Turquoise stands as one of the most historically significant and culturally resonant gemstones in the world, holding the esteemed position as a primary birthstone for the month of December. This distinctive mineral, characterized by its captivating blue to blue-green and sometimes yellowish-green hues, has been treasured by civilizations for millennia. Unlike many gemstones prized for their transparency and faceted brilliance, turquoise is typically opaque and is most often fashioned into cabochons, showcasing its unique color in a smooth, polished dome. Its journey from an ancient talisman of protection and healing to a modern symbol of southwestern heritage and accessible luxury is a testament to its enduring appeal. This article will explore the rich history and lore of turquoise, its geological formation and global mining sources, its specific gemological properties, the symbolism and metaphysical beliefs attached to it, and practical guidance for its care and cleaning, all based on factual information derived from authoritative gemological sources.
History and Lore
The history of turquoise is as deep and enduring as the stone's own color. Evidence of its use as a gemstone and cultural artifact dates back thousands of years. In the southwestern United States, Native American cultures were employing turquoise over two millennia ago. Archaeological and historical records indicate that ancient artists in this region used the stone to create a variety of objects, including intricate beads, pendants, elaborate inlay work, and small sculptures. This ancient usage established a foundational cultural connection that persists to this day; turquoise remains an integral and vital part of Southwestern culture, symbolizing a direct link to heritage and tradition.
The stone's journey to becoming a modern birthstone is a more recent development, tied to the standardization of birthstone lists in the 20th century. While turquoise has long been a traditional December stone, its formal inclusion in many modern lists was solidified in the mid-20th century. The sources indicate that the modern birthstone chart has evolved over time, with jewelers and gemological organizations periodically adding new options to provide more choice. For December, the modern list has expanded to include stones like tanzanite and zircon, but turquoise remains a cornerstone of the traditional and alternative lists. This evolution reflects a broader trend where both traditional and modern stones are used freely, with consumers choosing based on personal preference, color, and budget. The historical significance of turquoise, rooted in its ancient use and cultural symbolism, ensures its continued relevance in the contemporary jewelry market.
Geological Formation and Sources
Turquoise is a hydrous phosphate of copper and aluminum, formed through a geological process that involves the percolation of water through rocks rich in copper and aluminum. This process typically occurs in arid regions where evaporation concentrates the minerals. The resulting mineral is valued for its unique color, which is primarily caused by copper (imparting blue hues) and can be influenced by iron (leading to greenish tones).
The sources for turquoise are geographically diverse, though some regions are particularly renowned for producing high-quality material. The southwestern United States is a historic and ongoing source, with mines in states like Arizona, New Mexico, and Nevada producing a significant portion of the world's turquoise. The cultural and commercial importance of U.S. turquoise is deeply intertwined with Native American jewelry traditions.
Globally, other notable sources contribute to the supply of turquoise. While the provided sources do not list specific international mining locations with the same detail as the U.S., they confirm that turquoise is mined around the world. The availability of both natural and lab-created turquoise affects the market. Natural turquoise from specific locales can be highly valued, while lab-created versions offer a consistent, affordable alternative for cost-conscious shoppers. This bifurcation in the market ensures that turquoise jewelry remains accessible, with price points ranging from moderately priced to very expensive, depending on the quality, origin, and craftsmanship.
Gemological Properties
Understanding the physical and chemical properties of turquoise is essential for its identification, valuation, and care. As an opaque mineral, its value is judged primarily by its color, matrix (the host rock in which it is found), and hardness. The following table summarizes key gemological properties of turquoise as detailed in the provided sources.
