Step 1 : Introduction to the question " The name of which mineral is of French origin and literally means "Turkish"? "
...
Turquoise is an opaque, blue-to-green mineral that is a hydrated phosphate of copper and aluminium. It is rare and valuable in finer grades and has been prized as a gemstone and ornamental stone for thousands of years owing to its unique hue.
The word "turquoise" dates to the 17th century and is derived from the French "turquois" meaning "Turkish" because the mineral was first brought to Europe through Turkey.
The pastel shades of turquoise have endeared it to many great cultures of antiquity: it has adorned the rulers of Ancient Egypt, the Aztecs (and possibly other Pre-Columbian Mesoamericans), Persia, Mesopotamia, the Indus Valley, and to some extent in ancient China since at least the Shang Dynasty.
Despite being one of the oldest gems, probably first introduced to Europe (through Turkey) with other Silk Road novelties, turquoise did not become important as an ornamental stone in the West until the 14th century, following a decline in the Roman Catholic Church's influence which allowed the use of turquoise in secular jewelry. It was apparently unknown in India until the Mughal period, and unknown in Japan until the 18th century.
A common belief shared by many of these civilizations held that turquoise possessed certain prophylactic qualities; it was thought to change color with the wearer's health and protect him or her from untoward forces.
More Info:
en.wikipedia.org
Step 2 : Answer to the question " The name of which mineral is of French origin and literally means "Turkish"? "
Lazurite:
Please let us know as comment, if the answer is not correct!
No comments:
Post a Comment