Turquoise is a captivating gemstone with a rich history and multifaceted significance. Its meaning encompasses various cultural, spiritual, and metaphysical aspects
Significance of Turquoise:
Cultural and Historical Significance: Turquoise stone has been prized for thousands of years by cultures around the world. It holds significant cultural and religious importance in Native American, Persian, Egyptian, Tibetan, and other civilizations.
Symbol of Protection: Throughout history, turquoise has been revered as a protective stone. It is believed to ward off negative energies, evil spirits, and physical harm. Many cultures used turquoise in amulets, talismans, and jewelry for protection.
General Astrological Significance:
Birthstone for December: Turquoise is the traditional birthstone for those born in December. It is said to bring good fortune, success, and protection to Sagittarius and Capricorn individuals.
Associated Planets: Turquoise is often associated with the planets Venus and Jupiter. Venus influences love, beauty, and harmony, while Jupiter is connected to wisdom, prosperity, and spiritual growth.
Astrology Zodiac Associations:
Sagittarius (November 22 - December 21): Turquoise is particularly beneficial for Sagittarians, enhancing their natural optimism and bringing balance to their adventurous nature.
Pisces (February 19 - March 20): Turquoise can help Pisces individuals by providing emotional stability and protection from negative energies.
Taurus (April 20 - May 20): As an earth sign, Taurus can benefit from turquoise's grounding properties, promoting tranquility and reducing stress.
Physical Health Benefits:
Anti-inflammatory and Detoxifying: Turquoise is believed to have anti-inflammatory properties and can help in detoxifying the body, particularly the liver and kidneys.
Healing Properties: It's often used to speed up the healing process for wounds and is thought to be beneficial for ailments of the throat, including speech impediments.
Pain Relief: Some people use turquoise to alleviate pain, particularly headaches and muscle cramps.
Emotional and Mental Health Benefits:
Stress Reduction: Turquoise is known for its calming and soothing energy, which can help reduce stress and anxiety.
Emotional Balance: It is said to help stabilize mood swings and promote inner calm and serenity.
Communication: The stone is believed to enhance communication skills by fostering honesty and clarity in conversations.
Spiritual Benefits:
Protection: Turquoise has been historically used as a protective amulet, shielding the wearer from negative energies and harm.
Spiritual Growth: It is associated with enhancing intuition and spiritual awareness, aiding in meditation and spiritual growth.
Alignment: The stone is said to align and balance all the chakras, ensuring smooth energy flow throughout the body.
Turquoise affects on different Moon signs in Vedic astrology.
Aries (Mesh Rashi)
For Aries individuals, ruled by Mars, turquoise can provide a calming influence. Aries natives are known for their bold and energetic nature, but they may sometimes struggle with impulsiveness and restlessness. Turquoise can help balance their fiery nature by promoting patience, reducing stress, and offering protection from negative energies. It can also assist in clear communication, which is vital for Aries in leadership roles.
Taurus (Vrishabh Rashi)
Taurus is ruled by Venus, the planet of love and beauty. Turquoise, being connected to Venus, is highly beneficial for Taurus natives. This stone enhances their innate qualities of stability, loyalty, and sensuality. It can also bring emotional healing, boost creativity, and strengthen relationships. For Taurus individuals, wearing turquoise can increase their sense of inner peace and protect them from envy and jealousy.
Gemini (Mithun Rashi)
Geminis, ruled by Mercury, are known for their intellectual curiosity and quick wit. Turquoise helps enhance their communication skills, making it easier for them to express their thoughts clearly. As Gemini natives can sometimes feel scattered or anxious due to their active minds, turquoise provides grounding energy, helping them stay calm and focused. It also encourages emotional stability, which is beneficial for their dual nature.
Cancer (Karka Rashi)
Cancer is ruled by the Moon, and turquoise is a protective stone for Cancer natives. Since Cancerians are highly emotional and sensitive, they often absorb the energies around them, which can be overwhelming. Turquoise acts as a shield, safeguarding them from negative influences and enhancing emotional balance. It also promotes feelings of security and nurtures their natural intuition. Wearing turquoise can help Cancer individuals feel more connected to their inner wisdom and provide emotional healing.
Leo (Simha Rashi)
Leos, ruled by the Sun, are naturally charismatic and confident. However, they can sometimes struggle with pride or a need for attention. Turquoise helps Leos remain grounded, encouraging humility and self-awareness. It also enhances their creativity and self-expression, allowing them to channel their leadership skills in a positive and harmonious way. Turquoise can bring emotional calm and protection, which is essential for Leos who often take on significant responsibilities.
