Turquoise Treatments and Synthetics Guide
Almost all turquoises receive enhancements for jewelry use. Learn how to identify the most common turquoise treatments and synthetic options.
11 Minute Read
Why Do Turquoises Need Treatments?
Turquoise is one of the few gems that form via a sedimentary process. Instead of developing as a single crystal squeezed into shape by immense pressure and heat, turquoise grows as an aggregate gem made of many individual cryptocrystalline pieces cemented together gently at the Earth’s surface. This results in a loose internal structure. Although specific turquoise stones may vary, most have a high degree of porosity, which makes them crumbly and susceptible to scratches and other damage.
This same porosity also allows turquoise to take color and durability-boosting treatments readily and with great success. There are many types of turquoise treatments — for strengthening the gem, sealing microscopic openings on the surface, and improving color and polish. Some researchers estimate that up to 98% of the turquoise on the market today have undergone such procedures.
Types of Turquoise Treatments
Impregnation Treatments
Almost all but the finest turquoise receives impregnation treatment (also called stabilization). In this procedure, turquoise is immersed in a substance to improve its durability and color. Sealing the turquoise’s surface
…Emily Frontiere
Emily Frontiere is a GIA Graduate Gemologist. She is particularly experienced working with estate/antique jewelry.
International Gem Society
Related Articles
Turquoise Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
Understanding Gem Synthetics, Treatments, And Imitations, Part 4: Synthetic Gemstone Guide
Destructive Gemstone Tests: Dye Testing
How Do Turquoises Form?
Latest Articles
Table of Refractive Indices and Double Refraction of Selected Gems
Red Gemstones: Ruby, Spinel, Garnet, and Other Great Picks for Jewelry
Jadeite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information
Tips for Cutting and Polishing Halite
Never Stop Learning
When you join the IGS community, you get trusted diamond & gemstone information when you need it.
Get Gemology Insights
Get started with the International Gem Society’s free guide to gemstone identification. Join our weekly newsletter & get a free copy of the Gem ID Checklist!