The only couple of purchases of this kind of material for me is the Purple Turquoise/Bronze, Confetti, and Orang Coral.. All are pressed resins.. Like Amanda mentioned in another thread... "Stabilized, Dyed and chemically enhanced".
That really does sum up these different kinds of pressed materials.
Remember, this Mojave Turquoise is faux.. I know it is not generally stated, but some sellers do clarify that.
Philip (Steel and Stone) shared how the company Thunderbird describes this material they sell.
"Many people are surprised to learn that only about 25% of turquoise is usable or desirable in its natural, untreated form. Most untreated turquoise is a fragile, porous stone with a tendency to undergo changes in color when exposed to light, perspiration, oils, and detergents. While turquoise is hard enough to be considered a gemstone, it is comparatively soft. The following are various treatments done to turquoise to keep it from fading or crumbling.
Stabilized
Impregnated with acrylic or epoxy to harden the stone and enhance the color. Stabilized turquoise will not change color over time. "
I think what has unfortunately happened to you is that you happened upon someone selling straight up junk ! Especially considering they spray painted on a polish.
I don't believe any of this faux material would hold up under even minimal torch heat though.. I would expect the same reaction as you got from applying even a minimal amount of heat to it..
Excellent pictorial showing your "test to destruction" ! yes16