With its sky-blue hue, turquoise has been regarded as a stone of protection for thousands of years; it was carried with love from Anatolia all the way to Central Asia. In this guide we explain the meaning of turquoise, how to tell the genuine stone from the fake, and how to care for it.
What is turquoise (firuze)?
Turquoise is a mineral containing copper and aluminium; it owes its distinctive sky-blue to greenish hue to the copper within it. Known as “firuze” in Turkish and “turquoise” (the Turkish stone) in Western languages, the name recalls how the stone travelled to Europe by way of Anatolia.
Natural turquoise often carries brown-to-black veining (matrix). This veining is not a flaw — it is the mark of the stone’s authenticity and character.
The properties of turquoise
Turquoise is a relatively soft stone (Mohs 5–6), which makes it more delicate than many others. Because of its porous structure it can absorb liquids and oils, and this can change its colour over time. That is why turquoise is among the stones that call for the most careful upkeep.
The meaning and benefits of turquoise
Turquoise is traditionally associated with protection, inner balance and honest self-expression. For centuries it has been seen as a protective sky-stone, believed to recall peace and quiet confidence.
- Protection: it is believed to shield the wearer from negative influences.
- Expression: it is said to support speaking and expressing oneself freely.
- Balance: it is carried with the intention of inner peace and calm.
These meanings are traditional beliefs, not a medical claim.
Even its name tells its story: turquoise — the Turkish stone, carried from Anatolia to the world.
Which zodiac sign suits turquoise?
By tradition, turquoise is linked in particular with Taurus, Scorpio, Sagittarius and Aquarius; it is carried with the intention of protection and balance. You can look at our choose your stone by zodiac sign guide.
How to tell genuine turquoise?
Turquoise is among the most imitated stones on the market (dyed howlite is often sold as turquoise). A few clues:
| Feature | Natural turquoise | Imitation (dyed howlite, etc.) |
|---|---|---|
| Veining (matrix) | Natural, irregular brown-black veins | Too regular, or none at all |
| Colour | Natural, with slight tonal variation | Overly vivid, uniform blue |
| Surface | Matte-natural, warm to the touch | May feel plastic-like |
With turquoise, a trusted source is the best guarantee of authenticity.
Caring for turquoise (special attention)
Because turquoise is delicate and porous, it needs special care:
- Do not leave it in water for long; by absorbing liquids its colour can change.
- Keep it well away from perfume, cream, soap and chemicals.
- Put your jewellery on after you are ready (after applying perfume or cream).
- Wipe with a damp cloth and dry with a soft cloth; store it separately.
For more, see our care guide.
Choosing turquoise jewellery
Turquoise is worn as rings, necklaces, bracelets and earrings. Its sky-blue strikes a striking harmony with silver. It is one of the most loved stones for rings and necklaces.
See the jewellery that carries genuine turquoise in mould-free handcraft.
Turquoise CollectionFrequently asked questions
Are turquoise and firuze the same stone?
Yes. It is called “firuze” in Turkish and “turquoise” in Western languages; both are the same stone. The name turquoise comes from the stone reaching Europe by way of Anatolia (Turkey).
How can I tell if turquoise is genuine?
In natural turquoise the veins (matrix) are irregular and organic; in imitations such as dyed howlite the colour is overly vivid and uniform. A trusted source is the best guarantee.
Why does turquoise change colour?
Turquoise is porous; by absorbing perfume, cream, sweat and liquids it can drift towards a greenish tone over time. Keeping it away from chemicals prevents this.
Which zodiac sign does turquoise favour?
By tradition it is linked with Taurus, Scorpio, Sagittarius and Aquarius; it is carried with the intention of protection and balance.
Turquoise, a sky-blue protector; with the right care, at your side for years.