Turquoise stands as one of the most ancient and culturally significant gemstones in human history. Distinguished by its unique hue ranging from sky blue to greenish blue, it is the oldest gemstone to be recognized as a birthstone for the month of December. Its history is a chronicle of civilizations, from the Nile Valley to the Persian Empire, and its journey to modern gemological prominence is rooted in both tradition and geological rarity. As a semi-translucent to opaque phosphate mineral, turquoise is defined as much by its physical characteristics—specifically its color and the presence of matrix—as by its storied past.
While December is unique in offering four officially recognized birthstones—Turquoise, Tanzanite, Zircon, and Blue Topaz—turquoise remains the traditional cornerstone of the month’s gemological identity. Its significance stems from a lineage of use that dates back millennia, making it a subject of fascination for archaeologists, jewelers, and those seeking the metaphysical properties of ancient stones. This article provides a comprehensive examination of turquoise, detailing its historical ascent to birthstone status, the geological forces that create it, its distinct gemological properties, and the rich tapestry of symbolism that surrounds it.
History and Lore: The Ascension to Birthstone Status
The association of turquoise with December is a relatively modern convention, yet the stone’s lineage stretches back to the earliest known mining operations. Sources indicate that turquoise was one of the first gemstones ever mined, with archaeological evidence dating extraction back 8,000 years to ancient Egypt. The pharaohs and elite of ancient Egypt adorned themselves with the stone, utilizing it not only for ornamentation but also for spiritual protection. This ancient usage is visually preserved in artifacts such as the funerary mask of King Tutankhamun, where turquoise played a prominent decorative role.
The journey of turquoise from an ancient talisman to a standardized birthstone involves a specific cultural trajectory. The roots of its designation for December lie in the birthstone calendars of Poland and Russia. These Eastern European traditions incorporated turquoise as the gem for the final month of the year. However, this association was not continuous globally. During the period from the 15th to the 20th century, the tradition of turquoise as a December stone was largely lost or dormant in Western Europe.
The re-establishment and standardization of turquoise as a December birthstone occurred in the United States in 1912. The American National Jewelers Association, now known as Jewelers of America, released a standardized list of birthstones during this year. This list formally recognized turquoise as the gemstone for December, solidifying the Polish and Russian tradition within the American market and ensuring its continued popularity. This standardization occurred alongside the recognition of other stones, but turquoise remained the primary traditional choice.
Beyond its formal designation, turquoise has been woven into the folklore of numerous cultures, reinforcing its status as a stone of significance.
- Ancient China: Chinese artisans were carving turquoise into decorative objects more than 3,000 years ago, demonstrating an early appreciation for its aesthetic qualities.
- Native American Cultures: The stone plays a pivotal role in the lore of various Native American tribes. The Apache believed that turquoise could be found by following a rainbow to its end. Furthermore, they held the belief that attaching the stone to a bow or firearm would improve the user’s aim. The Pueblo people attributed the gem’s color to the sky, while the Hopi believed the stone was formed by the movement of lizards scurrying across the earth.
- Hindu Mysticism: Hindu mystics maintained a specific ritualistic belief regarding the stone: seeing a turquoise immediately after beholding the new moon was said to ensure fantastic wealth.
- European Tradition: In European folklore, the gift of a turquoise ring was traditionally interpreted as a pledge of "forget me not." It was also believed to offer protection against falling, particularly from horses, and was thought to break into pieces as a warning of an approaching disaster.
- Tibetan Culture: In Tibet, turquoise is considered a national treasure. It is believed to grant health, good fortune, and protection from evil, as well as imparting peace to the wearer.
Geological Formation and Sources
The formation of turquoise is a complex geological process that requires specific environmental conditions. Unlike gemstones that form within igneous rocks deep underground, turquoise is a secondary mineral formed through the interaction of water with existing mineral deposits.
Formation Process
Turquoise is chemically defined as a copper aluminum phosphate. Its formation begins when acidic, copper-carrying water percolates through copper ore deposits known as copper porphyry. This water interacts with copper sulfides present in the ore, maintaining its acidic state. When this acidic solution encounters rocks containing aluminum and potassium, a chemical reaction occurs, causing the turquoise to precipitate and fill cavities within the host rock. This process typically takes place in arid locations, where the weathering of volcanic and sedimentary rocks provides the necessary aluminum and the lack of heavy rainfall preserves the delicate mineral structures. The result is often found in veins or nodules within the host rock.
Mining Locations
Turquoise has been mined in specific regions for centuries, with some locations producing stone of legendary quality.
- Iran (Persia): The Nishapur district of Iran has been a source of turquoise for over 1,000 years. The stone from this region is historically revered for its intense blue color and is often referred to as "Persian turquoise."
- United States: Turquoise mining is historically significant in the Southwestern United States, particularly in states like Arizona and New Mexico, areas associated with the Native American tribes who have long valued the stone.
