Turquoise

Turquoise is one of December's birthstones and is a vibrant light blue stone often seen in southwestern jewelry. It is reasonably priced and quite lovely.

Turquoise's color ranges from sky blue to green. It has a hardness of 6.

Howlite is often dyed to imitate turquoise. Turquoise made in a laboratory has a very uniform color. Chalky varieties of turquoise are often coated with wax or oil to enhance color - and when treated like this, the color change is not permanent.

Turquoise is often fracture sealed. This doesen't mean that it has fractures, it means that it was seal ed with an acrylic resin to enhance it's color, texture, and hardness.

Turquoise is somewhat soft so avoid scratches and sharp blows. To be certain and coatings are not removed also avoid hot water and household chemicals.

Reputable dealers will not use the following misleading terms. However, for your protection, I am listing them here:

 

"Vienna turquoise" is really a glass imitation.

Turquoise is found in Australia, Chile, Iran, Mexico, Tibet, USA (Arizona , California and New Mexico).

Turquoise is the December Modern and Traditional Birthstone

Turquoise is the anniversary gemstone for the 5th year of marriage.

Turquoise supposedly helps one to start new projects.

Turquoise has been thought to warn the wearer of danger or illness by changing color.

In the 13th century, Turquoise was thought to protect the wearer from falling especially from horses.

Legend has it that the Indians believed that if turquoise was affixed to a bow, the arrows shot from it would always hit their mark. It was also believed to bring happiness and good fortune to all.

Turquoise started being used before 4000 BC.