Turquoise - December's Traditional Birthstone

eg4154
Dec 1
1 min read

Admired since ancient times, turquoise has always been known for its distinct color which ranges from a pure powdery blue to green with every nuanced shade in between. This remarkable gemstone has been cherished across various cultures and civilizations for thousands of years, often symbolizing protection, healing, and good fortune. Ancient Persia (Iran) was the traditional source for sky blue turquoise - which is generally characterized by its lack of matrix or veining, resulting in a smooth, uniform appearance. Today, this look is often called “Persian blue” regardless of its origin. Several US states including Nevada, New Mexico, California, and Colorado produce turquoise, but Arizona leads in production by value as well as quality.

Turquoise is found in arid regions where rainwater dissolves copper in the soil, forming colorful nodular deposits when it combines with aluminum and phosphorus. Copper contributes blue hues, while iron and chrome add green.

Highly esteemed for its striking color and ancient history, turquoises' popularity remains timeless making it an excellent choice as December's Traditional Birthstone!