Virgo (Kanya Rashi)
For Virgo, ruled by Mercury, turquoise can provide mental clarity and emotional balance. Virgos tend to be perfectionists, and this stone can help reduce their anxiety and overthinking. Turquoise supports Virgos in clear communication and helps them express their emotions more freely. It also promotes healing and well-being, making it a great stone for Virgos who are focused on health and self-improvement.
Libra (Tula Rashi)
Like Taurus, Libra is also ruled by Venus, and turquoise resonates strongly with this sign. Libras are natural peacemakers, and turquoise enhances their ability to create harmony in relationships. This stone promotes fairness, compassion, and emotional stability. It also helps Libras make decisions more confidently, which is beneficial as they often struggle with indecisiveness. Wearing turquoise can bring balance to their lives, encouraging inner peace and protecting them from negativity.
Scorpio (Vrishchik Rashi)
Scorpio is ruled by Mars and Pluto, planets associated with transformation and intensity. Turquoise helps balance Scorpio's intense emotions and promotes healing after emotional trauma. This stone can calm Scorpio’s passionate nature, providing protection from negative energies and promoting emotional clarity. Turquoise is particularly helpful for Scorpios in letting go of past resentments and moving forward with forgiveness and compassion.
Sagittarius (Dhanu Rashi)
Sagittarius is ruled by Jupiter, the planet of expansion and wisdom. Turquoise enhances Sagittarius' spiritual growth and intuition, making it a valuable stone for this adventurous sign. Sagittarians are known for their optimism and love of freedom, but they can sometimes be reckless or overextend themselves. Turquoise helps them stay grounded, offering emotional balance and protection during their journeys, whether physical or spiritual.
Capricorn (Makar Rashi)
Capricorn, ruled by Saturn, is known for its disciplined and ambitious nature. Turquoise provides emotional support for Capricorns, helping them relax and reduce their tendency to overwork. This stone also promotes patience and perseverance, qualities Capricorns excel in but may sometimes push to the extreme. Turquoise encourages Capricorn natives to maintain a healthy balance between their career goals and personal well-being, enhancing their emotional stability and resilience.
Aquarius (Kumbha Rashi)
Aquarius, also ruled by Saturn (and Uranus in modern astrology), benefits from turquoise’s protective and balancing properties. Aquarians are visionaries, often focused on humanitarian ideals, but they can become emotionally detached or overwhelmed by their lofty goals. Turquoise helps ground them, promoting emotional healing and helping them stay connected to their personal relationships. This stone also enhances their creativity and intuition, making it a powerful ally for Aquarius natives seeking innovation.
Pisces (Meen Rashi)
Pisces is ruled by Jupiter and Neptune, planets associated with dreams, intuition, and spirituality. Turquoise is an excellent stone for Pisces as it enhances their natural intuition and creativity. Pisces individuals are deeply empathetic and sensitive, and turquoise provides protection from absorbing negative energies. It also helps Pisceans maintain emotional balance and find peace in their often chaotic emotional world. This stone encourages spiritual growth and provides grounding energy, making it ideal for this water sign.
Notable types of Turquoise:
By Geographic Origin:
African Turquoise:
African turquoise often displays a range of colors from greenish-blue to dark blue-green. It can sometimes have brown or black matrix patterns.
The matrix is typically more prominent and can be quite varied, including black, brown, or even golden tones.
African turquoise can be less consistent in quality compared to some other regions, but high-quality stones do exist. It is often used in beadwork and less frequently in fine jewelry.
This type of turquoise is popular in ethnic and tribal jewelry. It’s also used in decorative items and beads.
Iranian (Persian) Turquoise:
Color: Persian turquoise is renowned for its consistent, vivid sky-blue color, often referred to as "robin's egg blue." It is usually free from significant matrix, though some stones may have minimal veining.
Matrix: When present, the matrix in Persian turquoise is typically sparse and white or tan in color, adding to its desirability.
Iranian turquoise is considered some of the finest in the world, highly valued for its intense color and minimal matrix. The mines in Nishapur, Iran, are particularly famous.
This turquoise is highly sought after for high-end jewelry and fine art pieces. It is often set in gold and used in luxury items.
