Green Chalk Turquoise Cabochons in various, 56 gm, Various Shapes and Sizes

Description

Turquoise Cabochons in various sized and shapes. 008
Turquoise has been popular since prehistoric times. This stone is a hydrated aluminum copper phosphate that often contains iron. Its name comes from French Pierre turquoise, meaning "Turkish stone," a reference to where Persian material passed on its way to Europe.
It occurs naturally in shades ranging from sky blue to grey-green, usually in locations where copper is hidden in the soil in high concentrations. The blue color is caused by copper, while the green color is caused by iron or chromium. Turquoise has been mined for eons, since at least 6000 B.C. Early Egyptians wore the stone, and many turquoise pieces have been found in their tombs. The ancient Aztecs in Northern Peru used to decorate their ceremonial masks with this stone, which they considered holy.