Forget Christmassy red, green, and gold – if your birthday is in December, turquoise is your color! Turquoise is more than just an it color, though: it’s December’s birthstone and a gemstone with a story longer than Santa’s list.
Turquoise is thought to be one of the most ancient gemstones in the world. Archaeologists have found evidence of turquoise being used by the elite as far back as 3000 BC. In fact, King Tut himself had his burial mask decked out with turquoise. In Ancient Egypt, turquoise was revered as a gem that brings joy and delight – perfect for that special December baby in your life!
This brilliant blue stone was also very popular in Persia, where domes of important buildings were often covered in turquoise to symbolize the sky. This trend carried over into India, easily seen in the domes of the famous Taj Mahal. The Persians believed that turquoise could protect them from danger by changing color, something that certainly came in handy as Turkish traders traveled down the Silk Road. Turquoise got its name from the French calling it “Turkish stone”: pierre tourques.
Turquoise is also native to the United States. It’s currently mined in the southwest region of the country, where it has strong ties to Native American tribes. Some tribes believe the gem assists in communing with the sky while others believe it can increase prosperity and wealth.
This gem’s brilliant color sets it apart from other birthstones. After all, it’s one of the few stones that inspired the commonly-used name of a color! Turquoise is absolutely gorgeous as a statement piece and makes this ring a show-stopper.
Whether you believe in the mystical properties of December’s birthstone or not, you have to admit that there truly is something alluring about turquoise. Stop into our Dunkirk or Prince Frederick locations this December and check out some of our most gorgeous turquoise pieces!