Turquoise

Mineral Information

Origin: Notably China, U.S.A.

Mineral Species: Turquoise

Mineral Group: Phosphates

Chemical Formula: CuAl6(PO4)4(OH)8.4H2O

Hardness: 5-6

Crystal System: Triclinic

Colour: Pale to mid-blue, pale green.

Typical Appearance: Usually as botryoidal or reniform masses or crusts.

Esoteric Information

Birthstone: Capricorn

Chakra Alignment: Heart, Upper Heart and Throat

Element: None

Origin of Name & Mythology: Named in antiquity from the French "turquoise" meaning "Turkish"; the original material from the south slopes of the Al-Mirsah-Kuh Mountains (Iran), found its way to Europe via Turkey.

Additional Information

For thousands of years, cultures throughout the world have used turquoise as a protection against harmful spells and evil. It has been worn as an amulet for protection, strength and good health, and is held sacred by many Native American tribes, particularly in New Mexico and Arizona. It is still considered to be a stone of protection on many levels, and can also be used to cleanse negative energy, including electromagnetic energy. It is calming and balancing, can stabilise mood swings, and is considered to be supportive when exhausted or overworked. It is believed by some to support intuition and psychic gifts. The colouration and properties of turquoise can vary, dependent on where it is mined.