Turquoise is an opaque, blue-to-green mineral that has been prized for its color and used in jewelry, art, and trade since ancient times. The distinct blue-green color of turquoise makes it instantly recognizable. But beyond its rich color, turquoise also has unique energy properties that make it a popular stone among healers and spiritual practitioners. In this article, we will explore the key energy properties of turquoise and how they make this blue-green gemstone unique.
Chemical Composition
To understand the energetic qualities of turquoise, it is helpful to first understand its chemical composition. Turquoise is a hydrous phosphate mineral meaning it contains water in its phosphate chemical structure. Its chemical formula is CuAl6(PO4)4(OH)8·4H2O.
The main chemical constituents in turquoise are:
– Copper (Cu) – Gives turquoise its striking blue color
– Aluminum (Al)
– Phosphorus (P)
– Hydrogen (H)
– Oxygen (O)
The copper content gives turquoise its iconic blue-green hue. Higher copper concentrations produce a more vivid blue color. The aluminum and phosphorus form the phosphate complex that makes up the backbone of the crystal structure. The hydrogen and oxygen in the form of water (H2O) are key components that allow turquoise to remain hydrated and maintain its color.
Crystal Structure
The molecular structure of turquoise is organized into triclinic crystals. The triclinic system is the least symmetrical of the seven crystal systems. This means that turquoise crystals have three unequal axes that are all inclined relative to each other. This unique structural alignment is what gives turquoise its distinctive energy properties.
Some key properties of the triclinic turquoise crystal structure are:
– Three unequal axis lengths
– Lack of symmetry elements
– Varied interaxial angles
– Polar axes
The asymmetrical orientation of the crystal lattice allows turquoise to resonate with multiple energy centers simultaneously. The polar axis also allows positive and negative charges to separate within the structure. This polarization of energy is key to turquoise’s ability to attune to and amplify subtle energies.
Color Vibrations
| Color | Wavelength (nm) | Frequency (Hz) |
|---|---|---|
| Red | 700 | 428 THz |
| Orange | 620 | 484 THz |
| Yellow | 580 | 517 THz |
| Green | 530 | 566 THz |
| Blue | 470 | 638 THz |
| Violet | 420 | 714 THz |
The color of turquoise is caused by its unique ability to absorb certain wavelengths of visible light. Turquoise appears blue-green because it absorbs wavelengths from the yellow-orange and violet parts of the spectrum. The blue wavelengths around 470-500nm are reflected back, giving turquoise its signature color.
Every color has its own vibrational frequency. Blue light vibrates at around 638-566 trillion hertz. Therefore, the blue-green light reflected by turquoise crystals resonates at a high vibrational frequency. This visible light frequency intersects with the subtle energy vibrations that impact our physical and spiritual wellbeing. By wearing or working with turquoise, we absorb these beneficial high-vibration blue-green energies.
piezoelectricity
In addition to resonating with color frequencies, turquoise also displays a property called piezoelectricity. Piezoelectricity refers to the ability of certain materials to generate an electric voltage when pressure or mechanical stress is applied. Alternatively, applying an electric field to a piezoelectric material can cause a change in shape or dimensions.
Turquoise’s piezoelectric capacity is enabled by its unique triclinic crystal structure. When turquoise experiences pressure or deformation, the asymmetrical orientation of its crystal lattice causes charge separation and polarization. The positive and negative ends of the crystal become electrically activated.
Even small vibrations, like those from acoustic sound or body movement, can trigger turquoise’s piezoelectric effect. This excitation of electromagnetic energy interacts with the bioenergies around us. It is thought that turquoise’s piezoelectric property allows it to absorb, focus, and direct the body’s bio-photonic energy field. This energizing effect is believed to promote balance and healing.
Hydrous Nature
Another key factor in turquoise’s energy signature is its hydrous composition. As a hydrous phosphate mineral, turquoise’s chemical structure contains hydrogen and oxygen in the form of water molecules (H2O). This water content allows turquoise to remain hydrated and supple.
Water is a universal conductor of energy. It can absorb, carry, and transmit the bioelectric currents that run through our cells and tissues. By incorporating hydrogen-bonded water into its structure, turquoise takes on the energetic qualities of water.
When worn against the skin, turquoise interacts with the body’s bio-waters and bio-energies. The structured water molecules within the turquoise crystal lattice vibrate synergistically with the body’s water-based energy system. This enhances the flow of energy through the meridians and amplifies the stone’s conductive and hydrating effects.
Metaphysical Properties
In addition to its physical and chemical energy attributes, turquoise also has a rich history of metaphysical associations. Some of the main metaphysical properties attributed to turquoise include:
Communication enhancer – Said to stimulate the throat chakra and enhance self-expression. The blue color vibration resonates with the energies that govern speech and communication.
