The turquoise stone is connected with very ancient myths that tell us about the times when the gods were walking among humans. It’s one of the oldest myths of the gods and humans, the story of turquoise’s history goes back almost to the dawn of civilizations. History shows us different people, from ancient times to modern day collectors, are fascinated by the vibrant blue-green turquoise that they find in the earth and use to make jewelry of all kinds. Today, people who collect jewelry and are into spirituality are looking at turquoise stones for sale to feel the connection that this gem gave to people of the past through ages and civilizations.
Origins and Early Discovery
Millions of years ago, turquoise came into existence by natural means. Areas with groundwater rich in copper all over the world gave rise to turquoise deposits in the dry parts of the earth. The striking blue looks caught the eyes of ancient people and they discovered its special properties.
The most ancient turquoise mines that we know about were from 6000 BCE. Turquoise jewelries and amulets were worn by Egyptian pharaohs. The Persian merchants named it “firuze”, which means the one that brings victory. French industry today uses the word “turquoise” which comes from the original Persian name.
Cultural Significance Across Civilizations
Ancient Egypt and Turquoise Worship
Egyptian gods and goddesses were associated with turquoise and so was the turquoise stone sacred to goddess Hathor according to the Egyptian royalty. They thought that this rock guarded the deceased in the next life. In addition to gold and lapis lazuli, turquoise was also used in the making of King Tutankhamun’s burial mask and it was adorned with beautiful turquoise inlays.
Sinu Peninsula mining activity was the source of turquoise for Egypt. Workers who toiled in the desert’s inhospitable conditions were the ones who took out these precious gems. Through their hard work, they created some of the most magnificent royal treasures of the past.
Native American Sacred Traditions
Native American communities used the turquoise stone to build strong spiritual connections with it. For the Pueblo people, it was a link between the earth and the sky. Apache fighters were wearing amulets of turquoise for their protection in the fight.
The Navajo Nation were not short on creativity when it came to making silver and turquoise the base for southwestern jewellery of their own styles and quality. They intentionally joined the silver with turquoise to produce unique southwestern designs. As a result, these practices have not been halted at present as there are still many genuine Native American turquoise stones for sale available in the market.
Turquoise Healing Properties Through Time
Healers from the past acknowledged that turquoise was beneficial in both physical and spiritual health areas. Persian doctors made patients with eye diseases use turquoise powder. European medieval people believed that turquoise altered its color as a sign of impending danger or illness.
Patients using turquoise in their traditional healing methods reported:
- Release of the nervous tension
- Strengthening of the immune system
- Facilitation of clear speaking
- Harmonization of the emotional energy
- Shielding from the attacks of evil forces
The people who are into crystals today are still doing the same. They use turquoise in the throat chakra work and they say that it brings emotional healing. Many healers are always on the lookout for quality turquoise stones so that they can add them to their collection when they are for sale.
Geographic Sources and Trade Routes
There are a number of significant turquoise deposits in the areas of Iran, Afghanistan, Tibet, and the American Southwest. For many years the mines of Nishapur in Iran have been the leading source of “Persian turquoise” , the most beautiful one. It is said that Tibetan turquoise with its sky blue color was very much liked by Chinese emperors.
In the past, various turquoise were on the move from one continent side to another via the trade routes. Turquoise from Persia was transported to Europe and Asia by the Silk Road merchants. While the conquistadors were taking over America, they came across large turquoise deposits which were totally unknown to them.
Modern Applications and Collecting
Contemporary Jewelry and Fashion
The turquoise of recent times is used by the modern designers as an addition for their contemporary jewelry pieces. Designers who make fashion houses benefit from the use of turquoise in haute couture collections. The endorsement of celebrities has been an important factor in the growth of demand for quality turquoise stones available for purchase.
As a result, turquoise has become an essential part of southwestern and bohemian fashion styles and is still widely used. Its all-embracing hue can accompany both casual and formal wear. The use of turquoise accents in interior design is often done for the purpose of creating relaxing spaces.
Investment and Collection Value
True collectors unconsciously dedicate their efforts to finding uncommon turquoise varieties and pieces with historical backgrounds. Specimens of big and beautiful stones coming from the most famous of the mines are sold to the highest bidder. When it comes to buying a precious piece of turquoise, the role of authentication is vital.
The sale of gemstones for the market includes both artificially stabilized and natural turquoise options. Natural stones are more expensive but on the other hand, they are more energetic and durable. Before making a purchase, collectors should be aware of the differences that exist between these two types of stones.
Rhodochrosite for sale is perhaps another delightful pink that one can consider if interested in minerals closely related to turquoise.
Caring for Your Turquoise Collection
The relative softness of turquoise makes it a gemstone that requires special attention. Do not store pieces close together as it may result in scratching. Cleaning should be done with soft cloths and a mild soap solution only.
Do not let your turquoise come into direct contact with chemicals, perfumes or extreme heat. All these can cause your turquoise to lose its luster or even change its color. In the long run, professional cleaning aids in the conservation of the most valuable pieces.
Conclusion
The story of the turquoise use in different cultures all over the world denotes that people are still fascinated by this amazing mineral. From the times of ancient Egyptian pharaohs to present-day crystal healers, turquoise is still very much to be found in the lives of people all over the globe. Turquoise will continue to be the one to win people’s hearts in the coming generations because of its matchless beauty, spiritual significance and healing properties.
If that were not enough, knowing about its fascinating history would surely be the deciding factor that would make you appreciate this exceptional gemstone even more, no matter whether it is for jewelry, healing or collection purposes.