Arizona Turquoise:
Color: Arizona turquoise can vary widely in color, from light to deep blue and blue-green. Some famous varieties include Sleeping Beauty (sky blue with no matrix), Kingman (bright blue with black or brown matrix), and Bisbee (deep blue with a reddish-brown matrix).
Matrix: The matrix can range from non-existent in stones like Sleeping Beauty to prominent spiderweb patterns in Kingman and Bisbee turquoise.
Arizona produces a wide range of turquoise quality. Some mines, like Sleeping Beauty, are renowned for producing high-quality, matrix-free turquoise. Others, like Kingman, are known for their beautiful matrix patterns and vibrant colors.
Arizona turquoise is used in a variety of jewelry styles, from high-end designer pieces to Southwestern and Native American jewelry. It’s also popular for inlay work and cabochons.
Royston Turquoise:
Mined in Nevada, USA, it features a range of green to blue colors with a prominent brown matrix.
White Buffalo Turquoise: Often mistaken for turquoise, this is actually a white stone with black or brown matrix, found in Nevada. It is sometimes called "white turquoise."
Chinese Turquoise:
Sourced from various locations in China, it can range in color from green to blue and often features a spiderweb matrix.
Spiderweb Turquoise:
Characterized by a web-like matrix pattern that can be black, brown, or golden, giving the stone a striking appearance. Examples include some Chinese and Nevada turquoise.
Notable Varieties:
Bisbee Turquoise: Known for its deep blue color and chocolate-brown matrix, it comes from the Bisbee mine in Arizona.
Morenci Turquoise: Also from Arizona, this turquoise is bright blue with a pyrite matrix, giving it a unique metallic appearance.
Lander Blue Turquoise: One of the rarest and most valuable, found in Nevada, known for its dark blue color and intricate spiderweb matrix.
Number 8 Turquoise: Mined in Nevada, it features a bright blue to green color with a golden or brown spiderweb matrix.
Cleansing Turquoise Stone
Water Cleansing: Before wearing the stone rinse the stone under running water for a few minutes. Visualize the water washing away any negative or stagnant energies from the stone.
Saltwater Cleansing: Prepare a bowl of water mixed with a small amount of sea salt. Immerse the crystal in the saltwater solution for a few hours. This method helps in removing any lingering negative energies from the stone.
Smudging: Pass the agate through the smoke of sacred herbs like sage, lavender, or palo santo. The smoke purifies and cleanses the stone energetically.
How to Wear Turquoise:
Ring Finger: Turquoise is traditionally worn on the ring finger of the right hand. This is believed to maximize its astrological benefits.
Set in Silver: It is recommended to set turquoise in silver, as the metal enhances the stone's properties. However, it can also be set in gold if desired.
Thursday: The best day to wear turquoise is Thursday, which is associated with Jupiter. Ideally, it should be worn during the Shukla Paksha (waxing moon phase) on a Thursday morning.
Purification: Before wearing, the stone should be purified by soaking it in a mixture of raw milk and holy water (Ganga Jal) for a few hours. Chanting Jupiter’s mantra "Om Gram Greem Graum Sah Gurave Namah" 108 times while wearing the stone can enhance its effects.
Charging and Activating Turquoise Stone
Moonlight Charging: Place the Turquoise under the light of the full moon overnight. The gentle and purifying energy of the moon will recharge the stone.
Sunlight Charging: This Black Turquoise can also be charged in sunlight for a few hours. However, be cautious as prolonged exposure to sunlight can fade the color of the stone.
Crystal Cluster Charging: Place the agate on a crystal cluster like Clear Quartz or Amethyst for several hours. The high vibrations of the crystal cluster will charge and amplify the energy of the stone.
Popular Types of Turquoise Jewelry
Turquoise Rings:
Turquoise rings come in various styles, from simple solitaire settings to elaborate designs with intricate metalwork. They are often worn on the ring finger and can feature single large turquoise stones or clusters of smaller stones.
Turquoise Necklaces:
Turquoise necklaces range from delicate pendants to bold statement pieces. They can feature turquoise beads, cabochons, or inlays set in various metals such as silver, gold, or platinum. Turquoise necklaces are versatile and can be worn for both casual and formal occasions.
Turquoise Earrings:
Turquoise earrings come in a wide range of styles, including studs, dangles, hoops, and chandeliers. They can feature single turquoise stones, clusters, or intricate turquoise inlay work. Turquoise earrings add a pop of color to any outfit and are available in various lengths and designs.
