Turquoise

Turquoise, now recognized as a December birthstone, is an abundant gemstone with an ancient history.

Turquoise has been used for many thousands of years, both in old-world nations and by the native Americans and civilizations in ancient Mexico. Still today, turquoise is found worldwide; there is Chinese turquoise and American turquoise mining. The turquoise mine producing the best quality turquoise is considered by many to be the mines of Iran, although similarly high-quality and clear turquoise gems are also found in American turquoise mines.

Like so many gemstones, turquoise ranges in color from white turquoise to sky blue. Transparency ranges as well, from translucent to opaque. Turquoise is valued much the same as other gemstones for the clearest stones with the best sky-blue color by gemologists, however, collectors of turquoise jewelry do not always agree. The characteristic black "spider webs" formed naturally in turquoise are preferable to many as an interesting characteristic.

Turquoise can be both set into jewelry, such as when it is set into rings or a turquoise necklace pendant, or it can be carved into shapes like turquoise crosses and be free from additional setting materials. Turquoise nuggets may be inlaid for a mosaic pendant, or carved into turquoise beads. These are often the styles seen in Native American turquoise jewelry such as is found in collections like Dry Creek turquoise jewelry.

Topaz is a gem that pairs well with other gemstones and precious metals. In jewelry, smokey topaz and turquoise settings are a very nice combination. Turquoise pairs very nicely with sterling silver.

Turquoise is an abundant gemstone, more so than many of the other precious birthstones. It is very popular in fashion jewelry. As it is an abundant material, it is also more affordable. The internet is an excellent place to shop for this widely available gem to get the best of the available turquoise styles. Online buying is also a great way to shop for turquoise jewelry wholesale and discounted turquoise jewelry.

Turquoise is a gem with such a long history and vast popularity that it gave its name to the color, not the other way around as is more often the case. The ancients recognized readily the beauty of the stone they believed would protect them from harm, monitor their strength, and make their arrows aim true. The value and beauty of turquoise is not lost on modern man or woman, either. Turquoise continues to be a very valued prize, fashion accessory, and keepsake treasure today.