Turquoise is said to have been mined more than 6000 years ago in the Sinai Peninsula and Iran;
In Persian times people would adorn themselves with Turquoise, usually around the neck or the wrist, as it was believed the stone would prevent fatalities. Turquoise more recently been found in Mexico. They were very popular in the late 18th and the 19thC because of their fashionable colour and afford ability.
Colour
Turquoises are famous for their bright, sky blue colour, but they do come in other hues and qualities.
While the best pieces are flawless and uniform in colour, many stones are speckled with dark markings from the surrounding matrix (parent)stone, and these are known as turquoise matrix, As a highly porous substance, turquoise is susceptible to discoloration by acids from the skin and the environment.Sometimes turquoises in antique jewellery have changed from bright blue to a greyish green for this reason.
It has long been thought to be a holy stone bringing the wearer god fortune and a prosperous life; even today Turquoise is thought to clear the mind and cheer people up.
Turquoise often gets given as a gift to the loved ones or dear friend and as it is one of December birthstone, it makes an ideal Christmas present.