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.
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.
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.
