Tightwad loves turquoise; yes, the colour, but more
especially, the gemstone. So much so she even has a Pinterest board with just turquoise. Here is a little info on this special stuff.
Brief
background Turquoise is an
aggregate of copper aluminum phosphate hydrate, formed under heat and pressure.
It's beauty has been prized for centuries in various
cultures - from Persian and Egyptian royalty to native people in the Americas. The word turquoise, which dates to the 16th
century, is derived from an Old French word for "Turkish", because
the mineral was first brought to Europe from Turkey. Turquoise was among the
first gems to be mined, and while many historic sites have been depleted, some
are still worked today. These are all small-scale, often seasonal operations,
due to the limited scope and remoteness of the deposits. Most are worked by
hand with little mechanization. Turquoise is often recovered as a byproduct of
large-scale copper mining operations.
Colour The colour is as variable as the
mineral's other properties, appearing in a stream of colours - from aqua blue
to light azure green. The blue is attributed to idiochromatic copper while the
green may be the result of either iron impurities or dehydration. Turquoise
can also have patterns of brown, yellow ochre and black matrix, produced
from copper compounds. True turquoise has an opaque, waxy luster that may or
may not include matrix, depending on type.
Appeal Turquoise has a pure and uplifting energy. It has been esteemed for thousands of years as a holy stone, a bringer
of good fortune or a talisman. Turquoise is one of the oldest protection
amulets, and known as a symbol of wealth in many ancient cultures.
Care Being a phosphate mineral, it is inherently
fragile and sensitive to solvents; perfume, sunscreen and hairspray may alter
the finish and colour, as will skin oils and most commercial jewelry cleaning
fluids. Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight may also discolour or dehydrate
turquoise. It can also be adversely affected if stored in an airtight container.
Healing
properties Wearing turquoise has
been said to neutralize acidity, alleviate rheumatism, gout, stomach problems
and viral infections, increase muscle strength, alleviate cramps and detoxify
the person who wears it; specifically on the solar plexus (abdomen). Its water and air energies can facilitate a
better flow of energy, promoting a gentle detoxification and
improving the state of one's immune system.
Relationships Turquoise can help one live life with more joy and
happiness. Its calming colour brings peace and
higher energy to any relationship. If given a turquoise by a loving friend, the
stone is said to protect the wearer from negative energy and bring good
fortune.
Feng shui Turquoise is used for its expression of the water
feng shui element; as a cure for attracting wealth and to improve one’s health
and well being.
Beware of imitations – they are out there!
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