Large Bumble Bee Turquoise Teardrop Beads - 50mm

Product Code: ga4808

Availability:In stock

Price is per bead of these dyed (colour fixed) turquoise beads. Each teardrop measures a large 50mm x 29mm x 10mm - ideal as a pendant or focal beads. Hole size is about 1mm

These beautiful colour beads has a pattern that looks like a Bumble Bee beads.

Beautiful colour and shine! Top drilled from side-to-side ready to thread. Each bead will have different markings.

What is turquoise?
Turquoise is a soft, opaque gemstone, formed by volcanic rock reacting to copper deposits brought by water. Colour ranges from blue-green, to yellow-green with grey, black or brown veining. Most non-green turquoise these days is dyed. As genuine turquoise is expensive, reconstituted turquoise is common - crafted from real turquoise chips fused with other stones to cut cost. Turquoise is the birthstone for December.

History
Turquoise has been found in 5,000-year-old Egyptian tombs and the Tibetans used it as currency centuries ago. North Africa and the Middle East hold large deposits, but most turquoise today originates from Burma and is carved in China. Turquoise didn't reach Europe until the crusades when the name originated, meaning Turkish stone.

Benefits
Ancient doctors thought turquoise prevented injury and ground it into a powder to cure stomach disorders, internal bleeding, and insect bites. Turquoise has always been used to protect the wearer from danger, attract wealth, and warn as a talisman or good luck charm. Some believe it will fade when danger or illness is near, or a lover is unfaithful. Its also said to protect against pollution and strengthen the body.

Looking after
Turquoise is porous, so contact with liquids, oils or even perspiration should be avoided. This is why its often impregnated with plastic, colourless oil or wax to improve colour and durability. Jewellery should be removed before washing.
Untreated turquoise will eventually turn green.