Real Vs Fake Turquoise: Spotting The Difference

Hey guys! Ever wondered how to tell if that stunning turquoise jewelry you're eyeing is the real deal or just a clever imitation? With its mesmerizing blue-green hues and rich history, turquoise is a gem that has captivated hearts for centuries. But, like with any popular treasure, there are fakes out there. Don't worry; I'm here to help you become a turquoise-detecting pro. Let's dive into the fascinating world of turquoise and uncover the secrets to spotting authentic stones, crystals, and jewelry.

Why Real Turquoise Matters

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of spotting fakes, let's talk about why real turquoise is so special. Real turquoise isn't just a pretty stone; it's a piece of history. This gem has been cherished by cultures around the globe for thousands of years, from ancient Egyptians to Native American tribes. It's believed to possess spiritual and healing properties, making it more than just a fashion statement. When you buy real turquoise, you're not just buying a beautiful accessory; you're investing in a piece of art with a story to tell. The unique matrix patterns, the subtle color variations, and the natural imperfections all contribute to its character and charm.

Authentic turquoise stones also hold their value over time. Because of their rarity and the increasing difficulty in mining high-quality turquoise, genuine pieces tend to appreciate in value, making them a worthwhile investment. In contrast, fake turquoise offers none of these benefits. It lacks the inherent beauty, the spiritual significance, and the investment potential of the real thing. Often, imitations are made from dyed howlite, plastic, or other inexpensive materials that simply can't replicate the genuine article's allure. So, knowing how to distinguish between real and fake turquoise is crucial for making informed purchases and ensuring you're getting what you pay for. This knowledge empowers you to appreciate the true beauty and value of authentic turquoise and to avoid the disappointment of ending up with a counterfeit.

The Tell-Tale Signs: How to Identify Real Turquoise

Okay, let's get down to the fun part – becoming a turquoise detective! There are several key characteristics that can help you distinguish real turquoise from its imitators. By paying close attention to these signs, you can confidently identify genuine stones and make sure your turquoise treasures are the real deal.

1. Color and Matrix

Color is one of the first things you'll notice about turquoise. Real turquoise boasts a stunning range of blues and greens, from a vibrant sky blue to a deep, earthy green. The color is often uneven, with variations and subtle shifts that add to its natural beauty. Fake turquoise, on the other hand, often has a uniform, almost artificial color. It might be too perfectly blue or too consistently green, lacking the natural nuances found in genuine stones. This is because dyes are often used to create the color in imitations, resulting in a flat, uninteresting hue.

The matrix is another crucial element to examine. The matrix refers to the network of veins or patterns that run through the stone, usually in shades of brown, black, or even gold. These patterns are created by other minerals present during the turquoise's formation, and they're like a fingerprint, making each piece unique. Real turquoise has a matrix that appears natural and organic, with irregular lines and patterns that flow seamlessly within the stone. The matrix in fake turquoise is often painted on or artificially created, resulting in a uniform, repetitive pattern that looks unnatural. Sometimes, imitations will have no matrix at all, which is a major red flag.

2. Hardness and Texture

Turquoise is a relatively soft stone, with a hardness of around 5-6 on the Mohs scale. This means it can be scratched by harder materials like glass or steel. If you gently try to scratch the stone with a pin or a knife (in an inconspicuous area, of course!), a real turquoise will show a slight scratch or leave a powdery residue. Fake turquoise, especially if it's made of plastic or dyed howlite, will either be too hard or too soft. Plastic will feel soft and may even dent, while dyed howlite, which is a harder mineral, might not scratch at all. The texture of real turquoise is also distinctive. It has a slightly waxy feel, with a smooth but not overly polished surface. Imitations can feel too smooth and glassy, or too rough and porous, lacking the natural feel of genuine turquoise.

3. Luster and Shine

The luster of turquoise refers to how light reflects off its surface. Real turquoise has a waxy to dull luster, meaning it doesn't have a high shine or glassy appearance. It has a subtle, natural glow that's quite different from the bright, artificial shine of many imitations. Fake turquoise, particularly if it's made of plastic or resin, often has a very glossy, almost plastic-like shine. This is because these materials are designed to reflect light in a way that mimics the appearance of precious gems. However, the shine is usually too intense and unnatural, giving away the stone's true nature. In contrast, if the turquoise appears too dull or chalky, it could be a sign of a low-quality stone that has been heavily treated or stabilized. While stabilization is a common process used to enhance the durability of some turquoise, excessive treatment can diminish its natural beauty and value.

