As a microcrystalline mineral, turquoise does not lend itself to sharply chiseled facets like diamonds, rubies, tourmalines, and other gemstones. Instead, the predominantly blue, sometimes green, mineral is often carved into cameos, polished into beads and cabochons, or engraved and then inlaid with gold. Many varieties of turquoise are quite porous, which is why turquoise is often waxed or coated with resin to protect the stone from being...Continue Reading