Gem of the Week: Turquoise

Turquoise is porous, so contact with liquids, oils or even perspiration should be avoided. Turquoise is considered a good general healer for all illnesses and excellent conductor. Induces wisdom and understanding, enhances trust and kindness. Brings the qualities of mental and spiritual clarity. Color: Light Blue/Blue-green

  

Turquoise has an extremely long history. It's been used in cultures all over the world for thousands of years. It's been used as a talisman against death, a reminder of heaven, as decoration for kings and priests, and has been used in sacred rituals in ancient cultures. Almost every major culture on earth has had some connection to Turquoise.  

The name Turquoise comes from an 16th century french world for "Turkish" because Turquoise first came to Europe through Turkey. Turquoise has been found in mines around the world and some that were started thousands of years ago still produce the gem. Many of these mines are processed by hand using non-mechanical tools.  

Turquoise has been found in the excavation sights of Ancient Egypt, Mesopotamia, Persia, Pre-Colombia, the Indus River Valley, and China. 

Turquoise was often used in these cultures as a talisman against evil because it can change color under certain conditions (tempurature, acidity, light, dust). Turquoise was also used to decorate important people and buildings. One of the best examples is King Tutankhamen's death mask which is inlaid with Turquoise. Some Iranian palaces are decorated with Turquoise domes as a symbol of heaven on earth.