Turquoise

Turquoise is an opaque, blue to green mineral, a hydrated phosphate of copper and aluminium. Copper gives the sky-blue colour, while iron makes it greener. The most prized colour is an even, intense "robin's egg" blue. Turquoise often contains veins or patches of the host rock, called matrix, which may be brown, black or golden; fine, web-like patterns are known as "spiderweb" turquoise and are highly valued, especially in the American South West.

Turquoise is one of the oldest gemstones known. It was mined in Sinai by the ancient Egyptians over 5,000 years ago and used in the jewellery and funeral mask of Tutankhamun. The mines of Nishapur in Iran (Persia) have produced fine turquoise for thousands of years, and Persian turquoise became the standard of quality. The name comes from the French "pierre turquoise", meaning "Turkish stone", because it reached Europe through Turkish traders. Turquoise was sacred to the Aztecs and is central to Navajo, Zuni and Pueblo jewellery traditions. Today important sources include the USA (Arizona and Nevada), Iran, China, Mexico and Egypt.

Natural turquoise is soft and porous, and much of the material sold has been treated. Waxing or oiling is the most accepted treatment. Stabilised turquoise is impregnated with resin to harden it and deepen its colour; the "Zachery" process is a proprietary enhancement. Reconstituted (or "block") turquoise is made from turquoise powder bonded with resin, and dyed turquoise has had its colour changed or deepened.

Many imitations are sold as turquoise, especially dyed howlite and dyed magnesite, along with glass, plastic and ceramic. Genuine, untreated turquoise is relatively rare and should be described as natural.

Turquoise at a glance

Caring for turquoise

Turquoise is relatively soft (5 – 6 on the Mohs scale) and porous, so it can absorb oils, chemicals and dyes, which may change its colour. Put turquoise jewellery on last, after perfume, cosmetics and hairspray, and wipe it with a soft, dry or slightly damp cloth after wearing. Never use ultrasonic or steam cleaners, detergents or solvents. Avoid prolonged sunlight and heat, which can dry and discolour it. Store it separately from harder gems, but not in an airtight container.

In folklore

The beliefs below are traditional folklore, included for interest. They are not scientifically proven, and nothing here is medical advice.

Turquoise has been treasured as a protective talisman for thousands of years. Persians believed it brought good fortune and protected against the evil eye, and that it would change colour to warn of danger or illness. Turkish riders attached turquoise to their horses' bridles to prevent falls. The Navajo believed turquoise was a piece of the sky that had fallen to earth, and Apache warriors carried it to improve their aim. Turquoise is a birthstone for December and the gift for an 11th wedding anniversary, and is associated with the zodiac signs Sagittarius, Pisces and Scorpio.

Turquoise is traditionally regarded as a stone of protection, healing and good fortune. Crystal healing lore holds that it balances and calms the emotions, encourages honest communication and self-expression, and protects the wearer from negative energy. It is linked to the throat chakra.

Related stones

Variscite, chrysocolla, amazonite, larimar, faustite and smithsonite. Imitations include dyed howlite, dyed magnesite, reconstituted (block) turquoise, glass, plastic and ceramic.

For the technically minded

Shop turquoise beads

← All gemstones in the guide