The History of Turquoise
Turquoise is a beautiful and unique gemstone that has been treasured for centuries. Its history is rich and fascinating, and it is still highly sought after today for its stunning blue-green color and unique characteristics.
The earliest known use of turquoise dates back to ancient Egypt, where it was used in jewelry and amulets as far back as 3,500 BC. The ancient Egyptians believed that turquoise had the power to protect the wearer from harm and bring good luck. They also used it in decorating tombs and statues of their gods and pharaohs.
Turquoise was also highly valued by ancient cultures in the Americas, particularly the Aztecs and the Native American tribes of the Southwest. The Aztecs believed that turquoise had healing powers and used it in their religious ceremonies. The Native American tribes of the Southwest used turquoise in their jewelry, pottery, and other decorative arts.
In the Middle Ages, turquoise was popular in Europe, particularly in the courts of the Byzantine Empire and in medieval Spain. It was also used in Islamic art and architecture, and was a favorite of the Persian kings.
Glencairn Museum: Excavated at the site of Meydum, this beautiful broad collar (wesekh) is made of blue and black faience. Each end of the collar is decorated with a terminal in the shape of a falcon head. Both men and women wore necklaces like this in ancient Egypt. Image courtesy of Penn Museum, UPMAA 31-27-303.
Turquoise Today
Today, turquoise is still highly valued for its beauty and unique characteristics. It is often used in jewelry, particularly in the form of rings, pendants, and earrings. It is also used in decorative arts such as vases, bowls, and other home decor items.
Turquoise is a versatile gemstone that can be paired with a variety of other gemstones and metals, making it perfect for any style and any occasion. It is also a unique and special gift for a loved one, and a beautiful addition to any jewelry collection.
With a rich and fascinating history, turquoise continues to be a highly sought-after gemstone for its beauty and unique characteristics. Its versatility makes it perfect for women of all ages, styles and occasions. Whether it's for a special occasion or just a treat for yourself, a piece of turquoise jewelry is sure to be treasured for years to come.
Gorgeous Sleeping Beauty Turquoise necklace featuring a turquoise pendant on a dainty gold or silver chain. Simple and petite design highlights the beauty of the gemstone. All attention goes to the one gem drop and the delicate 14k gold filled or sterling silver chain floats in the background. This gem may be tiny but it is mighty, deserving appreciation. It's amazing faceted cut gives it an incredible sparkle and its bright and lively Robin's egg blue color gives it a delightful energy. This is a rare variety of Turquoise due to its exceptionally light blue. Limited resources are left and demand is high. I am happy to have these to offer. They make great and easy gifts to anyone who likes a little pop of color.
10 Fun Facts about Turquoise:
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Turquoise is not a mineral, but rather a mineraloid, meaning it is composed of hydrated copper and aluminum phosphate.
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The name "turquoise" comes from the French word "turquois" which means "Turkish" because the stone was originally brought to Europe from Turkey.
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Turquoise is often used in Native American jewelry and is considered to be a sacred stone by many tribes.
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The color of turquoise can range from blue to green, and the intensity of the color can be affected by the presence of other minerals in the stone.
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Turquoise is a relatively soft stone, with a hardness of just 6 on the Mohs scale.
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Turquoise was once considered a symbol of wealth and power and was often used to decorate the clothing and jewelry of royalty.
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The ancient Egyptians believed that turquoise had the power to protect the wearer from harm and bring good luck.
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Turquoise is found in many countries around the world, including the United States, Mexico, China, and Iran.
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Turquoise is often treated to enhance its color and durability. One of the most common treatments is known as "stabilization" which involves impregnating the stone with a clear polymer.
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Turquoise is said to have healing properties and is believed to be beneficial for the throat, lungs, and immune system. It is also thought to promote communication, self-expression, and creativity.
Shopping Turquoise Jewelry with Hannah May
We'll always be in awe of this gorgeous stone and are continuously sourcing the best quality turquoise we can find, to handcraft jewelry you will love. Who could resist the lure of this stone's color and ancient healing powers. It's a beautiful pop of blue and we find it looks great on everyone!
Turquoise is the birthstone for December. People born under Sagittarius are strong and optimistic, and they are highly active individuals. Turquoise is said to enhance these qualities in those who are born under this sign. Any of our Turquoise jewelry pieces would make the perfect gift for a December birthday. See below for some of our available turquoise jewelry options to shop from.
Turquoise Beaded Ring
"This is so perfect! I thought this would be a long shot and it would be too big and bulky but it’s so dainty and looks PERFECT between my engagement ring and wedding band. It’s comfortable too. Fast shipping. I might have to get another one just to have an extra on hand." - Jill
Turquoise Beaded Bracelet
Rare Sleeping Beauty Turquoise bracelet with 14k gold filled or sterling silver beads. Wearable with any outfit because of its delicate design. Try layering with other bracelets or wear it on its own. I love this design because it puts all the focus on the gemstones. Strung on elastic cord adding a slight stretch for easily rolling on and off your wrist. Water resistant makes for easy care and wear.
Turquoise Hoop Huggie Earrings
Beautiful electric blue Turquoise stones suspended from gold huggie hoops. Amazing gift for a December birthday. Sleeping beauty turquoise is extremely rare, especially in a drop shape like these. It is difficult to match a pair since they each have so much character. Mesmerizing color and beautifully faceted making them shine in the sun. The stones dangle from small gold huggie hoops.
Turquoise Gem Drop Necklace
Turquoise Station Necklace
Gorgeous bright Sleeping Beauty Turquoise gemstones wire wrapped in delicate 14k gold fill or sterling silver chain front to back. This infinity design is one that we feel represents our jewelry aesthetic really well for it is both elegant and fine, yet a total showstopper. This necklace features 100% natural turquoise gemstones. We envision this design in a multitude of stone options and an array of colors. Keep checking back to see where we go with this design!
Tiny Turquoise drops dangling from delicate gold filled chain. An adorable necklace to layer with and play with. We love this design and hope to do more in different colors soon.
How to care for your Turquoise jewelry
At Hannah May we take pride in using high quality materials that provide reliable long time wear for our jewelry. Every piece is made with love and will maintain its shine and integrity with proper care and wear.
Turquoise is a relatively soft and porous stone, so it requires special care to maintain its beauty and integrity. Here are some tips on how to take care of turquoise jewelry:
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Avoid exposing turquoise to chemicals, such as household cleaning products, perfumes, and lotions. These can damage the surface of the stone and cause discoloration.
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Store turquoise jewelry separately from other jewelry to prevent scratches and damage. A soft cloth or jewelry box with compartments is ideal. Our lovely Hannah May microsuede pouch provides a sustainable safe haven for your jewelry. Make sure jewelry is completely dry before storage.
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Clean turquoise jewelry gently with warm water and mild soap. Avoid using ultrasonic cleaners or steam cleaners, as they can damage the surface of the stone.
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Do not expose turquoise to extreme temperatures or direct sunlight, as this can cause discoloration or cracking.
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Avoid wearing turquoise jewelry while doing activities that could scratch or damage the stone, such as gardening or sports.
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Turquoise is sensitive to acid and may fade or change color if exposed to acidic compounds or liquids.
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If you need to clean your turquoise jewelry more thoroughly, it is recommended to take it to a professional jeweler for cleaning and care.
By following these tips, you can help keep your turquoise jewelry looking beautiful for years to come. Remember that any treatments or stabilization done to the turquoise can affect the durability and the way it should be cleaned.
