Turquoise is possibly the oldest gemstones known to man. It is an opaque stone typically ranging in color from blue-to-green with some rarer strains in purple and yellow. The majority of the world's finest-quality turquoise comes from the western and southwestern United States with New Mexico coming in first in production up until the 1920’s.
As rich as it is in color, Turquoise is rich in heritage. This gemstone was considered by the ancients to be a sacred stone, protective against all manners of evil and ill health. The Apache believed that Turquoise assisted warriors and hunters to aim accurately. The Zuni believed that Turquoise held the demons at bay while the Apache believe that placing Turquoise on a bow or gun would make it shoot straight. In the Middle Ages they believed that Turquoise had the power to protect the wearer from injury from falling, especially falling from horse-back, and that it made the horse more sure-footed. Native American medicine men kept Turquoise stones in their sacred bundles because they possess the powers of healing. In modern times there is a belief that turquoise has the power to protect and cleanse while being a symbol of good fortune and success. If you’re wearing a turquoise ring and you look down and see a crack in the stone, the Native Americans would say “the stone took it”, meaning the stone took the blow that was meant for you.
One Native American legend tells of a chief with turquoise colored skin who was being pursued by his enemies in the hot desert. As he fled beads of perspiration would fall to the ground and became Turquoise gems scattered throughout the Southwest.
Over the years Turquoise has become the stone of sky, stone of water, stone of blessings, good fortune, protection, good health and long life. (Decorate my rose quartz body suit with beads of Turquoise.) It is said that Turquoise will grow pale on an ill person and regain its color when the person’s health is restored.
Turquoise is known as an aid in mental functions, communications and expression. It can be worn to protect against pollutants in the atmosphere. The gemstone is excellent for reducing depression and exhaustion and has the power to prevent panic attacks. Turquoise also symbolizes friendship, generosity, sincerity, affection and romantic love. It is a stone of peace and tranquility. A gift of Turquoise represents friendship and luck and bestows wealth and happiness to its receiver.
The addition of a Turquoise bead to my necklace will enhance my immune system, stimulate the regeneration of tissue, and alleviate cramps and pain. It will also sooth a sore throat, tone and strengthen the body and heal the eyes. (And hopefully bring wealth, happiness and long life.)
New Mexico designated Turquoise as its official state gem in 1967.
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