Turquoise Bracelets:
Turquoise bracelets are popular for their vibrant color and bohemian vibe. They can feature turquoise beads, cabochons, or inlays set in metal or woven into leather bands. Turquoise bracelets can be worn alone as a statement piece or stacked with other bracelets for a layered look.
Turquoise Pendants:
Turquoise pendants come in a variety of shapes and sizes, including hearts, teardrops, ovals, and crosses. They can feature single turquoise stones or intricate inlay work set in metal or surrounded by gemstones. Turquoise pendants are often worn on chains or cords and make meaningful gifts for loved ones.
Turquoise Brooches:
Turquoise brooches are elegant accessories that can add a touch of color and sophistication to any outfit. They can feature turquoise stones set in intricate metalwork or combined with other gemstones. Turquoise brooches are versatile and can be worn on clothing, scarves, or hats.
Turquoise Cufflinks:
Turquoise cufflinks are a stylish choice for men's accessories. They can feature turquoise stones set in metal settings or combined with other materials such as mother-of-pearl or onyx. Turquoise cufflinks add a pop of color and personality to formal attire.
Turquoise Beaded Jewelry:
Turquoise beads are popular for making beaded jewelry such as necklaces, bracelets, and anklets. They come in various shapes, sizes, and shades of turquoise, ranging from light blue to deep green. Turquoise beaded jewelry is versatile and can be worn alone or layered with other pieces.
Precautions
This stone should be handled with care to avoid scratches or damage. Store it separately from other gemstones and avoid contact with rough surfaces.
Avoid exposing the agate to harsh chemicals, perfumes, or household cleaning agents, as they may dull or damage the stone's surface.
It is advisable to remove stone while engaging in physical activities or household chores to prevent any accidental impact or damage.
Turquoise should not be used as a substitute for medical treatment. Always seek professional medical advice for any health concerns.
One should always keep in mind that the effectiveness and benefits of this stone can vary from person to person depending upon the suitability of the stone. It is a personal choice whether to wear it or not based on individual spiritual beliefs and experiences.
Originality Test - How to Identify fake Turquoise
Visual Inspection:
Color: Natural turquoise typically ranges from sky blue to greenish-blue. The color should look natural and not overly vivid or uniform, which can indicate dyeing.
Matrix: Authentic turquoise often has a matrix (the web-like patterns or veins within the stone) that can be black, brown, or golden. The matrix should appear natural and not painted or artificial.
Texture: Real turquoise has a smooth, waxy texture. If it feels overly glossy or has a plastic-like feel, it may be a synthetic or treated stone.
Physical Tests:
Scratch Test: Turquoise is relatively soft, with a Mohs hardness of 5-6. You can gently scratch the stone with a copper coin or steel knife. If it scratches easily, it could be a softer imitation like dyed howlite. Be cautious as this can damage the stone.
Water Test: Some dyed imitations may release color when soaked in water for an extended period. Soak the stone in water for several hours and see if the color changes or leaches out.
Hot Needle Test: Carefully apply a hot needle to an inconspicuous part of the stone. Genuine turquoise will not melt or emit an odor, while plastic imitations will show signs of melting and a burnt plastic smell.
Advanced Testing:
Magnification: Use a jeweler’s loupe or microscope to inspect the surface closely. Look for natural grain and inclusions. Synthetic or treated stones may show air bubbles or a too-perfect appearance.
UV Light Test: Under ultraviolet light, natural turquoise might fluoresce a green, yellow, or white hue, while some imitations may not fluoresce at all or display a different color.
Density Test: Turquoise has a specific gravity between 2.31 and 2.84. A gemologist can measure this property accurately. Synthetic or reconstituted stones may have different densities.
Professional Evaluation:
Gemological Testing:
A certified gemologist can perform tests using specialized equipment to determine the stone's composition and confirm its authenticity. Infrared spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction are some methods used.
Certification:
Purchase turquoise from reputable dealers who provide certification from recognized gemological laboratories.
Identifying Treatments:
Stabilization: Many turquoise stones are stabilized with resin to enhance durability. Stabilized turquoise will have a plastic-like feel and may show a uniform color.
Dyeing: Dyed stones can be identified by inspecting for unnatural color concentrations or inconsistencies. The water test can also help identify dyed stones.
Common Fake and Imitations of Turquoise:
1. Dyed Howlite
Appearance: Howlite is naturally white with gray veins and can be dyed to resemble turquoise. It often has a similar matrix pattern to natural turquoise.
