Some feel that turquoise is possibly the most valuable mineral in the jewelry business. Turquoise was first mined about 6000 BC by the early Egyptians. The finest turquoise is found in Iran but many feel that the turquoise found in the southwestern United States could very well challenge Iranian turquoise.
The Native Americans have long used and cherished turquoise for it spirit like quality. Many legends have been formed about turquoise. The Pima Indians felt that turquoise brought good luck and helped heal the sick. The Zuni believe that blue turquoise was male and of the sky and green turquoise was female and of the earth.
Other myths about turquoise were that a lizard that excreted turquoise in its travels, and could stop floods. The Apache Indians believed that turquoise attached to a gun or bow would help them shoot straighter. While the Navajo knew that it would make the Wind Spirits happy and bring good fortune to the wearer.
The name comes from a French word, which means stone of Turkey, from where Persian material passed on its way to Europe
Native Americans Called turquoise "Chal-cui-hui-tal", meaning "the highest and most valued thing in the world". December has two birthstones, turquoise and zircon. Turquoise is considered by some to be a symbol of good fortune and Success, believed to bring prosperity to its wearer.
The timeless beauty of turquoise makes a perfect match with silver and other minerals like coral. Native American Artisans feel that a piece of their spirit is within every piece of jewelry them forge.
By: Chuck Falk