What is Turquoise?

Turquoise is a blue-green mineral, a copper aluminum phosphate, valued for its rarity and unique hue, and widely used as an ornamental stone. Popular in the 16th century to adorn places of worship in Turkey, it was eventually traded in Turkish bazaars and brought to Europe by merchants and travelers. This stone is fragile — just slightly stronger than window glass — so special care must be taken during extraction and transport.

The bluer the stone is, the more expensive. Variations in color are due to the presence of metals, such as iron impurities in the case of green turquoise. Most original mines were depleted a long time ago, and the current supply comes mostly as a byproduct of copper mining. Iran is the world's largest producer of this mineral; it is also mined in the Southwest US, primarily in Arizona and Nevada. This has made the stone a popular choice to create Native American jewelry and religious tiling and decoration.

In the past, the mineral was worn only by rulers, especially by Ancient Egyptian pharaohs, Aztecs kings, and Chinese emperors. Often set in gold and combined with other stones such as jade, quartz, and malachite, it was thought to be a magical stone that could protect the wearer from malignant forces. Apache and Navajo tribes also considered the stone a powerful amulet, although everybody was allowed to wear it.

It is now possible for this mineral to be bought and used by anybody, provided they can afford it. If price is a consideration, artificial turquoise is available. While early imitations were made of glass and enamel and easily identifiable, new versions are not distinguishable to the untrained eye.

Turquoise needs to be cared for to stay in top condition. The stone is sensitive to chemicals and naturally fragile, so it should not come in contact with strong perfumes or cleaning chemicals, should be kept away from direct sunlight, and should not be hit or knocked against hard surfaces. It is easily scratched, so owners must care for it during storage as well. The mineral also needs to "breathe" to conserve its deep natural color. Lack of air will eventually turn the stone greenish, contributing to it losing its value.

Turquoise is a blue-to-green mineral that is a hydrated phosphate of copper and aluminum. It's unique among gemstones because of its opaque color and the presence of veins or patches known as matrix. Turquoise has been prized for thousands of years, with ancient civilizations regarding it as a symbol of wealth and prosperity.

Turquoise forms in arid regions through a process called sedimentary precipitation. As rainwater seeps through the soil, it dissolves copper, which then combines with aluminum and phosphorus in the ground. Over time, this mixture settles in rock fissures and hardens to form turquoise, often in the presence of other minerals like iron or zinc, which can influence its color.

Turquoise is typically found in arid, desert regions where copper-rich soils are present. Major sources include the Southwestern United States, Iran, Egypt, and China. The American Southwest, particularly Arizona and New Mexico, is renowned for producing high-quality turquoise with distinctive coloration and matrix patterns.

The value of turquoise is determined by several factors including its color, clarity, matrix, and origin. Generally, a bright, even blue color with little to no matrix is most desirable. However, some collectors value the unique patterns created by the matrix. Turquoise from famous mines like the Sleeping Beauty Mine in Arizona can also command higher prices.

Yes, turquoise can be treated to enhance its color and durability. Common treatments include stabilization, which involves impregnating the stone with a plastic resin to harden it, and dyeing, which enhances color. It's important for buyers to be aware of these treatments, as they can affect the value and care requirements of the stone.

Turquoise is relatively soft and porous, making it susceptible to damage from chemicals, cosmetics, and even skin oils. To care for turquoise jewelry, it's best to clean it with a soft, dry cloth and avoid exposure to substances that could alter its color or cause it to deteriorate. Storing turquoise pieces separately can prevent scratches and maintain their beauty.