Not just unique and eye-catching, but turquoise is also an absolutely stylish gem. Known for its beautiful bluish-green color, the gemstone is one of the most popular options for modern-day jewelry.
Did you know turquoise is also one of the world’s oldest gemstones? Some ancient cultures held the gem in high regard because they considered it to be a holy stone.
Turquoise is the birthstone for December along with tanzanite. Whether you are a December-born or intrigued by the facts mentioned above, turquoise jewelry is a must-have in every jewelry box. Because with proper care the gemstone can be worn every day!
Follow these tips to preserve its beauty for years to come.
How to Wear Turquoise Jewelry?
Turquoise ranks between 5 and 6 on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness, which means it is a fairly tough gemstone. You can wear turquoise jewelry every day provided it is cared for.
The gemstone undergoes treatments to enhance its beauty, some of these include stabilization, dyeing and waxing or oiling. This improves its color and durability; however, exposing turquoise to heat can cause discoloration and surface damage.
Therefore, avoid wearing the gemstone while cooking and in the shower. It is also recommended to remove turquoise jewelry before applying cosmetic products like body lotions and oils as they can get accumulated in the corners and make the gem appear dull.
It goes without saying that turquoise should not be worn while doing strenuous activities like cleaning the house, gardening, exercising, etc. as it is susceptible to damage or cracking.
How to Store Turquoise Jewelry?
Keep turquoise jewelry carefully in the box/case it came in after every use. If you intend to store it in your jewelry box, make sure it is first wrapped in a soft cloth and doesn’t come in contact with hard gemstones like diamond. Tough jewels can scratch its surface, therefore, if possible, store turquoise jewelry in a separate box. Place the box in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight, heat or moisture. These simple storing tips will keep your turquoise jewelry looking new and beautiful for years to come.
How to Clean Turquoise Jewelry?
Ultrasonic jewelry cleaners are not recommended for turquoise. Also, avoid using chemical-laden cleansers to clean your jewelry as the harsh ingredients can harm the appearance of the gemstone. If worn daily, clean your turquoise jewelry once every week using the following method.
- Make a soap water solution by adding a few drops of mild detergent to a bowl of warm water.
- Dip your jewelry in the solution and scrub gently using a soft-bristled brush. Do not soak the jewelry in soapy water as turquoise is a porous gem and it will absorb the liquid.
- Rinse with clean water and dry the piece with a soft towel. If your jewelry is set in silver, the moisture can tarnish the metal. Therefore, allow it to air dry before wearing or storing it back.
Did You Know?
- Turquoise is the national gemstone of Tibet.
- It is the only gemstone that has a color named after it.
- The word turquoise is derived from the French term ‘turquois’ which means ‘Turkish.’
Can Turquoise Be Worn Every Day? FAQ
- Can You Shower with Turquoise Jewelry?No, avoid wearing turquoise jewelry in the shower and bath tub. The gemstone is porous in nature, which means it will absorb water and other chemicals from the shower products. This might change the color and even damage the surface of the gemstone.
- What Does Turquoise Symbolize?The vibrant hue of turquoise is often associated with positive attributes like happiness and good fortune.
- What Is the Most Valuable Kind of Turquoise?An evenly colored, intense blue hue often referred to as Robin’s egg blue or sky blue is the most valuable turquoise type. It is found in the Nishapur district of Iran.
