TURQUOISE
The only gemstone that has a colour named after it, Turquoise has been prized as a gemstone throughout history. It remains a popular gemstone today and stands out in the line-up of opaque gemstones.
A sky-blue or green translucent to opaque gemstone, Turquoise gets its name from the French ‘turqueise’, meaning ‘Turkish stone’, although in fact the best quality Turquoise comes from northeast Iran. Its similar appearance means Turquoise is sometimes referred to as a cousin of Lapis Lazuli.
Sources: Northeast Iran boasts the best quality turquoise, with deposits also found in Afghanistan, Argentina, Australia, Brazil, China, Israel, Mexico, Tanzania and the USA.
Similar gemstones: Turquoise does not bear a direct resemblance to any other gemstone. Lapis Lazuli has a deeper, blue colour, while Variscite and Amazonite are greener and softer.
Colour palette: Turquoise has a distinctive sky blue, blue-green or apple-green colour, that is translucent or opaque. Pure blue Turquoise is rare, with most Turquoise featuring brown, dark-grey or black veins.
Persian blue, or Robin's egg blue, is the popular, sky-blue colour of Turquoise.
More information about Turquoise: Turquoise is an alternative Birthstone of December, the 11th Wedding Anniversary gemstone and associated with peace and balance, as well as good luck and longevity.
Similar gemstones: Turquoise does not bear a direct resemblance to any other gemstone. Lapis Lazuli has a deeper, blue colour, while Variscite and Amazonite are greener and softer.
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