Turquoise: Gemstone and Jewelry

Turquoise is one of the most beautiful gemstones in the world. It is a blue-green stone that has been used in jewelry for thousands of years. The stone has been highly regarded by cultures around the world, with many believing it to have mystical and healing properties. Today, turquoise is still incredibly popular, and is used in a variety of different types of jewelry. In this article, we will explore the history of turquoise, its meaning and symbolism, and why it is such a beloved gemstone.

History of Turquoise:

Turquoise has a long and fascinating history. The stone has been used by humans for thousands of years. Some of the earliest known uses of turquoise date back to ancient Egypt, where it was used to decorate the tombs of pharaohs. The stone was also popular in ancient Persia, where it was used to create exquisite jewelry and other decorative objects.

Turquoise was also highly valued by Native American tribes. The Navajo, Zuni, and Hopi tribes all used turquoise in their jewelry and religious ceremonies. The Pueblo people used the stone to create beautiful mosaic-style jewelry, which is still popular today.

For many Native American tribes, turquoise was believed to have healing properties and was used in traditional medicine. During the Middle Ages, turquoise was highly valued in Europe. The stone was used to create religious objects, such as rosaries and crosses, and was also used in crowns and other pieces of royal jewelry. In France, turquoise was often used in the decoration of chateaus and other grand buildings.

In more recent history, turquoise has continued to be popular. In the 1920s and '30s, turquoise jewelry became popular in the western United States, as Native American tribes began selling their jewelry to tourists. Today, turquoise is still incredibly popular, and is used in a wide variety of different types of jewelry.

Meaning and Symbolism of Turquoise:

Turquoise is a stone that has long been associated with spirituality and healing. For many cultures, the stone is believed to have mystical properties. In ancient Egypt, turquoise was believed to have the power to protect against evil spirits and to bring good fortune. The Persians believed that turquoise had the power to protect the wearer from harm, while the Native Americans believed that it had the power to heal the body and calm the mind.

Turquoise is also associated with peace and tranquility. The stone is believed to promote a sense of calm and relaxation, making it a popular stone for meditation and spiritual practices. It is also associated with the throat chakra, which is believed to be the center of communication and self-expression. Many people believe that turquoise can help clear blockages in the throat chakra, allowing for clearer communication and more meaningful self-expression.

Turquoise is also believed to have healing properties. It is said to have a calming effect on the mind and body, and is often used to treat anxiety and depression. It is also said to be helpful in treating respiratory issues, such as asthma and bronchitis. In traditional Native American medicine, turquoise was often used as a remedy for a variety of different ailments.

Using Turquoise in Jewelry: 

Turquoise is an incredibly versatile stone, and can be used in a wide variety of different types of jewelry. One of the most popular ways to use turquoise in jewelry is as a centerpiece stone. Turquoise can be set in necklaces, earrings, and bracelets, and can be surrounded by diamonds or other precious stones for added sparkle and luxury.

Turquoise is also often used in mosaic-style jewelry, which is popular in Native American cultures. In these types of pieces, small pieces of turquoise are set in a larger piece of silver or other metal, creating a beautiful, intricate design. Turquoise is also a popular stone for beaded jewelry.

The stone can be strung on a necklace or bracelet alongside other colorful beads, creating a beautiful, eye-catching piece. When it comes to selecting turquoise for jewelry, it's important to choose high-quality stones. Turquoise can be found in a wide variety of different shades, ranging from light blue-green to deep, almost teal-colored green. The most valuable stones are those that are a deep, even blue-green color, with no visible veins or markings.

Turquoise is a beautiful and deeply meaningful gemstone. Its long and fascinating history, along with its spiritual and healing properties, have made it a beloved stone for thousands of years. Today, turquoise is still incredibly popular, and is used in a wide variety of different types of jewelry. Whether you are a history buff, a lover of gemstones, or simply looking for a beautiful piece of jewelry, turquoise is a fantastic choice.