The allure of birthstones extends far beyond mere decoration; they are personal talismans, historical artifacts, and geological marvels. Among the twelve stones that mark the months of the year, few possess the distinct color and rich cultural tapestry of turquoise. Designated as the birthstone for December, this opaque, sky-blue to greenish-blue mineral has been cherished for millennia for its purported protective qualities and unique beauty. As a central element in jewelry, from intricate necklaces to robust rings, turquoise serves as a powerful emblem of heritage and personal significance. This article provides a comprehensive exploration of turquoise, detailing its journey from ancient talisman to a modern birthstone, its geological origins, its gemological properties, and the lore that has made it a timeless favorite.
History and Lore
The history of turquoise is as ancient and winding as the veins of copper from which it is born. While the modern concept of birthstones was standardized in the 20th century, the practice of attributing specific powers to gemstones dates back to antiquity. The historical lineage of birthstones can be traced to the biblical Breastplate of Aaron, a sacred vestment described in the Book of Exodus, which was adorned with twelve distinct gemstones representing the twelve tribes of Israel. Over centuries, different cultures began to associate these stones with specific months, believing that wearing them during their corresponding month would amplify their powers. This tradition evolved, particularly in 18th-century Europe, before being formalized in the United States in 1912 by the National Association of Jewelers (now Jewelers of America), which established the list of modern birthstones we recognize today.
Turquoise has been a significant player in this cultural narrative for thousands of years. Ancient Egyptians, Persians, and Mesopotamians all prized the stone, using it for inlay work in ornate jewelry, amulets, and burial masks. The stone’s name itself reveals its long journey to Western culture; it is derived from the French phrase pierre turquoise, meaning "Turkish stone," as the mineral was first brought to Europe from Turkey via Persian trading routes.
Beyond its general history, turquoise is deeply embedded in specific cultural lore, particularly among Native American peoples of the American Southwest. For these cultures, the stone is not merely decorative but is revered as a living entity, a piece of the sky that has fallen to earth. It is a conduit for communication with the spiritual world and a powerful protector.
According to one prominent source, the December birthstone, turquoise, is regarded as a love charm and a symbol of good fortune and success. The belief in its protective power is extensive. It is thought to relax the mind and shield its wearer from harm. A specific and enduring belief is that turquoise rings are particularly effective at warding off evil spirits. This protective quality has made turquoise a staple in jewelry intended for personal safeguarding, from ancient times to the present day. The lore surrounding turquoise is not just a relic of the past; it continues to influence why many people choose this stone for personal adornment and as a meaningful gift.
Geological Formation and Sources
Turquoise is a hydrated phosphate of copper and aluminum, with the chemical formula CuAl₆(PO₄)₄(OH)₈·4H₂O. Its formation is a specific geological process that requires a unique combination of elements and environmental conditions. It is a secondary mineral, meaning it does not form directly from magma but rather through the chemical alteration of pre-existing rocks. The process begins when acidic, copper-rich water seeps through rocks containing aluminum-bearing minerals, such as feldspars. As this water evaporates, it leaves behind deposits of turquoise. The presence of copper is responsible for the stone’s characteristic blue color, while traces of iron can shift the hue toward green.
The quality and color of turquoise are heavily influenced by its host rock, which determines the stone's matrix—the web of darker material, often pyrite or limonite, that can be visible on its surface. The most prized turquoise often comes from specific, well-known mining regions.
Historically, one of the earliest and most famous sources was the ancient Egyptian mines in the Sinai Peninsula, which supplied the Pharaohs. However, the most significant sources in the modern era are found in the arid regions of the American Southwest, Iran, and Tibet. The United States is a major producer, with notable deposits in Arizona (particularly the Sleeping Beauty mine), New Mexico, and Nevada. These American sources have provided some of the most iconic and highly valued turquoise, especially for use in Native American jewelry. Iranian turquoise, historically known as "Persian turquoise," is also highly esteemed for its consistent, robin's-egg blue color and is often found without a prominent matrix.
The availability of high-quality turquoise has fluctuated over time. While new deposits are still being discovered, the depletion of some historic mines has increased the value of vintage material and stones from still-active, but finite, sources.
Gemological Properties
Understanding the gemological properties of turquoise is essential for appreciating its use in jewelry and for its proper care. As an opaque gem, its value is judged primarily on its color, matrix, and durability rather than the transparency and clarity factors that govern stones like diamonds or sapphires.
Color and Appearance: The most desirable color for turquoise is a uniform, intense sky-blue or "robin's egg" blue, a result of copper content. The presence of iron leads to a greenish-blue hue, which is also popular but generally less valuable than the pure blue. Many turquoise specimens feature a "matrix," which is the remnant of the host rock in which the turquoise formed. This can appear as a fine black, brown, or golden-brown spiderweb pattern or as irregular splotches. The matrix can add character and uniqueness to a stone, and certain matrix patterns (like the "spiderweb" matrix from the Lander Blue mine) are highly sought after by connoisseurs.
