The Traditional Gem of December – Turquoise

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Blue is the color of December, at least as far as birthstones go! Blue topaz and turquoise are both gorgeous gems – we have written about them both here and provide more details about blue topaz here. Let’s check out more fun details about turquoise, which is the traditional December birthstone.

• Turquoise was one of the earliest gems mined, between 5,000 and 7,000 years ago.
• The name turquoise means “Turkish Stone” as it was originally imported to Europe from Turkey. The name comes from the French word for Turkey since it was believed that the mineral originated there.
• The most desirable color of turquoise is a strong sky blue to “robin’s egg” blue. The value decreases with the increase of green hue, lightening of color, and mottling.
• Turquoise is the only gemstone to have an official color named after it.
• Turquoise is the gemstone for the 11^th wedding anniversary.
• Tibetans revered the gemstone as a talisman of good fortune. To this day, turquoise remains to be the most prized gemstone in Tibet.
• Turquoise is sacred to many Native Americans and was often used as a shaman’s stone, which were stones believed to have strong metaphysical properties for spiritual growth.
• With a Mohs rating between 5 and 6, turquoise should be handled carefully and stored separately from other harder gemstones.

If you are looking for a great gift for a Sagittarian, turquoise is a true bargain – beautiful and affordable! Stop by Bridgewaters for all your holiday shopping needs!