Is White Turquoise Genuine Turquoise? Unveiling The Truth

Is it possible for authentic turquoise to contain white streaks or patches? This is a common question, and it’s essential to understand that a consistently pure blue color in a turquoise stone might actually indicate that it’s a counterfeit. Genuine turquoise typically exhibits a range of colors, including various shades of blue, hints of white, and sometimes even traces of green. To further verify the authenticity of a turquoise specimen, some enthusiasts use a test involving soaking it in 99% acetone, as this can cause artificial dyes to seep out of fake stones. In the case of this particular specimen, it remained colorfast after a 24-hour acetone soak, suggesting its authenticity.

“Understanding the Authenticity of White Turquoise: Identifying Genuine vs. Fake

Determining whether white turquoise is genuine or counterfeit requires a keen eye for certain characteristics. Genuine turquoise typically exhibits an opaque robin’s egg blue or greenish-blue hue. In contrast, if the stone appears transparent or showcases colors like white, red, or purple, it is likely a counterfeit imitation. Another vital indicator of authenticity is the stone’s durability. Real turquoise boasts impressive hardness and doesn’t scratch easily. To test this, try to scratch the stone with your fingernail or a coin; if it chips easily, it is probably a fake specimen. By recognizing these key attributes, you can confidently distinguish real white turquoise from its imitations.”

Is white turquoise the same as howlite? This is a common question in the world of gemstones. White howlite, in its natural, undyed form, is often marketed using various trade names, including “white turquoise,” “white buffalo turquoise,” and “white buffalo stone.” However, it’s important to note that there is a distinction between white howlite and turquoise, which is a separate gemstone with its own unique properties.

Furthermore, some sellers offer dyed howlite that has been transformed into a turquoise blue color, and this variant is sometimes referred to as “turquenite.” To maintain the color vibrancy of dyed howlites, they are occasionally coated with a resin to prevent color bleeding.

In summary, while white howlite may be marketed as “white turquoise” or under similar names, it should not be confused with genuine turquoise, which is a distinct gemstone. Additionally, dyed versions of howlite are available under the name “turquenite,” with some being resin-coated to preserve their color. This information helps clarify the distinctions between these various gemstones and their trade names.