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Most of the turquoise production in the United States has been located in the arid southwest, and most of that production has been in or around deposits of copper. Arizona, New Mexico, and Nevada have all held the position of the leading turquoise-producing state. New Mexico held that position until the 1920s, Nevada held the position until the…

The turquoise group consists of five triclinic minerals. These minerals are very similar in chemical composition, crystal structure, physical properties and often in appearance. Members of the group are: turquoise, aheylite, chalcosiderite, faustite, and planerite. Their compositions are listed in the accompanying table. Notice that the members of the turquoise group have very similar chemical…

The physical properties of turquoise are valuable for its identification. They are also valuable information for the care of turquoise jewelry. Important properties are summarized in the accompanying table. Weathering can significantly alter the physical properties of turquoise. Weathered turquoise might still have a desirable color, but its hardness and durability are reduced. This turquoise…

Turquoise is rarely found in well-formed crystals. Instead it is usually an aggregate of microcrystals. When the microcrystals are packed closely together, the turquoise has a lower porosity, greater durability, and polishes to a higher luster. This luster falls short of being “vitreous” or “glassy.” Instead many people describe it as “waxy” or “subvitreous.” Turquoise forms…

Turquoise has a lower-than-ideal hardness and durability for use in certain types of jewelry. Although the gem is frequently used in rings, bracelets, and belt buckles, these uses place the gem at risk for abrasion and impact. Smart jewelry design will surround the gem with a durable bezel that protects the sides of the gem…

Blue minerals are rare, and that is why turquoise captures attention in the gemstone market. The most desirable color of turquoise is a sky blue or robin’s-egg blue. Some people inappropriately describe the color as “Persian blue” after the famous high-quality material mined in the area that is now known as Iran. Using a geographic name…

Turquoise is an opaque mineral that occurs in beautiful shades of blue, bluish green, green, and yellowish green. It has been treasured as a gemstone for thousands of years. Isolated from one another, the ancient people of Africa, Asia, South America and North America independently made turquoise one of their preferred materials for producing gemstones, inlay, and small sculptures. Chemically, turquoise is a hydrous phosphate of…