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Turquoise is a hydrous copper aluminium phosphate which varies in colour from green-blue through blue to grey-green, according to its copper and ferric iron content. A brittle stone which occurs in cryptocrystalline nodules and is susceptible to discolouration when exposed to heat, sunlight, moisture, perspiration or dryness, it is often treated with wax or sodium silicate and additional dye in order to preserve its beauty. There are many imitations of turquoise which can be made of plastic, ceramics, ivory, glass, calcite, howlite, faustite or blue prosopite (the latter four being minerals themselves). A cryptocrystalline mineral which is commonly reniform or stalactitic or may form as a coating, it occurs in cracks in extrusive rocks and sandstones, and can be found in pegmatites. Main deposits are found in Iran, Uzbekistan, USA (New Mexico, Utah, California) and Poland.
History.
Turquoise has always been held in high regard by the peoples of ancient civilisations. Mined in the Sinai Peninsula by the ancient Egyptians, traded by the Turks of the Ottoman Empire in Iran and known by the people of China and Tibet, plenty references to the mineral abound. The Indian tribes of the south-western USA used turquoise as amulets, a "holy" stone and as a means of common exchange. Hindus considered turquoise a lucky stone as did the Iranians. The Arab peoples valued the stone for its colour-changing properties which, they said, could foretell danger.
Healing properties.
The laying-on or the wearing of a turquoise necklace can help the glands and the blood circulation. Turquoise may help promote the exchange of nutrients, minerals, vitamins and carbohydrates and can have a beneficial effect on the muscles, nerves and organs. Torn ligaments may heal quicker when one drinks turquoise water or wears a turquoise necklace. The stone is also said to help heal diseases of the neck and infections of the respiratory system. When placed on the skin, turquoise may help heal infections, eczema and open, festering wounds. Used in water, as pendants or necklaces, turquoise can be a powerful healer for teeth and gums. Turquoise may help overcome psychosomatic illness and neurotic behaviour. It is said to help instill a sense of self-worth and confidence and may help to relieve depression. For those who are by nature hesitant and insecure, the stone may inspire them to adopt a more positive lifestile. Turquoise also helps us to express our opinion and to hold our own in an argument.
Chakra.
A stone for the throat chakra, it helps us to connect with the full beauty of nature and the universe during meditation. It helps us to combine inspirational ideas with our intuitive feelings. It is said that turquoise is a powerful protector, which can warn the wearer of impending adversity or danger by a sudden change of colour.
Use and Care.
Turquoise can be used as tumbled, rough, palm-stone, carved in spherical form, as a necklace, as pendant or donut. Turquoise and turquiose jewellery may be cleansed by placing in a dish filled with tumbled haematite overnight. This can be done once a month. If turquiose becomes discoloured, it is advisable to cleanse and discharge it by this method straight away. To recharge, place the turquoise on a rock crystal cluster and copper nuggets (native copper), but take care not to place in direct sunlight as this will cause discolouration. The healing properties of turquoise are said to be enhanced by silver and red coral.
Astrological signs:
Aquarius (Jan. 21-Feb. 18)
Cancer (June 21-July 20)
Sagittarius (Nov. 23-Dec.21)
Disclaimer.
The above information has been compiled from many sources, and does not necessarily represent a view based on scientific evidence. It has purely been given for those who wish to know more about the intuitive use of minerals. If anyone has a condition which needs medical attention, they should seek medical advice.
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