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Why DO we love Turquoise so much?

by TERRY FASANO

Sterling Silver and Kingman Mine Turquoise RIngs Why do we love turquoise so much?!

What is it about turquoise stones?  Across centuries and across the miles, turquoise has been loved by so many.   It draws you in with its unique blue-green color, not found in many other gemstones. It's been  considered to have healing properties and is said to bring good luck and fortune to those who wear it.  Additionally, turquoise has been used in jewelry and other decorative items for thousands of years, and has a rich history and cultural significance to so many peoples around the world.
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The color turquoise appeals to many people because it is a unique and soothing color associated with a variety of positive attributes.  Many find the color calming and healing, although it can also be refreshing in nature.  Turquoise, in fashion and decorating, can be very versatile as it pairs well with many colors and contrasts beautifully.  Turquoise is often associated with healing and well-being, and is thought to have a positive effect on the body and mind.  Turquoise also has a rich history and cultural significance in many cultures around the world, which adds to its appeal.
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Brass and Afghanistan Turquoise Earrings Who first used turquoise?  

The ancient Egyptians were one of the first cultures to use turquoise in jewelry and other decorative items. They believed that turquoise had powerful protective properties and would often use it to decorate tombs and other sacred places. The ancient Persians also used turquoise in jewelry and other decorative items, and it was believed to bring good luck and fortune. Additionally, the ancient Aztecs, Incas, and Native American tribes also used turquoise in jewelry and other decorative items. They believed that turquoise had healing properties and would often use it in ceremonies and rituals.
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Turquoise stone was first discovered in ancient Persia (now Iran) around 6000 B.C.E.  The ancient Persians mined turquoise in the area of present-day Iran and exported it to other parts of the world. The ancient Egyptians also began importing turquoise from Persia around 2500 B.C.E. and the use of it spread through the ancient Mediterranean and Asia. 

Turquoise Teal Glass & Ethiopian Brass Handmade Wrap Necklace Bracelet Anklet How did turquoise get it's name 'turquoise?'

The name "turquoise" comes from the French word "turquoise," which means "Turkish stone." This is because the ancient Persians, who first mined and used turquoise, traded it with the Turks, and the stone became known as the "Turkish stone" in Europe. When the French traders and merchants brought it to Europe, the name "turquoise" stuck.  The name may also have some origins from the Old French word "turqueise," which means "Turk," as in the people of Turkey.
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The origin of the name "turquoise" is also thought to have been influenced by its characteristic blue-green color, which is reminiscent of the Mediterranean sea. In ancient times, the Mediterranean sea was known as the "Mare Turchesca," or "Turkish Sea" because of the Turkish ships that sailed in the sea. This may have led to the association of the blue-green stone with the Turkish Sea, and eventually the name "turquoise."

Castle Dome Turquoise from Arizona USA How Meta is turquoise?

  • protects against negative energy
  • helps with communication and self-expression
  • enhances creativity and inspiration
  • balances the emotions
  • provides strength and courage
  • promotes love and friendship
Turquoise is also said to help with spiritual growth and inner peace, making it a popular choice for meditation and spiritual practices.

Tibetan Inlaid Turquoise & Coral Earrings with Toureg Beads from Mali Where is turquoise mined today?

  • The United States: Arizona, New Mexico, and Nevada are the largest producers of turquoise in the United States.
  • Mexico: Mexico is one of the largest producers of turquoise in the world, with mines located in the states of Chihuahua, Sonora, and Oaxaca.
  • Iran: Iran is the traditional source of turquoise and still has mines in operation today.
  • China: China is also a major producer of turquoise, with mines located in the provinces of Xinjiang and Inner Mongolia.
  • Chile: Chile has small mines of turquoise in the Andes mountains.
  • Tibet: Tibet has a long history of mining turquoise but most of the mines are now depleted.
  • Turkey: Turkey has small mines of turquoise but most of the mines are now depleted.
Turquoise is a beautiful and unique stone, and often the turquoise from each mine will have characteristics only found in that mine,  This makes each type of turquoise individual and limited, ultimately, in quantity.  Human-made turquoise can be also very attractive but will not have the natural, earthy and unique beauty found in natural turquoise.  So, when you see a piece of natural turquoise that speaks to you, make it yours.  It is quite possible that you may not see another piece quite like it again!
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