Ancient China: The Stone of Heaven

Chinese artisans have carved turquoise for over 3,000 years, considering it a symbol of immortality and wisdom. It was often carved into intricate figurines and ornaments for the imperial court, and Chinese medicine practitioners used turquoise for its believed healing properties.

Known as the "Stone of Heaven," turquoise held a revered place in ancient Chinese culture, bridging the earthly and divine realms through its celestial blue-green hues.

Master Li Wei: The Imperial Court's Treasure Keeper

During the Tang Dynasty (618-907 CE), Master Li Wei became legendary for his extraordinary turquoise carvings. Working in the imperial workshops of Chang'an, he spent decades perfecting his craft, transforming raw turquoise into breathtaking miniature dragons, phoenixes, and celestial guardians.

His most celebrated piece—a palm-sized turquoise dragon with scales so delicate they seemed to shimmer—was presented to Emperor Xuanzong himself. The emperor was so moved by its beauty that he declared Master Li Wei "Keeper of Heaven's Stone," a title that elevated the artisan to near-mythical status. Li Wei believed that each piece of turquoise held the spirit of the sky, and his patient, meditative carving process was said to unlock the stone's divine essence.

Turquoise in Traditional Chinese Medicine

Beyond its artistic value, turquoise played a vital role in traditional Chinese medicine for millennia. Practitioners ground the stone into fine powder and incorporated it into remedies believed to:

• Detoxify the body – Turquoise powder was mixed with water or herbal teas to help purify the blood and eliminate toxins
• Calm the spirit – Wearing turquoise amulets was thought to reduce anxiety, promote mental clarity, and balance emotional energy
• Strengthen the eyes – Ancient texts describe turquoise-infused solutions used to treat eye ailments and improve vision
• Protect against harm – Turquoise was considered a powerful talisman that could absorb negative energy and shield the wearer from illness and misfortune

Chinese physicians believed turquoise's cooling properties made it especially effective for treating inflammation and fever. The stone's connection to water and sky elements in traditional Chinese cosmology reinforced its reputation as a harmonizing force between body and spirit.