Turquoise Jewelry

The Southwestern Indians of the U.S., highly prized Turquoise, even using it as units of exchange. It was powdered for use in sand paintings and native magic ceremonies and often put under Kivas as it was considered a protector from evil magic. Used during vision quests to ground and protect the spirit. Sometimes used as a rain bringer, who cast it into water or a river for the desired effect.

Many legends exist about Turquoise Jewelry losing its color, then regaining it. Muslims believe if the color changes, it signals a straying woman. Middle-Agers in Europe attributed loss of color to loss of health and vigor. If later given to someone young and healthy, the stone would regain its beautiful blue color. Others say, when given as a gift of love, if the stone fades, it means the love is also fading.

It is said to protect horses and their riders, often cited as breaking during the fall--taking the injury instead of the rider or horse. Two pieces are required--one on the rider and the other to be placed on the bridle or saddle.

Turquoise is an important gemstone in subduing an overactive 5th Chakra. Natural Healers consider Turquoise a Master Healing gemstone.

Biblical tradition states Isaac first opened the famous Persian Turquoise mines.

The National Gem of Persia and Persians.

Said to favor women called Therese.

To Jewelers, Turquoise is a December Birthstone.

Healing Properties: Called as a balancing stone, it helps balance the spiritual and the physical--as the sky connects the heavens to the earth. Ancient Indians believed in its ability to heal and every shaman possessed at least one piece of Turquoise. Sometimes associated with relieving migraines.

Scientific Properties: Turquoise is composed of a Hydrous Copper Aluminum Phosphate. Hardness: 5.0-6.0 on the Moh's Hardness Scale.

Buyer Beware! If the Turquoise is cheap, be very, very cautious. Turquoise is probably one of the most faked of all stones. Stones such as Howlite, which easily take dye, are often used to cheaply imitate Turquoise. If a sample stone is broken, the blue color should run throughout the stone. If it doesn't--it's probably dyed.

Owner Warning! Because Turquoise is a hydrous (i.e., has water trapped in the crystal structure), Turquoise should be protected from sunlight and heat. Even with the best of care, Turquoise may sometimes lose the blue color. As it dries out, it tends to turn green. We recommend purchasing Stabilized Turquoise, or Turquoise that has been treated with a fine resin to seal and protect this beautiful, but rather porous stone.

Disclaimer: Newage Enterprises makes no claims as to the healing properties of this gemstone. We provide information on legends surrounding this stone's mystical and healing properties which allow the informed user to make their own decision.

Copyright © 2000-2008, Newage Enterprises, all rights reserved.
This site contains copyrighted material which may not be copied, distributed or used in any way without expressed written consent.