Hardness and Durability: On the Mohs scale of hardness, turquoise typically registers between 5 and 6. This places it in the "fair to poor" category for durability compared to other birthstones. The source material notes that gems rated less than "good" have deficits that make them vulnerable to breakage or abrasion, and turquoise is specifically cited as being prone to breakage. While it is robust enough for use in pendants and earrings, its relative softness and porosity make it susceptible to scratching and chemical damage when used in rings or bracelets. This is a critical consideration for jewelry design and wear. A mounting that protects the stone from impact is advisable for rings.
Other Properties: Turquoise is cryptocrystalline, meaning its crystals are too small to be seen without magnification. It has a specific gravity of 2.6 to 2.9 and a refractive index of about 1.61. Importantly, turquoise is often treated to enhance its color and durability. Treatments can include waxing or oiling to improve luster and color, or stabilization, where the stone is impregnated with a clear resin to reduce porosity and prevent color change. These treatments are common in the trade and help make the stone more suitable for jewelry.
| Gemological Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | CuAl₆(PO₄)₄(OH)₈·4H₂O (Hydrated Copper Aluminum Phosphate) |
| Mohs Hardness | 5 - 6 |
| Crystal System | Triclinic |
| Luster | Waxy to subvitreous |
| Durability | Fair to Poor; prone to breakage and abrasion. |
| Common Treatments | Waxing, Stabilization (resin impregnation) |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
The symbolism of turquoise is multifaceted, encompassing themes of protection, wisdom, good fortune, and love. Its metaphysical beliefs are deeply rooted in history and have been passed down through countless generations, making it more than just a decorative stone.
As previously mentioned, one of the primary symbolic meanings of turquoise is that of a protective amulet. The belief that it can ward off evil spirits and protect its wearer from harm is a cornerstone of its lore. This extends to physical protection as well; historically, it was believed that the stone would change color to warn its owner of impending danger or illness, cracking or breaking to sacrifice itself and absorb the negative energy.
Beyond protection, turquoise is a symbol of good fortune and success. It is often carried as a good-luck charm to attract prosperity and positive outcomes in endeavors. The stone is also associated with tranquility and mental clarity. It is said to calm the mind, soothe negative emotions, and promote a sense of inner peace, making it a popular stone for meditation and spiritual grounding.
In the context of relationships, turquoise is regarded as a love charm. It symbolizes fidelity and affection, making it a meaningful gift between lovers. This romantic symbolism, combined with its protective qualities, has made turquoise a traditional gift for wedding anniversaries and for those celebrating a December birthday. The stone's connection to the sky and water also lends it symbolic weight as a representation of life, rebirth, and creative energy.
Care and Cleaning
Given its gemological properties, turquoise requires specific care to maintain its beauty and integrity. Its relative softness and porosity make it vulnerable to damage from everyday wear, chemicals, and cosmetics.
Daily Wear Considerations: Because of its "fair to poor" durability rating, turquoise jewelry, especially rings and bracelets, should be handled with care. It is advisable to remove turquoise rings before engaging in activities that could cause impact or abrasion, such as manual labor, gardening, or sports. To prevent scratching, store turquoise pieces separately from other jewelry, ideally in a soft cloth pouch.
Cleaning Methods: Cleaning turquoise is straightforward but must be done gently. Avoid all harsh chemicals, including ammonia, bleach, and acetone, as well as commercial jewelry cleaners not specifically formulated for porous stones. These can strip any wax or resin treatments and permanently damage the stone's color.
The safest method for cleaning turquoise is to use warm, soapy water and a soft brush (like a baby toothbrush). Gently scrub the stone and its setting, then rinse thoroughly with clean water. After washing, pat the piece completely dry with a soft, lint-free cloth. It is crucial to ensure the jewelry is entirely dry before storing it to prevent any moisture from being trapped, which could affect the stone or its setting over time. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners are not recommended for turquoise, as the vibrations and heat can cause cracking or discoloration.
Conclusion
Turquoise stands as a testament to the enduring connection between humanity and the natural world. As the birthstone for December, it carries with it a legacy of protection, good fortune, and profound beauty that spans continents and millennia. From its formation deep within the earth to its place in royal tombs and the intricate jewelry of Native American artisans, this humble phosphate mineral has consistently been elevated to a position of high esteem.
Its characteristic sky-blue and greenish-blue hues, often accented by a unique matrix, make it instantly recognizable and beloved. While it requires more care than some of its harder gemstone counterparts, this very quality speaks to its organic and delicate nature. The rich symbolism woven into its history—from a shield against evil to a charm for love—ensures that a piece of turquoise is far more than a simple adornment. It is a personal talisman, a link to ancient traditions, and a beautiful, tangible piece of the sky, perfectly suited to mark the birth of those in the final month of the year.