Turquoise
Discovered by ancient Egyptians, turquoise was widely used in treasures fit for pharaohs. Old Europeans credited turquoise with helping achieve a higher state of consciousness. Tibetans revered the gemstones as a talisman of good fortune. Native American Indians used it as a shaman’s stone. A December birthstone, turquoise is a light to dark blue or blue-green gemstone. The finest color is an intense blue that is uniform throughout. It may contain narrow veins of its host rock known as the matrix, sometimes in a web like pattern. Routinely enhanced to improve color and durability. To clean, wipe with a soft, damp cloth and dry. Avoid rough treatment and contact with chemicals.