Turquoise is a captivating gemstone that has been cherished for centuries for its beautiful blue-green hues and rich cultural significance. Many people are drawn to its unique charm and wonder if it can be incorporated into their daily wear. However, there are several factors to consider when determining whether turquoise is suitable for everyday use. In this article, we’ll explore these aspects in detail to help you make an informed decision.
Understanding Turquoise’s Properties
Hardness and Durability
Turquoise has a relatively low hardness on the Mohs scale, typically ranging from 5 to 6. In comparison, diamonds have a hardness of 10, which means they are extremely resistant to scratching and wear. Gemstones with higher hardness are generally better suited for everyday wear as they can withstand the rigors of constant contact with other surfaces.
Because of its lower hardness, turquoise is more prone to scratches. Simple actions like accidentally bumping it against a hard object, like a doorknob or a table edge, can leave marks on the stone. For example, if you’re wearing a turquoise ring while doing household chores or engaging in activities where your hands are in frequent contact with various items, there’s a higher risk of it getting scratched.
Porosity
Turquoise is a porous gemstone. This means that it has tiny holes or pores within its structure that can absorb substances. It can absorb oils from your skin, lotions, perfumes, and even environmental elements like dust and dirt.
When these substances are absorbed, they can affect the appearance of the turquoise over time. For instance, if you apply hand lotion and then put on a turquoise bracelet, the lotion can seep into the stone and cause discoloration or give it a dull look. Additionally, exposure to dirt and grime can make the turquoise look less vibrant and clean.
Types of Jewelry and Their Suitability
Rings
Turquoise rings can be a beautiful addition to your daily look, but they do face some challenges. Since the stone is on the softer side, it’s more likely to get scratched when you use your hands throughout the day. For example, if you work at a job that involves handling papers or using tools, the turquoise in your ring could come into contact with these items frequently.
However, if you’re careful and your daily activities aren’t overly rough on your hands, a well-set turquoise ring can be worn regularly. It’s important to choose a setting that offers some protection to the stone, like a bezel setting where the metal surrounds the turquoise completely, reducing the chances of direct impact on the stone.
Necklaces
Turquoise necklaces are generally more suitable for everyday wear compared to rings. They are less likely to come into direct contact with hard surfaces as often. As long as you take care when putting on and taking off the necklace to avoid tugging or pulling on the turquoise pendant, it can hold up well.
But you still need to be cautious about the elements it’s exposed to. For example, if you’re wearing a turquoise necklace outdoors on a windy day when there’s a lot of dust in the air, you might want to clean it gently after to prevent the dust from settling into the pores of the stone.
Bracelets
Bracelets made with turquoise can be a stylish choice for daily wear, but they also have their own considerations. The stones on a bracelet can rub against each other or against your wrist, which increases the risk of scratching. If the bracelet has beads or multiple turquoise pieces strung together, the friction between them can cause wear over time.
However, if the design includes spacers made of a harder material between the turquoise elements or if the bracelet is made in a way that minimizes movement and friction, it can be more durable for everyday use. For example, a bracelet with knots between the turquoise beads to keep them separated can reduce the chances of them rubbing against each other.
Earrings
Turquoise earrings are often a good option for everyday wear as they are less likely to encounter the same kind of rough handling as rings or bracelets. They don’t usually come into contact with surfaces as frequently, unless you accidentally brush them against something.
However, you need to be careful when styling your hair or putting on hats, as these actions can snag or pull on the earrings. Also, similar to other turquoise jewelry, you should keep them away from substances like hairspray or perfume that could be absorbed by the porous stone and affect its appearance.
Care and Maintenance
Cleaning
Regular cleaning is essential if you want to wear turquoise every day. You can use a soft, damp cloth to gently wipe the surface of the turquoise jewelry to remove any dirt, oils, or dust that has accumulated. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners as they can damage the stone.
