The origin of turquoise is shrouded in mystery but we do know that this enigmatic stone has been treasured for centuries.
While the date of its discovery has been lost to antiquity, the first records of turquoise date to roughly 3000 BCE: It was used in ornaments for Egyptian tombs. Ever since, humans have adored its enticing colours and mystical aura. Throughout the world, turquoise jewelry has held emotional significance as well as aesthetic beauty.
Gemstones like turquoise have long adorned our rings and necklaces, carrying deep significance. Turquoise is no exception; over time, various cultures have attributed a wealth of symbolism to turquoise.
If its unique appearance has caught your eye, you may wonder about the meaning of turquoise jewelry. It has many—but certain themes remain consistent across millennia. Turquoise jewelry embodies a unique allure with its symbolism anchored in diverse cultures. We’ll explore those here.
Historical Significance of Turquoise Jewelry
Countless cultures have brightened their temples and jewelry with the singular hue of turquoise. Turquoise stones have traveled through time, holding different meanings and properties while retaining a place of honour. Numerous civilizations have embraced turquoise above other stones, integrating it into their artistry.
Turquoise in Ancient Egyptian Jewelry
Turquoise forms in desert environments. The bright blue-green gemstone is a testament to nature’s artistry. No wonder it first surfaced amidst the windswept sands of the Sinai Peninsula in ancient Egypt. The Egyptians immediately recognized its beauty, naming it “mefkat,” which means “joy” or “delight”.
After extracting the beautiful blue-green stone,, Egyptian craftsmen set it into rings and hung it from necklaces. They also relied on it as an ornamental inlay for carved sarcophagi and statues. These treasures reflect the quality and craftsmanship of their creators.
The Persians discovered the turquoise stone during their interactions with Egypt and quickly integrated it into their architecture, infusing their domed temples with its signature azure.
Native American Traditions and Turquoise
Meanwhile, on the other side of the planet, Native Americans also unearthed the gem. The stone became a pivotal element in their cultural expressions. They crafted turquoise into intricate bracelets, using silver and beads to highlight its beauty. They readily embraced its charm, and to this day turquoise remains synonymous with Native American art.
It was not solely beauty that drew Native artists to turquoise stone—they attributed immense spiritual power to its stunning colour.
In the Navajo creation story, for example, the first human shapes the sun from a turquoise deposit, and it appears countless times as a symbol of divine renewal.
In other Native cultures, turquoise symbolizes represents the sky, water, and nature’s revitalizing power.
Cultural and Spiritual Meanings of Turquoise Jewelry
Interestingly, disparate cultures have attributed similar meanings to turquoise, which supports the idea that it possesses inherent qualities independent of human society: Turquoise has an innate and enduring spiritual force. Turquoise jewelry connects wearers to the emotional and divine energies of the earth.
Turquoise as a Protective Amulet
Throughout most of human history, we’ve viewed the world as a battlefield in the war of Good against Evil. Turquoise has emerged as a sign of protection and good fortune. As a result, humanity has often sought to wear turquoise and find ways to shield against the diabolical.
In ancient times, amulets served as a common method to repel darkness, and turquoise was a beloved adornment for these charms. Turquoise stones have served as beacons of light and healing. Many cultures attributed protective power to the gem:
- Turkish horsemen set it into their horses’ bridles to shield against falls.
- Some Native American cultures believed turquoise foretold danger by cracking.
- Egyptian pharaohs wore it turquoise stones to deflect dark spirits.
Some Native tribes have even said that, if you could locate a rainbow’s end, you would uncover a trove of turquoise there.
Humans have invariably identified turquoise with the light, embracing it as a stalwart ally in the struggle against darkness.
Healing Properties of Turquoise
Its healing properties are revered across the world. Besides Beyond protection from evil spirits, many believe turquoise gemstone offers healing benefits to its wearer. Certain stones carry distinct energies, and turquoise traditionally bears the energy of restoration.
Those suffering from exhaustion or depressed mood often wear turquoise to calm their stormy psyches and find a place of rest. Others claim turquoise helps its wearer to:
- Access their higher self
- Tap into stores of ancient wisdom
- Speak their truth without fear
Because of its association with the sky, turquoise carries an aura of openness and freedom from human limitations—a bridge from the earthly realm to the higher planes.
Modern Symbolism of Turquoise Jewelry
As human culture evolved, turquoise and its significance transformed alongside it. It stands as a unique fashion statement that bridges old traditions with new styles. While retaining much of its ancient symbolism, turquoise jewelry also serves as an expressing inner wisdom and confidence.
Many also find that turquoise jewelry’s alluring color and mystical associations make for excellent gifts to commemorate achievements and special occasions. Turquoise jewelry’s natural connection to the world makes it a cherished piece for many. What better way to celebrate a milestone than with a nod to the light that dispels the darkness?
Turquoise Jewelry and Its Connection to Nature
In its unrefined form, turquoise can embody a broad spectrum of coloring. Some specimens lean toward a greenish hue, while others resemble a cloudless sky: pure, piercing blue.
