Turquoise

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Turquoise stone

Turquoise stone is an opaque, blue-to-green mineral. It is a hydrated phosphate of copper and aluminum, with the chemical formula CuAl₆(PO₄)₄(OH)₈·4H₂O. A rare and valuable material in finer grades, turquoise has been highly sought after for centuries and holds a special place as a historical gemstone. Its unique blue hue has made it a favorite for art, jewelry, and ceremonial objects in many cultures around the world.

Once considered among the most prized gemstones, turquoise experienced a period of devaluation in the modern market due to the widespread availability of treated, synthetic, and imitation materials. Nonetheless, authentic turquoise maintains a timeless appeal because of its captivating color range, from vivid sky blues to softer, tranquil greens, making each genuine piece a treasure.

Sleeping beauty turquoise from USA

Gemological properties

The finest quality turquoise can reach a Mohs hardness of just under 6, which is slightly above that of standard window glass. Because turquoise is characteristically cryptocrystalline, single crystal formations are extremely rare. This means that the stone’s physical properties, including hardness and porosity, can vary depending on its individual crystalline structure.

According to X-ray diffraction testing, its crystal system is triclinic. Because of its variable density and grain size, its specific gravity ranges from 2.60 to 2.90. Typically, the stone exhibits a waxy to subvitreous luster, presenting an opaque appearance that can occasionally be semitranslucent in very thin sections.

Turquoise owes its distinctive blue color to copper within its chemical makeup. Greenish hues may emerge when iron replaces aluminum or if partial dehydration occurs. Colors can run from white to powder blue, sky blue, and bluish green, extending all the way to a yellowish green. On a gemological refractometer, an approximate reading of 1.61–1.65 can be observed, with a birefringence of around 0.040 in rarer single-crystal forms. Its absorption spectrum can sometimes reveal a line at 432 nm and a weak band at 460 nm. Under longwave UV light, the stone may fluoresce green, yellow, or bright blue, though it is generally inert under shortwave UV and X-rays.

Historically, authentic turquoise was found in areas rich in copper deposits, such as ancient Persia (modern-day Iran) and regions of the American Southwest. Today, deposits can also be found in other parts of the world. Its formation typically involves groundwater percolating through minerals containing copper and aluminum, creating vibrant turquoise pockets within host rocks.

Turquoise meaning and healing properties benefits

The following section is pseudo-scientific and based on cultural beliefs.

Across numerous civilizations, turquoise stone has been revered for its symbolic power, often associated with good fortune, protection, and spiritual grounding. Many believe it promotes self-realization, boosts creative problem-solving skills, and helps foster friendship and romantic love. In alternative healing traditions, some say turquoise aids in nutrient absorption, supports the immune system, and stimulates tissue regeneration. As with any purported metaphysical benefit, these concepts are viewed through cultural or spiritual lenses.

Turquoise meaning and healing properties

Turquoise under microscope

In many ancient cultures, turquoise was linked to the divine or the sacred. Shamans, warriors, and royalty would adorn themselves with the stone for its reputed protective qualities. Today, collectors and enthusiasts continue to appreciate genuine turquoise for its beauty and for its storied heritage as one of the world’s most iconic gems.

FAQ

What is the best quality turquoise?

Bisbee stone is known for being the finest quality gemstone that has ever come out of the ground in North America. The stone runs from light to dark blue and from light to dark green in color; however, the blue color ranges are dominant.

What is the turquoise stone good for?

It is often considered a calming stone that can induce internal serenity and lift depleted spirits. Many believe it helps flush negative emotions from the mind and supports detoxification of the body. Because it aids tranquility and protection, this gem is seen as a great companion for meditation.

What kind of rock is turquoise found in?

The stone is discovered in basalt-covered sandstone or rock that was initially overlain by basalt. There are works of copper and iron in the region contributing to turquoise’s unique composition.

What is the rarest turquoise?

Lander Blue turquoise is from a mine in Lander County, Nevada, USA and was first claimed in 1973. It produced some of the most beautiful spider-webbed turquoise ever discovered. It is considered the rarest and the most valuable stone.

How can you tell the difference between real and fake turquoise jewelry?

Authentic turquoise used in rings, necklaces, earrings, bracelets, or pendants does have natural variegations in color, but dyed stones often show lines where the dye has accumulated in cracks. A simple “tooth tap” test can help: genuine turquoise has a dull, denser sound when tapped against teeth, while a fake feels more like plastic or glass.

Is real turquoise expensive?

The price of stones can range from $0.05 to $1000 per carat depending on the quality. This vast range often confuses non-experts, so seeking reputable sellers or getting a gemological certificate can help you determine authenticity and value.

Is purple turquoise jewelry real?

There is no naturally occurring purple color of turquoise rings, necklaces, earrings, bracelets, or pendants. Most are reconstituted stones, where dehydrated material is ground up and mixed with a resin dyed red or purple, creating a plastic-reinforced product.

How do you cleanse turquoise?

Dampen a soft-bristled toothbrush in clean water and gently scrub the stone’s surface. Thoroughly dry the piece with a soft towel, then polish any metal parts with a jewelry polishing cloth.

Which finger do you wear turquoise?

The stone is associated with planet Jupiter, also known as Guru or Brihaspati. Many believe it should be worn on the index finger (ruled by Jupiter) or sometimes the ring finger (ruled by the sun).

Does turquoise crystal bring good luck?

In various cultures, wearing turquoise or using it in ceremonies often symbolizes the sky god alive in the earth. It is considered a healing and protective stone that enhances courage. It is also said to attract love, friendship, money, and luck.

Is turquoise precious or semiprecious?

There are only 4 precious stones (diamond, ruby, sapphire, and emerald). Turquoise is therefore classified as a semiprecious gemstone.

Does turquoise have gold in it?

The spider-web matrix found in some stones contains veins or specks of minerals, sometimes appearing golden, brown, or black, forming intricate patterns through the blue-green color. Each piece is uniquely shaped and patterned by its host rock.

Is Turquoise shiny?

The gemstone is porous and typically has a waxy luster. Sometimes, it is impregnated with a stable plastic compound to enhance its luster and durability. Pyrite flakes or black oxide veins may be visible in many natural specimens.

Natural turquoise for sale in our gem shop

We create custom-made turquoise stone jewelry, including engagement rings, necklaces, stud earrings, bracelets, and pendants. If you have a special design or idea in mind, please contact us for a quote.

We make custom jewelry with turquoise stone as rings, necklaces, earrings, bracelets, or pendants. Whether you are looking for a subtle accent piece or a statement design, we can help you choose and craft a unique piece that highlights the unmistakable beauty of this gem. Our artistry blends both traditional and modern methods to ensure each finished piece meets our high standards of quality and style.