Turquoise Crystal Gemstones

Turquoise is a stunning gemstone celebrated for its vivid blue-green hue and cultural significance, with a legacy of use spanning thousands of years. Often considered a stone of protection, turquoise is believed to help shield against negative energy while supporting the wearer in finding inner peace. Its opaque yet slightly translucent quality adds to its appeal as a talisman in many cultures, and it’s commonly associated with fostering calm, clear communication. Known for promoting understanding and peaceful exchanges, turquoise is also seen as a spiritually connected stone, often used in meditation to enhance one’s connection to the Divine.

As a birthstone, turquoise is one of three gems for December, joined by zircon and tanzanite, each sharing cool blue tones fitting for winter. Turquoise itself is a color and a gemstone that has inspired wearers across cultures, from the ancient Egyptians to Persian, Native American, and modern jewelry artisans. This semi-precious stone’s captivating color originates from copper within its mineral structure, creating hues that range from intense blue to subtle green, often accented with black or brown matrix veins. Each turquoise source, from Iran to the U.S. and China, produces unique variations in color and quality, making it one of the world’s most beloved gems for both its beauty and its reputed healing properties.

Types of Turquoise

Persian Turquoise: Known for its intense, pure blue hue with minimal veining, Persian turquoise from Iran has been prized since ancient times and is often considered one of the highest qualities.

• Sleeping Beauty Turquoise: Originating from the Sleeping Beauty mine in Arizona, this type is also noted for its vibrant blue shade and generally lacks heavy veining, making it highly sought after in the jewelry market.

• Spiderweb Turquoise: This type has a distinctive matrix pattern that resembles a spiderweb, usually in colors of black, brown, or gold against the blue-green turquoise. It is popular for its unique patterns and is sourced from various regions.

• Kingman Turquoise: Sourced from the Kingman Mine in Arizona, this turquoise often features a bright blue color with black or brown veining. The mine is one of the largest suppliers, making Kingman turquoise widely available and more affordable.

• Chinese Turquoise: Often greener in color and with a higher degree of veining, Chinese turquoise can range from light green to deeper blue-green tones. It is often stabilized to enhance durability and color.

Uses and Benefits of Turquoise

Turquoise is cherished for its aesthetic appeal, spiritual properties, and versatility in jewelry and décor. Here are some popular uses:

• Jewelry: Turquoise is a favorite for rings, necklaces, bracelets, and earrings, often set in silver to highlight its vibrant color. It’s equally popular in both Southwestern and boho-style jewelry, making it a staple in fashion worldwide.

• Home Décor: Turquoise’s soothing color lends itself to decorative items such as bookends, figurines, and even tiles. It’s believed to bring tranquility and peace into the home, creating a relaxing atmosphere.

• Healing and Meditation: Turquoise is known as a "stone of protection" and is thought to safeguard the wearer against negative energies and harmful influences. It is also said to bring clarity to thoughts, encourage open communication, and promote emotional balance. Many people use it during meditation to enhance focus and cultivate a sense of calm.

• Physical Benefits: In alternative wellness practices, turquoise is believed to support the immune system, aid in detoxification, and alleviate respiratory and throat issues. However, it’s important to note that these beliefs are not scientifically substantiated but rather stem from traditional lore.

Is turquoise a birthstone?

Yes, turquoise is one of the birthstones for December, making it a popular choice for those born in this month. It symbolizes good fortune, success, and protection, making it an ideal gift for December birthdays.

How to care for a turquoise jewelry?

Turquoise is a relatively soft stone, ranking 5-6 on the Mohs scale, so it’s important to handle it carefully. Keep it away from chemicals, perfumes, and extreme heat to avoid discoloration. When not in use, store it separately from harder gemstones to prevent scratches, and clean it with a soft cloth to maintain its shine.

What is stabilized turquoise?

Stabilized turquoise is treated with a resin to enhance its durability and color. This process helps prevent discoloration and increases the stone’s lifespan, making it more suitable for everyday wear. Natural turquoise, without stabilization, is more porous and susceptible to color changes over time.

Can turquoise be worn every day?

Yes, but with caution. Due to its softness, turquoise jewelry should be removed when doing heavy physical work, cleaning, or swimming, as exposure to chemicals and moisture can damage it. Opt for stabilized turquoise for daily wear as it is more resilient.

What are the spiritual properties of turquoise?

In metaphysical practices, turquoise is associated with the throat chakra and is believed to aid in clear communication and self-expression. It is also thought to absorb negative energy and encourage tranquility, making it popular among those who value crystals for emotional healing.

How can I tell if my turquoise is real?

Real turquoise has a natural variation in color and texture, with veining or matrix patterns. Synthetic turquoise may have an overly uniform color and lacks the unique patterns of genuine stones. You can also consult a jeweler for an expert opinion.