Turquoise
Tyler Pearsall A2 2/15/14
other names this gemstone might have are tourmaline.
The chemical formula for this gemstone is CuAl6(PO4)4(OH)8 • 4H2O
unpolished and uncut
polished but not jewelry
beautiful jewelry
Description
Turquoise is an ancient gemstone, and has been highly regarded in many of the world's civilizations. Among the ancient empires it is best known among the Persian and Native American civilizations, where it was the most popular ornamental gemstone. Turquoise today remains a popular gemstone, and is one of the most important opaque gemstones. It is highly regarded due to its unique turquoise-blue color, and is the only gemstone to have an exclusive color named after it.
The word Turquoise dates back to the 17th century, when trading routes brought Turquoise from Persia through the Middle East towards Europe. The traders passed through Turkey, known as "Turquie" in French, and the locals named the material "Turquies" ("Turkish") in reference to its coming from Turkey.
Turquoise can come in different shades of blue or green, and is commonly veined or mottled with brown or black oxides or a sandstone base. Some prefer this color veining, while others prefer a solid-colored stone. The best color in Turquoise is a solid, deep turquoise-blue hue. Greenish colors are less desirable and are not usually used as gemstones. Turquoise may occasionally also be mixed together with green Malachite or Chrysocolla, causing blue and green mottled gemstones.
Turquoise is a porous gemstone and is thus easily dyed. The dying is done to enhance the blue from more greenish or mottled stones. Dyed stones can eventually wear off their enhanced colors over the years, or when exposed to certain chemicals or solutions. The luster of Turquoise is often dull, and it is therefore very common for certain dealers to impregnate or coat the Turquoise with a a plastic lubricant or wax to enhance its luster. Due to the common practice of dying and enhancing Turquoise, this gemstone especially should only be purchased from reputable dealers who fully disclose all information.
The porous nature of Turquoise makes it more easily affected by oils and cleaners. Because of this, Turquoise gemstones should not be washed with anything other than water. Turquoise is also a relatively soft gemstone, and extra care should be exercised to prevent it from scratching.