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Turquoise, considered the oldest known gem, has captivated ancient cultures with its unique blue-green hue for millennia. Its calming energy, protective qualities, and ability to symbolise hope and good fortune have made it a precious mineral throughout history. Ancient cultures believed it would foster unbreakable bonds and provide great defensive power.
Turquoise has been used in jewellery-making since ancient times due to its flexibility, polishability, and versatility with primitive tools. The word “turquoise” has French origins, derived from the phrase “Pierre torques,” which means “Turkish stone.” It is believed that Turkish traders brought the stone from Persia to Europe, where it became well-known and popularised under this name. The world’s oldest known turquoise mine is in Sinai, Egypt, where turquoise has been sourced since 6000 BC. However, the mine is now depleted and no longer produces turquoise.
In ancient Egypt, turquoise was associated with the goddess Hathor, who was often depicted wearing a headdress adorned with turquoise stones. Hathor was a goddess of beauty, fertility, and joy and was believed to protect women and children. Ancient Egyptians also believed that turquoise had protective qualities and was often used in amulets and other protective objects. It was thought to protect the wearer from harm and to bring good fortune and prosperity. Turquoise was also prized for its beauty and used in decorative objects, including jewellery and ornaments. Its vivid colour was seen as a reflection of the beauty and abundance of the natural world.
The Chinese also highly regarded turquoise and ranked it as a precious gemstone just below jade in terms of prestige and rarity.
Native Americans in the southwestern United States have been mining and cutting turquoise for handmade necklaces and jewellery as far back as 200 B.C., using other materials like stones and shells. Later, with the arrival of Europeans and their refining techniques for silver and other metals in the Americas, native Americans began creating their unique jewellery style using turquoise and silver.
According to Native American tradition, the giver of a turquoise ring is said to receive good fortune and financial success. Therefore, rings have always been a popular and valuable accessory in traditional Native American jewellery, with several turquoise rings adorning each hand.
Throughout the history of jewellery, turquoise has been a trendsetter, often fashioned into various forms of jewellery worn on different body parts. In addition, powdered turquoise was used in ritual sacrifices, carried as amulets and healing charms, carved into sculptures depicting animal worship, and set in silver and turquoise jewellery by Native Americans.
Turquoise possesses remarkable healing properties and is renowned for shielding the wearer from potential threats. The symbolism of turquoise is often linked with predictions of danger, and many stories abound regarding its use as a warning sign. For instance, some believe that breaking a turquoise stone is a harbinger of danger for the owner. Similarly, Persian warriors used to adorn their helmets with turquoise, as they thought it would instil their courage, strength, and success on the battlefield. Additionally, turquoise was considered a talisman of safety for horses and their riders, with the gemstone believed to facilitate safe riding without any mishaps. For Persians travelling on the Silk Road, turquoise served as an aesthetically pleasing accessory and a source of good fortune and protection on their journey.
The Symbolism of Turquoise in the Middle East:
Turquoise has been considered a magical stone by both Turks and Persians, who believed it possessed protective powers. It was a popular choice for jewellery in ancient Turkey and Persia, adorning daggers and horse reins for the Persians, while both men and women wore it on their scarves and necklaces. The stone was thought to change colour in the presence of danger, acting as a shield for its wearer.
In Turkish history, soldiers fashioned turquoise into amulets that they believed would protect them in battle. They adorned their swords, armour, horse reins, and saddles with turquoise, trusting its power to keep them safe while scaling heights and in combat. The stone was thought to instil bravery, calm nerves, and bring good fortune and happiness to those who wore it.
The symbolism of turquoise in Native American tribes:
In the Americas, Native Americans viewed turquoise as a symbol of strength and effectiveness in combat, as Apache amulets featuring turquoise were commonly worn to boost aim and precision.
Turquoise is a gemstone used for centuries to promote physical and emotional well-being, owing to its healing properties. Apart from providing tranquillity and reducing stress, it is also believed to help heal various physical ailments. The gemstone is said to have anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate joint pain, headaches, and other physical discomforts. Turquoise is also believed to support the immune system and aid in detoxification. Additionally, its blue-green colour promotes communication and self-expression, making it a famous stone for those seeking to improve their communication skills or overcome shyness.
Turquoise is believed to be a gemstone that embodies immense knowledge and truth. It promotes introspection and inspires innovative approaches to problem-solving. This sea-green gemstone is a subtle reminder of the importance of personal journeys to each individual, and its energy encourages a deep understanding of the self and the world.
Turquoise has been associated with different symbols and meanings in various cultures worldwide.
In Greek culture, sea-green stones such as turquoise are related to the god of the sea, Poseidon. Furthermore, these stones are believed to have protective properties and are often worn as talismans by sailors and travellers to protect them from the perils of the sea.
In the U.K., turquoise was a popular gemstone for engagement rings and other romantic jewellery in the Victorian era. It was also believed to have the power to protect the wearer from harm and to bring good fortune. Turquoise was often given as a gift to loved ones as a symbol of enduring love and loyalty. In some cases, the gift of turquoise was accompanied by a love poem or other sentimental gesture, further emphasising the romantic significance of the stone.
Turquoise was often featured in Renaissance jewellery and art. It was appreciated for its vibrant blue-green colour and was utilized in ornate designs, especially in the Renaissance period, symbolizing luxury and elegance.
In Tibetan Buddhism, turquoise is believed to have spiritual significance and is sometimes used in ritual objects and decorations. In addition, it is often associated with the deity Tara, who is known for her compassionate and protective qualities. In some Tibetan traditions, the gradual change of turquoise from blue to green, when worn, symbolises the cycle of life and death and the accumulation of knowledge and spiritual insight. Blue represents the beginning of one’s spiritual journey, while green represents the achievement of spiritual understanding and enlightenment.
If you are looking to buy turquoise jewellery and want to ensure that you get the best quality, you should consider genuine Persian turquoise. This type of turquoise is widely regarded as the finest in the world and is highly sought after by collectors and jewellery enthusiasts alike. At Amitis Art, we are proud to offer an extensive collection of turquoise jewellery that features stones from the world-renowned Nishapur mine. Our jewellery collection is an excellent choice for those who value quality and unique design. To browse our collection and find the perfect piece of jewellery for yourself or your loved ones, visit us at www.amitisart.net.
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Author: Sohrab Jamarani
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