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A bit about turquoise



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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