Turquoise is a beautiful and unique gemstone. It is loved for its vibrant blue and green colors. However, not all turquoise is real. Some stones are fake or treated. It is important to know how to tell if turquoise is real. This guide will help you identify real turquoise. We will discuss the characteristics of real turquoise, common imitations, and tests you can perform.
What is Turquoise?
Turquoise is a gemstone. It is a hydrated phosphate of copper and aluminum. The stone is formed in dry, arid regions. Its color ranges from sky blue to green. This depends on the amount of copper and iron present. Turquoise has been valued for thousands of years. It is used in jewelry, art, and cultural artifacts.
Characteristics of Real Turquoise
Real turquoise has certain characteristics. These can help you identify it. Here are the main ones:
- Color
- Texture
- Hardness
- Matrix
- Weight
- Temperature
- Let’s explore each of these characteristics in detail.
Color
Real turquoise has a unique color. It ranges from sky blue to green. The color is usually uneven. It can have variations and streaks. Pure blue turquoise is the most valuable. Green turquoise is also common. Fake turquoise often has a uniform, artificial color.
Texture
Real turquoise has a waxy or matte texture. It is not shiny or glassy. The surface can feel smooth or slightly rough. Fake turquoise may have a plastic or glassy texture. It can feel too smooth or too shiny.
Hardness
Turquoise is relatively hard. It has a hardness of 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale. This means it can scratch glass. However, it can be scratched by harder materials. Fake turquoise may be softer or harder. It may not scratch glass or may scratch too easily.
Matrix
Matrix is the natural veining in turquoise. It is caused by the host rock. Real turquoise often has a matrix. The matrix can be black, brown, or tan. It adds to the stone’s uniqueness. Fake turquoise may have an artificial matrix. It may look too perfect or uniform.
Weight
Real turquoise is relatively heavy. It has a dense, solid feel. Fake turquoise may feel lighter. It can feel hollow or plastic-like. Weight can be a clue, but it is not definitive.
Temperature
Real turquoise feels cool to the touch. It takes time to warm up in your hand. Fake turquoise may feel warm or plastic-like. It may warm up quickly. Temperature can be a subtle clue.
Common Imitations of Turquoise
There are many imitations of turquoise. Some are natural stones, while others are synthetic. Here are the most common ones:
- Howlite
- Magnesite
- Plastic
- Glass
- Dyed Chalcedony
- Reconstituted Turquoise
- Let’s explore each of these imitations.
- Howlite
Howlite is a white stone. It is often dyed to imitate turquoise. Howlite is softer than turquoise. It has a hardness of 3.5 on the Mohs scale. Howlite can be identified by its white streaks. These are visible under magnification.
Magnesite
Magnesite is another white stone. It is often dyed to look like turquoise. Magnesite is softer than turquoise. It has a hardness of 3.5 to 4.5 on the Mohs scale. Magnesite can be identified by its uniform color and lack of matrix.
Plastic
Plastic is a common imitation. It is lightweight and feels warm. Plastic can be identified by its uniform color and texture. It may have air bubbles or seams. Plastic is much softer than turquoise.
Glass
Glass is another common imitation. It is heavier than plastic but lighter than turquoise. Glass can be identified by its smooth, shiny surface. It may have air bubbles or a glassy texture. Glass is harder than turquoise but can be scratched.
Dyed Chalcedony
Chalcedony is a type of quartz. It is often dyed to imitate turquoise. Dyed chalcedony can be identified by its uniform color. It lacks the natural variations of real turquoise. Chalcedony is harder than turquoise.
Reconstituted Turquoise
Reconstituted turquoise is made from small pieces of real turquoise. These pieces are bonded with resin or plastic. Reconstituted turquoise can be identified by its uniform color and texture. It may lack the natural matrix of real turquoise.
Tests to Determine if Turquoise is Real
There are several tests you can perform to determine if turquoise is real. Here are the most common ones:
- Visual Inspection
- Touch Test
- Scratch Test
- Acetone Test
- Heat Test
- Magnification Test
- Density Test
Let’s explore each of these tests.
Visual Inspection
Start with a visual inspection. Look at the color, texture, and matrix. Real turquoise has uneven color and natural matrix. Fake turquoise may have uniform color and artificial matrix. Use a magnifying glass for a closer look.
Touch Test
Feel the stone. Real turquoise feels cool and dense. It has a waxy or matte texture. Fake turquoise may feel warm, light, or plastic-like. The texture may be too smooth or shiny.
Scratch Test
Perform a scratch test. Real turquoise has a hardness of 5 to 6. It can scratch glass but can be scratched by harder materials. Use a steel nail or knife to scratch the stone. Real turquoise will not scratch easily. Fake turquoise may scratch or crumble.
Acetone Test
Use acetone to test for dyes. Soak a cotton swab in acetone. Rub it on the stone. If the color comes off, it is dyed. Real turquoise will not lose its color. Be careful, as acetone can damage some stones.
Heat Test
Perform a heat test. Real turquoise is heat resistant. Use a hot needle or lighter. Touch the stone briefly. Real turquoise will not melt or smell. Fake turquoise may melt, smell, or change color.
Magnification Test
Use a magnifying glass or microscope. Look for natural variations and matrix. Real turquoise has unique patterns and inclusions. Fake turquoise may have uniform color and artificial matrix. Look for air bubbles, seams, or dye concentrations.
Density Test
Perform a density test. Real turquoise is dense and heavy. Fake turquoise may feel light or hollow. Compare the weight to a known real turquoise stone. Use a scale for accurate measurement.
Professional Appraisal
If you are unsure, get a professional appraisal. A gemologist can examine the stone. They can perform advanced tests. These include spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction. A professional appraisal is the most accurate way to determine if turquoise is real.
Tips for Buying Real Turquoise
Here are some tips to help you buy real turquoise:
Buy from a Reputable Seller: Ensure you are buying from a trusted jeweler. This guarantees the authenticity and quality of the turquoise.
Ask Questions: Don’t be afraid to ask about the stone’s origin, treatments, and authenticity.
Check the Return Policy: Make sure you can return the stone if it doesn’t meet your expectations.
Get a Certificate of Authenticity: For high-value stones, ask for a certificate of authenticity. This verifies the stone’s quality and origin.
Educate Yourself: Learn about the characteristics of real turquoise. This will help you make an informed decision.
Conclusion
Determining if turquoise is real can be challenging. However, by understanding its characteristics and performing simple tests, you can identify real turquoise. Look for uneven color, natural matrix, and a waxy texture. Perform visual, touch, scratch, acetone, heat, magnification, and density tests. If in doubt, get a professional appraisal.
Real turquoise is a beautiful and valuable gemstone. It has a rich history and cultural significance. By following the tips and guidelines in this guide, you can ensure you are buying real turquoise. Enjoy the beauty and uniqueness of this precious stone. Wear it with pride and confidence.
Related topics:
How Can I Tell if My Turquoise Is Real
How to Tell if a Ring is Real Turquoise
How Can You Tell If A Turquoise Stone Is Real?
