The History & Beauty Behind Turquoise

Turquoise is one of the most recognizable gemstones in the world, as well as one of the oldest recognized gemstones. Chinese artisans used turquoise for beautiful carvings over 3,000 years ago and ancient Egyptians used turquoise to adorn themselves.

Turquoise is said to bring health, good fortune, and protection from evil to the wearer. The name "Turquoise" comes from a French expression that means "Turkish stone", hinting to its introduction to Europe, which was from Turkish sources. 

In the United States, Turquoise held a special place in southwestern Native American tribes. It was used in jewelry and amulets, and even attached to arrows and bows, as it was believed to help warrior's aim be true. 

Turquoise has a wide range of shades, from light blue to dark green, often with "veins" of other stone or minerals running through it. These veins create a matrix that weave through the stone and make each piece of turquoise unique.

This stunning gemstone is commonly paired with sterling silver, as both tones will flatter one another. People are often unsure what color clothing to pair with the bold, strong tones of turquoise jewelry. Consider wearing it with grays, blues, or whites. But let's be honest - fashion is all about wearing what you love, so don't feel limited and wear your turquoise with your favorite outfit!

Clean turquoise jewelry with care - do not use commercial jewelry cleaners. The best way to clean turquoise is with warm, sudsy water and a soft brush. It is important to dry it immediately with a soft cloth. Turquoise is not a particularly strong stone, so it can be scratched fairly easily and should be kept away from chemicals, excessive sunlight, heat, or dry air.