Turquoise: The Ultimate Guide to Its Meaning, Value, and Uses

Mar 19, 2025KAILASHENERGY

Turquoise is one of the most cherished gemstones, loved for its stunning blue-green hues and deep cultural significance. Whether you’re interested in turquoise jewelry, its spiritual meaning, or how to tell if turquoise is real, this guide covers everything you need to know.

In This Article: A Complete Guide to Turquoise

  1. What is Turquoise? – Understanding its composition and formation.
  2. How Much is Turquoise Worth? – Pricing guide and factors affecting value.
  3. How to Tell if Turquoise is Real? – Tests and comparisons between real and fake turquoise.
  4. How to Make the Color Turquoise? – Mixing turquoise shades for art and design.
  5. Turquoise Jewelry: A Timeless Trend – Why turquoise jewelry remains popular.
  6. The Meaning and Symbolism of Turquoise – Cultural and spiritual significance.
  7. Where is Turquoise Found? – Major sources and their unique characteristics.
  8. How to Care for Turquoise Jewelry? – Best practices for preserving turquoise.

What is Turquoise?

Turquoise is a naturally occurring gemstone with a signature blue-green color, formed by the combination of copper, aluminum, and phosphate minerals over millions of years. It is primarily found in arid regions such as the United States, Iran, China, and Egypt.

Is Turquoise Blue or Green?

Turquoise varies in color based on its mineral composition:
🔹 Bluer turquoise contains more copper.
🟢 Greener turquoise has higher levels of iron or zinc.

Turquoise Shade Composition Common Source
Bright Blue High Copper Iran, Arizona
Blue-Green Moderate Copper & Iron Tibet
Green High Iron & Zinc Egypt, Mexico

 

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How Much is Turquoise Worth?

The value of turquoise depends on its color, quality, and origin.

Factors That Determine Turquoise’s Value

  • Color – Vivid sky blue is the most valuable.
  • Clarity & Matrix – The best turquoise has minimal veining (matrix).
  • Hardness – Natural turquoise has a Mohs hardness of 5-6.
  • Origin – Persian, American, and Tibetan turquoise are highly prized.
  • Treatment – Natural turquoise is worth more than stabilized or dyed stones.

💎 Turquoise Price Guide:

Turquoise Type Price per Carat
Low-grade (dyed or treated) $3 - $20
Medium-grade $30 - $100
High-quality natural turquoise $150 - $800
Collectible turquoise jewelry $2,000+

 

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How to Tell if Turquoise is Real? (Fake vs. Real)

With the popularity of turquoise, fake turquoise has flooded the market. Here’s how to tell the difference:

1. The Scratch Test (Hardness Test)

  • Real Turquoise is moderately hard (Mohs 5-6).
  • If a sharp knife easily scratches the stone, it's likely dyed howlite or plastic.

2. The Color & Matrix Test

  • Genuine turquoise has slight color variations and natural veining (matrix).
  • Fake turquoise is often too uniform in color with no natural texture.

3. The Water Test

  • Place the stone in warm water for a few minutes.
  • If the color fades or rubs off, it is dyed.

4. The Heat Test

  • Hold the stone near a flame for 20-30 seconds.
  • If it gives off a plastic smell, it’s likely resin or dyed material.

5. UV Light Test

  • Under UV light, real turquoise remains unchanged, while some fakes glow bright blue or green.
Test Real Turquoise Fake Turquoise
Scratch Test Slightly scratchable Easily scratches
Color Test Natural variations Too uniform
Water Test No color change Color fades
Heat Test No smell Plastic odor
UV Light Test No reaction Glows

 

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How to Make the Color Turquoise?

If you’re looking to mix turquoise paint or design with turquoise, here’s how:

🎨 Mixing Paints:

  • Start with blue (cyan or sky blue).
  • Add a small amount of yellow to create a greenish tint.
  • Adjust by adding white (for pastel turquoise) or black (for deep teal).

Turquoise Jewelry: A Timeless Trend

Turquoise jewelry is a fashion staple, known for its vibrant beauty and cultural significance.

Why is Turquoise Jewelry Popular?

✔️ Unique & Vibrant – No two pieces are alike.
✔️ Spiritual & Protective – Worn for luck and balance.
✔️ Matches Any Outfit – Looks great with silver, gold, and boho fashion.

💎 Popular Turquoise Jewelry Types:

📿 Necklaces – Statement pieces for elegance.
💍 Rings – Often set in silver or gold.
📌 Earrings – A subtle yet striking accessory.

Jewelry Type Best Metal Pairing
Rings Silver, Gold
Necklaces Beads, Sterling Silver
Bracelets Leather, Beaded

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The Meaning and Symbolism of Turquoise

Turquoise has been used for centuries for its spiritual and healing properties.Turquoise has held symbolic meaning for many civilizations, representing protection, wisdom, and prosperity.

Turquoise in Ancient Cultures

Culture Symbolism & Usage
Ancient Egyptians Used in amulets and burial jewelry for protection in the afterlife
Persians (Iran) Worn by royalty as a symbol of power and luck
Native Americans Considered a sacred stone for warriors and spiritual leaders
Tibetans Believed to bring harmony and emotional balance

Spiritual Benefits of Turquoise

🔹 Promotes Inner Peace – Helps with stress and emotional balance.
🔹 Enhances Communication – Linked to the throat chakra.
🔹 Attracts Luck & Protection – Considered a guardian stone.

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Where is Turquoise Found?

The top turquoise-producing regions include:

🌍 United States – Arizona, Nevada, New Mexico (Native American turquoise)
🌍 Iran – Persian turquoise, known for its deep sky-blue color
🌍 Tibet – One of the largest suppliers of commercial turquoise
🌍 Egypt – Used since ancient times for jewelry and amulets

Each region produces turquoise with unique characteristics and value.

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How to Care for Turquoise Jewelry?

To keep your turquoise jewelry looking its best:

💧 Avoid Water & Chemicals – Perfumes, lotions, and water can damage the stone.
☀️ Keep Away from Heat – Excessive heat can cause color fading.
🧽 Clean Gently – Use a soft cloth (no soap or harsh cleaners).
📦 Store Properly – Keep in a separate pouch to prevent scratches.

With proper care, turquoise jewelry can last for generations.

Final Thoughts on Turquoise

Turquoise is more than just a gemstone—it carries deep history, cultural meaning, and spiritual significance. Whether you’re buying turquoise jewelry, exploring its spiritual meaning, or learning how to identify real turquoise, this guide has everything you need.

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