Turquoise, a captivating gemstone celebrated for its unique blue-green coloration, holds a prominent position as one of the birthstones for December, alongside Tanzanite and Zircon. Valued for millennia across diverse cultures, turquoise is more than just a beautiful adornment; it is a stone steeped in history, lore, and perceived metaphysical properties. This article will delve into the origins, geological formation, historical significance, gemological characteristics, and cultural beliefs surrounding this remarkable gem.
History and Lore
The story of turquoise is interwoven with the histories of ancient civilizations. As early as 3000 BC, turquoise was highly prized by the Egyptians, who referred to it as “mafkat,” a word also signifying “joy” and “delight.” The gemstone prominently featured in the funerary mask of Pharaoh Tutankhamun, demonstrating its importance in royal adornment and beliefs surrounding the afterlife.
Beyond Egypt, turquoise held significance for other ancient cultures. Chinese artisans were carving turquoise over three millennia ago, and the gem is considered the national gem of Tibet, believed to bestow health, good fortune, and protection from evil. In the 13th century, Europeans believed wearing turquoise would prevent falls, particularly from horses, and that the stone would fracture as a warning of impending disaster. Hindu mystics associated viewing turquoise after a new moon with the attainment of great wealth.
Native American cultures, particularly the Apache, Pueblo, and Hopi tribes, also deeply revered turquoise. The Apache believed the gem could be found by following a rainbow to its end and that incorporating it into weaponry would improve accuracy. The Pueblo people associated the stone’s color with the sky, while the Hopi believed it was created by lizards scurrying across the earth. Turquoise served not only as ornamentation but also as a sacred element in ceremonial objects and art, representing protection, wisdom, and strength.
Even in more recent history, turquoise has graced royalty. Wallis Simpson, Duchess of Windsor, famously wore an amethyst and turquoise necklace created by Cartier, further cementing the gem’s association with elegance and prestige. The tradition of gifting a turquoise ring as a symbol of “forget me not” also emerged in European culture.
Geological Formation and Sources
Turquoise is a relatively rare mineral formed through a specific geological process. It originates in arid and barren regions where acidic, copper-rich groundwater interacts with minerals containing phosphorus and aluminum. This sedimentary process results in a porous, semi-translucent to opaque compound of hydrated copper and aluminum phosphate. The presence of copper imparts the characteristic blue color, while iron and aluminum contribute to greenish hues.
Historically, Iran (formerly Persia) has been a primary source of high-quality turquoise, with mining operations dating back over 1,000 years. Turquoise from the Nishapur district is particularly renowned for its intense, even blue color, often described as “robin’s egg blue,” “sky blue,” or “Persian blue.” These terms are now used by trade professionals to denote this specific color, regardless of the stone’s origin.
While Iran remains significant, the United States has become a major producer of turquoise, particularly from Arizona and Nevada. Historically, New Mexico was the largest U.S. producer until the 1920s. 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 mines with evocative names like Dry Creek, Easter Blue, Emerald Valley, and Fox also contribute to the U.S. supply. Additional sources of turquoise can be found in Australia, Mexico, Brazil, Chile, and Afghanistan.
A unique variation known as “Spider Web Turquoise” contains matrix – dark, web-like patterns within the gem. While stones with no matrix command the highest prices, those with attractive Spider Web matrix are also highly valued.
Gemological Properties
Turquoise is an opaque colored stone, meaning it does not transmit light. Its color ranges from dull greens to vibrant sky blues, with the most sought-after hue being a pure, sky-blue shade. The gemstone typically exhibits a waxy luster.
On the Mohs scale of mineral hardness, turquoise registers between 5 and 6, making it relatively soft and susceptible to scratching. Consequently, it is often stabilized with resin or other materials to enhance its durability and prevent cracking.
The chemical formula for turquoise is CuAl6(PO4)4(OH)8·4H2O, indicating it is a hydrous phosphate of copper and aluminum. Turquoise is porous and absorptive, readily absorbing water and oils, which can alter its color over time. This characteristic necessitates careful handling and cleaning.
A table summarizing key gemological properties is provided below:
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | CuAl6(PO4)4(OH)8·4H2O |
| Hardness (Mohs) | 5 - 6 |
| Luster | Waxy |
| Transparency | Opaque |
| Color | Blue-Green |
| Specific Gravity | 2.60 - 2.85 |
| Porosity | Porous |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, turquoise has been attributed with various symbolic meanings and metaphysical properties. It is often considered a protective stone, used for amulets for millennia, providing solace for the spirit and well-being for the body. Turquoise is believed to promote spiritual attunement and enhance communication with both the physical and spiritual realms.
As a purification stone, turquoise is thought to dispel negative energy and offer protection against environmental pollutants. It is often associated with uniting the earth and the sky, fostering empathy, balance, and self-realization, and aiding in creative problem-solving. Some cultures believed the stone could change color to warn its wearer of danger.
Care and Cleaning
Due to its porosity and relatively low hardness, turquoise requires careful handling and cleaning. It is not recommended to wear turquoise jewelry while showering, swimming, or engaging in household chores, as exposure to water and oils can cause discoloration. Avoid harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, and steam cleaners.
To clean turquoise, gently wipe it with a soft, damp cloth. Avoid abrasive materials that could scratch the surface. Periodic re-oiling with a light mineral oil can help maintain its luster, but avoid excessive oiling, as it can attract dirt. Proper storage in a soft cloth or pouch will also help protect the gemstone from scratches and damage.
Conclusion
Turquoise stands as a testament to the enduring allure of gemstones, captivating humanity for millennia with its unique color, rich history, and perceived metaphysical properties. From the pharaohs of ancient Egypt to the Native American tribes of the Southwest, turquoise has held a place of reverence and significance. Its geological origins, combined with its relatively soft nature, necessitate careful handling, but its beauty and symbolic weight continue to make it a cherished gemstone for jewelry, art, and spiritual practices. As a December birthstone and a symbol of protection, wisdom, and good fortune, turquoise remains a timeless treasure.