Turquoise has been called many names. It was referred to as “Callais”, from the Ancient Greek by Pliny the Elder. Meanwhile, the Aztecs called it the “chalchihuitl”.
However, the word turquoise can be dated back to the 17th century. It is derived from the term French turquois which means “Turkish” since this crystal was first bought to Medieval Europe via Turkey from mines in the historical mines of Khorasan, Persia.
For thousands of years, this beautiful sky blue crystal has spanned all many cultures, and is prized as a symbol of nobility, wisdom and is believed to have the power of immortality. Among the ancient Persians, Egyptians, Chinese, Native North America, Incas, and Aztecs of South America, the turquoise was sacred in its adornment and for protection, luck, and power.
Tutankhamun’s death mask was studded with turquoise, as well as the mosaic masks dedicated to the gods. In addition, the inlaid skulls, power statues, and shields of Moctezuma, the last ruler of the Aztecs, was also filled with turquoise.
For over a thousand years, the Native Americans have also fashioned this crystal and turquoise mining, using it to guard their burial sites. In fact, these gems have been found from New Mexico to Argentina. Meanwhile, Indian priests wore turquoise in ceremonies when calling upon the great spirits of the sky. Thanks to its ability to change colors, turquoise was also used in divining or prophesy.
For centuries, the natural turquoise has also been recognized as having the power to protect riders from falls and injury. It was first used as a powerful amulet by the Turkish soldiers on their persons and is attached to their trappings and bridles....<<<Read More>>>...