[Turquoise <Turquoise>]

Japanese name for turquoise: Turquoise December birthstone

Main production areas: USA (Arizona, Nevada, Colorado, New Mexico), Iran, Egypt, China, Mexico, etc.

Mohs hardness: 6 or less 

Turquoise Gem Words: Success, Prosperity, Healthy Body, Travel Safety

 

Turquoise whose production is decreasing year by year. In Japan, it is called turquoise. The beautiful blue comes from copper, and with the addition of iron elements it leans towards green. Even good quality turquoise is somewhat brittle, and since it is a porous stone, it is very vulnerable to water and salt. In order to withstand use as jewelry, impregnation treatment is generally performed to increase hardness and maintain durability. Therefore, more than 90% of turquoise has undergone some kind of treatment. There are various types such as sleeping beauty symbolized by turquoise blue and net turquoise with net-like inclusions. Classified as a semi-precious stone. It is said to have the effect of protecting the body from danger, and has been useful as a talisman for travel since ancient times. It is also called "the sacred stone that contributes to the rise of all luck". Sleeping Beauty Turquoise is one of the most valuable turquoises and is traded as a "jewel". The Sleeping Beauty Mine in Arizona, USA has already closed, so it is a turquoise whose rarity and value are increasing year by year.

 

<Handling of turquoise>

Please avoid ultrasonic cleaning and steam cleaning for turquoise, which is originally a soft stone. Cosmetics, perfumes, chemicals, etc. can corrode turquoise and impair its color. The same applies to sebum, so please wipe it gently with a soft cloth after wearing it. Please avoid water and salt as they are not good at it. It is advisable to store it in a separate case to prevent it from being scratched by other jewelry (high Mohs grade). In addition, it may fade if exposed to ultraviolet light for a long time, so care must be taken when storing it.