- Global Sources: While Iran and the US are historically prominent, turquoise is also mined in other arid regions globally, though the quality and characteristics (such as color and matrix presence) vary by location.
Gemological Properties
The appeal of turquoise in jewelry is derived from its distinct color and opaque nature. However, its physical properties dictate specific considerations for wear and maintenance.
Visual Characteristics
- Color: The defining characteristic of turquoise is its color, which ranges from sky blue to greenish blue. The presence of copper contributes to the blue hues, while iron or zinc may shift the color toward green.
- Matrix: A distinctive feature of many turquoise stones is the presence of "matrix." These are veins or mottled patterns of the host rock (such as limonite or iron oxide) that remain embedded within the turquoise. The matrix can appear as a spiderweb network or irregular patches, adding to the stone's unique character.
Physical Durability
Turquoise is classified as a relatively soft and porous gemstone, which influences its use in jewelry and care requirements.
| Property | Specification |
|---|---|
| Chemical Composition | Copper Aluminum Phosphate |
| Mohs Hardness | 5 to 6 |
| Structure | Opaque to Semi-translucent, Porous |
- Hardness: With a Mohs hardness rating of 5 to 6, turquoise is softer than many popular gemstones (such as quartz at 7 or topaz at 8). This makes it susceptible to scratching and breakage if subjected to moderate force or impact against harder surfaces.
- Porosity: The stone is porous, meaning it can absorb liquids and oils. This porosity makes it prone to discoloration. Contact with oils, perfumes, cosmetics, and even skin oils can darken or alter the stone's color over time. Additionally, the stone's structure makes it vulnerable to chemical solvents and high heat.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
The symbolic power of turquoise is as diverse as the cultures that have cherished it. Across history, the stone has been viewed not merely as an ornament but as an active agent of well-being.
Protection and Health: The most pervasive theme in turquoise lore is protection. From the Tibetan belief in its ability to ward off evil to the Native American use of it as an amulet for aim and hunting, turquoise has long been seen as a shield. The stone was also believed to guarantee health and good fortune. In the 13th century, a specific belief arose that turquoise could protect the wearer from falling, a fear that extended to the physical dangers of travel on horseback.
Wealth and Luck: The connection between turquoise and prosperity is evident in various traditions. The Hindu ritual mentioned earlier—seeing the stone after the new moon—specifically links it to the acquisition of wealth. In Tibet, the granting of good fortune is a primary attributed power.
Emotional and Spiritual Peace: Beyond physical protection and material gain, turquoise is associated with internal balance. Tibetan tradition holds that the stone imparts peace to the wearer. This aligns with the stone’s calming blue-green hues, which are often associated with tranquility in color psychology.
Anniversary Gemstone: In the context of modern celebrations, turquoise is designated as the gemstone for the 11th wedding anniversary, symbolizing the enduring and protective nature of the relationship.
Care and Cleaning
Due to its specific gemological properties, turquoise requires careful handling and maintenance to preserve its color and structural integrity.
Protecting the Stone: Because turquoise has a hardness of only 5 to 6, it should be stored separately from harder gemstones (like diamonds, sapphires, or rubies) and other jewelry items to prevent scratching. It is also recommended to remove turquoise jewelry before engaging in physical activities, gardening, or household chores where the stone might be struck or abraded.
Avoiding Chemicals and Heat: The porous nature of turquoise makes it highly sensitive to chemicals. Wearers should apply cosmetics, perfumes, and hairsprays before putting on turquoise jewelry to minimize exposure. The stone should be removed before swimming (chlorine) or bathing (soaps). High heat and steam can also damage the stone or cause discoloration, making ultrasonic cleaners and steam cleaners unsuitable for turquoise.
Cleaning Methods: The safest method to clean turquoise is to use warm water, a mild soap (such as unscented dish soap), and a soft cloth or brush. The stone should be rinsed thoroughly to remove any soap residue, which can leave a film. After washing, it is crucial to dry the gemstone completely with a soft, lint-free cloth. Avoid using harsh commercial jewelry cleaners or bleach.
Conclusion
Turquoise remains the most historically significant and traditional birthstone for the month of December. Its recognition in 1912 by the American National Jewelers Association cemented a tradition that traces back to Eastern European customs and ancient mining operations in Egypt and Iran. While December babies now have the luxury of choosing from Tanzanite, Zircon, and Blue Topaz, turquoise offers a connection to thousands of years of human history.
The stone’s enduring appeal lies in its unique combination of vibrant color, the distinctive character of the matrix, and a wealth of folklore that spans the globe. From the deserts of the American Southwest to the mountains of Tibet, turquoise has been revered as a protector, a bringer of wealth, and a symbol of peace. However, its beauty comes with a responsibility; its softness and porosity require the wearer to treat it with care, protecting it from impacts, chemicals, and extreme heat. For those who respect its delicate nature, turquoise offers a gemstone experience that is as rich in story as it is in color.