Fun Facts & Charts
Turquoise Talk
We are often asked questions about the many types of turquoise that we carry. Turquoise is most commonly found in shades of blue and green however, it is also available in yellow, purple and white. 80% of the turquoise that you find on the market today comes from China or Tibet. An additional 20% is mined in the U.S. Most U.S mined turquoise comes from the Kingman Mine or the Sleeping Beauty Mine in Arizona. There are four different kinds of turquoise on the market today:
Natural turquoise which is hard enough and pretty enough to be cut, polished, and sold without any processing. Natural turquoise is the rarest and most expensive. Its color will darken over time as it absorbs oils from the skin when it is worn.
Stabilized turquoise is turquoise that because it is soft and chalky, has to be stabilized before it can be sold. Stabilized turquoise is infused with a clear epoxy resin that permanently hardens the stone and deepens the color. The color in this form of turquoise is permanent.
Treated turquoise, like stabilized turquoise, has been infused with a clear epoxy resin. The resin contains dye to give the stone a more brilliant, but artificial look. This is the least expensive form of turquoise.
Reconstituted turquoise is turquoise that has been ground into a powder, infused with dyed epoxy, and pressed into shapes.
Caring For Your Turquoise Jewelry:
• Natural turquoise should be kept away from exposure to chemicals, cosmetics, oils, perfume, high heat and natural sunlight as these can all cause changes in its color.
• Store your turquoise jewelry separate from other pieces as it may scratch.
• Should your turquoise piece need cleaning use warm water and a soft cloth. Be sure to thoroughly dry your turquoise before storing it.