Turquoise: The Iconic December Birthstone of Sky Blue and Ancient Lore

# The gemstone designated for the month of December is Turquoise, a mineral celebrated for its unique, sky-blue to blue-green hue that has captivated civilizations for millennia. As a birthstone, it carries a legacy of protection, wisdom, and good fortune, making it a cherished choice for jewelry buyers and a fascinating subject for students of gemology. Its name, derived from the French "pierre turquoise" meaning "Turkish stone," hints at its historic trade routes from ancient Persian mines to Europe. This article provides a comprehensive exploration of turquoise, delving into its geological origins, its journey through history and lore, its distinct gemological properties, and the practical aspects of its care. We will examine the factors that contribute to its value and the specific characteristics that distinguish this opaque gem from all others.

History and Lore: A Stone of Protection and Royalty

The history of turquoise is as rich and varied as its color. Evidence of its use dates back over 7,000 years, with archaeological finds in ancient Mesopotamia indicating its significance in early civilizations. The gem was highly prized by the Ancient Egyptians, who sourced it from the Sinai Peninsula. It was found adorning the burial mask of Tutankhamun and was used extensively in the funerary art of the pharaohs, who believed it offered protection in the afterlife. The ancient Egyptians associated the stone with the goddess Hathor, the patroness of mining and the sky, and valued it for its perceived power to ward off evil and ensure a safe journey to the underworld.

Across the Atlantic, turquoise held profound spiritual meaning for the indigenous peoples of North America. For the Navajo, Zuni, and Pueblo tribes, the stone was not merely an ornament but a sacred element of their culture, representing the sky and water. It was integral to their ceremonies and was believed to be a living entity that could offer protection from harm and bring rain. The famous "Sleeping Beauty" turquoise from Arizona, with its pure, unblemished sky-blue color, became a favorite for inlay work in jewelry and ceremonial objects, symbolizing purity and a connection to the divine.

The stone's journey to Europe via Turkish trade routes in the Middle Ages solidified its reputation as a protective talisman. It was widely believed to change color to warn its owner of impending danger or illness, a property that added to its mystique. European knights and soldiers carried turquoise into battle, believing it would ensure their safety and grant them invincibility. This lore persisted through the Renaissance, where it was set into elaborate jewelry for royalty and the aristocracy, not only for its beauty but for its perceived ability to safeguard the wearer's health and fortune.

The modern designation of turquoise as a birthstone for December is a relatively recent development. It was formally adopted in the 1912 list of birthstones created by the American National Association of Jewelers, a convention that has been periodically updated. Its inclusion cemented its status as the quintessential gem for the winter month, a splash of vibrant sky blue in the coldest and darkest season.

Geological Formation and Sources

Turquoise is an hydrated phosphate of copper and aluminum, formed in arid regions where acidic, copper-rich groundwater seeps through pre-existing aluminum-bearing rocks. This process occurs over millions of years, with the water depositing copper and aluminum minerals into fractures and voids in the host rock. The presence of copper is responsible for the gem's characteristic blue color, while traces of iron can shift the hue towards green. This formation process is rare and requires very specific geological conditions, which is why turquoise deposits are limited to a few locations worldwide.

The most historically significant and geologically important sources include:

• Iran (Persia): The Nishapur district of Iran has been the source of the finest "Persian turquoise" for centuries. This material is renowned for its intense, robin's-egg blue color and high degree of hardness. The mines, some of which have been in operation since ancient times, produce gems that are often considered the benchmark for quality.
• The Southwestern United States: This region is one of the world's most prolific producers of turquoise. Key states include Arizona, Nevada, and New Mexico. Arizona's "Sleeping Beauty" mine produced vast quantities of the pure, sky-blue stone (often called "robin's egg blue" turquoise) that was highly favored by Native American artisans. Nevada is known for "Lander Blue" and "Royston" turquoise, which often exhibit a deep blue-green color and distinctive matrix patterns. The "Carico Lake" mine in Nevada is notable for its turquoise that ranges from a bright blue to a unique greenish hue due to high zinc content.
• China: In recent decades, China has become a major producer of turquoise. Mines in the Hubei province, such as the "Zhuxi" mine, yield large quantities of material that can be of good quality, though it is often treated to enhance its color and stability.
• Other Notable Sources: Smaller deposits are found in Afghanistan, Chile, and Turkey. While these locations produce turquoise, the stones often differ in color and matrix characteristics from the classic Persian or American varieties.

The host rock in which turquoise is found significantly influences its appearance. It is often embedded in a matrix of the parent rock, which can be pyrite, limonite, or various iron oxides. This matrix can appear as a fine spiderweb pattern, a blotchy cloud, or dark veins, all of which are considered integral to the stone's character and value.

