Turqouise
Name
The name of the turquoise comes from the French "pierre turquoise" (turkish stone), although it does not come from Turkey, but from Persia. The turquoise is one of the oldest gemstones in the world.
Colour
The color scale of the turquoise ranges from sky blue, blue-green to green. The most sought after is the sky blue color with medium brightness and saturation, while greenish shades are considered less valuable.
Cut
The turquoise gemstone is usually made into pearls or a cabochon, but it can also be carved.
Mineral group
The Turquoise belongs to the mineral class of phosphates.
Locations
The most significant turquoise occurrences are still in Iran - Nishapar is due to its historic reputation to this day one of the best turquoise sites. As early as 4000 BC BC, the turquoise deposits in Egypt were exploited, so they have only historical value. Further localities are in Afghanistan, Argentina, Australia, Brazil, China, Israel, Mexico, Tanzania, the USA, and also in Europe (Germany, France, ...).
Power
Turquoise is said to be more successful as it strengthens self-confidence, improves expression and communication skills, and encourages energy and assertiveness. He should also protect against negative influences, as well as against all environmental toxins and worn as a lucky stone, he should encourage love and good thoughts.
The turquoise is one of the oldest gemstones in the world and has been worshiped in many cultures as a lucky charm or even holy stone.
Birthstone
The turquoise gemstone is traditionally the birthstone for December.
Mohs scale
The Mohs hardness describes the hardness of a mineral on a scale of 1 to 10 and is named after its inventor, the German mineralogist Friedrich Mohs (1773 - 1839). It is the basis of the hardness test. Friedrich Mohs scored various minerals against each other and arranged them according to their hardness. The scale consists of a series of 10 minerals, each of which "scratches" all standing in front of him. Diamonds have a Mohs hardness of 10 and are therefore the hardest minerals.
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1 + 2 can be scratched with the bare fingernail
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1 - 5 can be scratched with the knife
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6 - 10 can be scratched with pane
The turquoise has hardness 5-6 on the Mohs hardness scale, depending on the density.
Care
The best way to care for the turquoise with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth. Ultrasonic and steam cleaners are never recommended. Heat, chemicals, cosmetics and even skin oils or sweat can discolour or damage the treated turquoise.
Turquoise is sensitive to sunlight and high temperatures, as a result of which the color fades, which is why it should be protected from it.
Combination
The turquoise looks great with silver on the ring or bracelet. Also as a necklace or earring he makes a great appearance. In general, it is a very summery stone, which fits great with a linen tunic or a light summer dress.