness of 7 to 7.5.
Tsavorite is a form of garnet, identified by its calcium and aluminum-based composition. It is found in Tanzania and Madagascar and has a hardness of 7 to 7.5.
Emerald is the most popular green gemstone, valued for its beauty and historical significance. It has a hardness of 7.5 to 8 and is suitable for “fine jewelry.”
Gaspeite is a rare nickel carbonate found in Quebec, identified by its yellowish green to vibrant green color with brown inclusions.
Ekanite is a radioactive gemstone believed to be connected to spiritual and cosmic realms, with a hardness of 4.5 to 5.0.
Conclusion
Turquoise remains a captivating gemstone, valued for its unique color, historical significance, and perceived metaphysical properties. As a December birthstone, it continues to be a popular choice for jewelry and a symbol of luck, protection, and positive energy. While its relative softness requires careful handling, its enduring appeal ensures its place as a cherished gem for generations to come. The sources provide a glimpse into the rich history and diverse applications of turquoise, highlighting its enduring legacy in both the material and spiritual realms.