Turquoise is a gemstone that was once considered more valuable than gold and exchanged like currency. It can be found all over the world in areas with thermal or volcanic histories. The most exceptional grades of the Turquoise gemstone are found closest the Earth's surface, as deeper deposits turn soft because of acids that are created during water percolation through the earth. It is one of the first stones to be mined and comes in intense colours that vary from green to sky blue (depending the amount of copper or iron in it).
The Physical Properties of Turquoise
On the Mohs scale, Turquoise has a value of just under 6. It is a cryptocrystalline mineral, and its properties are variable as it almost never forms single crystals. The stone is an aggregate of microcrystals that are packed tightly together, which determines its physical properties “ greater durability, lower porosity, and higher lustre. White Turquoise is extremely rare, and it occurs when there is no iron or copper present. It explains the little white areas you might sometimes see in the green or blue stones.
The History of Turquoise
As one of the first stones mined, Turquoise was cherished by many cultures, such as the Aztecs, the rulers of Ancient Egypt, Mesopotamia, Persia, and China. Along with the other Silk Road novelties, it was one of the first gems introduced to Europe. In Western civilization, it became a meaningful ornamental stone in the 14th century when its use in secular jewelry was allowed due to the decline in the influence of the Roman Catholic Church.
In Ancient Egypt, probably the most known gems are those found in the Tutankhamun's tomb, in the Pharaoh's burial mask. They were also used for ornamenting the mosaic masks, inlaid skulls, and power statues dedicated to the gods (Aztecs). Turquoise stones can be seen on the decorative façade of the Taj Mahal (India), and other holy sites. Turquoise beads that were found in Iraq date back to 5000 B.C., while the Egyptians were mining them in 3200 B.C.
The Lore of Turquoise
Native Americans considered Turquoise to be a sacred crystal. They used it as a tool for creating a connection between Earth and heaven. It promotes a strong, energetic flow of the vibration of love, which is why it is considered to be a master healer stone. The goddess Hathor was also known as the Mistress of Turquoise, Lady of Turquoise, and the Lady of Turquoise Country, as she was the patroness of Serabit el-Khadim (an area where the stone was mined.) In ancient Persia, people wore sky-blue stones around the wrist or neck to protect themselves against unnatural death. When the rock changed colour, they believed that it signalized the approach of death.
The Metaphysical Properties of Turquoise
The vibration of Turquoise gemstone vibrates the energy of love and truth. It is believed to affect the throat chakra, helping you to speak with forthrightness, wisdom, and honesty. The stone can help shy people by assisting them to engage in conversations. The stone's energy also helps you to be more compassionate and forgivable, as well as relaxed and calm when speaking in public. In meditation, Turquoise can assist you in an opening to the Universal All as it helps clear the mind.
Turquoise is the symbol of affection, generosity, and sincerity. Traditionally, it is believed that it can bring luck only when given (not purchased.) It can be assigned to a loved one, carried, or worn, and it's used to nurture marital harmony.
