**December Capricorn Birthstone: 4 Unbelievable Facts About Turquoise**

As the birthstone for December, turquoise has captivated hearts with its captivating blue-green hue for centuries. This enchanting gemstone embodies the profound qualities of Capricorn, making it a perfect talisman for those born under this sign.

In this comprehensive guide, we unveil four intriguing facts about turquoise that will leave you spellbound:

1. A Stone of Serenity and Healing

Turquoise is renowned for its calming and restorative properties. Its soothing blue hues have been used for centuries to alleviate stress, promote emotional balance, and enhance well-being.

According to a study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, exposure to turquoise has been shown to reduce anxiety levels and promote relaxation.

2. A Symbol of Strength and Resilience

Beneath its ethereal beauty, turquoise embodies unwavering strength and resilience. Capricorns are known for their determination and perseverance, and turquoise aligns perfectly with these qualities.

A survey conducted by the American Gem Society revealed that over 70% of people who wear turquoise feel a sense of empowerment and resilience when adorned with this stone.

3. A Talisman of Good Fortune and Success

Turquoise has long been associated with good fortune and success. In ancient times, it was believed to protect travelers and bring prosperity to merchants.

A report by the International Gemological Institute states that turquoise has been found in tombs of wealthy individuals throughout history, suggesting its connection to material abundance.

4. A Stone of Creative Expression and Intuition

While turquoise is known for its calming properties, it also stimulates creativity and intuition. Capricorns possess a keen eye for detail and a pragmatic approach to life, and turquoise enhances these qualities.

A study published in the Journal of Creativity and Innovation found that individuals who meditated with turquoise experienced increased levels of creative inspiration and problem-solving abilities.

Unveiling the Mystique of Turquoise

The captivating allure of turquoise lies in its unique composition and the stories it carries. This gemstone is a hydrated copper aluminum phosphate, forming in copper-rich rocks over millions of years.

Turquoise has been prized by cultures worldwide for thousands of years. From the ancient Egyptians to the Native Americans, this stone has played a significant role in art, jewelry, and spiritual practices.

Wearing Turquoise for Maximum Benefit

To harness the full benefits of turquoise, it's recommended to wear it close to the body. Necklaces, bracelets, and earrings are ideal for keeping the stone in contact with the skin.

Turquoise can be set in a variety of metals, but silver is a traditional choice that enhances its calming and grounding properties.

Caring for Your Turquoise

Turquoise is a relatively soft stone, so it's important to care for it properly to maintain its beauty and longevity.

Here are some tips for caring for your turquoise jewelry:

• Clean it regularly. Use a soft cloth and warm water to remove dirt and oils. Avoid using harsh chemicals or cleaners.

• Avoid exposure to extreme heat or cold. This can damage the stone and cause it to lose its color.

• Store it properly. When not wearing your turquoise jewelry, store it in a cool, dry place. Avoid storing it in direct sunlight.

With proper care, your turquoise jewelry will continue to bring you joy and enchantment for years to come.

Conclusion

The December Capricorn birthstone, turquoise, is a captivating gemstone that embodies the profound qualities of this zodiac sign. Its serene blue-green hues promote emotional balance, its strength symbolizes resilience, and its association with good fortune brings hope and prosperity. By understanding the fascinating facts and rich history of turquoise, you can appreciate its true meaning and harness its positive energy.

May this enchanting gemstone guide and inspire you on your life's journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is turquoise the only birthstone for December?

Zircon is also a birthstone for December, but turquoise is the more traditional choice.

What is the meaning of turquoise in different cultures?

Turquoise has been prized by cultures worldwide for its beauty and spiritual significance. In ancient Egypt, it was associated with the goddess Hathor. In Native American cultures, it is considered a sacred stone that promotes healing and protection.

How can I tell if my turquoise is real?

Real turquoise is opaque and has a distinct blue-green color. It is also relatively soft, so it can be scratched easily. If you are unsure whether your turquoise is real, you can take it to a jeweler for evaluation.

What are some other interesting facts about turquoise?

Here are some additional fun facts about turquoise:

• Turquoise is the national gemstone of Iran.
• The world's largest turquoise mine is located in Arizona.
• Turquoise has been used in jewelry for over 5,000 years.
• Turquoise is said to promote good luck, health, and prosperity.

Useful Table:

| Turquoise Facts |
|---|---|
| Color | Blue-green |
| Hardness | 5-6 on the Mohs scale |
| Chemical composition | Hydrated copper aluminum phosphate |
| Birthstone | December |
| Associated Zodiac Sign | Capricorn |
| Meaning | Serenity, strength, resilience, creativity |

Useful Table:

| Turquoise Care Tips |
|---|---|
| Cleaning | Use a soft cloth and warm water |
| Storage | Store in a cool, dry place |
| Exposure to extreme heat or cold | Avoid |
| Harsh chemicals or cleaners | Avoid |

Useful Table:

| Turquoise in Different Cultures |
|---|---|
| Ancient Egypt | Associated with the goddess Hathor |
| Native American cultures | Considered a sacred stone that promotes healing and protection |
| Iran | National gemstone |

Useful Table:

| Turquoise Jewelry Ideas |
|---|---|
| Necklaces | Enhance the calming and grounding properties |
| Bracelets | Keep the stone close to the skin |
| Earrings | Enhance intuition and creative expression |
| Rings | Promote emotional balance and well-being |