Turquoise, with its captivating blue-green hues, has captivated people for centuries. But with its popularity comes a surge in imitations and treatments. Knowing how to distinguish genuine turquoise from its counterfeits is crucial for both collectors and buyers. This guide will equip you with the knowledge to confidently identify real turquoise.
What are the Different Ways to Test if Turquoise is Real?
Several methods can help you determine the authenticity of turquoise. These methods range from simple visual inspections to more involved tests that require specific tools. Let's delve into each:
1. Visual Inspection: The First Line of Defense
The initial step in assessing turquoise authenticity is a thorough visual inspection. Look for the following characteristics:
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Color Variations: Real turquoise rarely exhibits uniform coloration. Natural stones typically display a range of blues and greens, often with subtle veining and matrix (the host rock). Perfectly consistent color is a red flag, suggesting it might be a dyed or treated imitation.
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Matrix: Many turquoise stones contain a matrix—the dark veins or spots of other minerals within the stone. The presence of matrix is a strong indicator of authenticity, although some turquoise varieties may have little to none. Imitations often lack this natural inclusion.
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Luster: Real turquoise possesses a waxy or dull luster. A highly polished or glassy shine might point towards a synthetic or treated stone.
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Color Changes Over Time: Genuine turquoise can darken or change slightly in color over time due to exposure to light, air, and oils from the skin. This is a natural process and should not be mistaken for deterioration.
2. The Hardness Test: A Simple, Non-Destructive Method
Turquoise has a Mohs hardness of 5-6, meaning it's relatively soft. You can perform a simple scratch test using a steel knife or a glass plate. If the stone is easily scratched, it’s likely not turquoise. However, be cautious, as this test could potentially damage the stone, so it's best to use this method on inconspicuous areas.
3. The Streak Test: Revealing the True Color
The streak test involves rubbing the stone against an unglazed porcelain tile. The powder left behind is the stone's streak. Real turquoise leaves a pale bluish-green or whitish streak. If the streak is a different color, it's an indication that the stone is not genuine.
4. The Acid Test (With Caution!): A More Advanced Method
A diluted acid test can be used, but proceed with extreme caution! A drop of dilute hydrochloric acid (10%) on a hidden area will react only slightly with real turquoise, producing very minimal or no bubbling. Vigorous fizzing strongly suggests that the stone is not genuine. However, this method can damage the stone and should only be performed by experienced gemologists.
5. Weight and Feel: Subjective, But Helpful
Genuine turquoise feels relatively heavy for its size. Imitations made from lighter materials may feel noticeably less dense. This test is highly subjective and relies on experience.
6. Sourcing and Certification: Trust the Source
Purchasing turquoise from reputable jewelers or dealers who provide certificates of authenticity is the best way to ensure you're buying a genuine stone. These certificates often detail the origin, treatment, and other relevant information about the turquoise.
7. Price Point: Be Wary of Extremely Low Prices
Genuine, high-quality turquoise is typically not inexpensive. Extremely low prices should raise a red flag. Be wary of deals that seem too good to be true.
What are the Common Imitations of Turquoise?
Several materials are commonly used to imitate turquoise, including:
- Howlite: A white calcium borate mineral that is often dyed blue-green to resemble turquoise.
- Glass: Glass imitations can be remarkably convincing, but they often lack the subtle color variations and matrix of real turquoise.
- Plastic: Plastic is a cheap and easily molded material frequently used to create imitation turquoise jewelry.
- Processed Turquoise: Many turquoise pieces undergo stabilization and dyeing treatments, which can affect their value. This is often disclosed honestly.
By employing these methods, you can significantly increase your chances of identifying genuine turquoise. Remember, a combination of tests yields the most reliable results. If you are unsure, consult with a qualified gemologist for a definitive assessment.
