
![]() This "piece" goes for ONLY $1500 ![]() This here ring goes for ONLY $2753 |
The
derivation of the name turquoise is clouded in mystery but may be a result of
the stone coming from the Orient or Persia by way of Turkey. The gem turquoise
owes it's beauty almost entirely to its superb color. Turquoise is one of the
oldest known gem materials. It has been used for ornamentation since 3000BC
and possibly before. Although turquoise is frequently treated with dye or stabalized
with plastic, our turquoise is 100% natural and has not been altered in any
way. ![]() The most important turquoise deposits are in Iran, Tibet, China, Mexico, and the Southwestern United States. While a clear even texture without mottleing or veins is preferred by many, other people prefer turquoise with veins, sometimes called spiderwebs, which set off the color. Some say that in the the thirteenth century, turquoise was named in the mistaken belief that it came from Turkey. That may be true or it may be that the name comes from the Persian word for turquoise, firouze, since Persia has been a major source of this gemstone for thousands of years. In any case, the blue of this gemstone is so vivid and distinct that it has given its name to the color.
The Apache believed that if turquoise was worn by a hunter they would hit their mark more easily. The Zuni beleved that it shieded them from demons. In Asia it was considered protection against the evil eye. Tibetans carved turquoise into ritual objects as well as wearing it in traditional jewelry. Ancient manuscripts from Persia, India, Afghanstan, and Arabia report that the health of a person wearing turquoise can be determined by the variations of color in the stone. Turquoise was also thought to promote prosperity. |
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J Thomson Custom Jewelers 5770 NW Expressway, Suite 101 Oklahoma City, OK 73132 (405) 495-6610 FAX (405) 728-1914 Email: gems@customfinejewelry.com |