African Turquoise – Meaning and Associations

An impression of the rough stone

“Growth is not by chance; it is a conscious choice to choose your own path anew each day.”

African Turquoise is designed for those who are fully engaged in life and dare to embrace change. It is a stone for pioneers who forge their own path, regardless of the challenges they encounter along the way.

With its distinctive green and blue hues and earthy inclusions, this stone possesses a raw and natural character. The matte finish provides an understated, modern look that highlights the stone's natural texture.

As each stone is formed by nature, no two pieces are exactly alike; every bead has its own unique pattern and character.

Why people choose African Turquoise

• Traditionally associated with strength and self-confidence
• Symbolises transformation and new possibilities
• Unique matte palette of green, turquoise, and earthy brown tones
• A stone that represents personal growth and development
• Natural variation makes each bead a unique work of art

The Stone

• Traditional Meaning: Strength • Self-confidence • Growth
• Origin: Africa
• Zodiac Sign: Cancer • Capricorn

History

Although its name might suggest otherwise, African Turquoise is not geologically true turquoise, but rather a specific variety of jasper mined in Africa. The stone owes its trade name to its striking green and blue hues, which strongly resemble the colour of classic turquoise.

Due to its greater hardness compared to true turquoise, this jasper variety was historically valued for objects that needed to withstand wear and tear. It was regarded by various cultures as a stone that reminds the wearer of the necessity of change and the strength to evolve.

Astrology & Moon

Within astrology, African Turquoise is associated with the zodiac signs Cancer and Capricorn. While Cancer seeks connection with inner growth, for Capricorn, the stone offers a symbol of perseverance and ambition.

In traditions surrounding the lunar calendar, this stone is associated with the waxing moon. This is the phase of building and expansion, which perfectly aligns with the symbolism of transformation and the manifestation of new plans.

Within Chakra Theory

Within chakra theory, due to its prominent green hues, African Turquoise is traditionally linked to the heart chakra, also known as Anahata. In this tradition, the heart chakra symbolises emotional balance, compassion, and the connection between the physical and spiritual worlds.

Due to the presence of blue nuances, the stone is also associated with the throat chakra, or Vishuddha, within this teaching. In Eastern traditions, this chakra symbolises self-expression and the ability to clearly articulate one's inner truth.

Fun Facts

• Despite its trade name, African Turquoise is geologically a mottled form of jasper primarily mined in Africa.
• The stone has a greater hardness than true turquoise, making it historically very suitable for creating durable beads and ornaments that are not easily scratched.
• The dark spots and patterns in the stone are formed by inclusions of metals such as copper and iron, giving each piece a unique organic appearance.
• In gemmology, this specific variety is often referred to as the 'Stone of Evolution', referring to the folklore in which the stone symbolises transformation and development.

Care

African Turquoise is geologically a jasper variety and, with approximately 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale, is harder than true turquoise, making it reasonably scratch-resistant. However, hard knocks or contact with other jewellery can cause scratches — so store your bracelet separately.

Brief contact with water is fine for the stone, but do not let it soak for extended periods. Remove your bracelet before showering, swimming, and exercising, and keep it away from perfume, soap, and lotion, so that the matte finish and the green and blue hues retain their character.

For care, wipe the beads with a soft, dry cloth after wearing. Avoid chemical cleaners to preserve its earthy, raw appearance.

View the African Turquoise bracelet in the shop →

Looks lovely with

Lava Stone · Onyx · Tiger Eye

Honesty about meaning: the properties on this page describe what this stone has traditionally symbolised and with what it is associated within traditions and astrology. Mad Monk Jewelry makes no claims: we do not promise that a stone has a specific effect or power, or that it will bring about anything for you. What we do promise: a natural gemstone, carefully selected and hand-finished.

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