One of the world’s most ancient gemstones, turquoise has fascinated humankind for well over 7,500 years. Spanning cultures, prized as a symbol of wisdom and nobility, and said to possess the power of immortality, turquoise continues to captivate and enthrall. The gem’s name comes from the French expression pierre tourques, or “Turkish stone.” The name, likely originated in the thirteenth century, reflects the belief that the material probably arrived in Europe from Turkish sources.

Archaeological excavations revealed that the rulers of ancient Egypt adorned themselves with turquoise jewelry, and Chinese artisans were carving it more than 3,000 years ago. The national gem of Tibet, it has long been considered a stone that guarantees health, good fortune, and protection from evil. Seen as a ceremonial gem, Native Americans in the southwestern US continue to use it in their jewelry designs. Once a medium of exchange, it was attached to a bow or firearm to increase a hunter’s or warrior’s accuracy. 

Here are a few easy-to-remember DO’S and DON’TS to ensure your turquoise continues to enchant and charm you, casting its spell on you with each wear.

DO HANDLE WITH CARE

Everyone likes to be treated with care and consideration. So does turquoise. Natural turquoise is a soft (easily scratched) and fragile (easily broken) stone. If something could scratch you, it likely could scratch your turquoise. Treat it like you’d treat yourself.

DO GIVE IT A LITTLE EXTRA ATTENTION

Everyone likes to be given a little extra attention. Your turquoise feels the same. Show it how much you value it by using a soft polishing cloth or special jewelry cloth to clean your turquoise. Never paper towels or bath tissue. 

DO BE KIND TO IT WHEN NOT WEARING IT

Everyone likes to be shown kindness. Turquoise is no different. Even when you’re not wearing it, give it a safe, scratch-free environment to rest in. Use a jewelry pouch to protect it from other jewelry with hard stones or metals that could cause scratches. 

DON'T FORGET ITS UNIQUE NATURE

Being a relatively soft and porous gemstone, turquoise requires a bit more care and protection. It’s well worth the small effort to take a moment to consider its characteristics and how it responds to the environment it will be exposed to.

DON'T SHARE YOUR BEAUTY ROUTINE WITH IT

As with all your jewelry and gemstones, be sure to limit the contact your turquoise has with make-up, creams, perfume, hair products, and lotions. It's best to put it on after you’ve completed your beauty routine and applied beauty products.

DON'T MAKE IT FIGHT FOR ITS LIFE

Protecting our turquoise from harsh chemicals is likely obvious to us. However, to ensure that it keeps its good looks, it’s best to avoid household soaps or jewelry cleaning solutions as well. Prolonged exposure to water or sun should also be avoided.

Whatever its color, from light blue to dark green, yellow, and orange, turquoise can be cut into a variety of shapes, including cabochons, beads, and inlays. Set in rings, earrings, bracelets, and necklaces, you're sure to find just the right new piece as a gift, or for yourself, at Sorrel Sky Gallery.