Turquoise, a stunning gemstone with a rich tapestry of metaphysical properties, offers a gateway to profound healing and spiritual growth. Formed over eons in the embrace of the earth’s energies, turquoise embodies a sacred fusion of sky and stone, inviting seekers to explore its depths and unlock the secrets of the universe.
What is Turquoise?
Turquoise is a semi-precious gemstone prized for its distinctive blue-green colour and unique veining patterns. It is formed through the deposition of copper and aluminium phosphates in porous rock, often in arid regions where groundwater percolates through mineral-rich soils. Over time, these deposits solidify to create the characteristic turquoise gemstone, which is then mined and polished.
Where is Turquoise Found?
Turquoise deposits can be found in diverse locations worldwide, including the southwestern United States, Mexico, Iran, China, and Afghanistan. These regions boast rich geological formations conducive to the formation of turquoise, resulting in the extraction of high-quality specimens for both commercial and artisanal purposes.
Healing Properties of Turquoise
Turquoise is revered for its multifaceted healing properties, offering solace to the weary soul and strength to the faltering spirit. Some commonly attributed healing properties of turquoise include:
Healing and Protection
As a stone of protection and purification, it shields the aura from negative influences and clears away energetic blockages that hinder personal growth. Its gentle vibrations soothe the emotional body, fostering inner peace and tranquility amidst life’s storms.
Spiritual Growth
Turquoise serves as a catalyst for spiritual growth and expansion, opening the heart to divine love and wisdom. It encourages seekers to embrace their authentic selves and speak their truth with courage and conviction. With turquoise as a guiding light, one can navigate the depths of the soul with grace and clarity, awakening to the innate wisdom that resides within. It is used in meditation practices to enhance intuition and connect with higher realms of consciousness.
Chakras
Turquoise resonates deeply with the throat chakra, the seat of authentic expression and communication. By harmonizing the energies of this vital energy center, turquoise empowers individuals to speak their truth with clarity and conviction. It fosters open and honest communication, strengthening interpersonal relationships and deepening connections with others.
Zodiac and Birthstone Associations
Turquoise is traditionally associated with the zodiac signs of Sagittarius, Pisces, and Scorpio. It is also recognised as the birthstone for the month of December, symbolising prosperity, protection, and positive energy.
How to Cleanse Turquoise
To cleanse and maintain the energetic integrity of turquoise, several methods can be employed:
Water Cleansing
Rinse turquoise under lukewarm running water or soak it briefly in a bowl of clean water to clear away negative energies. Pat dry gently with a soft cloth afterwards.
Sunlight or Moonlight Bath
Allow turquoise to absorb the cleansing energies of sunlight or moonlight to recharge its vibrational frequencies and rejuvenate its energy.
Earth Connection
Bury turquoise in soil or place it on the ground to facilitate grounding and connection with the earth’s natural energies.
Smudging
Pass turquoise through the purifying smoke of sage, cedar, or palo santo to cleanse its energy and restore its natural vitality.
Sound Cleansing
Use sound vibrations from bells, singing bowls, or tuning forks to cleanse turquoise and realign its energetic field.
Intentional Visualisation
Hold turquoise in your hands and visualise a radiant light surrounding it, cleansing and revitalising its energy with positive intentions and affirmations.
Is Turquoise Water Safe?
Turquoise is generally safe to cleanse with water, but caution should be exercised to avoid prolonged exposure, especially for untreated or porous specimens. While turquoise is relatively durable, prolonged immersion in water may affect its stability and colour intensity. It is advisable to use gentle cleansing methods, such as brief rinses or gentle soaking, followed by careful drying with a soft cloth to prevent any potential damage.
MOHs Scale
Turquoise typically ranges from 5 to 6 on the MOHs scale of mineral hardness, making it relatively soft compared to other gemstones. This moderate hardness allows turquoise to be easily shaped and polished for jewelry and ornamental purposes, but it also requires proper care to prevent scratches and damage from abrasion.