Turquoise is undeniably one of the most cherished gemstones, admired for its stunning blue-green hue, rich history, and deep spiritual significance.
For centuries, this stone has captivated cultures worldwide, symbolizing protection, healing, and wisdom. Whether you’re searching for the perfect turquoise jewelry piece or a striking addition to your crystal collection, it’s essential to know what to look for when it comes to authenticity.
Unfortunately, not all turquoise on the market is genuine. With many imitations, treated stones, and synthetic versions available, it can be challenging to discern whether a piece of turquoise is real or fake.
This guide will walk you through practical tips and tests to help you identify real turquoise. We’ll explore the various physical characteristics of genuine turquoise, common testing methods, and the differences between authentic and imitation stones.
You’ll be equipped with the knowledge you need to make informed decisions and confidently identify true turquoise. So, if you’re ready to learn how to verify the authenticity of your turquoise, read on!
Key Points to Remember
- Real turquoise is rare and often expensive. Authentic turquoise commands a higher price due to its rarity. Fake versions are usually made from dyed howlite, magnesite, or plastic, which are inexpensive to produce.
- True turquoise has a distinctive color. Genuine stones are opaque with a robin’s egg blue or greenish-blue hue. If the stone is transparent or comes in colors like white, red, or purple, it is most likely a fake.
- Turquoise is hard and durable. Real turquoise doesn’t scratch or chip easily. If you can scratch the surface with a fingernail or coin, it is likely an imitation.
Exploring the World of Turquoise
What is Turquoise?
Turquoise is a captivating gemstone known for its striking blue to greenish-blue hue, formed from hydrated copper and aluminum phosphate.
It originates in arid regions like the Southwestern U.S., Iran, and China. The stone often features natural veining or “matrix,” formed by the host rock, which adds to its uniqueness and value.
Types of Turquoise Stones
Turquoise comes in different forms, and knowing the differences helps in identifying authenticity.
- Natural turquoise is untreated and highly valuable.
- Stabilized turquoise is treated to improve its durability and color but is less valuable than natural stones.
- Reconstituted turquoise is made from crushed fragments bonded together, resulting in lower quality.
- Imitation turquoise is crafted from materials like dyed howlite and lacks true turquoise’s natural composition.
History and Cultural Significance
Turquoise has been treasured across cultures for centuries. The Egyptians wore it for luck and protection, Native American tribes used it in rituals and jewelry, and Persians associated it with the heavens. Today, it retains its spiritual associations, symbolizing protection, healing, and wisdom.
Colors and Patterns of Turquoise
Turquoise varies in color from vivid sky blue to greenish shades, influenced by copper and iron content. The matrix, or veining, adds character and can be brown, black, or tan. The combination of color and veining impacts the stone’s value, as certain patterns and hues are rarer and more desirable.
Physical Characteristics of Real Turquoise
Color and Patterns
Real turquoise ranges from a robin’s egg blue to greenish-blue, with the most prized shade being “Persian blue.”
Authentic stones often display natural veining (matrix) in black, brown, or tan, adding to their unique appearance. Stones with an overly uniform color or without any veining are likely synthetic or dyed imitations.
Hardness and Durability
Turquoise is moderately hard (5-6 on the Mohs scale) and resistant to scratching and chipping. If a stone scratches easily with a fingernail or coin, it is probably fake or of low quality, often made from softer materials like plastic or howlite.
Texture and Surface Quality
Authentic turquoise has a smooth, waxy texture and a natural shine but should not appear overly glossy like plastic. It may be slightly porous and develop a personalized patina over time. A perfectly glossy finish could indicate extensive treatment or imitation.
Weight and Temperature
Natural turquoise feels solid and cool to the touch. It is heavier than plastic imitations and retains a cool temperature when held, unlike synthetic versions, which are lighter and warm up quickly. Checking these traits helps determine authenticity.
Easy Ways to Check and Test Your Turquoise at Home
1. Destructive Test
Real turquoise maintains its color all the way through the stone. If you’re willing to sacrifice the piece, breaking it apart can reveal its authenticity.
Use a hammer to carefully break the stone in half. If it’s genuine, the interior will match the exterior color. However, if the turquoise is fake or dyed, the color will usually only coat the surface, revealing a white or differently colored center.
Use this method only if you’re okay with damaging the stone.
2. Scratch Test
Genuine turquoise is more resistant to scratches than imitation stones.
To test its authenticity, gently scrape a hidden section with your fingernail, a coin, or a butter knife. If the stone scratches easily, it’s likely a fake. Although turquoise is relatively soft (Mohs hardness of 5 to 6), it’s still harder than materials like howlite or magnesite, which have a hardness of around 2.
This means real turquoise won’t chip or scratch from light pressure from your nail or a coin.
3. Pattern
Authentic turquoise often features a natural webbing matrix, which can be difficult for fakes to replicate. As turquoise forms within limonite and sandstone, it commonly contains thin lines or thicker splotches of brown rock, known as a spider web matrix.
