Turquoise is a gemstone with a long history and a profound influence in many cultures. It has attracted the attention of countless people with its unique blue hue and rich texture. However, turquoise is a relatively fragile gemstone, susceptible to wear and tear and chemicals, and therefore requires careful care.
How Do I Care For My Turquoise Jewelry?
Here are some basic care tips:
- Avoid collision: turquoise is relatively soft (Mohs hardness of 5 to 6), easy to be hit by hard objects and cracked or broken. Therefore, try to avoid wearing turquoise jewelry during strenuous exercise or heavy physical labor to prevent collision damage.
- Avoid heat: High temperatures may cause turquoise to dehydrate, making it dry and brittle, so prolonged exposure to sunlight or proximity to sources of ignition should be avoided.
- Avoid exposure to chemicals: Turquoise is a relatively soft gemstone that is susceptible to acids and alkalis. Therefore, please avoid exposing turquoise jewelry to products containing chemicals such as cosmetics, perfumes, and detergents.
- Storage: When you are not wearing your turquoise jewelry, please store it separately in a soft cloth bag or box so that it will not rub against other hard jewelry and cause scratches.
- Check the settings regularly: If your turquoise is set in metal, check the setting periodically to make sure it is secure and have it reinforced or repaired by a professional if necessary.
- Regular cleaning: Turquoise surface is prone to absorb grease and dirt, affecting its luster. Regular cleaning of turquoise jewelry helps to remove surface dirt and restore its original luster. It can be gently wiped with a soft cloth or cleaned with warm water and a little soap, then rinsed with clean water and dried with a soft dry cloth. Do not use ultrasonic or steam cleaners as this may damage the turquoise.
What Is The Meaning Of Turquoise Jewelry?
It has a long history in many cultures and has been given a variety of symbolic meanings. Turquoise jewelry is not only aesthetically pleasing, but is often considered to have special protective powers or spiritual significance.
Ancient Egyptian Culture
In Ancient Egypt, turquoise was seen as a symbol of life and was closely associated with immortality and rebirth. The ancient Egyptians believed that turquoise brought good luck and protected the wearer from evil influences. It was often used as an amulet, especially in eye jewelry, such as the famous “Eye of Horus” amulet, to protect the wearer's eyes from harm. In addition, turquoise was used in burial jewelry to ensure the happiness of the deceased in the afterlife.
Native American Culture
For Native Americans, turquoise is a sacred stone, believed to bridge the gap between heaven and earth. It was widely used in ceremonies and ornaments to symbolize purity, love and good fortune. Among the Navajo, Zuni, and Hopi tribes, turquoise was often set in silver and made into necklaces, earrings, bracelets, and other jewelry. Turquoise is believed by these tribes to promote health, prosperity and success, as well as being a symbol of love.
Persian Culture
In Persia (now Iran), turquoise has been revered since ancient times and is considered to be the embodiment of the sky and the sea, symbolizing protection and blessing. It was often used in the adornment of royalty, especially on crowns and thrones. Persian legend mentions that turquoise was able to change color to warn the wearer of potential danger. In addition, turquoise is considered a good luck charm that brings wealth and health.
Western Culture
Turquoise is equally imbued with positive meaning in Western culture. It is considered one of the birthstones of December and represents victory, success and happiness. It is believed that wearing turquoise enhances communication skills and creativity, and helps to calm mood swings. In some regions, turquoise is also considered a protective talisman for travelers, as it is believed to ensure a safe journey.
Buddhist Culture
In the Buddhist tradition, turquoise is considered one of the Seven Jewels, one of the seven precious stones worn by the Buddha. It is believed to purify the mind, eliminate negative emotions, and help people achieve inner peace. In Tibetan Buddhism, turquoise is used to make rosaries and as jewelry for monks and lamas, symbolizing wisdom and compassion.
Modern Significance
Turquoise remains a popular gemstone in contemporary society, not only for its beauty but also for the various symbolic meanings it carries. Many believe that it brings calm and balance, and helps to enhance one's intuition and creativity.
- Beauty & Elegance: Turquoise, with its distinctive blue hue and natural texture, lends endless beauty and elegance to jewelry. Whether for formal occasions or everyday wear, turquoise jewelry adds a touch of glamour.
- Protection: In many cultures, turquoise is considered a talisman that protects the wearer from evil forces.
- Health And Healing: Turquoise is often thought to have healing properties that promote physical and mental well-being. Many believe that wearing turquoise jewelry brings good luck, courage and wisdom, as well as helping to relieve stress and anxiety.
- Good Luck and Prosperity: Turquoise is also often associated with good luck, wealth and success.
- Communication and Expression: Some traditions believe that turquoise can help improve communication skills and enhance personal expression.
- Clear Thinking: Turquoise is believed to help improve clarity of thought and help people make better decisions.
- Friendship and Love: Turquoise can be used as a symbol of friendship and love, and is sometimes given to friends and family to express deep feelings.
- Spiritual Growth: In some spiritual practices, turquoise is believed to aid in spiritual growth and personal transformation.
- Balance and Harmony: Often associated with balance and harmony, turquoise is believed to help balance emotions and bring inner peace.
Turquoise jewelry is not only a beautiful ornament, but also a work of art that carries a rich historical and cultural heritage. With proper care, we can keep turquoise jewelry with long-lasting luster and beauty; at the same time, by understanding the significance of turquoise, we can better appreciate and cherish these precious stones.
Aphrodite Heart Turquoise Open Ring
