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China Jade Valuable Jade Pendant
The Turquoise Gemstone
The famous writer, George Eliot (Mary Ann Evans) once said, "These gems have life in them; their colors speak, say what words fail of." At Silver Jewelry Etc., we like to think this author was talking about silver turquoise jewelry. The history and the color of this December birth-stone tell us quite a bit. So, let's see if silver turquoise jewelry is right for you!
What is Turquoise?
Turquoise is a secondary mineral, composed of hydrated copper and aluminum phosphate (CuAl6(PO4)4(OH)8·4H2O). This mineral is almost exclusively used as a gemstone. It is deposited by circulating waters, and found in arid environments in sky blue, turquoise green, apple green and greenish gray hues.
Where are Turquoise gemstones formed?
The wonderful thing about silver turquoise jewelry is that the colors of the gemstones tell owners of their origin. The light blue stones are formed and found in Europe and Iran, and are second to jade in value among the non-transparent gemstones. The darker blue stones are also found in modern day Persia (Iran). The traditional turquoise stones (teal colored) are found in arid locations, as in Southwest North America, Central and South America. These are the most valuable and sought after silver turquoise stones.
The Origin of Turquoise
Turquoise, meaning "Turkish" in French, was believed to be first worn by the Egyptians, dating back to 5500 BC. Archaeologists found four turquoise bracelets on the mummified arm of Queen Zar. The next discovery of civilizations wearing this mystical stone was in the 1st to 3rd century AD by the Persians, where the most valuable gemstones are formed. It became a barter item for the Persians and was even coveted in Afghanistan.
Green turquoise, found in Tibet, was valued above gold. It was a tradition for all Tibetans to wear or carry a turquoise gemstone every day. The popularity of this stone stretched out to Mongolia and China in the following centuries.
To read more information about turquoise silver jewelry, please read our silver jewelry blog, where we also provide viewers with silver jewelry information, such as our Italian silver jewelry.
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