Turquoise

Turquoise

Turquoise is one of the most ancient stones known to man, dating back to 6000 BC when it was found in Egypt’s Sinai Peninsula. It has been used in jewellery since Ancient Egyptian times, when loved ones would bury fine pieces of turquoise in the tomb. Turquoise is opaque, unlike most prized stones, and its colour ranges from sky blue to green, depending on the composition of iron and copper in the hydrated phosphates.

Although it is the national gem of Tibet, its name comes from the French word for ‘Turkish’, ‘Turquoise’, because when the stone arrived in Europe in the 13th century, it came via Turkey, from Iran. There are many beliefs associated with Turquoise, ancient and modern. Apache warriors thought that Turquoise improved their hunting accuracy and Navajos believe that the stones are magical, having fallen from the sky.

In our jewellery, Tracy the designer particularly favours the sky blue Turquoise of Arizona and the green Turquoise of Afghanistan.

Turquoise is thought to protect its owner from evil, bestowing them with good fortune and health. Turquoise is representative of the Throat Chakra (Vishuddha), aiding self-expression and communication. The birthstone of December, it is also the stone of 5th and 11th wedding anniversaries.