Turquoise, the gemstone traditionally associated with the month of December, holds a unique position in the world of gemology and popular culture. Unlike many gemstones prized for their crystalline clarity and faceted brilliance, turquoise is celebrated for its distinctive opaque to translucent texture and its captivating sky-blue to greenish hues. Its significance extends beyond mineralogy into the realms of art, history, and commerce, serving as a symbol of protection, wisdom, and good fortune across various cultures for millennia. This article explores the multifaceted nature of turquoise, focusing on its gemological properties, historical lore, and its representation in modern collectibles, specifically within the context of the Barbie Birthstone Collection.
The journey of turquoise from an ancient talisman to a contemporary accessory is reflected in its inclusion in the Barbie Birthstone Collection, a line of dolls that pays homage to the traditional birthstones. The December Turquoise Barbie, a doll designed for collectors and enthusiasts, features a gown and accessories that highlight the gemstone’s aesthetic appeal. By examining the design and marketing of this collectible, alongside established gemological data, we can gain a deeper appreciation for turquoise’s enduring legacy. This article will delve into the geological origins of turquoise, its historical and metaphysical significance, its defining gemological properties, and practical advice for its care, providing a comprehensive overview for gemstone enthusiasts, jewelry buyers, and students of gemology.
Historical Significance and Cultural Lore
The history of turquoise is as ancient and varied as the cultures that have revered it. Archaeological evidence suggests that humans have been mining and using turquoise for over 6,000 years. The stone’s name is derived from the French phrase pierre turquoise, meaning "Turkish stone," a reference to the trade routes through which the gemstone reached Europe from mines in the Middle East, most notably in ancient Persia (modern-day Iran). However, turquoise was not exclusive to the Old World. Indigenous cultures of the Americas, particularly in the Southwestern United States and Mexico, have a profound and continuous history with the stone. The ancient Egyptians, Aztecs, and Native American tribes such as the Navajo, Zuni, and Pueblo peoples all incorporated turquoise into their art, religion, and daily life, attributing to it powerful protective and spiritual qualities.
In ancient Egypt, turquoise was used extensively in jewelry, amulets, and burial masks, such as the famous funerary mask of Tutankhamun. It was believed to be a sacred stone that offered protection and symbolized rebirth and eternal life. The Persians, too, held turquoise in high esteem, believing it could ward off evil and bring good fortune. They often inscribed verses from the Quran onto turquoise beads and used them in elaborate jewelry. For many Native American tribes, turquoise is not merely a decorative stone but a living entity, a piece of the sky that has fallen to earth. It is central to their spiritual practices and is considered a source of healing, protection, and connection to the natural world. The stone’s color is often associated with water, the sky, and the earth, elements vital to life and survival in arid regions.
The modern designation of turquoise as a December birthstone is a relatively recent development, formalized in 1912 by the American National Association of Jewelers (now Jewelers of America). This list was created to standardize birthstones for commercial purposes, and turquoise was selected for December, likely due to its long-standing popularity and its cool, winter-like color palette. Its inclusion in the Barbie Birthstone Collection, as evidenced by the December Turquoise Barbie doll, demonstrates the gemstone’s continued relevance in popular culture and its appeal to a new generation of collectors. The doll, described as wearing a "spectacular gown trimmed with chiffon and sparkling with glitter" and featuring a "faux turquoise pendant," translates the historical and cultural significance of the stone into a modern, accessible format.
Geological Formation and Sources
Turquoise is a secondary mineral, meaning it is not formed directly from the cooling of magma but rather through the alteration of pre-existing rocks. Its formation is a complex hydrothermal process that requires a specific combination of geological conditions. Typically, turquoise forms in arid or semi-arid regions where acidic, copper-rich water percolates through rocks containing aluminum and phosphorus. Over long periods, this process results in the deposition of turquoise in veins, nodules, or as a matrix within host rock, often alongside minerals like limonite, chrysocolla, and pyrite.
