Zhushan Turquoise

Zhushan Turquoise

Zhushan Turquoise is a protected geographical indication product.

　　The craft name for turquoise is “songshi” (松石), derived from its pinecone-like shape and pine-green color. Its English name, Turquoise, means “Turkish stone.” However, turquoise is not produced in Turkey. Legend has it that ancient Persian turquoise was transported to Europe via Turkey, hence the name.

　　Turquoise is one of the ancient gemstones cherished by people across time and cultures, used as an ornament as far back as the Neolithic Age. Among the artifacts unearthed at the Yangshao Culture site (6500–4000 years ago) in Dahecun, Zhengzhou, Henan, were two turquoise fish-shaped ornaments. In Yongjing, Gansu Province, China, 20 pieces of turquoise dating back 3,800 years were excavated from Dahezhuang. On the arms of the mummy of Queen Zer of Egypt, who lived 5,000 years ago, were four gold-wrapped turquoise bracelets.

　　Turquoise products are known for their beautiful colors and have been cherished by people throughout history, especially among Muslims and those in the American West. Currently, Chinese turquoise jewelry and crafts are bestsellers worldwide, all made from domestically sourced materials.

　　Gem-grade turquoise is a dense, massive aggregate primarily composed of turquoise minerals, formed through geological processes and reaching gemstone quality. This definition emphasizes that it is formed naturally during geological processes, distinguishing it from synthetic turquoise and other types of jade.

　　The protected geographical indication area for Zhushan Turquoise covers the administrative regions of 13 towns and townships under the jurisdiction of Zhushan County, Hubei Province: Chengguan Town, Pan Kou Township, Yishui Town, Majiadu Town, Baofeng Town, Qin Guzhen, Zhuping Township, Desheng Town, Damiao Township, Shuangtai Township, Loutai Township, Wenfeng Township, and Tianjiaba Town.