Yes, blue turquoise is absolutely real and is one of the most highly prized natural colors for this beautiful gemstone.
Turquoise is a hydrous phosphate of copper and aluminum, a mineral whose natural color spectrum ranges from sky blue to green, often with varying shades in between. A vibrant, clear blue is often considered the most desirable and classic hue.
Understanding Real Turquoise
Authentic turquoise derives its captivating blue color primarily from the presence of copper in its chemical composition. Iron content, on the other hand, tends to give turquoise a greener tint. The exact shade of blue can vary based on the specific geological conditions where it formed.
The Natural Beauty of Blue
While some may assume perfectly uniform blue stones are the only "real" ones, genuine blue turquoise often displays a range of natural characteristics that confirm its authenticity:
- Color Variation: Real turquoise will always be a blue-green color, with blue being a prominent and natural shade. However, slight variations in hue are common, and these are often signs of its natural origin.
- Matrix Patterns: Many authentic turquoise stones exhibit a "matrix"—a web-like pattern or veins of the host rock (like sandstone or chert) from which the turquoise formed. This matrix can be black, brown, or yellowish-brown and adds unique character.
- Surface Imperfections: Unlike perfectly manufactured imitations, real turquoise will have some natural imperfections. If the stone is perfectly smooth and uniform in color, without any natural variations or matrix, it is likely an imitation or treated stone.
How to Identify Authentic Blue Turquoise
Distinguishing genuine blue turquoise from imitations requires a keen eye and understanding of its natural properties. Here's what to look for:
- Color Depth and Inconsistency: While blue is real, a truly authentic stone might have subtle variations in its blue tone, or even a slight greenish undertone in certain areas. Uniform, flat color can be a red flag.
- Texture and Luster: Real turquoise has a waxy to sub-vitreous luster and a somewhat porous texture when unpolished. It won't feel like glass or plastic.
- Hardness: Turquoise is relatively soft compared to many other gemstones (5-6 on the Mohs scale). It can be scratched, but it won't crumble easily.
- Matrix Presence: As mentioned, the natural matrix is a strong indicator of authenticity. While some high-grade turquoise can be "clean" (without matrix), it's less common, especially in larger pieces.
Real vs. Imitation Turquoise
Many materials are used to imitate turquoise, often dyed or reconstructed to mimic its appearance. Knowing the differences can help in making informed purchases.
| Feature | Authentic Blue Turquoise | Imitation/Treated Turquoise |
|---|---|---|
| Color Source | Natural copper content; blue-green spectrum | Dyes; plastic, glass, or other minerals (e.g., howlite) |
| Uniformity | Natural variations, possible slight inclusions | Often perfectly uniform, flat color |
| Surface/Texture | May show natural imperfections, matrix, slight porosity | Perfectly smooth, no matrix, or very uniform "fake" matrix |
| Feel | Solid, cool to the touch | Lighter, warmer, or slicker (if plastic/glass) |
| Price | Varies greatly by quality, but generally higher for pure blue | Significantly lower |
Types of Blue Turquoise
The specific mine or region can influence the shade and quality of blue turquoise. Some famous sources known for their blue varieties include:
- Sleeping Beauty Turquoise (Arizona, USA): Known for its solid, robin's egg blue color with little to no matrix. This mine is now closed, making its turquoise highly sought after.
- Persian Turquoise (Iran): Traditionally revered for its intense, clear blue hues, often without matrix.
- Kingman Turquoise (Arizona, USA): Produces a wide range of blue shades, from light to dark, often with black matrix.
In conclusion, blue turquoise is a natural and genuine gemstone, celebrated for its stunning color. Its authenticity is often revealed through its natural variations, imperfections, and the presence of matrix, rather than a perfect, uniform appearance.
To learn more about identifying genuine gemstones, resources like the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) provide comprehensive information.
