Birthstones >
December
Turquoise is a non-translucent, porous semiprecious stone that is usually cut as a cabochon. It was one of the first stones to be mined and was first found in Turkey, hence its name. It was used by the early Egyptians, Native Americans and Persians and is still very popular today. The Egyptians and the Aztecs valued turquoise for its beauty and used it widely in jewellery, mosaics and ceremonial costumes. The Egyptians mined turquoise 6000 years ago in Sinai and quickly exhausted the supply. Turquoise is found in desert regions worldwide. The colour varies from a greenish blue (the influence of iron) to a sky blue shade (the influence of copper). Persian turquoise is robin's egg blue and has no matrix (streaks of the mother stone from which it was found). North American turquoise is greener and has matrix streaks. Turquoise is relatively soft and porous and can be damaged and altered by hot water and chemicals such as make up, hair spray and, household cleaners. Prolonged bright light and skin oils can slightly alter the colour over time. Some turquoise is treated to preserve its colour and lustre and care should be taken not to remove this finish. Turquoise will easily chip and scratch. Given as a gift, Turquoise is believed by many to bestow wealth and happiness upon its receiver. Turquoise is also believed to bring good fortune to all, as well as being a valuable amulet for travellers.
Hardness 5 to 6
