Turquoise is a semi-precious gemstone frequently incorporated into some of the most modern, beautiful handmade jewelry in the world. It is most often found in blue and turquoise hues, and is widely recognized as the December birthstone as well as the 11th anniversary gemstone. But beyond its modern-day uses and associations, turquoise holds a decadent mythological, spiritual and etymological history that adds nostalgic value to its already strong aesthetic worth. Read on for more information that will help you fall in love with your turquoise jewelry – or inspire you to buy some today!
Turquoise can range from grey to green to blue and yellows, often veined by the brown matrix with varying textures, and is only found in dry, barren regions. As a far back as 6000 years ago, this stone is one of the oldest to be used by man, for both jewelry and ornamental purposes. Around 5500 BC, the ancient Egyptians found turquoise in the Sinai Peninsula. Around 1900, Queen Zer’s tomb was unearthed and she was found wearing a turquoise and gold bracelet around her wrist.
Turquoise is said to bring luck and fortune to the wearer, and a feeling of calmness with its cool color tones, in addition to wisdom, and is often popular in Southwest, Native American, and Egyptian jewelry designs.
Turquoise gemstones look best as parts of formal evening jewelry when paired with black onyx, pearls or sterling silver. More casual combinations include softer contrasts with black pearls, carnelian and ruby. To see a selection of handmade artisan jewelry featuring turquoise, visit www.dashaboutique.com/shopbygemstone.Turquoise is typically considered a sophisticated gemstone that works well with any outfit. In earrings, citrine works well to enhance the luster of hazel eyes.
Chinese Turquoise comes in both green and blue colors, with many subtle color variations throughout the stone, and has spider web (matrix) veining. There are four to five regions in China where they are mined. The Ma'ashan turquoise mine is located near Shanghai, in addition to the Hubei Province, just to name a few.
As far back as approximately 1700 BC, Turquoise was used in China mainly for ornamental carvings and other artistic purposes. In Beijing, at the Academy of Social Sciences, there is a bronze and turquoise plaque on display which is thought to be from that era.
Chinese turquoise is almost always stabilized, and will not be as likely to be affected by lotions or perfumes when it is worn, protecting the color of the turquoise from outside elements.
Sleeping Beauty Turquoise comes from the Sleeping Beauty Mountain in Globe, Arizona, which is one of the largest mines as to date. Sleeping beauty comes in many hues of light to dark blue. Turquoise is mainly found in the US, Australia, Chile, Mexico, and historically, Iran.
Mohs' Hardness score is based on a 10 point scale where 10 is the most resistant, like a diamond, and 1 is easily scratched, such as Talc. Turquoise gets a score of 5-6, meaning that it is fairly scratch resistant and therefore suitable as a component of everyday jewelry. Turquoise gemstones should be regularly cleaned by a professional or with a soft rag and mild soap and water. Other methods, including ultra-sonic clenares, solvents and harsh chemicals should be avoided when cleaning your handcrafted jewelry as exposure to these elements can damage
semi-precious and precious gemstones and pearls.
Aquamarine is a semi-precious gemstone frequently incorporated into some of the most modern, beautiful handmade jewelry in the world. It is most often found in shades of clear ocean blue, and is widely recognized as the March Birthstone and the gemstone for the 18th anniversary. But beyond its modern-day uses and associations, aquamarine holds a decadent mythological, spiritual and etymological history that adds nostalgic value to its already strong aesthetic worth. Read on for more information that will help you fall in love with your aquamarine jewelry – or inspire you to buy some today!
The beautiful Aquamarine is semi-precious, a light greenish blue to a vibrant blue variety of the species beryl, which makes it a relative of the Emerald. The name Aquamarine is derived from Latin, meaning seawater. "Aqua" translates to water and "marina" translates to sea. This seems especially appropriate for aquamarine's barely-there icy blue tones to intense greenish-blue tones, reminiscent of the sea. Also believed to embody the spirit of the sea, it has been regarded as a symbol of purification, ever-lasting youth, and happiness.
The sparkling tones and light blue hues are said to evoke feelings of trust, harmony and sympathy. The unique blues that the Aquamarine displays are said to represent eternity and life-giving properties, since it is, after all, the color of both the sea and the skies.
Aquamarine gemstones look best as parts of formal evening jewelry when paired with Black Onyx, black pearls or dark blue sapphire. More casual combinations include lighter, bridal colored combinations with quartz, raw diamonds or pearls. To see a selection of handmade artisan jewelry featuring aquamarine, visit www.dashaboutique.com/shopbygemstone. Aquamarine is typically considered a sophisticated gemstone that works well with any outfit. In earrings, it works especially well to enhance the luster of blue or green eyes.
According to legend, Aquamarine originated in a treasure chest for mermaids. Throughout history, Roman fisherman have used aquamarine as protection from the water, as the gemstone is believed to lend strength and confidence. Aquamarine's powers are said to develop best if the stone is immersed in sun-drenched water. Carrying aquamarine is also believed to guarantee a happy marriage, making the owner not only happy, but wealthy as well.
Mostly mined in Brazil, China, and Pakistan, Aquamarine is the designated birthstone for the month of March. It is also the zodiac sign Pisces assigned gem, and for the18th anniversary. This gem is often cut into faceted shapes, smooth cabochons, beads and carvings.
Mohs' Hardness score is based on a 10 point scale where 10 is the most resistant, like a diamond, and 1 is easily scratched, such as Talc. Aquamarine gets a score of 7.5-8, meaning that it is quite scratch resistant and therefore suitable as a component of jewelry. Aquamarine gemstones should be regularly cleaned by a professional or with a soft rag and mild soap and water or an ultra-sonic cleaner. Avoid solvents and harsh chemicals when cleaning your handcrafted jewelry as exposure to these elements can damage semi-precious and precious gemstones and pearls.