Scratch Test: Howlite is softer (Mohs hardness of 3.5) than turquoise (Mohs hardness of 5-6) and can be scratched more easily.
Color Concentration: Dyed howlite may have inconsistent or overly uniform color and can sometimes show dye concentration in cracks or drill holes.
Water Test: Soaking in water may cause the dye to leach out.
2. Dyed Magnesite
Appearance: Magnesite is another white stone that is dyed to mimic turquoise. It can have a chalky texture and the dye may appear uneven.
Texture: Magnesite often has a more porous texture compared to natural turquoise.
Color: Dyed magnesite can also exhibit uneven color and dye concentrations in fractures or holes.
Hardness: It has a similar hardness to howlite and can be scratched relatively easily.
3. Plastic and Resin
Most common fake turquoise sold in India market.
Appearance: Plastic or resin imitations can be colored and patterned to look like turquoise, but they often lack the natural variations found in real stones.
Hot Needle Test: Applying a hot needle to plastic or resin will cause it to melt and emit a plastic smell.
Feel: These materials often feel lighter and warmer to the touch compared to genuine turquoise.
Uniformity: The color and pattern can be too perfect and uniform, lacking the natural imperfections of real turquoise.
4. Reconstituted Turquoise
Appearance: Made from small chips of turquoise that are ground into powder, mixed with resin, and formed into blocks. The resulting material is then cut and polished.
Texture: Reconstituted turquoise often has a plastic-like appearance and feel due to the resin.
Patterns: It may have a consistent and unnatural pattern compared to natural turquoise.
Density: It can have a different density compared to natural turquoise.
5. Glass
Appearance: Glass can be dyed and swirled to mimic the color and matrix of turquoise. It can be very convincing but often has a different luster.
Luster: Glass typically has a higher luster and may appear more reflective than natural turquoise.
Temperature: Glass feels cooler to the touch than turquoise.
Bubbles: Under magnification, tiny bubbles can sometimes be seen inside the glass.
How to Spot These Imitations:
Visual Inspection: Look for unnatural uniformity, overly vivid colors, or dye concentrations.
Weight and Temperature: Genuine turquoise is heavier and cooler to the touch compared to plastic or resin.
Magnification: Use a jeweler’s loupe to look for natural grain, matrix patterns, or inclusions that indicate authenticity.
Hardness Test: Perform a scratch test on an inconspicuous area. Genuine turquoise is harder than most imitations like howlite or magnesite.
Professional Evaluation: When in doubt, consult with a certified gemologist or purchase from reputable dealers who provide certification.
FAQs
Is turquoise suitable for everyone? Yes, turquoise is generally suitable for everyone, but its effects can vary depending on individual energy and astrological factors.
How to differentiate real turquoise from fake? Real turquoise has a unique matrix pattern and a waxy luster, while fake turquoise often looks overly glossy and uniform. Conducting a scratch test or consulting with a reputable jeweler can help verify authenticity.
Can turquoise be worn with other gemstones? Absolutely! Turquoise can be paired with other gemstones to complement and enhance its properties. However, it's essential to choose stones that resonate well together.
How to cleanse and recharge turquoise? You can cleanse turquoise by smudging it with sage, placing it in sunlight for a few hours, or using a sound bath. Recharge it by leaving it under the moonlight or burying it in the earth overnight.
What is the best way to store turquoise? Store turquoise in a soft cloth or padded box to prevent scratches and keep it away from chemicals and extreme temperatures to maintain its beauty and integrity.
Is turquoise suitable for everyone according to Vedic astrology? While turquoise has many benefits, it is important to consult a Vedic astrologer to ensure it aligns with your individual birth chart and astrological factors.
How can turquoise influence my birth chart? Turquoise is associated with the planets Jupiter and Venus. Its influence can enhance aspects related to these planets, such as wisdom, prosperity, love, and creativity.
What are the dos and don'ts of wearing turquoise? Wear turquoise set in silver on the index finger or as a pendant. Avoid exposure to harsh chemicals and extreme temperatures. Regularly cleanse and recharge the stone to maintain its energy.
How often should I cleanse my turquoise stone? Cleansing should be done regularly, ideally once a month. Methods include placing it in moonlight, using soil, or rinsing with water.
Can turquoise be used in Vedic rituals for specific purposes? Yes, turquoise can be incorporated into Vedic rituals to enhance their effectiveness, such as in practices aimed at attracting wealth, promoting health, and providing protection.
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