Emotional balancer – Believed to balance mood swings and foster emotional serenity. The green color vibration is associated with the heart chakra and the healing power of love.
Protective stone – Symbol of power and protection in many ancient cultures. Thought to shield the aura from negativity and environmental pollutants.
Spiritual attunement – Helps connect to higher guidance and enhances meditation, introspection and spiritual wisdom.
Friendship strengthener – Brought togetherness, friendship and happiness through trade among ancient cultures. Still valued as a token of lasting camaraderie.
While individual experiences may vary, these metaphysical properties speak to turquoise’s multi-dimensional energy beyond physical analysis alone. When working with turquoise, one should remain open to subtle energies that science is only beginning to understand.
Chakra Resonance
In energy healing traditions, turquoise is closely associated with the vitality of two major chakras:
Throat Chakra
The throat or fifth chakra is located at the throat and regulates self-expression and communication. Turquoise’s blue vibration targets the throat chakra and stimulates the release of thoughts through verbal expression. Opening the throat chakra promotes free-flowing communication, creativity, and honesty.
Heart Chakra
The fourth or heart chakra sits at the center of the chest. It governs love, compassion, and emotional bonds. By incorporating green, turquoise bridges the upper and lower chakras and helps align the physical and spiritual self. It brings soothing heart energies to enhance empathy, forgiveness, and self-acceptance.
By activating both the throat and heart chakras, turquoise promotes inner wisdom tempered by love and compassion. It allows us to speak our deepest truths from an open heart.
Zodiac Connections
In astrology, turquoise is linked most closely to the zodiac signs of Aquarius, Sagittarius, and Pisces.
Aquarius
As the birthstone for Aquarius, turquoise aligns with this air sign’s affinity for knowledge, communication, and working for the greater good. Its cool blue color echoes the rational detachment of the water bearer.
Sagittarius
Sagittarius is represented by the archer and is known for optimism, intensity, and adventure-seeking. The vibrant energy of turquoise matches this fire sign’s expansive nature.
Pisces
Turquoise is considered a planetary stone for Neptune, which rules Pisces. It complements this water sign’s dreamy, creative, and empathic essence. The green tones also activate the heart chakra, grounding Pisces’ imaginative spirit.
So turquoise offers balancing energies to all three of these mutable signs. It stimulates communication for Aquarius, instills calm in Sagittarius, and brings grounding to Pisces.
Geographic Origins
The chemical makeup and crystalline structure of turquoise is heavily influenced by its geological conditions of formation. The major sources of turquoise around the world include:
Southwest USA – Significant deposits are found in Arizona, New Mexico, California and Nevada. Turquoise from this region is sky-blue and weakly variegated due to low iron content.
China – Provinces like Hubei and Sichuan host turquoise formations dating back 3,000 years. The stone is greener due to higher iron.
Egypt – The Sinai Peninsula was an ancient source treasured by early Egyptian civilizations. The color is intensely blue or blue-green.
Iran – Considered the oldest source, the arid climate created dense sky blue Persian turquoise. Vibrated as protective against the evil eye.
Tibet – High altitude turquoise with striking deep blue color. Believed to enhance Buddhist practices and meditation.
These regional differences in color and matrix patterns reflect local environmental conditions during formation. But despite these variations, turquoise from all sources shares fundamental energetic attributes.
Evaluating Quality
When selecting turquoise for energy work, gemologists recommend considering the following criteria to identify quality:
– Color – Sky blue and spring green hues are most desirable. Avoid dull or muddy colors.
– Clarity – Translucent “jelly” turquoise is ideal. Opaque stones may be dyed or treated.
– Matrix – Some dark veining is natural but minimize patches or dense spiderwebbing.
– Cut – Cabochons and tumbled stones enhance metaphysical energy. Avoid reconstituted turquoise.
– Carat Weight – With turquoise, larger sizes usually have more enhance color and matrix patterns.
– Treatments – Untreated natural turquoise resonates strongest. Avoid color altered, stabilized or dyed material.
By following these selection guidelines, you can be sure to obtain a turquoise stone that resonates most vibrantly with its innate metaphysical properties. Authentic turquoise holds its value and recommended for serious energy healing work.
Conclusion
With its striking blue-green color, unique crystal structure, and water-bearing composition, turquoise has distinct physical and energetic properties. Its ability to absorb and reflect select light frequencies, generate piezoelectricity, and conduct bio-energies allows turquoise to vitalize, awaken, and protect. By resonating with the throat and heart chakras, turquoise promotes balance, calm, and insightful communication. And its long history of ornamental and spiritual use makes turquoise a quintessential energy talisman. With proper selection, turquoise can be an invaluable ally for intuitive development, energetic alignment, and holistic wellbeing.