4. Weight and Temperature

The weight and temperature of a stone can also provide clues about its authenticity. Real turquoise feels cool to the touch and has a substantial weight for its size. This is due to its mineral composition and density. Fake turquoise, especially if it's made of plastic, will feel light and warm to the touch. Plastic doesn't conduct heat in the same way as natural stone, so it will warm up quickly in your hand. Similarly, dyed howlite, which is a common turquoise imitation, is often lighter than genuine turquoise. If the stone feels unusually light or warm, it's a strong indication that it might not be the real deal. However, these tests are not foolproof, as some imitations can be made to mimic the weight and temperature of real turquoise. It's best to use these factors in combination with other identifying characteristics to make a more accurate assessment.

5. Price and Source

The price and source of your turquoise are also important factors to consider. Real, high-quality turquoise is a relatively rare and valuable gemstone, so it typically commands a higher price. If you come across turquoise jewelry that's being sold at a suspiciously low price, it's a red flag. While there are deals to be found, extremely cheap turquoise is often a sign of imitation or low-quality material. It's always a good idea to do some research on the current market prices for turquoise before making a purchase.

The source of the turquoise is equally important. Buy from reputable jewelers or dealers who have a proven track record of selling genuine gemstones. Ask questions about the origin of the turquoise and the treatments it has undergone. A trustworthy seller will be transparent about their products and provide you with detailed information. Be wary of sellers who are vague about the source or who make exaggerated claims about the stone's quality or rarity. Buying from a reputable source not only ensures you're getting authentic turquoise but also supports ethical and sustainable mining practices. Many reputable dealers are committed to sourcing their turquoise from mines that adhere to fair labor standards and environmental regulations.

Common Turquoise Imitations to Watch Out For

Now that we know how to spot real turquoise, let's take a look at some of the most common imitations you might encounter. Being aware of these fakes will help you avoid getting tricked and ensure you're investing in genuine stones.

1. Dyed Howlite

Dyed howlite is one of the most prevalent turquoise imitations on the market. Howlite is a white mineral that is porous and easily dyed to mimic the color of turquoise. It often has black veining, which can be manipulated to resemble the matrix patterns found in real turquoise. However, the dye job is usually uneven, and the color tends to be too uniform and intense. The veining in dyed howlite often looks painted on and lacks the natural depth and irregularity of a genuine turquoise matrix.

To spot dyed howlite, look for a consistent, almost artificial blue color and veining that appears to be on the surface rather than embedded within the stone. You can also try wiping the stone with a damp cloth. If the dye comes off, it's almost certainly dyed howlite. While dyed howlite can be a beautiful stone in its own right, it's essential to recognize it for what it is and not mistake it for genuine turquoise. Jewelers should always disclose if a stone is dyed howlite, so make sure to ask if you're unsure.

2. Plastic and Resin

Plastic and resin are other common materials used to create fake turquoise. These materials can be molded into various shapes and dyed to mimic the color and appearance of turquoise. Plastic and resin imitations are often very lightweight and feel warm to the touch, which are telltale signs of their artificial nature. They also tend to have a glossy, plastic-like shine that is quite different from the waxy luster of real turquoise.

Another way to identify plastic or resin imitations is to look closely at the surface. You might notice small bubbles or imperfections that are common in molded materials. The matrix patterns, if present, will often appear artificial and repetitive. When tapped against a hard surface, plastic and resin will produce a dull, hollow sound compared to the solid sound of real stone. While plastic and resin imitations are often inexpensive, they lack the beauty, value, and spiritual significance of genuine turquoise.

3. Reconstituted Turquoise

Reconstituted turquoise, also known as stabilized turquoise, is made from fragments of real turquoise that are crushed and mixed with a resin or epoxy binder. The resulting mixture is then molded into shapes and dyed to enhance its color. While reconstituted turquoise contains real turquoise material, it's not the same as a natural, solid stone. It's essentially a composite material that lacks the unique character and value of genuine turquoise.

Reconstituted turquoise can be difficult to identify because it does contain real turquoise. However, there are a few clues to look for. The color is often very uniform and intense, and the matrix patterns may appear artificial or blurred. The stone may also have a slightly plastic-like feel, and the surface might show signs of the resin binder. When buying turquoise, it's essential to ask the seller if the stone is natural, stabilized, or reconstituted. Stabilized turquoise, which is natural turquoise that has been treated to enhance its durability, is generally more valuable than reconstituted turquoise.

The Ultimate Test: Trust Your Gut

After learning all the tips and tricks for spotting real turquoise, the most important thing is to trust your instincts. If something feels off about a piece of turquoise, it's better to err on the side of caution. Take your time, examine the stone carefully, and ask questions. A reputable jeweler will be happy to provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision.

By becoming a savvy turquoise shopper, you can ensure that you're investing in genuine beauty and value. Real turquoise is a treasure that will bring joy for years to come, so take the time to learn how to spot the difference between real and fake. Happy hunting, and may your turquoise dreams come true!