Turquoise Jewelry

Examples of turquoise jewelry have been found that date back to ancient Egyptian times. The famous burial mask of Tutankhamen as adorned with turquoise and there were many other pieces of turquoise jewelry found in his tomb. There have also been numerous pieces of Aztec turquoise jewelry that have been discovered. These ancient cultures appreciated the beauty of this blue-green mineral. Throughout history, other cultures produced turquoise jewelry and other items that incorporated turquoise. The native Indians of America have made use of this gem throughout the centuries it is still considered an essential part of their colorful heritage.

Turquoise jewelry is a wonderful gift for anyone, but it is especially appropriate for anyone born in December. This is because the gemstone for December is traditionally turquoise. It is an extremely versatile mineral and can be set into silver earrings or elaborate 24-carat gold necklaces. There are different grades of turquoise and it is possible to buy a piece of turquoise jewelry for only a few dollars. Of course, the value of a piece of turquoise jewelry depends on the quality of the stone used, the amount and also the value of any other stones that are in the piece.

As turquoise is not a naturally hard mineral. This does make it easier for the gem to be cut to fit any type of turquoise jewelry. A hardening process is used to help protect the mineral once it has been cut to the desired shape and size. The most expensive forms of turquoise are those that require the least amount of hardening treatments. This does, however make it more difficult to use them to form turquoise jewelry, as it is easier for it to break. The lower grades of turquoise require a lot of hardening and waxing before they can become pieces of turquoise jewelry and are less sought after. The color of the turquoise also has an impact on its value. If a piece of turquoise jewelry comprises a piece of sky blue turquoise then its value is going to be far higher than a piece that utilizes greenish-blue and speckled turquoise.

Due to the fragility of turquoise, special care needs to be taken when wearing a piece of turquoise jewelry. It is also extremely vulnerable to damage from solvents as it is a phosphate mineral. Special care needs to be taken to avoid any turquoise jewelry coming into contact with perfume, skin oils and chemical cleaning fluids. All of these can cause deterioration of the color and shine of the turquoise. Perfume, cosmetics, sunscreen, and hairspray need to be applied before you put on a piece of turquoise jewelry to lessen the potential damage that may be caused to the gemstone. Direct sunlight can have an extremely detrimental effect on turquoise as it causes it to fade and dry out which makes it more brittle and easier to break. Finally, always clean turquoise jewelry with a soft cloth to remove any build-up and store in a separate box from harder gemstones to prevent scratching.

Copyright 2006. © Turquoise Jewelry