Turquoise, with its captivating blue-green hues, has been prized for centuries. However, its popularity has led to a surge in imitations. Knowing how to distinguish genuine turquoise from its counterfeits is crucial, whether you're a seasoned collector or a first-time buyer. This guide will equip you with the knowledge to confidently identify real turquoise.
What are the most common fake turquoise materials?
Many materials are used to imitate turquoise, each possessing different characteristics. The most prevalent include:
- Howlite: Often dyed to mimic turquoise's color, howlite is a much softer mineral, easily scratched.
- Glass: Glass imitations can be remarkably convincing, particularly when expertly crafted, but lack the unique veining and matrix of real turquoise.
- Plastic: Inexpensive and readily available, plastic turquoise is easily identified through its lightness and lack of natural variations.
- Resins: These synthetic materials are often colored and shaped to resemble turquoise.
- Other stones dyed to look like turquoise: Several other stones, such as magnesite or serpentine, are dyed to achieve a turquoise-like appearance.
How can you tell if turquoise is real? The Key Tests
Several methods can help determine the authenticity of turquoise. Remember, combining these tests provides the most accurate results.
1. The Feel Test:
Real turquoise has a characteristic coolness to the touch. Fake turquoise, especially plastics and resins, will often feel warmer. This is a simple, initial check.
2. The Hardness Test (Use Caution!):
Turquoise lies on the Mohs hardness scale between 5 and 6. This means it's relatively soft. Gently scratching it with a steel knife will leave a slight mark on fake turquoise but not real. However, this method can damage the stone, so proceed with extreme caution, and test in an inconspicuous area.
3. The Streak Test:
This involves rubbing the stone across an unglazed porcelain tile. Real turquoise will leave a pale greenish-white streak, while fake turquoise may leave a different colored streak or no streak at all. Again, this method can slightly abrade the stone’s surface.
4. Examine the Color and Matrix:
Real turquoise exhibits unique variations in color and often features a matrix—inclusions of other minerals like pyrite or limonite. The matrix adds to the stone's character and beauty. Fake turquoise usually has a uniform, overly perfect color with little to no matrix. Look closely for inconsistencies and natural variations in color and texture; these are hallmarks of authenticity.
5. The Weight Test:
Real turquoise is denser than most imitations. Compare the weight of the suspected turquoise piece to a stone of similar size that you know is authentic. Real turquoise will feel noticeably heavier.
6. Look for Porosity:
Genuine turquoise can sometimes be slightly porous, meaning it absorbs water. A very small drop of water on a hidden part of the stone can leave a slight mark, while fake materials may show no absorption at all.
Where to Buy Authentic Turquoise:
To ensure you're purchasing genuine turquoise, buy from reputable sources:
- Trusted jewelers: Choose establishments with a strong reputation and established history.
- Gem and mineral shows: These events often feature vendors who are knowledgeable about their products.
- Certified gemologists: They can provide appraisals and authentication services.
Is it worth getting it professionally tested?
If you're investing in a high-value turquoise piece, it's highly recommended to have it professionally appraised and tested by a qualified gemologist. They can use advanced techniques to determine authenticity with certainty.
By employing these methods, you can confidently differentiate real turquoise from its imitations. Remember to always exercise caution and due diligence when purchasing turquoise. Happy treasure hunting!