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Mineral Family | Phosphate mineral (Copper Aluminum Phosphate with Hydroxyl and Fluorine) |
| Color Range | Blue to blue-green to yellowish green. Bright blue is the most preferred. |
| Crystal System | Triclinic |
| Hardness (Mohs Scale) | 5.0 to 6.0. Considered relatively soft. |
| Transparency | Opaque |
| Luster | Waxy to vitreous |
| Common Cut | Cabochon, often freeform to maximize use of the rough material |
| Key Durability Concerns | Low hardness, susceptibility to scratching and breakage; porous nature. |
A critical aspect of turquoise's gemology is its durability. On the Mohs scale of hardness, turquoise ranks between 5.0 and 6.0. This places it in the category of a relatively soft gemstone, making it more susceptible to scratches and abrasions than harder stones like topaz (Mohs 8) or sapphire (Mohs 9). The sources explicitly list turquoise as a stone with a "low hardness" that is "easily scratched." This characteristic directly informs its care and setting. It is often set in protective mountings and is not recommended for rings or bracelets that are subject to daily wear and impact. The porous nature of some turquoise also means it can absorb oils, chemicals, and liquids, which can lead to discoloration or damage over time. These properties distinguish it from the other December birthstones, zircon and tanzanite, which are harder and more suitable for different types of jewelry.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
The symbolism of turquoise is as multifaceted as its color. Historically and culturally, it has been imbued with a wide array of meanings, ranging from protection and healing to wisdom and spiritual connection. In the Southwestern United States, its use by Native American tribes over 2000 years ago suggests an early association with spiritual and protective qualities, often used in ceremonies and as a personal talisman.
The provided sources also reference modern metaphysical beliefs associated with various birthstones. For example, the sources mention that some gemstones are believed to have "calming energies" or are associated with specific positive emotions like friendship, trust, and protection. While the sources do not explicitly detail the metaphysical beliefs for turquoise in the same way they might for stones like amethyst (associated with quick-wittedness) or opal (linked to creativity), the stone's enduring cultural significance implies a deep-seated symbolic value. In contemporary crystal healing and alternative belief systems, turquoise is often considered a master healer stone, believed to offer protection from negative energy, promote emotional balance, and encourage spiritual attunement. Its blue color is naturally associated with the sky and water, elements often linked to tranquility, peace, and communication. As a December birthstone, it is sometimes assigned the symbolism of protection, healing, and wisdom, aligning with its historical role as a guardian stone.
Care and Cleaning
Proper care is paramount for maintaining the beauty and integrity of turquoise jewelry, given its specific physical properties. The low hardness and porosity of turquoise require a gentle and informed approach to cleaning and storage.
Cleaning: Turquoise should be cleaned with a soft, damp cloth. Avoid the use of harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, and steam cleaners, as these can damage the stone's surface and internal structure. Mild soap and lukewarm water are acceptable for a deeper clean, but the stone should be dried thoroughly and immediately with a soft cloth. It is crucial to avoid prolonged exposure to water, as the porous nature of turquoise can lead to water absorption, which may weaken the stone or alter its color over time.
Storage: When not being worn, turquoise jewelry should be stored separately from harder gemstones and metals to prevent scratches. A soft pouch or a lined jewelry box is ideal. It should also be kept away from direct sunlight and extreme temperature changes, which can cause the stone to become brittle or fade.
Durability Considerations: As noted, turquoise is prone to breakage and scratching. It is not suitable for rings worn daily or for bracelets that may encounter frequent impact. For those seeking a more durable option for everyday wear, harder December birthstones like zircon (Mohs 6.5-7.5) or tanzanite (Mohs 6.5-7) may be preferable, though turquoise remains a beloved choice for pendants, earrings, and occasional-wear jewelry where its unique color and cultural significance can be appreciated without excessive risk of damage.
Conclusion
Turquoise is a gemstone defined by its profound historical legacy, distinctive physical characteristics, and deep cultural symbolism. As a primary December birthstone, it offers a connection to ancient traditions, particularly in the Southwestern United States where it has been used for over two millennia. Its opaque, vibrant blue to green hues, typically set in cabochons, make it instantly recognizable and beloved. However, its relatively low hardness on the Mohs scale (5.0-6.0) and porous nature necessitate careful handling and specific cleaning methods to preserve its beauty. The symbolism of turquoise, encompassing themes of protection, healing, and wisdom, continues to resonate with modern wearers, ensuring its place not only in history but also in contemporary jewelry collections. Whether chosen for its cultural significance, its unique color, or its association with the month of December, turquoise remains a timeless gemstone of enduring appeal.