This shading calls to mind numerous natural phenomena:
- Tranquil waters
- Wide-open horizons
- Fresh springtime growth
No wonder turquoise has always retained a strong association with the raw beauty of unadulterated nature. Interior designers often rely on its distinctive colouring to cultivate a natural energy in their spaces.
If you’d like to integrate the balanced aura of turquoise into your living space (or your wardrobe), you’ll want to keep a few principles in mind.
Turquoise and Earthy Tones
Since turquoise evokes sky and water, it pairs best with other grounded tones that represent the earth’s canvas of colours. These stones echo the earth’s beauty and stability. Together, they call to mind natural landscapes and beckon nature’s serenity indoors.
Turquoise blends best with tones like:
- Beige – Offsets the brightness of turquoise with an earth-toned canvas
- Coral – Provides a soothing, sunset-esque complement to turquoise’s vivid sky tones
- Grey – Pairs turquoise with the colour of wispy clouds and natural shadows
- Clay – The colour of earth and rust draws turquoise into balance
By complementing turquoise with other natural shades, you can conjure the feeling of a wide-open landscape—even within the confines of four walls.
Tranquility and Balance in Design
Some jewelry and artistic designs serve to stimulate curiosity or stir up energy. Some ensembles just embody tension or wild creativity—that’s all there is to it.
But humans also crave restorative, comforting canvases: styles that offer a tranquil refuge from the vagaries of life.
As you explore how to style turquoise jewelry with your wardrobe, think about how you can use turquoise (both the colour and the stone) to balance stark silhouettes with a carefree aura. Centuries of symbolic association invite our minds to instantly grow calm and centered in its presence.
Turquoise exudes a bright and vivid ambiance, however. To maintain balance, temper it with cool, earthen tones that promote a grounded, contemplative spirit.
Choosing Turquoise Jewelry with Meaning
If you’re ready to add the brilliant luster of turquoise jewelry to your collection, you’ll want to choose pieces infused with meaning and craftsmanship. Seek bracelets and turquoise rings for a fashionable addition to any outfit. Well-made jewelry will also last a lifetime, making for a steady presence in your life (and an heirloom for future generations).
Finding Unique Turquoise Pieces
Given the vast market for jewelry, uncovering unique and original work poses a challenge. When hunting for pieces, it’s best to focus on work that:
- Resonates — Your jewelry choices serve to express your inner life. The right piece will make you feel something. It should strike a chord, even if the harmony is difficult to describe or define.
- Reflects individuality — A remnant of the artist's spirit always resides in the finished product. Timeless pieces should carry a noticeable trace of the artist. When a piece leaps forth from the crowd, this is why. Turquoise jewelry’s good look and timeless quality make it a distinct choice.
An unrushed process yields the best results—both for artists and collectors. Take your time, and don’t settle for the first item you encounter. Make sure you sense a connection.
Best Turquoise Jewelry for Gifting
If you’re searching for turquoise jewelry on behalf of a loved one, consider their personality and values. Everyone emanates a unique energy, and their accessories should amplify and symbolize their core traits.
Also, remember that an artist can frame turquoise in myriad ways. Consider turquoise bracelets and green-hued beads to enhance any ensemble. A turquoise ring might suit certain people, while a pendant necklace might better fit another friend’s aesthetic. Explore the full array of men's turquoise jewelry options before settling on a final fit.
Caring for Turquoise Jewelry to Preserve Its Meaning
In order to preserve the stone and allow its message to shine forth for decades, proper care and storage are crucial. There are certain To keep your turquoise vibrant for the long haul, observe time-tested storage practices:
- Give it time to shine – Regularly wearing your jewelry exposes it to restorative oils in your skin. These help preserve its luster and protect it from tarnish.
- Steer clear of sulfur – Turquoise has a mortal enemy: sulfur. In its presence, turquoise rapidly tarnishes. Pool, shower, and drinking water can contain sulfur. Keep your jewelry dry.
- What to clean turquoise jewelry with – Harsh chemicals and commercial cleaners can damage turquoise. Instead, use a soft cloth dampened with warm water and mild soap. Gently wipe the stone and dry it immediately to maintain its brilliance.
- Store in individual bags – Protect your pieces from the elements, and from each other, by placing them in separate ziploc or felt bags. Store the bags in a cool, dry location.
Preserve your turquoise’s essence. Significance lies within its azure depths. If properly cared for, it will last for generations.
Discover the Ancient Luster of Turquoise, at Clocks + Colours
Few gemstones can rival the depth of meaning inherent in turquoise. One gaze at its mystical hue will trigger the same awe felt by its first ancient miners. At Clocks + Colours, we strive to preserve this timeless spirit while refashioning it for modern eyes. The turquoise stone’s beauty and symbolism continue to captivate.
Our stunning collection of men’s turquoise jewelry offers something for every spirit, from sun-catching pendants to rings the shade of desert sky.
Every piece we craft reflects our reverence for its unforgiving landscape and spiritual riches. Discover our work today.
