The Meaning of Turquoise
Turquoise is a stone steeped in meaning - its name literally means 'delight' which we find so charming. Turquoise has been important in many cultures, and has been prized since 4000 BC where it was originally mined in Egypt. Later on it was transported through Turkey into Europe, where it was prized for it's rich colour and exotic origin - the name 'Turquoise' is thought to come from the French word Turque, for Turkish.
The meaning of turquoise gemstone varies but it is generally thought to be a powerful protector, and greatly prized across ancient cultures. In Mexico, the Aztecs highly valued turquoise stones, wearing it as a sign of distinction and valuing it more than emeralds.
*1 Eason, C (2015) Healing Crystals. New York: Sterling Publishing
Where does Turquoise come from?
The light blue-green colour of the turquoise stone is striking, making it a popular choice for adding accent and personality to your look. Each stone is unique, due to the natural colouration and variations depending on the stone’s origin.
Turquoise is created in places where acidic waters meet copper, to create nuggets of stone. It is made up of hydrated copper which offers the bright blue hue, and aluminium phosphate which offers the matrix (the vein patterns) to the gemstone. In simple terms the brighter the blue, finer the quality and clearer the stone, the more valuable it is.
The quality, and therefore value of Turquoise is measured in carats.
What does the Turquoise Stone Represent?
Turquoise stones have a feminine power which we absolutely adore, thanks to ancient links with Egyptian mythology. Hathor, the Goddess of Joy and Motherhood was intrinsically linked with the stone and known as the Mistress of Turquoise.
In the Americas, Turquoise was adopted as a stone of power, exclusively worn by Warriors. Also known as the Campaigner’s Stone, Turquoise is said to favour those working to support environmental protection or human rights which is something we can all get behind!
In Mexico, turquoise stones were incorporated into ceremonial masks made from wood and encrusted with turquoise, as well as shells and other semi-precious stones, with examples dating right until the 1890s. The British Museum has some wonderful examples such as this one dating back to as early as 1400.
Turquoise Birthstone
Turquoise is the birthstone for December - so anyone with a Christmas-time birthday may benefit from this beautiful stone!
The meaning of turquoise as a birthstone is as a symbol of good fortune. Turquoise rings in particular are said to keep evil spirits away. The gemstone is also regarded as a love charm. Its opaque colour makes it a great choice for a more casual look, and can be worn as beads or set in silver or other precious metals. It is also said to help calm and balance your emotions.
The Benefits of Turquoise Stones
Crystal healing is widely discussed - whilst we await scientific evidence of the benefits, it can’t hurt to enjoy the stone and believe in its potential. Turquoise gemstone benefits may include acting as a protector against poison, changing colour if there are dangers nearby 1. There are also said to be many holistic benefits, to aid wellbeing and positivity. The Gem Society describe Turquoise as a ‘Stone of Hope’ 6 and worn as a protective amulet, as well as acting as a bringer or water.
The benefits of turquoise are said to include:
- Detoxifying the body
- Relief from Migraine, Arthritis and Rheumatism, Asthma
- Easing cramps
- Helping to fight viruses
- Protection against negativity
- Promote emotional balance
The stone is said to offer protection against negativity, offering protection against intruders and helping children to be more outwardly resilient.
It’s important not to substitute these properties for qualified medical advice and treatment however, so be sure to seek medical help if you do need it.
Giving Turquoise Jewellery Meaning
Turquoise is a wonderfully diverse stone, and considering its potential to improve your wellbeing and general health, we feel it’s something that should be included in everyone’s collection! Turquoise has so much character, that however you wear it we’re sure you’ll find joy in its sun-drenched surface, and utterly tactile finish.
Discover our Turquoise Collection at Silver Bubble Jewellery.