Celebrating Turquoise, December’s Peaceful Birthstone

December is such a hectic month that it’s fitting that its birthstone is the turquoise, which legend says bestows peace on the wearer. We love our turquoise jewelry!

You may think of turquoise as a North American gem, but it’s actually ancient. Samples have turned up in excavations of Egypt (from 4,000 BC!) and China. It has long had the reputation of offering health, fortune, and protection from evil forces. It brings serenity, creativity, empathy, sensitivity, and intuition.

Some turquoise facts

• Its name comes from the French words, pierre tourques, or “Turkish stone.” (The first European samples arrived from Turkey.)
• Native American tribes used turquoise as a ceremonial gem and for trading. It also played (and continues to play) a large role in jewelry and amulets.
• According to the GIA, it’s found in only a few places: dry, barren regions where acidic, copper-rich groundwater seeps downward and reacts with minerals that contain phosphorus and aluminum.
• It’s relatively soft, with a Mohs hardness of 5 or 6 (diamonds are 10). That’s why it’s commonly used for carving.
• The spiderweb veins that you see in turquoise are called “matrix.”
• Turquoise is most often cut into cabochons or beads, but you can find large, art pieces (necklaces or bracelets) that are carved into intricate shapes.

Taking care of your turquoise

• Since it’s a soft stone, store your turquoise jewelry away from other pieces, to avoid scratching.
• Don’t use jewelry cleaners, which may be too harsh. It’s better to rely on a soft cloth and warm water.
• Keep turquoise jewelry away from extreme hot or cold weather—and from strong chemicals.

How to buy turquoise jewelry

• The most desired color is a medium robins-egg blue.
• Turquoise is often treated to enhance its color; be sure to ask the seller about any treatments—they have to disclose it. Natural turquoise is more expensive than the treated variety.
• There’s a lot of fake turquoise out there. If it looks too perfect, check it out carefully.

Getting a new piece of turquoise—or any other precious jewelry—for your December birthday? Start with an appraisal and protect your precious jewelry, watches, and silver. Call me at 617-304-0174 and get started before the new year.

May all your Decembers be sky blue and filled with serenity and peace.

Happy holidays, Aimee