HEALING PROPERTIES
Like most blue gemstones, turquoise activates the throat chakra, helping to speak wisdom and truth. The gift of turquoise lies in bringing awareness that every part of us is an element of our divine being, to be understood and accepted. The heart of compassion knows that darkness and pain is a universal human experience, and only by integrating these aspects of existence can we be whole. Turquoise encourages us to self-acceptance.
TURQUOISE LIKE GEMSTONE
An opaque bluish-green gemstone, formed from hydrated copper-aluminum phosphate. It commonly has veins of darker or lighter material running through it. Painted Howlite is sometimes used as imitation turquoise, so be sure to verify that what you buy is genuine turquoise.
Turquoise has a long history dating back to 5000 BC and is mined in Iran, Afghanistan, Tibet, Australia and the southwestern United States.
“Stabilized” means that the turquoise has been processed in a way that hardens it and deepens the color in some way. Most turquoise on the market is stabilized, otherwise it is too soft and prone to fading when used in jewelry.
IN CULTURE
Doctors in ancient times thought that turquoise prevented injuries from accidents and was ground into a powder to cure stomach disorders, internal bleeding and insect bites. Turquoise has always been used to protect the wearer from danger, attract abundance and is used as a talisman or good luck amulet. Some believe it fades when danger or illness is near or when a lover is unfaithful. It is also said to protect against pollution and strengthen the body.
Turquoise is porous, so contact with liquids should be avoided. Jewelry should be removed before bathing. Turquoise is commonly impregnated with plastic, colorless oil or wax to improve color and durability. Untreated turquoise eventually turns green. Because genuine turquoise is expensive, reconstituted turquoise is now made, made from small turquoise fused with other stones to reduce costs. Turquoise is the stone of those born in the month of December.