How to Tell Real Turquoise: Expert Tips
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Understanding the Basics: What Is Real Turquoise?
Learn the expert tips and tricks to identify genuine turquoise and avoid getting duped by fakes.
Real turquoise is a naturally occurring mineral composed of hydrated copper and aluminum phosphate. It has been prized for its vibrant blue to green hues and has been used in jewelry and decorative items for centuries.
Genuine turquoise is relatively rare and valuable, making it a target for imitation. Knowing the fundamental characteristics of real turquoise can help you distinguish it from synthetic or fake versions.
The Touch Test: How It Feels in Your Hand
One simple method to test the authenticity of turquoise is through touch. Real turquoise tends to feel cool and smooth to the touch due to its mineral composition.
Fake turquoise, particularly those made from plastic or resin, will often feel warmer and lighter. Additionally, genuine turquoise has a certain heft to it, while imitations may feel unnaturally light.
The Scratch Test: Does Your Turquoise Pass?
Another method to test the authenticity of turquoise is the scratch test. Genuine turquoise is relatively soft compared to other gemstones, ranking 5 to 6 on the Mohs hardness scale. It should not scratch easily with a fingernail but can be scratched by harder substances like a steel knife.
To perform the scratch test, gently rub the stone with a steel pin or knife in an inconspicuous area. If the stone scratches easily or leaves a powdery residue, it may be an imitation like dyed howlite or plastic.
Chemical Testing: Using Nail Polish Remover
Chemical testing with nail polish remover (acetone) can help identify dyed turquoise or imitations. Real turquoise is porous but does not react to acetone.
To conduct this test, dampen a cotton swab with nail polish remover and gently rub it on a small area of the stone. If the color transfers to the swab or fades, the stone is likely dyed howlite or another imitation material. Genuine turquoise will remain unaffected.
Common Imitations: How to Spot Dyed Howlite and Other Fakes
Dyed howlite is one of the most common imitations of turquoise. Howlite is a white or gray mineral that is often dyed to mimic the appearance of turquoise. It can be identified by its lower hardness and the tendency for the dye to come off when exposed to acetone.
Other imitations include plastic, resin, and reconstituted turquoise, which is made from ground-up turquoise mixed with resin. These materials generally lack the natural matrix patterns and can be detected through visual inspection and scratch tests.
Visual Clues: Color, Matrix, and Patterns
The color of turquoise can range from sky blue to greenish hues. Genuine turquoise often has a more vibrant and consistent color, though it can also have natural variations.
Another clue is the matrix, which is the pattern of veins or webbing in the stone. Real turquoise often has intricate and natural-looking matrices, whereas fake versions may have patterns that look too uniform or painted on.
Advanced Testing Methods: From UV Light to Chemical Tests
For a more conclusive test, you can use a UV light. Real turquoise usually does not fluoresce under UV light, while some fakes might.
Chemical tests can also be performed, but these should be done with caution as they can damage the stone. For instance, applying a small drop of acetone on a hidden area can help; genuine turquoise will remain unaffected, while dyed or treated stones may show color changes.
Tips from the Experts: What to Look for When Buying
When purchasing turquoise, always buy from reputable dealers who provide certificates of authenticity. Ask about the stone's provenance and look for any documentation that supports its authenticity.
Experts also recommend being cautious of prices that seem too good to be true. Genuine turquoise is valuable, and extremely low prices can be a red flag indicating a fake or treated stone.