In the world of gemstones, there can be quite a bit of confusion when it comes to identifying what is truly turquoise and what might be a look-alike. Turquoise magnesite is one such material that often raises questions about its authenticity as real turquoise. In this article, we’ll explore the characteristics of both turquoise and turquoise magnesite to clearly understand whether the latter can be considered real turquoise or not.
Understanding Turquoise
Geological Formation
Turquoise forms in specific geological conditions. It typically occurs in arid regions where copper and aluminum minerals interact with water containing phosphates. Over time, chemical reactions take place within cavities or fractures in rocks, and turquoise crystals start to form.
For example, in areas like the southwestern United States, such as Arizona and New Mexico, and in countries like Iran (historically known for high-quality turquoise), these unique chemical combinations and environmental factors have led to the creation of genuine turquoise deposits.
Appearance
True turquoise has a distinct range of colors, with the most prized being a vivid sky-blue hue often referred to as “Persian blue.” However, it can also be greenish-blue or have a lighter blue-green shade.
It usually has a somewhat waxy or vitreous luster when polished. Turquoise may also contain a matrix, which is the host rock or other minerals intertwined with it. Some people prefer stones with little matrix for a cleaner look, while others appreciate unique matrix patterns that add character.
Physical Properties
On the Mohs scale of hardness, turquoise ranges from 5 to 6. This means it’s relatively soft compared to many other gemstones and can be scratched more easily. It’s also a porous gemstone, able to absorb substances like oils from the skin, lotions, and even environmental elements.
Cultural Significance
Turquoise has significant cultural importance in many societies. In Native American cultures, it’s considered a sacred stone and has been used in traditional jewelry and ceremonial objects for centuries. In the Middle East, it was prized for its beauty and used in elaborate jewelry for royalty and the wealthy.
Understanding Turquoise Magnesite
Composition and Formation
Turquoise magnesite is not the same as true turquoise. It’s actually a type of magnesite that has been dyed or treated to mimic the appearance of turquoise. Magnesite is a carbonate mineral that is naturally white or colorless.
Manufacturers or sellers use chemical dyes to give it the blue-green colors associated with turquoise. The process involves soaking the magnesite in dye solutions to penetrate the stone and create the desired coloration.
Appearance
At first glance, turquoise magnesite can look quite similar to real turquoise. It can have a similar range of blue-green colors, and the dyed versions may even have an imitation of a matrix or veining to make it more convincing.
However, upon closer inspection, the color may seem too uniform or overly bright in some cases, lacking the natural variations and depth that genuine turquoise has. The imitation matrix might also look less organic and more artificially created.
Physical Properties
Magnesite is relatively soft, with a hardness of around 3.5 to 4.5 on the Mohs scale. This is even softer than real turquoise. It also has a different crystal structure and chemical composition compared to true turquoise. While it can be polished to have a smooth surface, it doesn’t have the exact same luster or feel as authentic turquoise.
Market Presence
Turquoise magnesite is often sold as a more affordable alternative to real turquoise. It’s found in many jewelry pieces, especially in lower-priced items or those targeted at consumers who might not be as familiar with the differences between the two. It can be made into beads for necklaces, bracelets, or used in earrings and rings.
Differences Between Turquoise and Turquoise Magnesite
Chemical Composition
The fundamental difference lies in their chemical makeup. Turquoise is a complex phosphate mineral containing copper, aluminum, and other elements in its chemical formula. Turquoise magnesite, on the other hand, is based on magnesite, which is primarily magnesium carbonate.
This difference in composition affects their physical and optical properties and is a key indicator when trying to distinguish between them.
Hardness
As mentioned earlier, real turquoise has a hardness of 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale, while turquoise magnesite is softer at 3.5 to 4.5. This means that turquoise magnesite is more likely to show scratches and wear more quickly, even with normal use in jewelry.
Color and Appearance
While the colors might seem similar at a distance, real turquoise has a more natural, often uneven color distribution with variations in hue and tone due to its formation in nature.
Turquoise magnesite’s color is usually more consistent because it comes from a dyeing process. The imitation matrix in turquoise magnesite can also appear less genuine when compared to the real thing.
Value and Authenticity
Genuine turquoise is generally more valuable, especially high-quality specimens with desirable colors and minimal flaws. Turquoise magnesite, being a synthetic or treated look-alike, has a much lower value in the gemstone market. Collectors and those who appreciate the authenticity of gemstones usually seek out real turquoise and are willing to pay a premium for it.
How to Identify Turquoise Magnesite
Visual Inspection
Look closely at the color and any visible matrix. If the color seems too perfect or the matrix looks too regular and artificial, it could be a sign of turquoise magnesite. Check for any areas where the color might be fading or wearing off, which can happen with dyed stones.
Testing Hardness
You can try a simple hardness test using common objects. For example, a copper penny has a hardness of around 3 on the Mohs scale. If the stone can be scratched by a penny, it’s likely softer than real turquoise and could be turquoise magnesite.
Chemical Tests
There are some chemical tests that can be done, although these are best left to professionals. For instance, using a mild acid solution (but be careful as this can damage the stone if not done properly). True turquoise will not react as strongly as magnesite-based materials, which might fizz or show other signs of a chemical reaction due to their carbonate nature.
Conclusion
In conclusion, turquoise magnesite is not real turquoise. It’s a dyed or treated form of magnesite that imitates the appearance of the genuine gemstone. While it can offer an affordable option for those who like the look of turquoise in jewelry, it lacks the unique geological history, chemical composition, and value of true turquoise. Understanding the differences between them is crucial for consumers, collectors, and anyone interested in gemstones to make informed decisions when purchasing or appraising items that claim to feature turquoise.
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