Gemological Properties

As an opaque gem, turquoise is evaluated differently from transparent stones like diamonds or sapphires. Its value is determined by a combination of color, matrix, hardness, and surface quality. The following table outlines its key gemological characteristics:

Color and Matrix

The most critical factor in determining turquoise's value is its color. The most desirable shade is a pure, intense "sky blue" with no overtone of green. This is often described as "robin's egg blue." The presence of iron within the mineral structure shifts the color towards green, which is generally less valuable, though some highly prized varieties like "Lander Blue" are a deep greenish-blue.

The matrix is the host rock material that remains within the turquoise. Its presence and pattern are a key identifier of the stone's origin. For example, the "spiderweb" matrix from certain Nevada mines is highly sought after. A clean, unblemished stone with no matrix is also highly valued, but often the matrix is considered an attractive and unique feature that adds to the stone's character.

Hardness and Durability

With a hardness of only 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale, turquoise is a relatively soft gem. This means it can be easily scratched by harder materials, including dust and other gemstones. This softness necessitates careful handling and setting, typically in protective jewelry designs like bezel settings, to prevent damage. Its porosity also means it can absorb liquids, which can lead to staining or discoloration.

Treatments and Stabilization

Because natural turquoise is often porous and can vary in color, many stones on the market undergo treatments to enhance their durability and appearance. The most common and accepted treatment is stabilization, where the stone is impregnated with a clear resin or wax under pressure. This process hardens the stone, makes it less porous, and can even out the color. Stabilized turquoise is durable and suitable for jewelry, but it is important to note that it is not in its natural, untreated state. Other, less desirable treatments include dyeing (to enhance color) and reconstitution (using powdered turquoise mixed with a binder). These practices are generally disclosed by reputable dealers.

Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs

Across cultures and through the ages, turquoise has been imbued with powerful symbolic meaning. Its connection to the sky and water has made it a universal symbol of life, wisdom, and spiritual protection.

• Protection and Safety: The most pervasive belief associated with turquoise is its power as a protective amulet. From ancient warriors to modern-day individuals, the stone is thought to guard against accidents, falls, and violence. It was traditionally set in silver to amplify its protective qualities.
• Healing and Well-being: In metaphysical traditions, turquoise is considered a healing stone, believed to align all the chakras and purify the energy field. It is said to have a calming and balancing effect on the emotions, helping to soothe anxiety and depression. Some beliefs hold that it can alleviate headaches, reduce inflammation, and support the immune system.
• Wisdom and Truth: The stone is also associated with clear communication, inner calm, and creative problem-solving. It is believed to foster honesty and self-expression, making it a stone for public speakers, artists, and those in leadership roles.
• Astrological and Spiritual Connections: Turquoise is linked to the planet Neptune in Western astrology and is considered a powerful stone for Sagittarius and Pisces. In many Native American traditions, it is a sacred stone that connects the wearer to the spiritual world and the natural elements.

Care and Cleaning

Given its moderate hardness and porosity, turquoise requires specific care to maintain its beauty and integrity. Proper maintenance will ensure that a turquoise piece can be enjoyed for generations.

• Protection from Damage: Due to its softness, turquoise should be protected from hard blows and abrasive surfaces. It is advisable to remove turquoise jewelry before engaging in activities like gardening, sports, or heavy housework. Store it separately from other jewelry to prevent scratching.
• Cleaning: The safest way to clean turquoise is with warm, soapy water and a very soft brush. Gently scrub the surface and rinse thoroughly. Never use ultrasonic or steam cleaners, as the heat and vibrations can cause the stone to crack or craze (develop a network of fine surface cracks). Harsh chemicals such as bleach, ammonia, or acetone must be avoided as they can permanently damage the stone.
• Avoiding Chemicals and Cosmetics: Turquoise is susceptible to damage from acids and chemicals. It should be put on after applying cosmetics, hairspray, and perfume. Chlorine in swimming pools and hot tubs can also be detrimental, so it is best to remove turquoise jewelry before swimming.
• Storage: Store turquoise in a soft cloth pouch or a lined jewelry box away from direct sunlight and extreme temperature changes, which can cause the stone to dry out and become brittle over time. Some collectors recommend occasional "recharging" by placing the stone in a bowl of clean water for a few hours, though this is more for the health of the porous material than any metaphysical purpose.

Conclusion

Turquoise remains one of the most recognizable and culturally significant gemstones in the world. Its journey from the arid mines of Persia and the American Southwest to the hands of ancient pharaohs, Native American artisans, and contemporary jewelry lovers is a testament to its enduring appeal. More than just a beautiful blue stone, turquoise is a carrier of history, a symbol of protection, and a piece of the earth's artistry. For those born in December, it offers a vibrant connection to a lineage of lore and a tangible link to the clear winter sky. Understanding its unique properties, respecting its history, and providing it with proper care will allow this timeless birthstone to retain its captivating beauty and powerful legacy for years to come.

Sources

1. https://www.target.com/s/birthstone+jewelry+december