Are you confused about Turquoise quality?

Turquoise is a popular gemstone used in jewelry due to its vibrant color and unique beauty. It is commonly used in various types of jewelry, including necklaces, bracelets, rings, and earrings[1].

When using turquoise in jewelry, it is important to consider the quality and authenticity of the stone. Genuine turquoise is highly valued and can sometimes be more expensive. It is important that the consumer is educated in regards to the different qualities and treatments of turquoise.

Turquoise is a fairly soft stone. The Mohs hardness scale is a measure of a mineral's resistance to scratching. Turquoise has a Mohs hardness ranging from 5 to 6, which means it is relatively soft compared to other gemstones[1]. It is softer than materials like quartz (Mohs hardness of 7) and topaz (Mohs hardness of 8)[2].

The softness of turquoise makes it more susceptible to scratches and damage, so it's important to handle it with care and avoid exposing it to abrasive materials or harsh chemicals. To protect the stone, it is recommended to store turquoise jewelry separately and avoid wearing it during activities that may subject it to rough treatment[1].

Sources:

1. Gem Society - Turquoise Buying Guide

2. Gemological Institute of America - Gem Encyclopedia

Stabilized turquoise refers to turquoise that has undergone a treatment process to enhance its durability and preserve its color. Turquoise is naturally a relatively soft and porous stone, so stabilization is done to make it more durable and less prone to damage[1]. The process typically involves using resin or polymer to fill in the stone's pores, creating a more uniform hardness and reducing the likelihood of color change over time[2][3].

It's worth noting that stabilized turquoise is not intended to trick people, as some may believe. Rather, it is done to make the gemstone more suitable for use in jewelry and other applications. Stabilized turquoise can be more cost-effective and produced in larger quantities compared to natural turquoise[4].

It's important to mention that there are different methods used for enhancing turquoise, but stabilization is one of the commonly preferred methods[3]. The use of sealants or coatings, including resin, can help protect stabilized turquoise from fading and changing colors[4].

Sources:

1. Garland - What is the difference between stabilized and natural turquoise?

2. Durango Silver - A New Age Look at Stabilized Turquoise

3. Rock Seeker - How To Stabilize Turquoise (Step-By-Step Guide)

4. Polishing expert - Stabilizing Turquoise at Home: How to Keep the Color

Let us know if you have any questions about your Turquoise jewelry!