The color of turquoise, which ranges from sky blue to apple green, is primarily determined by its chemical composition. The presence of copper imparts the blue hue, while iron contributes to greenish tones. The stone’s characteristic matrix—the web-like patterns of host rock that remain within the gem—is a key factor in its identification and valuation. Different mines produce turquoise with distinct matrix patterns and colors, making the geographic origin a critical aspect of the gem’s character.
Globally, the most renowned sources of turquoise include Iran (historically Persia), which is known for its pure, sky-blue "Persian turquoise" with little to no matrix. In the United States, the Southwestern states of Arizona, Nevada, and New Mexico are major producers. Arizona’s Sleeping Beauty mine is famous for its clean, robin's-egg blue turquoise, while Nevada’s mines, such as the Lander Blue and Royston, produce stones with a wide range of colors and distinctive matrix patterns. The Chinese city of Ma'anshan is also a significant source, producing turquoise that is often treated to enhance its color and stability. Other notable sources include Egypt, Afghanistan, and Chile.
The availability of turquoise from these diverse locations has made it a globally traded gemstone. Its use in the Barbie Birthstone Collection, which features a "faux turquoise pendant," highlights the stone's widespread appeal and its status as a recognizable symbol for the month of December. While the doll uses a simulated material, its design is inspired by the authentic gemstone's iconic color and cultural significance, making it a tribute to the natural stone's legacy.
Gemological Properties
Understanding the physical and chemical properties of turquoise is essential for gemologists, jewelers, and collectors. As an opaque mineral, its value is judged differently than that of transparent gemstones like diamonds or sapphires. Key properties include its hardness, chemical composition, and stability, which all influence its use in jewelry and its durability.
Turquoise is a hydrated phosphate of copper and aluminum, with a chemical formula of CuAl₆(PO₄)₄(OH)₈·4H₂O. Its hardness on the Mohs scale ranges from 5 to 6, making it relatively soft and susceptible to scratching. This necessitates careful handling and setting in jewelry to protect it from damage. The stone has a specific gravity of 2.6 to 2.9 and a refractive index of approximately 1.61 to 1.65. It is typically cut en cabochon to showcase its color and matrix, and it is rarely faceted due to its opacity and softness.
A critical aspect of turquoise gemology is its porosity and susceptibility to chemical alteration. Natural turquoise can be prone to discoloration from oils, cosmetics, and even the natural oils of the skin. To enhance its durability and color, much of the turquoise on the market is stabilized—a process where the stone is impregnated with a clear resin or wax to fill its pores. This treatment improves the stone's resistance to damage and helps maintain its color over time. Some turquoise is also dyed to achieve a more uniform or desirable hue. These treatments are standard industry practices, and reputable sellers should disclose them to consumers.
The following table summarizes the key gemological properties of turquoise as commonly accepted in the field, based on established gemological standards:
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | CuAl₆(PO₄)₄(OH)₈·4H₂O (Hydrated Copper Aluminum Phosphate) |
| Crystal System | Triclinic |
| Color | Sky blue, blue-green, green; often with a brown or black matrix. |
| Hardness (Mohs) | 5 - 6 |
| Specific Gravity | 2.6 - 2.9 |
| Refractive Index | 1.61 - 1.65 |
| Luster | Waxy to subvitreous |
| Transparency | Opaque to translucent |
| Common Treatments | Stabilization (resin/wax impregnation), dyeing. |
These properties define turquoise's unique character. Its relatively low hardness requires it to be set in protective jewelry settings, such as bezels, and cared for diligently. The use of "faux turquoise" in collectibles like the Barbie doll underscores the challenge of replicating the stone's natural beauty and the value placed on its authentic color and pattern.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Beyond its physical attributes, turquoise is imbued with a rich tapestry of symbolism and metaphysical beliefs that have persisted through centuries. Across cultures, it has been regarded as a stone of protection, healing, and communication. Its symbolism is deeply intertwined with its color, which evokes the sky and water—elements associated with life, tranquility, and the divine.
