The word turquoise is a French translation for "Turkish stones". The Turks were the first to carry this stone to Europe fro trading. It has been prized by cultures around the world. This stone is highly sensitive to many things such as warmth, acidic conditions, and alcohol in perfumes. The Arabs, as well as the Apache Indians, believe that turquoise is so sensitive to atmospheric conditions that its color is affected by changes in weather. The stone dates all the way back to the 5th century when it was used in Siberian jewelry. It has been said that the Turks attached turquoise to horse bridles to protect against falls or injuries for both the rider and the horse. The Aztecs used turquoise for centuries as is evident by the artifacts found such as the death masks, which were inlaid with turquoise. Among the Apache Indians, every medicine man had to have a piece of turquoise to be considered to have power and to earn respect. Another belief held by them was that if turquoise was cast into a river, it would bring rain. Turquoise was believed by ancient physicians to change colors as patients grew sicker. When a person died, the stone was said to have turned white. It is held to the highest regard by both Native Americans and Tibetan Buddhists believing it is one of the protectors and guardians of the body and soul.