Cover Turquoise is believed to have healing properties across cultures (Photo: courtesy of Don Agnello / Unsplash)
Turquoise is believed to have healing properties across cultures (Photo: courtesy of Don Agnello / Unsplash)
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Which gemstone is associated with your birth month? What powers does it have? How can you best harness its energy? Tatler’s expert Joyce Tsang helps demystify birthstones and their properties
December birthstone turquoise has long been prized for its blue-green colour and its spiritual significance across many cultures around the world.
Turquoise exists in both crystalline and non-crystalline forms, though non-crystalline turquoise—in hues ranging from apple green to bright blue—dominates the market today. There are many classifications of this stone, such as Royston, Persian, Kingman, Bisbee, Morenci, Cornwall, Sleeping Beauty and Tibetan. But some fraudulent versions exist as well, like stones stabilised with epoxy or dyed howlite.
The name “turquoise” emerged in the 16th century, derived from Turkish traders who brought the stone to Europe from Iran. Turquoise has been mined in Iran since 2100 BC and in China since 1700 BC. In the ancient world, people valued it for its supposed powers to bestow good fortune and offer protection.
Many Native American cultures held turquoise in high regard, believing it connects “Father Sky” and “Mother Earth” by blending masculine and feminine energies. Shamans and healers used turquoise as a sacred stone, and many Native Americans wore it as protective talismans. Some believed the colour of turquoise may shift to warn of impending dangers or unfaithfulness.
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In China, the stone is closely associated with royalty. Chinese lore states that the first emperor insisted on turquoise fittings for his war chariots, believing the gemstone’s brilliant colour would terrify enemies on the battlefield. Many emperors continued this tradition, adorning their robes with turquoise and crafting turquoise jewellery to channel the stone’s protective powers.
In Malaysia and Indonesia, indigenous groups have traditionally linked turquoise to fertility. Turquoise pendants were gifted to newlyweds to bless them with children.
Meanwhile, ancient Hindu and Buddhist texts mention turquoise as a spiritual stone capable of guiding the wearer toward wisdom and clarity. In Thailand, Myanmar and India, turquoise remains important in meditation practices. Monks sometimes don turquoise prayer beads, and the stone adorns sacred instruments like singing bowls.
Perhaps the longest-standing traditions related to turquoise can be found in the Philippines. Here indigenous tribes believe ancestors pass down their powers through turquoise heirlooms. The stone represents a bond of lineage, and turquoise jewellery is commonly gifted at weddings.
Given its deep meanings in various cultures, Tatler spoke to Joyce Tsang, crystal healing expert and founder of crystal healing service Stone & Star, to demystify the powers of the stone.
Energy influence
Turquoise is thought to provide grounding while reminding us of our connection to divine and unconditional love. It is believed to help align the chakras, stimulating the throat and heart. Turquoise is also said to bring serenity to the mind, body and spirit. Its energy balances, grounds and strengthens overall well-being.
Health benefits
Turquoise is believed to strengthen overall physical well-being. Tsang claims it can bolster the physical body and potentially help support the nervous system. Turquoise may have a positive effect on a range of physical diseases as it is said to alleviate anxiety. It is also thought to benefit the eyes, brain and throat areas. There is a notion that turquoise can help prevent mishaps or accidents, especially falls, by improving coordination and grace. However, these health claims are mainly derived from ancient beliefs and spiritual practices. There is a lack of scientific evidence directly linking turquoise to measurable medical outcomes, so please consult a medical professional before implementing it in your healthcare regime.
Who should wear them
Above Turquoise is thought to have protective powers (Photo: Jakob Owens / Unsplash)
Turquoise is thought to have protective powers (Photo: Jakob Owens / Unsplash)
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Those with star signs of Sagittarius, Pisces and Scorpio stand to benefit the most from turquoise. In addition, the stone is thought to provide protection from negativity for anyone who seeks an extra safeguard against adverse forces. It’s also believed to aid in the pursuit of wisdom by helping the wearer keep an open mind. People who work closely with animals are another group that may be drawn to turquoise for its purported protective qualities. Additionally, individuals craving a deeper understanding of their inner self can look to turquoise as a way to strengthen their authentic nature. Overall, turquoise seems well-suited for those seeking equilibrium, self-awareness and protection.
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How to wear them
Turquoise is commonly worn in rings and bracelets, kept close to the skin to tap into its energies as a constant, gentle reminder. Pendants placed near the heart and throat are thought to amplify turquoise’s protective vibrations in those areas. Its proximity to the throat is believed to physically support and enhance the vocal cords. Meanwhile, near the heart, turquoise can expand the torus energy field of the heart chakra, promoting overall grounding and inner shielding. Typically, turquoise is set in sterling silver, especially in Native American jewellery. However, turquoise set in white gold is also seen, which enhances the solar and masculine energies of the stone. No matter the setting, wearing turquoise near the body’s pulse points and energy centres provide maximum exposure to its healing and stabilising forces.
Care tips
Above With mindful care and spiritual cleansing, turquoise jewellery can last for years (Photo: Allison Astorga / Unsplash)
With mindful care and spiritual cleansing, turquoise jewellery can last for years (Photo: Allison Astorga / Unsplash)
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Caring for turquoise jewellery requires gentleness due to the stone’s delicate nature. Physically, turquoise rates five to six on the Mohs hardness scale, so it is prone to scratching and chipping if handled roughly. Some porous, unstabilised turquoise can also be damaged when soaked in water. Quickly rinsing turquoise jewellery under filtered water and immediately drying with a soft cloth is best for cleaning. It’s also wise to remove turquoise rings before washing hands. Avoid prolonged exposure to soaps, chemicals or abrasive surfaces that can erode the stone over time.
It's also important to energetically cleanse the stone. Placing pieces atop a clear quartz cluster or selenite slab can help transmute stored energies while recharging and refreshing the turquoise. With mindful care and spiritual cleansing, turquoise jewellery can last for many years, especially if worn in rotation rather than every single day.
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As the Regional Editor for Watches and Jewellery and Editorial Content Lead for Tatler GMT, Amrita Katara specialises in luxury watch and jewellery coverage across Asia, with expertise in editorial strategy, feature writing and interviews with industry leaders. Her past roles span luxury lifestyle media and client partnerships. Based in Mumbai, Amrita’s work bridges global trends and Asian market insights.
