Turquoise is a highly valued gemstone known for its vibrant blue and green hues, and its unique presence in jewelry has made it a popular choice among collectors and fashion enthusiasts. However, not all turquoise is created equal. The various types of turquoise differ in terms of color, texture, origin, and treatment methods. Identifying these differences can help you make informed decisions when buying or wearing vintage turquoise jewelry wholesale. Here’s how you can identify different types of turquoise in jewelry.
1. Understanding Turquoise Color Variations
The color of turquoise can range from blue to green, and even yellowish or brownish tones. The color of turquoise is one of the easiest ways to identify the type. The variations in color are largely due to the mineral composition of the stone, which includes the presence of copper, iron, and other elements.
- Blue Turquoise: This type is the most sought after and is characterized by its vibrant, pure blue color. The deeper the blue, the more valuable the turquoise is considered. Pure blue turquoise often comes from regions like the Sleeping Beauty mine in Arizona.
- Green Turquoise: Green turquoise is usually caused by higher levels of iron in the stone. It has a softer, olive-like or teal hue. Some of the most beautiful green turquoises come from places like Nevada and Iran.
- Turquoise with Matrix: Some turquoise stones have veins or patches of other minerals running through them, called “matrix.” This matrix can be black, brown, or gold and gives the turquoise a unique, marbled appearance. This type of turquoise is often more affordable, but still incredibly beautiful and popular.
Styling Tip: The color of turquoise will often give you a clue about where it was mined and how valuable it might be. Generally, more vibrant blue stones tend to be of higher quality.
2. The Location of Origin
Turquoise is found in many parts of the world, and its origin often affects its price, appearance, and desirability. Some of the most famous turquoise mines include:
- American Turquoise: The U.S. is home to some of the best-known turquoise mines, such as the Sleeping Beauty Mine, the Kingman Mine, and the Bisbee Mine, all located in Arizona. American turquoise is typically blue or blue-green and is prized for its consistency and color.
- Persian Turquoise: Iran is known for its high-quality turquoise, and Persian turquoise is often deep blue with a high degree of hardness. It’s one of the oldest and most revered sources of turquoise, with a rich history dating back thousands of years.
- Chinese Turquoise: Chinese turquoise can range from light blue to green, and is often sold at a more affordable price compared to American or Persian varieties. It is often treated or stabilized to improve its durability.
- Mexican Turquoise: This variety of turquoise is typically more affordable and can range in color from blue to green. Mexican turquoise is often treated to enhance its color.
Styling Tip: Knowing where a turquoise stone comes from can help you identify its characteristics. For instance, American turquoise often has a cleaner, blue tone, while Persian turquoise may have more intense blue colors with less matrix.
3. Evaluating the Matrix
The matrix is the pattern of other minerals embedded within the turquoise. These minerals, such as iron or copper, can give turquoise its distinctive patterns and make each stone unique. The presence of a matrix often affects the value of Palomino jewelry, as stones with more dramatic or appealing matrix patterns can be more valuable.
- Webbed Matrix: This type of matrix has a fine, web-like pattern running throughout the stone. It’s particularly sought after for its artistic look and is often seen in turquoise from the American Southwest.
- Spiderweb Matrix: Spiderweb matrix features more pronounced, angular patterns that resemble a spider’s web. This type of turquoise is highly prized and is often seen in high-quality turquoise from the Sleeping Beauty mine.
- No Matrix: Some turquoise stones are free from any matrix and are solid in color, which can make them more desirable to certain buyers who prefer a uniform look.
Styling Tip: If you love bold, striking jewelry, look for turquoise with an intricate matrix pattern. The matrix adds a unique flair to the stone, giving it a personalized touch.
4. Hardness and Durability
Turquoise is relatively soft compared to other gemstones, with a hardness rating of 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale. This softness means that turquoise can be prone to scratching and requires careful handling, especially in jewelry.
- High-Quality Turquoise: Stones that are harder and have a smooth, even texture are typically more valuable. Higher-quality turquoise, like that from the Sleeping Beauty or Persian mines, tends to be harder and more resistant to wear.
- Stabilized or Compressed Turquoise: Turquoise is often treated to improve its durability. Stabilized turquoise has been impregnated with resins or plastic to make it harder and less likely to crack or chip. Compressed turquoise is made by combining smaller fragments of turquoise with a resin to create a solid stone. Both methods can affect the stone’s appearance, often making it more uniform in color.
Styling Tip: If you’re investing in South hill jewelry, consider pieces made with natural, untreated turquoise for a more authentic and valuable experience. Stabilized turquoise is excellent for everyday wear but may lack the charm of untreated stones.
5. Distinguishing Treated vs. Untreated Turquoise
Treated turquoise has undergone various processes to improve its color, hardness, or overall appearance. These treatments include:
- Dyed Turquoise: Some turquoise stones are dyed to enhance or alter their color. While dyed turquoise can look stunning, it may not have the same value as natural turquoise.
- Reconstituted Turquoise: This type is made by grinding up turquoise and mixing it with a binding agent to form a new stone. While affordable, reconstituted turquoise is not as valuable or durable as natural turquoise.
- Stabilized Turquoise: As mentioned, stabilized turquoise is treated with resin to enhance its durability and is often used in jewelry to create a more affordable option without compromising the appearance too much.
Styling Tip: Always check if the turquoise in your jewelry is treated, especially if you’re buying it as an investment piece. Natural, untreated turquoise will generally have a higher value.
6. The Quality of Turquoise
The overall quality of turquoise can be judged by its color, matrix, and surface appearance. High-quality turquoise will have a vibrant, uniform color, minimal matrix, and a smooth, polished finish. It should be free of cracks, holes, or any visible imperfections.
Styling Tip: When selecting turquoise jewelry, look for pieces with vibrant, uniform color and minimal surface flaws. However, if you’re going for a rustic, earthy style, don’t be afraid to embrace turquoise with a more natural, imperfect look.
Conclusion: Identifying Different Types of Turquoise
Identifying the different types of Number 8 Turquoise jewelry is all about observing the color, texture, origin, and treatment of the stone. With a little practice, you’ll be able to spot the subtle differences between various types of turquoise, whether you’re buying a piece for your personal collection or simply admiring its beauty. Keep these key points in mind to make informed decisions when purchasing turquoise jewelry, and remember that each turquoise piece has its own story to tell.