While howlite may have a similar pattern, its webbing is typically lighter gray and appears as longer, rounded, and flowing lines, unlike the sharper edges found in real turquoise.
Imitation turquoise made of plastic or resin might have painted webbing, so inspect closely for signs of brush strokes or unnatural patterns.
However, not all turquoise contains a matrix, as many jewelers cut it out for a cleaner look. If your turquoise is solid without any webbing, consider using another method to confirm its authenticity.
4. Price
Authentic turquoise typically costs between $1 to $10 per carat, so be cautious of unusually low prices. If the cost of the turquoise jewelry or stone seems too good to be true, it likely is.
Genuine turquoise is rare, while imitations are often made from less expensive materials like howlite, magnesite, glass, plastic, or resin dyed blue.
For instance, a real turquoise beaded necklace can cost over $700, whereas a fake version might sell for as little as $20.
To ensure you are purchasing real turquoise, buy from reputable jewelers or GIA-certified gemologists, and look for Gemological Institute of America (GIA) certification.
Always ask sellers about the stone’s origin—reputable turquoise often comes from the U.S., Mexico, Iran, Chile, Egypt, or China, and a trustworthy dealer should be able to provide this information.
Be wary of turquoise sold under misleading names like “Buffalo Turquoise,” “Viennese Turquoise,” “Utah Turquoise,” or “Turqurenite,” as these are often imitations.
5. Melt Test
Genuine turquoise is heat-resistant, while plastic imitations will melt easily.
To perform this test, heat a metal sewing needle over a lighter flame, then press it against a hidden area of the turquoise. If the stone is plastic or resin, the needle will melt it, releasing a burnt plastic odor.
However, if the stone is authentic turquoise, the needle will have no effect.
6. Fingernail Test
The matrix on real turquoise has a texture that your fingernail can catch on.
Gently run your fingernail over the spider web matrix on the stone. If you feel your nail catching on the lines or splotches of brown, it’s likely authentic.
In contrast, plastic or resin fakes usually have painted webbing that feels smooth, so your nail won’t catch on the veins if the stone is fake.
7. Acetone Test
Acetone won’t affect real turquoise, but it will remove dye from imitations.
Dampen a cotton swab with acetone or nail polish remover and rub it on an inconspicuous area of the stone.
If the area turns white or blue dye appears on the swab, the turquoise is fake—likely dyed howlite, magnesite, or plastic.
8. Weight Test
Real turquoise is noticeably heavier than plastic or resin imitations.
To check, compare the weight of your turquoise with a similarly sized piece of plastic or resin. If the stone feels as light as the plastic, it’s likely fake.
Turquoise has a specific gravity of 2.5-2.9, making it roughly twice as heavy as plastic, which has a specific gravity around 0.9.
However, fakes made from howlite, magnesite, or glass are similar in weight to real turquoise, so use other tests to confirm authenticity.
9. Color Test
Authentic turquoise comes in shades of robin’s egg blue to greenish-blue, with natural variations in color and sometimes uneven distribution, resulting in lighter or darker spots.
If you see turquoise in colors like white, red, purple, yellow, or bright green, it’s likely fake. The real stone is opaque, not transparent or translucent, and does not have white spots, which are often signs of uneven dye absorption in fakes.
When examining rough-cut turquoise, pay attention to cracks and grooves.
Fake turquoise may show dye buildup in these areas, which is not seen in natural stones. Genuine turquoise gets its rich color from its composition, which includes copper and aluminum.
Professional Testing and Identification
Gemologist Assessment
The most reliable way to verify turquoise authenticity is through a certified gemologist.
They use advanced tools to inspect color, matrix, and potential treatments, providing a detailed report on authenticity and quality.
While this service may have a cost, it offers the assurance of professional evaluation.
UV Light Testing
Professionals often use UV light to identify real turquoise. Authentic turquoise generally does not fluoresce, while some fakes or dyed stones might.
Although not conclusive on its own, this non-invasive test helps detect imitations and is often combined with other testing methods for accuracy.
Spectroscopy Analysis
For a more definitive test, spectroscopy analysis reveals a stone’s composition and any treatments.
This lab-based method can accurately distinguish real turquoise from howlite, magnesite, or plastic. Though typically not necessary for all stones, it is the most reliable way to confirm authenticity.
Seek Reputable Sources
For testing, go to certified gemologists affiliated with reputable institutions like the Gemological Institute of America (GIA).
They adhere to strict standards and use reliable methods. Avoid uncertified dealers who may offer inaccurate assessments.
What is Fake Turquoise?
Fake turquoise can be tricky to identify, as the stone naturally varies greatly in appearance.
Most often, imitations are made from howlite, a soft mineral that is dyed to mimic turquoise’s color and pattern. Other fakes are created using materials like magnesite, plastic, epoxy, or resin, all dyed to resemble real turquoise.
