Monday, December 6, 2010

TURQUOISE


TURQUOISE
December’s Birthstone
Discovered by ancient Egyptians, Turquoise was widely used in treasures fit for Pharaohs.  Old Europeans credited Turquoise with helping achieve a higher state of consciousness.  Tibetans revered the gemstone as a talisman of good fortune.  Native American Indians used it as a shaman’s stone.  A December birthstone, Turquoise is a light to dark blue or blue-green gemstone.  The finest color is an intense blue that is uniform throughout.  Turquoise may contain narrow veins of its host rock known as the matrix, sometimes in a web-like pattern.  Turquoise is routinely enhanced to improve color and durability.  To clean, wipe with a soft, damp cloth and dry.  Avoid rough treatment and contact with chemicals.

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