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TURQUOIS.
The finest variety is called Turquois Vieille Roche, its texture is uniform and compact. This gem is highly valued in Persia and other Mahometan states, and on that account the most beautiful stones are seldom sent to Europe.
It is doubtful whether the substance termed Turquois Nouvelle Roche is a real Turquois: it is generally supposed to be a fossil bone, colored by Phosphate of Iron; it frequently exhibits evident marks of organization[1].
The turquois is much worn in necklaces, and in every part of ornamental jewellery, from the size of a pin's head, to that of an almond: it contrasts beautifully with brilliants, or pearls set in fine gold, and appears to most advantage when cut spheroidal.
- ↑ This supposition is strengthened by its chemical characters, the Nouvelle Roche always effervescing in acid, which has no effect on the turquois.