For a deeper clean, you can mix a mild soap with warm water and use a soft brush, like a baby toothbrush, to gently scrub the turquoise. Make sure to rinse it thoroughly with clean water and then pat it dry with a soft cloth. This helps to keep the stone looking its best and prevent any build-up that could affect its color or luster.
Storage
When you’re not wearing your turquoise jewelry, proper storage is crucial. Store it in a separate compartment or a soft pouch to prevent it from rubbing against other jewelry pieces, which could cause scratches. You can also use anti-tarnish strips or small silica gel packets in the storage container to help absorb any moisture and keep the environment dry.
Avoid storing turquoise jewelry in direct sunlight or in a place with high humidity, as these conditions can also impact the stone’s appearance and durability over time.
Protection from Chemicals
As mentioned earlier, turquoise is porous and can absorb chemicals. Try to avoid wearing it when applying lotions, perfumes, or hairspray. If you do need to wear it after using these products, make sure to let them dry completely first. Also, be cautious when swimming in chlorinated pools or using household cleaning products while wearing turquoise jewelry, as the chemicals in these substances can damage the stone.
Lifestyle and Activity Considerations
Active Lifestyles
If you have an active lifestyle that involves sports, fitness activities, or manual labor, wearing turquoise every day might be more challenging. The constant movement, contact with equipment, and potential for sweating can all take a toll on the gemstone. For example, if you’re into rock climbing, the friction and impact against the rocks could easily scratch or damage your turquoise jewelry.
However, if you’re determined to incorporate it into your daily wear despite an active life, you might choose to wear it during less intense activities or find ways to protect it, like wearing it under your clothing or using protective coverings when engaging in more strenuous tasks.
Professional Settings
In a professional setting, turquoise jewelry can add a touch of elegance and personality to your outfit. As long as your job doesn’t involve tasks that are likely to damage the stone, it can be a great choice for everyday wear. For example, if you work in an office environment where you mainly sit at a desk and interact with papers and electronic devices, turquoise earrings, a necklace, or a ring can be a stylish and appropriate accessory.
But if your job involves working with machinery, chemicals, or other elements that could harm the stone, it’s best to leave your turquoise jewelry at home or save it for special occasions.
Social and Casual Settings
In social and casual settings, turquoise is often a popular choice as it gives a laid-back yet fashionable look. Whether you’re going out for a coffee with friends, attending a picnic, or running errands, wearing turquoise jewelry can enhance your style. Just remember to take the necessary precautions to keep it clean and protected, especially if you’ll be outdoors or in situations where it could be exposed to dirt or other substances.
Alternatives for Everyday Wear
Treated Turquoise
There is treated turquoise available in the market that has been processed to improve its durability. Treatments like stabilization involve filling the pores of the stone with resins or other substances to make it stronger and less likely to absorb unwanted elements.
While treated turquoise can be more suitable for everyday wear as it’s more resistant to wear and tear, it’s important to disclose that it has been treated when purchasing or selling it, as it can affect its value and authenticity in the eyes of some collectors or gem enthusiasts.
Simulated Turquoise
Simulated turquoise, which is made to mimic the look of natural turquoise but is often created from synthetic materials, can also be an option for everyday wear. It usually has better durability than natural turquoise and can withstand more wear and tear.
However, it lacks the unique characteristics and natural beauty of genuine turquoise. Some people prefer the authenticity of natural stones, but for those who mainly care about the aesthetic and want something that can be worn regularly without much worry, simulated turquoise might be a viable choice.
Conclusion
In conclusion, whether turquoise can be worn every day depends on a variety of factors including the type of jewelry, your lifestyle and activities, and how well you take care of it. While it has its vulnerabilities due to its hardness and porosity, with proper care and consideration, it is possible to incorporate turquoise into your daily accessories. By understanding its properties, taking steps for maintenance and protection, and being mindful of when and where you wear it, you can enjoy the beauty of this charming gemstone on a regular basis. Whether you choose natural, treated, or simulated turquoise, it can add a touch of color and style to your everyday life as long as you make informed decisions and give it the attention it needs to stay in good condition.
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