Turquoise has captivated civilizations for millennia, revered for its striking blue-green hues and imbued with a rich tapestry of cultural and spiritual significance. As the traditional birthstone for December, and associated with specific days of the week, this opaque gemstone continues to hold a prominent place in jewelry and adornment. Its history is interwoven with ancient mining practices, royal adornments, and enduring beliefs in its protective and healing properties.
History and Lore
The story of turquoise stretches back to antiquity, with evidence of its use dating back thousands of years. Archaeological excavations conducted by the French in Egypt during the 19th and early 20th centuries unearthed turquoise alongside other gemstones like lapis lazuli, quartz, and obsidian, prominently featured in artifacts such as the mask of Tutankhamun. This discovery sparked renewed Western interest in the stone, influencing jewelry, architecture, and art of the time.
The origin of the name “turquoise” itself is somewhat uncertain. One prevailing theory suggests it derives from the Old French “tourques,” meaning “stone of Turkey.” This is not to say the gem originated in Turkey, but rather that Persian turquoise, and potentially material from the Sinai Peninsula, reached Europe via Turkish trade routes.
Ancient Egyptians held turquoise in high esteem, associating it with the goddess Hathor, the patroness of the Serabit el-Khadim mines where the gemstone was extracted. Hathor was known by titles such as “Lady of Turquoise” and “Mistress of Turquoise Country,” highlighting the stone’s sacred status. The turquoise was also included in the Jewish High Priest’s breastplate, as described in Exodus chapter 28.
Beyond Egypt, turquoise held deep cultural significance for the pre-Columbian Aztec and Maya civilizations, who considered it a valuable and culturally important stone. Among the indigenous Zuni and Pueblo peoples of the American Southwest, turquoise remains a sacred stone, integral to their traditions and artistry.
Geological Formation and Sources
Turquoise is a hydrated phosphate of aluminum and copper, resulting in its characteristic blue or blue-green coloration. The presence of black streaks, known as “matrix,” often occurs within the stone, representing remnants of the host rock from which it formed.
While the provided sources do not detail the specific geological processes involved in turquoise formation, they do indicate several key mining locations. Historically, significant sources included the Sinai Peninsula and Persia. Modern sources include Brazil, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Kenya, Madagascar, and within the United States, California and Maine. The sources indicate that turquoise is often found in relatively shallow deposits, making it accessible to ancient miners.
Gemological Properties
The provided sources offer limited detail regarding the precise gemological properties of turquoise. It is described as an opaque gemstone, typically cut en cabochon – a smooth, rounded, polished form – and frequently set in silver. The sources emphasize the importance of the blue shades, with stronger sky blues being the most valuable. Mottled green and yellowish material is also popular among artisans.
A table summarizing the limited gemological information available from the sources is provided below:
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Composition | Hydrated phosphate of aluminum and copper |
| Color | Blue or blue-green |
| Transparency | Opaque |
| Common Cut | En cabochon |
| Notable Feature | Often contains black matrix |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, turquoise has been attributed with a wide range of symbolic meanings and metaphysical properties. Ancient Egyptians believed it possessed the power to ward off night ghosts and evil spirits, earning it the moniker “stone of the sun.” The Arabic root of the name “Peridot” – faridat – translates to “treasure,” associating the stone with good fortune, luck, and prosperity.
In Greek mythology, amethyst, a February birthstone, was believed to prevent and cure excessive drunkenness, leading the gods to favor drinking vessels adorned with the stone. This belief stemmed from the Greek word amethystos, meaning “not intoxicating.”
Turquoise is also linked to specific days of the week, with those seeking protection from negativity advised to wear it on Wednesdays, aligning with the energies of the planet Mercury. The sources suggest that wearing gemstones corresponding to the day of the week allows one to absorb the energies of the planets.
Care and Cleaning
The provided sources do not offer specific guidance on the care and cleaning of turquoise. However, given its relatively softer composition compared to other gemstones, it is reasonable to assume that turquoise requires gentle handling and protection from harsh chemicals and abrasive materials. Further research would be needed to provide comprehensive care instructions.
Days of the Week Gemstones
The sources also provide a list of gemstones associated with each day of the week, based on ancient astrological beliefs:
| Day of the Week | Stone | Color |
|---|---|---|
| Sunday | Gold Topaz | Gold |
| Monday | Moonstone/Pearl | N/A |
| Tuesday | Ruby/Garnet | Red |
| Wednesday | Turquoise/Sapphire/Lapis Lazuli | Blue |
| Thursday | Amethyst | Purple |
| Friday | Emerald | Green |
| Saturday | Diamond | Clear |
Conclusion
Turquoise stands as a testament to the enduring allure of gemstones and their profound connection to human history and culture. From its ancient origins in Egypt and the American Southwest to its modern status as a beloved birthstone and jewelry staple, turquoise continues to captivate with its vibrant color, rich symbolism, and enduring legacy. Its association with protection, prosperity, and artistic expression ensures its continued relevance for generations to come.