Turquoise
Protection, healing and regeneration
Turquoise can come in different shades of blue or green, and is commonly veined or mottled with brown or black oxides or a sandstone base. These veins are either the host rock or other minerals and turquoise that contains veins is referred to as "turquoise matrix". Pure blue turquoise is rare.
The word Turquoise comes from the French word "Turquie" (named after the country Turkey) as trading routes brought Turquoise from Persia through the Middle East towards Europe in the 17th century. Turquoise is mined chiefly in Iran, Afghanistan, China, Australia, Chile, Mexico, and in Arizona and Nevada in the US.
Turquoise has a long history of use as a talisman or amulet. The ancient Egyptians believed that the color blue was a symbol of regeneration, so turquoise was treasured for both decorative and superstitious purposes. Turquoise was also used by Native Americans in works of art and jewelry, some of whom believed that it possessed protective properties. The Tibetans believe in the healing properties of turquoise and have valued turquoise jewelry for centuries.