In many traditions, turquoise is considered a talisman that wards off negative energy and harm. Ancient Persian warriors believed it could protect them in battle, and it was often set into swords, shields, and bridles. Similarly, Native American cultures view turquoise as a guardian stone, often used in ceremonies and worn as jewelry to protect the wearer from physical and spiritual dangers. It is also associated with wisdom and clear communication, thought to enhance truthfulness and help the wearer express themselves with clarity and confidence.
Metaphysically, turquoise is linked to the throat chakra, which governs communication and self-expression. Practitioners of crystal healing believe that wearing turquoise can aid in overcoming fear, soothing the voice, and promoting honest dialogue. It is also associated with the heart chakra, fostering emotional balance and compassion. The stone is said to have a calming effect, helping to alleviate stress and promote a sense of inner peace. Some modern sources attribute additional healing properties to turquoise, such as strengthening the immune system and reducing inflammation, though these claims are not supported by scientific evidence and should be considered within the realm of traditional or spiritual belief.
The December Turquoise Barbie doll, with its elegant design and faux turquoise pendant, serves as a modern vessel for these ancient symbols. For collectors, the doll is more than a toy; it is a representation of the gemstone's cultural narrative, a tangible link to the long history of turquoise as a symbol of protection, beauty, and good fortune.
Care and Cleaning
Given its specific gemological properties, turquoise requires careful maintenance to preserve its beauty and integrity. Its moderate hardness and porosity make it vulnerable to damage from physical impact, chemicals, and improper cleaning methods. Proper care is essential for anyone who owns turquoise jewelry or collects items featuring the stone.
To protect turquoise jewelry, it should be the last item put on and the first taken off. This minimizes exposure to cosmetics, perfumes, hairsprays, and lotions, which can contain chemicals that may discolor or damage the stone. It is also advisable to remove turquoise jewelry before engaging in physical activities, gardening, or household chores to prevent scratches and impacts. When not in use, turquoise jewelry should be stored separately in a soft cloth pouch or a lined jewelry box to avoid being scratched by harder gemstones or metal parts.
Cleaning turquoise requires a gentle approach. The safest method is to use a soft, dry cloth to wipe the stone after wear. For a deeper clean, use a mild, neutral-pH soap diluted in lukewarm water. Dampen a soft cloth with the solution, gently wipe the stone, and then immediately dry it thoroughly with another soft, dry cloth. It is crucial to avoid ultrasonic cleaners, steam cleaners, and harsh chemicals, as these can cause the stone to crack, discolor, or lose its stabilizing treatments. Never soak turquoise jewelry in water, as prolonged exposure can lead to damage.
For collectors of items like the December Turquoise Barbie, care instructions may differ. The doll's "faux turquoise pendant" is likely made of plastic or resin and should be cleaned according to the manufacturer's guidelines, typically with a soft, dry cloth to avoid damaging the glitter or paint. The doll's gown and accessories also require gentle handling to maintain their condition.
Conclusion
Turquoise remains one of the most recognizable and culturally significant birthstones, its legacy spanning from ancient civilizations to modern pop culture. Its unique combination of color, texture, and historical lore makes it a gemstone of profound depth. From its formation in the arid landscapes of the American Southwest and the mountains of Iran to its role as a protective talisman across cultures, turquoise tells a story of human connection to the earth and the sky. The gemstone's defining properties—its hydrated phosphate composition, moderate hardness, and porosity—necessitate specific care, but its enduring beauty justifies the attention it requires. The inclusion of turquoise in the Barbie Birthstone Collection, as seen in the December Turquoise Barbie doll, demonstrates its continued relevance and appeal, translating its ancient symbolism into a contemporary form that resonates with new generations. For enthusiasts, jewelers, and scholars alike, turquoise offers a fascinating intersection of geology, history, and artistry, solidifying its place as a timeless and cherished gemstone.