Turquoise



Turquoise is believed to be the most ancient precious stone as evidenced by the fact that it has been found set in jewels more than seven thousand years old. The oldest turquoise mines have been unearthed in Egypt. Many cultures, including the Persians, Incas, Aztecs, Indians and Egyptians worshipped turquoise and associated the stone with sanctity and power. They viewed the stone as a symbol of the deity owing to its color that was identical to the color of the heavens, and they believed that this stone could bring good fortune, happiness and protection to its owners.

The highest quality and dearest turquoise comes from the ancient mines at Nishpor in Persia. The components of the colors in the stone are copper, which grants its blue color, and iron, which is the source of the green color. Owing to its unique chemical composition, the texture of turquoise is usually full of small holes. Occasionally, the bedrock, matrix, intrudes into the stone and then lines and dots in diverse colors are evident. Turquoise is sensitive to heat, acids and the use of ultrasonic waves. Contact with perspiration, soap and fat can change the stone’s color.

Turquoise is regarded as a stone, which assists in treating injuries to the body. It relieves headaches, helps in treating problems related to the absorption of minerals and vitamins, and it is beneficial in muscle therapy. Furthermore, it can help attain a balance in the nervous system and ease respiratory problems. In the psychological domain, it enhances self-confidence, stimulates motivation, creativity and initiative.

Turquoise is the birthstone for December.

View jewellery with turquoise.