Turquoise, a gemstone renowned for its mesmerizing blue and green hues, has captivated jewelry enthusiasts, collectors, and artists for centuries. However, the market is flooded with imitations and look-alikes, with plastic being one of the most common materials used to mimic the appearance of real turquoise. To avoid being misled by these faux counterparts, it is crucial to be well-informed on how to distinguish genuine turquoise from plastic. In this article, we will delve into the world of turquoise and plastic imitations, highlighting various methods and techniques to help you make an informed decision when acquiring this captivating gemstone.
I. The Timeless Allure of Turquoise
Turquoise, often referred to as the “jewel of the desert,” has a rich history dating back thousands of years. Its striking colors, which range from sky blue to deep green, are a testament to its timeless beauty. Whether set in exquisite jewelry or used as an ornamental gemstone, turquoise remains a highly sought-after material.
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II. Real Turquoise: Origins and Properties
To understand how to distinguish genuine turquoise from plastic imitations, it is crucial to grasp the origins and properties of this precious gemstone. Real turquoise primarily originates from arid regions and is often found in association with copper deposits. The unique characteristics of real turquoise include:
1. Formation Process:
Natural turquoise is formed through the interaction of water containing specific minerals with porous rocks over extended periods. This process creates the gem’s signature color and matrix patterns.
2. Porous Nature:
Real turquoise is inherently porous due to its formation, meaning it contains tiny voids within the stone.
3. Matrix Patterns:
The matrix refers to the host rock or mineral veins that run through the turquoise. Real turquoise often features intricate and irregular matrix patterns.
4. Color Variations:
Genuine turquoise typically displays variations in color intensity, created by mineral impurities, which contribute to its distinct beauty.
III. Plastic Imitations: What to Look For
Plastic imitations are created to mimic the appearance of real turquoise. They are often more affordable and can easily deceive the untrained eye. To distinguish plastic imitations from genuine turquoise, consider the following:
1. Texture:
Plastic imitations may lack the porous texture and cool feel of real turquoise. When touched, genuine turquoise is cooler to the skin and may have a subtle texture due to its natural porosity.
2. Weight:
Real turquoise is heavier than plastic imitations of similar size. This difference in weight can sometimes be felt when handling the gem.
3. Surface Appearance:
Examine the surface of the stone carefully. Real turquoise may have small irregularities and tiny pores that can be observed under magnification. Plastic imitations often have a more uniform surface.
IV. Visual Assessment
Visual inspection is one of the first steps in identifying real turquoise from plastic imitations. Several characteristics can be evaluated through careful observation:
1. Color and Luster
Real Turquoise: Genuine turquoise exhibits a rich, often slightly mottled, color with variations in intensity. The luster may be waxy or slightly glassy.
Plastic Imitations: Plastic imitations may have an overly glossy, plastic-like appearance and often lack the subtle color variations found in real turquoise.
2. Matrix Patterns
Real Turquoise: Natural turquoise often showcases intricate and irregular matrix patterns, which can be used as a strong indicator of authenticity.
Plastic Imitations: Plastic imitations may have artificial-looking or overly regular matrix patterns. These patterns may appear too perfect or machine-made.
3. Transparency
Real Turquoise: Genuine turquoise is typically translucent to opaque, with a depth of color that can be seen within the stone.
Plastic Imitations: Plastic imitations tend to be more transparent or overly translucent, giving them a glassy, artificial appearance.
4. Veining and Inclusions
Real Turquoise: Natural turquoise often contains visible veining and inclusions, which contribute to its character and uniqueness.
Plastic Imitations: Plastic imitations typically lack these natural inclusions and veining. They may appear too perfect and uniform.
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V. Tactile Examination
Another way to distinguish real turquoise from plastic imitations is through touch. The tactile examination can provide valuable insights into the authenticity of the gem:
1. Temperature
Real Turquoise: When touched, genuine turquoise feels cooler to the skin compared to room temperature. This is because it has a high thermal conductivity due to its mineral composition.
Plastic Imitations: Plastic imitations feel closer to room temperature when touched and do not have the coolness associated with real turquoise.
VI. Use of UV Light
Ultraviolet (UV) light can be a useful tool in distinguishing real turquoise from plastic imitations:
1. UV Fluorescence
Real Turquoise: When exposed to UV light, genuine turquoise may exhibit a characteristic fluorescence pattern, which can vary depending on its origin and mineral composition.
Plastic Imitations: Plastic imitations often do not display any significant fluorescence under UV light.
VII. Specific Gravity Test
The specific gravity test involves comparing the weight of the gemstone to the weight of an equal volume of water. The specific gravity of real turquoise is typically higher than that of plastic, making it a useful test for distinguishing between the two.
VIII. Professional Appraisal
If you are still unsure about the authenticity of a turquoise piece, consulting a certified gemologist or a reputable jeweler is a prudent course of action. Professionals have the expertise and access to specialized equipment to accurately assess the gem’s authenticity.
IX. Ethical Considerations
In addition to distinguishing real turquoise from plastic imitations, it is important to consider ethical concerns. The demand for real turquoise has led to issues such as over-mining, depletion of natural deposits, and unethical mining practices. Purchasing turquoise from reputable sources that adhere to ethical mining and trading practices ensures that you are supporting responsible and sustainable consumption.
X. Conclusion
Distinguishing real turquoise from plastic imitations is a skill that can be developed with knowledge and practice. By understanding the characteristics and properties of real turquoise, conducting visual and tactile examinations, and using tools like UV light and the specific gravity test, you can make informed decisions when acquiring turquoise. Ethical considerations also play a vital role in ensuring that your turquoise purchases align with responsible and sustainable practices. With these insights, you can confidently navigate the world of turquoise and enjoy the timeless allure of this captivating gemstone.