There’s also reconstituted turquoise, where small fragments of actual turquoise are crushed and mixed with other stones to create a replica. Sometimes, completely different stones with a turquoise-like appearance are passed off as the real thing.
With so much fake turquoise circulating, it’s easy to be deceived—so don’t feel bad if you’re not sure!
Common Fake Turquoise Materials
Howlite and Magnesite
Howlite and magnesite are common substitutes for turquoise. Naturally white or light gray, they are dyed to mimic turquoise’s blue hue.
These stones are softer than real turquoise (Mohs hardness of 3.5), making them easier to scratch.
They also absorb dye unevenly, with concentrated color in grooves or cracks, helping to distinguish them from authentic turquoise.
Dyed Glass and Plastic
Glass and plastic imitations are lightweight and inexpensive.
Plastic is lighter than real turquoise and warms quickly when held, while genuine turquoise retains a cool touch. Plastic fakes may also show seams or bubbles, unlike natural turquoise.
Reconstituted and Stabilized Turquoise
Reconstituted turquoise is made by crushing small turquoise fragments, combining them with resin, and molding them into stones, resulting in a lower-quality product. Stabilized turquoise is real but treated with resin to enhance durability and color.
Though stabilized turquoise is authentic, it’s less valuable than untreated natural stones. Reconstituted stones often lack natural veining and have a uniform color, making them easier to spot.
Painted and Dyed Stones
Some fakes are created by painting or dyeing stones like howlite or magnesite. They often have bright, artificial colors and painted patterns.
These dyes don’t penetrate the whole stone, and an acetone test can reveal their true nature by stripping the color away.
4 Reasons to Avoid Buying Fake Turquoise
While fake turquoise can look quite similar to the real thing, there are several drawbacks to purchasing imitations. Here’s why you should steer clear of fake turquoise:
1. Poor Quality and Durability
Fake turquoise is often made from low-quality materials, making it less durable and prone to wear and damage over time.
2. Low Resale Value
Unlike genuine turquoise, imitations have little to no resale value. If you plan to sell your piece in the future, a fake won’t hold its worth.
3. Potential Toxicity
Some fake turquoise is made from materials that can be harmful. It’s important to know what you’re buying to avoid exposure to potentially toxic substances.
4. Lacks Natural Beauty and Uniqueness
Real turquoise has a distinct beauty and uniqueness that fakes can’t replicate. By settling for an imitation, you miss out on the authentic character and charm of genuine turquoise.
Tips for Purchasing Real Turquoise
Buy from Reputable Sellers
To ensure authenticity, purchase from well-established dealers known for their expertise.
Reputable sellers should provide detailed information about the turquoise’s origin, treatment, and offer a return policy.
Look for Certifications
For higher-value turquoise, ask for a gemological certificate from institutions like the Gemological Institute of America (GIA).
Certification guarantees the stone has been professionally assessed for authenticity, origin, and any treatments.
Ask Key Questions
Inquire about the turquoise’s origin, whether it’s natural or stabilized, and any treatments it underwent.
Stones from recognized regions like the Southwestern U.S., Iran, or China are often higher quality, and sellers should willingly share this information.
Be Cautious of Pricing
Authentic turquoise is rare and more expensive than imitations.
Be wary of unusually low prices, as genuine stones typically cost more. Research the average market prices for different turquoise qualities to make informed decisions.
Examine the Stone
Check the color, matrix, and texture of the stone closely.
Real turquoise has natural variations and feels solid and cool to the touch, unlike fakes, which often have uniform colors and a lighter, warmer feel.
FAQs: Common Questions About Turquoise Authenticity
Q: Can Real Turquoise Have Even Color?
- No, genuine turquoise usually has color variations and natural veining. A perfectly even color could indicate dye or a synthetic stone.
Q: Is Stabilized Turquoise Fake?
- No, stabilized turquoise is real but treated for durability. While it may be less valuable than untreated turquoise, it’s not considered fake.
Q: How Can I Identify Dyed Turquoise?
- Dyed stones have overly bright or uniform colors. Rubbing the stone with acetone on a cotton swab can reveal dye. Also, watch for concentrated color in cracks, a sign of dyeing.
Q: How Should I Clean Turquoise?
- Clean turquoise gently with a damp cloth, avoiding harsh chemicals, steam, or ultrasonic cleaners, as turquoise is soft and porous.
Q: What If I’m Unsure About Authenticity?
- If you’re uncertain, consult a professional gemologist or a reputable jeweler who can test and verify the stone’s authenticity.
Conclusion
Authentic turquoise is prized for its vibrant colors, natural patterns, and cultural significance.
With many imitations on the market, it’s crucial to know how to spot real turquoise by understanding its unique characteristics like natural matrix, color variations, and hardness.
If in doubt, professional testing by a gemologist provides assurance of authenticity. Buying from reputable sources and asking informed questions can also help you avoid purchasing fakes.
Turquoise has been valued for generations, playing a significant role in both culture and history. Use this guide to help protect your investment or business, ensuring you buy only authentic turquoise.