Turquoise for Beginners
Understanding Turquoise
For centuries, its distinctive blue-green hue has captured hearts, adorning jewelry and weaving through cultural narratives. It might seem like common sense, but the various colors originate from different mines around the world! I truly fell in love with this gem when I moved to Arizona at 22, and I've been collecting ever since. Hey, it's cheaper than diamonds, right? Unless we're talking about Squash Blossoms... which I've been saving up for!
Types of Turquoise
1. Sleeping Beauty Turquoise: Known for its pure, robin's egg blue color, Sleeping Beauty Turquoise is prized for its smooth, even texture and vibrant shade. Named after the Sleeping Beauty Mine in Arizona, this gemstone is highly sought after for its striking appearance.
2. Kingman Turquoise: Hailing from Arizona's Kingman Mine, this turquoise displays a range of hues, from sky blue to rich greens, often featuring matrix patterns. Its versatility makes it a favorite among artisans for both contemporary and traditional jewelry designs!
3. Persian Turquoise: Revered for its deep blue color with minimal matrix, Persian Turquoise has a rich history dating back centuries. Mined in Iran (formerly Persia), this type is known for its intense blue hue and is often used in high-end jewelry.
4. Bisbee Turquoise: Once mined in Arizona's Bisbee Mine, this type is celebrated for its deep blue color and unique matrix patterns. Considered rare and collectible due to the mine's closure, Bisbee Turquoise remains highly coveted.
5. I heard they discovered a new mine in Iran that is a light baby blue so i’m excited to see the pieces that come out of there! Keeping my eyes peeled!
Turquoise Gem: Origins and Mining
Turquoise, formed around 30 million years ago, gets its striking blue and green hues from copper, zinc, and iron deposits. This gemstone is a product of minerals trickling through host rocks, resulting in varied colors and unique matrix patterns. Found primarily in dry, arid lands, turquoise mines span countries like Egypt, China, Chile, Mexico, and the United States! These mines, have been previously used for trade, art, and personal adornment across ancient cultures. The Maghara Wadi mines in Egypt, active for over two millennia, catered to the pharaohs' love for turquoise until their rediscovery in the 19th century. This gem's influence spanned continents, adorning art and jewelry from South America to North America, where Native American tribes mined and fashioned it into exquisite pieces that continue to influence modern turquoise craftsmanship.
Native American Heritage
Turquoise holds deep significance in Native American culture. Believed to bring protection, luck, and healing properties, it's been used in ceremonial attire, adornments, and tribal art for centuries. For centuries, these tribes have mined, traded, and utilized turquoise in various forms, creating iconic pieces like necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and more. The distinctive use of turquoise in Native American jewelry reflects the cultural richness, spiritual significance, and artistic expressions of these indigenous communities. The term "Native American jewelry" acknowledges the unique style and craftsmanship specific to these tribes and their enduring connection to turquoise as a symbol of cultural identity and heritage. It's a symbol of harmony, friendship, and spiritual well-being for many tribes, including the Navajo, Hopi, Zuni, and Pueblo people!
In Conclusion, buying turquoise in Montana comes with a hefty price tag. I've found better deals in places like Prescott, Scottsdale and Tucson, Arizona! If you have some good spots, send them my way so I can add them! When it comes to western wear for women, turquoise is an absolute must-have. It doesn't matter if it's a cowgirl's hatband, a bold belt buckle, or a chunky necklace—turquoise is an essential piece western fashion!
