Tibetan turquoise is renowned for its beauty and spiritual significance, making it a highly sought-after stone. However, with its popularity comes the risk of encountering imitations. Here’s a guide to help you identify genuine Tibetan turquoise:
1. Color and Veining:
- Authentic Turquoise: Genuine Tibetan turquoise ranges from sky blue to greenish-blue. It often features a distinctive matrix of black or brown veins, known as the spiderweb pattern.
- Imitations: Fake stones may have overly bright or unnatural colors and lack the natural matrix patterns.
2. Texture and Hardness:
- Authentic Turquoise: Real turquoise has a slightly waxy texture and is relatively hard (Mohs scale 5-6). It should feel cool to the touch.
- Imitations: Fake turquoise may feel too smooth or overly polished. It can also be softer, easily scratched by a steel knife.
3. Weight and Density:
- Authentic Turquoise: Genuine stones are denser and feel heavier for their size compared to imitations.
- Imitations: Fake stones might feel lighter and less substantial.
4. Price and Source:
- Authentic Turquoise: Real Tibetan turquoise is generally more expensive due to its rarity and quality. Ensure you are buying from reputable dealers who can provide information about the stone's origin.
- Imitations: If the price seems too good to be true, it probably is. Be cautious of sellers who cannot verify the stone’s provenance.
5. Testing Methods:
- Scratch Test: A light scratch test can sometimes help, but it risks damaging the stone. If it scratches easily, it's likely fake.
- Acid Test: A small drop of diluted hydrochloric acid will not affect genuine turquoise, but it can damage imitations. This test should be performed with caution and preferably by a professional.
6. Professional Verification:
- Gemologist Evaluation: For complete certainty, have the stone evaluated by a certified gemologist. They can conduct detailed tests that are not possible at home.
Conclusion:
Identifying genuine Tibetan turquoise requires careful examination of its color, texture, weight, and origin. Always buy from trusted sources and consider professional evaluation for high-value purchases.