Understanding the Meaning of Turquoise Rings (2024)

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by Suzanne Sachs • 5 min read

 

THE BASICS --

Turquoise is a stunning and unique semi-precious gemstone renowned for its distinctive color and characteristic veining. Beyond just its visual beauty, however, many jewelry aficionados appreciate the deeply spiritual and symbolic meanings of turquoise, which an add even more depth and significance to turquoise jewelry.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW--

In this guide, we will explain the following:

• What is Turquoise?
• Turquoise Mines
• Durability
• Turquoise Symbolism
• Turquoise Meaning
• Birthstone For December
• Turquoise Rings
• Choosing a Turquoise Ring

What Is Turquoise?

On the surface, turquoise is a mineral composed of copper, aluminum, and phosphate. Unlike many gemstones, turquoise is opaque, and its structure is better suited to polishing and carving rather than faceting. The stone typically has a robin’s egg or sky blue color, but can vary in hue from a whitish blue to yellow-green tones. Likewise, the veining can vary in density from no veins at all to a very heavily marked stone with creamy white, brown, or black veins. 

• Turquoise Mines

Some of the highest quality turquoise in the world is mined in Iran, but this gemstone is also found in deposits in many other areas, including Egypt, China, Afghanistan, India, Chile, and Australia. In the United States, turquoise is mined in Arizona, California, New Mexico, Nevada, and Colorado.

“Suzanne was amazing! I utilized the layaway service and it was a breeze. Ring made its way to Texas and was even more gorgeous in person."
— Chloe G verified buyer

Turquoise Symbolism

Under the surface of its physical traits, turquoise has deep meaning and significance. The stones have been discovered in ancient Egyptian tombs, indicating that turquoise has been valued as ornamentation and with spiritual contexts for more than 5,000 years. This makes it one of the oldest jewelry gemstones ever recorded, and a perfect choice for someone with an
appreciation for ancient history. The Aztecs even called turquoise “the god’s favorite gemstone,” giving it even more connection to ancient cultures. Similarly, Native American tribes like the Apache, Hopi, and Pueblo peoples all prized turquoise.

“I've purchased two vintage rings from Suzanne over the past decade and my wife has loved both. Great service, communication and speedy delivery.”

— Lee S verified buyer

Turquoise Meaning

Spiritually, turquoise has many associations for health and healing. The stone is believed to improve balance and promote calmness, tranquility, and stress relief while bringing about emotional healing and a sense of forgiveness. It can even enhance ambition and creativity, while fostering a sense of hope and hospitality. Some cultures believe turquoise can protect one from the evil eye, while others believe turquoise offers guidance and improves the accuracy of weapons. In European traditions, turquoise rings mean “forget me not” and can be given as a sign of friendship or a budding romance.

Birthstone for December

Turquoise is one of the traditionally recognized birthstones for the month of December, and is also the symbolic gemstone associated with the eleventh wedding anniversary. This can make the stone particularly meaningful for commemorating events in December – whether birthdays, anniversaries, holidays, or other special occasions – or for noting the number eleven, even if not directly associated with a wedding anniversary.

Turquoise Rings

No matter what you love about the meaning and symbolism of turquoise, you can find this beautiful gemstone in a variety of engagement ring designs. Most often polished rather than faceted, turquoise is typically shaped into cabochons that may be circular, oval, pillow-shaped, or elongated. This lovely gem is especially popular in vintage rings, where its unique hues and smooth finishes make a stunning statement. Turquoise's timeless appeal and symbolic significance make it a perfect choice for an engagement ring that stands out with both beauty and meaning.

While popular in many eras, Victorian and Art Deco jewelry styles more frequently feature turquoise because of its bright, bold color and natural distinctiveness. The stone is also often paired with diamonds for glitter or pearls for extra luster. Turquoise stones may be used in bezel or channel settings to protect delicate edges, or can be mounted in prongs or even used in inlays. 

Choosing a Turquoise Ring

No matter what style of jewelry you prefer, you can find a stunning turquoise piece to suit your fashionable flair, allowing you to enjoy this beautiful stone and all it means to you.