Turquoise holds a prominent place among December’s birthstones, steeped in history and revered across cultures for millennia. Alongside blue topaz, tanzanite, and blue zircon, turquoise offers a unique connection to ancient traditions and enduring symbolism. This article explores the history, geological origins, gemological properties, and cultural significance of turquoise, drawing exclusively from available sources.
History and Lore
Turquoise is considered one of the world’s oldest known gems, with evidence of its use dating back over 7,000 years. Archaeological discoveries in western Iran have unearthed turquoise artifacts in burial sites from as early as 7000 BCE. Ancient civilizations recognized its beauty and attributed powerful properties to it. In ancient China, turquoise was skillfully carved over 3,000 years ago, demonstrating early mastery of the material.
The ancient Egyptians held turquoise in particularly high esteem, considering it a holy stone associated with good luck, fertility, vegetation, joy, and delight. It was also believed to improve a warrior’s accuracy and was frequently fashioned into amulets, beads, and other small objects. The gem was linked to the goddess Hathor, also known as the “lady” or “mistress” of turquoise. Perhaps the most striking example of its importance is its inclusion in the funerary mask of King Tut, a testament to its value in ancient Egyptian society.
The gem’s name itself reflects a more recent history, originating from the French expression pierre tourques, meaning “Turkish stone.” This name arose in the thirteenth century, likely due to the fact that much of the turquoise reaching Europe at that time was transported through Turkey.
Native American cultures, particularly those in the southwestern United States, also deeply valued turquoise. It served as a ceremonial gem and a medium of exchange. The Apache believed that following a rainbow to its end would lead to turquoise, and they held the belief that attaching the stone to a bow or firearm would enhance accuracy. The Pueblo people associated the gem’s color with the sky, while the Hopi attributed its creation to lizards scurrying across the earth.
European traditions also developed around turquoise, with the gift of a turquoise ring symbolizing “forget me not.” In Tibet, turquoise is considered a national treasure, believed to grant health, good fortune, and protection from evil, as well as imparting peace to the wearer.
Geological Formation and Sources
Turquoise is a secondary mineral, meaning it forms from the alteration of existing minerals. While the exact geological processes are complex, it typically forms in arid regions through the interaction of copper-rich solutions with aluminum and phosphorus-bearing minerals.
For over 1,000 years, the Nishapur district of Iran has been a significant source of turquoise. The turquoise from this region is highly prized for its even, intense 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.
Gemological Properties
While the provided sources do not offer detailed gemological data, they establish turquoise as a historically significant gem material. The sources do not provide information on hardness, refractive index, or chemical composition. However, the consistent description of its color – blue, often with a sky-blue or Persian blue hue – is a defining characteristic. The sources also highlight the gem’s association with earthy tones, suggesting variations in color and matrix patterns.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, turquoise has been imbued with a wealth of symbolic meaning. Ancient cultures believed it possessed beneficial powers, guaranteeing health and good fortune. It was thought to protect against falling, particularly from horses, and was believed to break into pieces when disaster approached. Hindu mystics believed that viewing turquoise after beholding the new moon would bring immense wealth.
The gem is consistently associated with positive attributes such as friendship, good fortune, health, protection, and peace. Its enduring symbolism makes it a thoughtful and meaningful gift.
Care and Cleaning
The provided sources do not offer specific care and cleaning instructions for turquoise.
Conclusion
Turquoise stands as a testament to the enduring allure of gemstones and their deep connection to human history and culture. From its ancient origins in Iran and Egypt to its sacred role in Native American traditions, turquoise has captivated civilizations for millennia. As a December birthstone, it offers a link to the past and a symbol of good fortune, protection, and peace. Its rich history and enduring beauty continue to make it a cherished gem for jewelry and collectors alike.