Turquoise is the traditional birthstone of December. Its intense color makes it a highly desirable stone that can be used in jewelry or displayed as part of a collection. Turquoise is very rare in its natural form which makes it highly sought after by collectors.
Turquoise Gem History & Meaning
Cultures around the world have admired turquoise for its beautiful color since ancient times. The earliest evidence comes from Egypt where King Tut’s iconic burial mask was adorned with the stone and one of the oldest known mines could be found on the Sinai Peninsula. Ancient Persians also decorated extensively with turquoise believing it granted protection. In the Western Hemisphere, Native Americans mined turquoise throughout the southwestern United States and cherished the stone for its connection to the sky due to its blue color.
Turquoise Color
The stone can be found in a range of blue and green hues, from sky-blue to a more blue-green and finally an apple green color. The blue shades occur with the presence of copper in the area where the rock forms. The green comes from iron present when the stone forms and the yellow/green shades form with the presence of zinc. A robin egg blue turquoise is considered the most valuable color.
Turquoise can also have marks that can look like dark veins running through it called ‘matrix’. These marks are remnants of the rock that hosted the gem while it was being formed over millions of years. The matrix can be found in different colors but darker tones like black or brown are often favored because of how they contrast with the bright blues and greens of the stone.
Natural Form
Turquoise is very rare in its natural form and makes up a small percentage of what can be found on the market. Stabilized turquoise, which has been treated for softness and porousness, is much more common. The most common form of stabilization uses an epoxy resin which absorbs into the rock and permanently makes it harder and more suitable for jewelry.
Find Beautiful Gems at the Tucson Gem Show on 22nd Street
The dazzling blue and green tones of turquoise can be the perfect for a piece of jewelry or a wonderful addition to a crystal collection. The Tucson Gem Show on 22nd Street is happening from January 29 – February 15, 2026 and gives crystal collectors a chance to explore a gigantic collection of Earth’s treasures. Don’t miss the ultimate destination for mineral, fossil, gem, and jewelry enthusiasts at the Tucson Gem Show on 22nd Street.