Turquoise has been sought after for centuries
for it’s beauty and healing powers. Well known for it’s uses
in Native American jewelry and carvings, it has been used for centuries
and dates back to ancient Egypt as evidenced by turquoise jewelry found
in the ancient Egyptian tombs.
This popular stone can range in color from vivid sky blue to a
yellowish green color and is found in mines all over the world.
Although quite porous in nature, most turquoise has been stabilized
for use in modern jewelry which renders it less apt to chip and
protects it from discoloration due to exposure from body oils.
Turquoise can be strung as beads, carved into animal fetishes and
combined with a variety of other stones to make striking handmade
jewelry.
Turquoise gem stones are reputed to have powerful healing properties.
This stone is said to help with public speaking as well as enhance
calmness and creativity. The wearer of turquoise my also notice
improved wisdom and honesty as well as a new sense of empathy.
It has also been used to help enhance relationships, strengthen
the bond in friendships and allow one to have a better connection
with their inner self. It’s healing properties are associated
with the respiratory, skeletal and digestive systems and has long
been used to cleanse the body of toxins.
Turquoise is mined in many places around the world including Iran,
China, Turkey, Persia, Egypt adnNorth America. The color of the
stone depends on the minerals that are in the ground. Blue stones
are found where copper is present, green stones are found where
iron is present a yellowish green stone which is quite rare is
found where zinc is present and the White Buffalo turquoise found
in Nevada is mined where there are no minerals present.
If you wear turquoise jewelry, take care to clean it carefully.
This porous stone can be easily damaged if submerged in chemical
cleaners. Never use steam or ultrasonic cleaners for your gemstone
jewelry. The gentlest method of cleaning is to dip a Q-tip in warm
soapy water and wipe the stone with that - wipe again with plain
water to remove any soap residue.
About the Author
Lee Dobbins is owner and editor of Artisan
Jewelry Online where you can learn more about turquoise jewelry
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