“Tones of turquoise will always prevail…”
Christian Dior
Turquoise is an opaque blue green mineral, composed of the hydrous phosphate of copper and aluminium. The veins running through it are referred to as the matrix, and consist of limonite (common oxide). The mineral first appeared in Europe in the 17th century. It came from mines in Iran and Afghanistan, via trade routes through Turkey. Turquois being French for Turkey. As a gemstone it is a talisman protecting the wearer from unnatural death. It is often used to represent the sky on the dome of mosques. In watercolour it is used to paint clear skies and bright tropical seas. This spectacular pen has been turned from turquoise. It was gift from another surgeon, an important friend and colleague, who just happens to be a mad Sturt supporter as well. #thankyouphil #letsmakelemonade
Pen Paint and Scalpel 