Turquoise is a gemstone that is renowned for its captivating blue-green hues, but there are variations in its color that can lead to some confusion. One such variation is white turquoise, or what appears to be white. However, the term “white turquoise” can be a bit misleading, as there are different substances that might be referred to by this name. In this article, we’ll explore what exactly is commonly known as white turquoise, its characteristics, how it compares to traditional turquoise, and its uses in the world of jewelry and beyond.
The Basics of What’s Labeled as “White Turquoise”
Real Turquoise with a White Appearance
In some cases, what is called white turquoise is actually genuine turquoise that has a very light or white coloration. This can occur due to differences in the chemical composition during its formation in the earth. For example, variations in the amounts of copper and other minerals present can result in a paler hue.
The white appearance might also be due to the presence of a large amount of the host rock or matrix within the stone. Sometimes, the turquoise grows in such a way that it’s intertwined with a lighter-colored rock, giving it an overall white or off-white look. These specimens still have the chemical and structural properties of true turquoise, just with a less common color variation.
Mineral Imitations and Similar Materials
Another situation where we encounter the term “white turquoise” is when there are minerals or materials that mimic the look of turquoise but are actually something else. One common example is magnesite. Magnesite is a carbonate mineral that is naturally white or colorless. It’s often dyed to imitate the blue-green colors of turquoise, but in its undyed state, it can be mistaken for white turquoise.
Howlite is another material that can resemble white turquoise. It has a white base color and a porous structure. Like magnesite, it’s sometimes dyed to look like colored turquoise, but in its natural form, it can be passed off as white turquoise due to its similar appearance and the fact that it’s used in jewelry-making in a way that imitates the gemstone.
Characteristics of Materials Called “White Turquoise”
Appearance
For genuine white turquoise, it has a soft, often matte or slightly waxy appearance. The color can range from a pure white to an off-white or very light beige. It might have visible veining or a matrix that gives it a bit of texture and character. In contrast, materials like magnesite or howlite that are mistaken for white turquoise have their own distinct looks.
Magnesite has a smooth, sometimes chalky texture when in its natural white state. It can lack the natural veining that true turquoise might have. Howlite, on the other hand, often has a more porous and grainy appearance, and it might have small holes or a mottled look on its surface even when it’s in its undyed form.
Hardness
True turquoise has a hardness that ranges from 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale. When it comes to white turquoise that is genuine, it falls within this hardness range. However, magnesite has a hardness of around 3.5 to 4.5 on the Mohs scale, making it softer than real turquoise. Howlite is also relatively soft, with a hardness similar to or slightly softer than magnesite.
This difference in hardness can be important when it comes to wearing or working with these materials in jewelry. Softer materials like magnesite and howlite are more prone to scratching and wear compared to genuine white turquoise.
Chemical Composition
Genuine turquoise is a complex phosphate mineral containing copper, aluminum, and other elements in its chemical formula. In contrast, magnesite is primarily magnesium carbonate, and howlite is a calcium borosilicate hydroxide mineral. These differences in chemical makeup result in distinct properties and reactions when tested or used in various applications.
For example, genuine turquoise might react differently to certain chemicals or heat compared to magnesite or howlite, which can be used as a way to identify them.
Uses in Jewelry and Decorative Items
Jewelry Making
In jewelry, what’s called white turquoise can be used in a variety of ways. Genuine white turquoise can be made into beads for necklaces and bracelets. Its soft, understated color can create a delicate and elegant look when combined with other gemstones or metals. For instance, a necklace with white turquoise beads interspersed with silver spacers can give a refined and timeless appearance.
When it comes to materials like magnesite or howlite that are mistaken for white turquoise, they are also used in jewelry-making, especially in more affordable pieces. They can be cut into various shapes, like cabochons for rings or earrings, or strung as beads. However, it’s important to disclose that they are not true turquoise when selling such jewelry to consumers.
Decorative Objects
White turquoise, whether genuine or imitated, can be incorporated into decorative objects. It can be used in mosaics to add a neutral or soft color element among other tiles or stones. For example, in a bathroom mosaic backsplash, white turquoise pieces can create a serene and luxurious look when combined with other complementary colors.
It can also be used in small sculptures or carvings. Artisans might choose genuine white turquoise for its unique natural characteristics or use materials like howlite if they want a more workable and affordable option for creating decorative pieces with a similar aesthetic.
Identification and Distinguishing from True Turquoise
Visual Inspection
To identify if what you have is genuine white turquoise or an imitation, start with a visual inspection. Look closely at the color and texture. Genuine white turquoise will have a more natural, uneven color distribution in some cases, especially if there’s a matrix present. The veining will look organic and part of the stone’s formation.
In contrast, materials like magnesite or howlite might have a more uniform, artificial-looking color or texture. For example, if the surface looks too smooth and lacks any natural inclusions or if the color seems overly consistent, it could be an imitation.
Testing Methods
There are several testing methods that can help distinguish between them. One simple way is a hardness test. Try scratching the material with a common object of known hardness, like a copper penny (which has a hardness of around 3 on the Mohs scale). If the material can be scratched easily by the penny, it’s likely a softer imitation like magnesite or howlite and not genuine white turquoise.
Another approach is to use chemical tests, although these are best left to professionals. For instance, genuine turquoise will not react as strongly to mild acids as carbonate-based materials like magnesite. However, it’s important to be cautious when using chemical tests as they can damage the material if not done properly.
Market and Consumer Considerations
Transparency in the Market
It’s crucial for jewelers and sellers to be transparent about whether the “white turquoise” they are offering is genuine or an imitation. Consumers who are looking for true turquoise for its authenticity and unique properties might be disappointed or misled if they unknowingly purchase an imitation.
Clear labeling and communication help build trust in the jewelry market and allow consumers to make informed decisions based on their preferences and expectations.
Consumer Preferences
Some consumers might specifically prefer genuine white turquoise for its rarity and the connection to the traditional gemstone. Others might be more interested in the look and affordability of materials like magnesite or howlite that imitate white turquoise. Understanding these different preferences helps jewelers stock and offer a variety of products to meet the diverse needs of their customers.
In conclusion, the term “white turquoise” can refer to both genuine turquoise with a white or light coloration and materials that mimic its appearance. Knowing the differences between these substances in terms of their characteristics, uses, identification methods, and market considerations is essential for anyone involved in the jewelry industry or interested in purchasing jewelry or decorative items that feature what’s called white turquoise. By being informed, we can appreciate the beauty of these materials in their own right and make sure that we are getting what we expect when it comes to these unique and often visually appealing substances.
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