Ever since turquoise was first discovered in ancient Egypt some four
thousand years ago, it has had a special place in civilizations and
cultures all over the world. In ancient times, Turkey was the hub of
international trade in turquoise. With its strategic location straddling
Asia and Europe, it facilitated the spread of turquoise in Asian and
European cultures. After it was first identified, this blue gemstone has
always been associated with royalty. In ancient Egypt, it was used to
adorn the palaces, temples, and tombs of kings and queens. The spiritual
side of turquoise was brought out early in Egypt. High priests wore
turquoise pendants and other ornaments to signify their connection with
the various gods of Egyptian mythology and folklore. Only people of
great importance were allowed to use turquoise, and it was a sign of
one's attainment of high rank in society. Turquoise inlay jewelry
made by local Native American artisans in the Southwestern United States
is famous all over the world. While most people purchase this
Southwestern jewelry because of the beauty of turquoise, and the gorgeous
combination of sterling silver and the sky blue gemstone, it is important
to note that the Native American tribes first started using turquoise is
jewelry not for its beauty, for the spiritual and religious sentiments
that they attached to this stone. For them, this blue colored gemstone
was formed in the earth, but resembled the color of the sky. So in a
way, it represented the coming together of heaven and earth. Although
most wearers of turquoise jewelry made by Native American jewelers have
little knowledge about the religious and spiritual significance of this
gemstone, you can rest assured that the artists themselves use their
jewelry designs not only to express their artistic talent and creativity,
but as a sign of their spirituality and religion. This is the principal
reason while jewelry designs and patterns from the various Native
American tribes such as the Hopi, Navajo, etc. are distinct from each
other.
The metaphysical properties of turquoise continue to be touted today.
Most of these properties are related to its blue color, which in turn is
caused by the presence of copper - a key ingredient needed for the
formation of turquoise. Some cultures believe that subtle changes in the
color of this gemstone in jewelry is an indicator of the health of the
wearer. Others believe that changes in the stone color suggest
infidelity on part of the wearer! Overall, people believe that this
gemstone is a protective stone that promotes general well being. They
believe that it helps connect the physical and spiritual parts of our
mind, allowing us to be comfortable in both worlds. It is also believed
to enhance the bonds of friendship, love, loyalty, and trust.
This article was written by Dale Arnold. Dale is a geologist in the
Southwestern United States. In his spare time, he is a gem collector and
a jewelry buff with an eye for freshwater pearl necklaces, bracelets,
and other pearl jewelry.
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