Turquoise

 

Name: Turquoise
Color(s): Sky blue, blue-green, green
Mineral Information: Copper containing basic aluminum phosphate
Chemical Make-up: CuAl6(I(OH)2/PO4)4.4H2O
Hardness: 5-6
Where they are found: It is mined across the globe, and each location yields specific stone colors and characteristics ranging from the bright sky blue-matrix free Sleeping Beauty turquoise from Arizona to the rough, organic yellow colors and heavy matrix mined from Africa. Iran, Afghanistan, Tibet, Australia, and in the southwestern US
About Stone: It often has veins of darker or lighter material running through it. Dyed howlite is sometimes used to mimic turquoise, so be sure that what you buy is sold as genuine turquoise and you trust your source.
Turquoise has a long history dating back to 5000 B.C. “Stabilized” means that turquoise has been processed in a way that hardens it and deepens the color somewhat. The vast majority of turquoise on the market is stabilized, as otherwise it is too soft and prone to fading when used in jewelry.
Turquoise, a stone ranging in color from blue to green to yellow, is filled with wonderful patterns of brown and black matrix that are composed mainly of copper deposits. Although turquoise has captivated man’s imagination for centuries, no one is sure exactly when it was discovered. Prehistoric people used and prized it for its blue-green colors because carved pieces have been found in burial and archeological sites spanning the globe.
The beauty and history of turquoise is hard to match! Steeped in history and intrigue, it is truly a captivating stone. It has been used in religion, art, trade, treaty negotiations and of course as treasured jewelry to many kingdoms and peoples. Whether you study ancient Egyptians, Chinese Dynasties, Aztec Mythology or Native American people, it seems clear that turquoise has always been and always will be considered a stone of life, beauty, and good fortune.
Zodiac Association: Sagittarius, Pisces & Aquarius
Metaphysical Properties: The “master healer”, a wonderful cleansing stone and provides protection. It is a grounding stone and provides strength and protection during meditation. Turquoise brings peace of mind & clarity, balances male and female energies, induces wisdom and understanding, & increases psychic powers. A good absorber of negativity.