What is Imitation Turquoise?

Imitation turquoise can refer to certain stones made of natural minerals, or to plastic or glass stones that have been dyed to look like true turquoise. There are some excellent imitation turquoise stones on the market, and to the naked eye, it can be difficult to tell some apart from true turquoise. There isn’t anything morally wrong with making imitation turquoise, unless the stones are sold as true turquoise. Along with reconstituted turquoise, which does contain low-grade turquoise chalk or powder, imitation turquoise is inexpensive and has little value in the jewelry market.

There are several natural stones that may be dyed to look like turquoise and are imitations of the real turquoise stones. These include howlite, which is a white stone that readily absorbs turquoise colored dyes because of its porosity. A few natural stones can look like turquoise but really aren’t. These include variscite, amazonite and serpentine. Again there isn’t anything wrong with using these stones, provided the customer knows he or she is not buying real turquoise.

The other way imitation turquoise can be manufactured is through created plastic or glass materials dyed to match the true stones’ colors. It may be cut or injected with other dyes that make it look even more like the real deal. These may be called synthetic instead of imitation gemstones, and they may be identifiable under magnification. For the person not expert in classifying and identifying gems, the best way to evaluate whether you have true turquoise is to have the stones examined by a gemologist.

A little experience with analyzing gems and using magnification may help to identify some versions of synthetic turquoise. Under magnification strengths of 30X to 50X, you may note what appears like tiny blue threads. It’s still hard to always identify turquoise as true if you’re an amateur. Some forms of imitation turquoise aren’t very good. You may be able to easily spot some plastic forms, especially in children’s jewelry because they weigh much less.

Those who love turquoise are often angered when imitation turquoise is used in expensive or good quality settings, like silver. Gemologists recommend that you get a certificate of authenticity from the jewelry vendor, especially when you’re paying high prices for turquoise jewelry. The subject of fake turquoise also comes up when people shop at consignment shops, or find what appears to be turquoise at garage sales, (or perhaps even in their own attics or garages). If you plan on reselling the stones or jewelry made from them, it’s a good idea to have a gemologist certify that they are truly turquoise.

Imitation turquoise is a man-made product designed to mimic the appearance of genuine turquoise, a valued gemstone known for its distinct blue-green hues. Unlike natural turquoise, which is mined, imitation varieties are crafted from various materials such as resins, plastics, or glass, often dyed to achieve the characteristic color of real turquoise.

Real turquoise has a unique matrix pattern and a waxy luster, while imitation pieces often have a uniform color and glossy finish. Natural turquoise is also typically heavier and colder to the touch compared to its synthetic counterparts. Experts may use tools like a loupe to inspect the stone's texture and inclusions to verify authenticity.

Imitation turquoise is used primarily because it is significantly less expensive than genuine turquoise. It offers a cost-effective alternative for fashion jewelry, allowing for larger, more uniform pieces without the high price tag. Additionally, it provides a consistent product that's readily available, unlike natural turquoise, which can vary widely in quality and availability.

While imitation turquoise does not hold the same value as natural turquoise, it does have a market value within the costume jewelry industry. Its affordability and aesthetic appeal make it a popular choice for those seeking the look of turquoise without the investment. However, it lacks the collectibility and intrinsic worth of genuine gemstones.

Ethical concerns with imitation turquoise may arise from misleading marketing practices where it's sold as genuine. Transparency in labeling is crucial. Additionally, the environmental impact of producing synthetic materials for imitation stones is a consideration, as natural turquoise mining has its own set of ecological and ethical issues.

The eco-friendliness of imitation turquoise depends on the materials and processes used in its creation. Some synthetic stones may be made with non-toxic, recyclable materials, making them a more sustainable choice. However, the production of plastics and resins can also have a negative environmental impact, so it's important to consider the source and manufacturing practices.