Turquoise for Jewelry Making: A Stone That Connects Generations
Turquoise for jewelry making has been the cultural icon across the artistic world for over 8 millennia. This spectacular blue-green gem is like an open book from the past to present – the ancient and the new. The makers of art opt for this stone as it is both an eye-catcher and an all-rounder.
One can dream of the most beautiful necklaces, rings, bracelets, and earrings fashioned from this stone. The appeal of the gem is worldwide recognized by the artists. While the medium expresses its inherent charm, the voice of the art varies.
The Deep Roots of Turquoise Cultural Significance
The history of turquoise culturally significant aspects is quite extensive in fact it has influence on the whole earth after all. Once upon a time, Egyptians deposited turquoise along with other precious jewels inside pharaohs’ pyramids. In their view, it granted eternal life to the departed ones. Various Native American nations called it the ultimate divine gift and later on, they consecrated it further in their sacred ceremonies and healing rituals.
Persian peoples fondly called the stone “firuzeh,” a word that means triumphant. As a means of expression, they beautified their dwellings and mosques with the finest turquoise tiles that literally shimmer with intricacy. Monks of Tibet used to consider it as their wearer-friendly talisman while Emperors of China valued it most of all as a never-fading sign of immortality.
Before pretty much everything else, this gem unites different societies and eras. It has been a constant source of protection, wisdom, and spiritual communion across different civilizations.
Discovering Historical Turquoise Artifacts Worldwide
Historical turquoise artifacts unveil the comprehensive history of mankind and this stone. In a recent excavation, archaeologists unearthed turquoise ornamental pieces in the birthplace of civilization that date back to 6000 years ago. The first thing that comes to mind when we talk about turquoise is definitely the iconic inlays of the burial mask of King Tutankhamun.
The Native Americans fashioned intricate squash blossom necklaces. These pieces still represent significant cultural heritages of great value today. The Aztec masks featured carefully detailed turquoise mosaic works while the Persian illuminated manuscripts unveiled the empire’s royal turquoise jewelry collections that have existed for centuries.
The same pieces are on display at various museums spread across the globe. They are shining examples of high craftsmanship by cultures living far away from each other over both time and space.
Exploring the Best Turquoise Mines on Earth
The utmost turquoise mines turn out the most beautiful specimens that have quite a few distinct features. The Arizona’s Sleeping Beauty mine was known to have quite simple, solid blue stones. Due to the closure of the mine in 2012, the stones from there are in high demand by collectors nowadays.
Iran’s Nishapur turquoise mines are not only famous but are also the oldest, having been active for more than 3,000 years. Besides, they offer velvety deep blue stones with very slight veining. Turquoise with a green hue and unique matrix pattern is what mining in Nevada usually yields while the Hubei province in China is known for producing lovely vibrant blue pieces.
Regardless of the factors, the mine locations create stones in such a way that each of them has its unique and distinctive color. The discerning buyers are fully aware of these regional variations. The personality of every stone depends on the geological conditions that formed it.
Turquoise for Jewelry Making: Modern Applications and Techniques
Modern artists use turquoise in jewelry making with creative methods. They don’t just rely on the old ways but have mixed it up with new technology. For example, laser cutting is used for making accurate shapes. But at the same time, the polishing is done by hand to give the stone its original shine.
Turquoise is an excellent companion for silver, gold, and other gemstones, say the designers. The color blends well with a vast number of metals and styles. In minimalist designs, a single stone is brought to the limelight. On the other hand, extravagant pieces flaunt the intricate turquoise arrangements.
The gem is perfect for pairing with both casual and formal wear. What makes it eternally fashionable is its versatility.
Finding Quality Gemstones for Sale
While looking for gemstones for sale, buyers should not spare time and effort for research. Besides, dealers of good repute issue origin certificates. They inform about the treatment processes and quality grades.
To begin with, natural turquoise has to be free of any enhancement. In the case of stabilized turquoise, the resin treatment is for the purpose of durability. Knowing the differences is very beneficial to buyers in that they are able to make choices that are right for them.
The price is affected by quality, size, and location. Those that are rare and from mines that have already been closed can command very high prices. While common varieties will be at prices that are affordable to beginner collectors.
Turquoise for Jewelry Making: Investment and Care
Turquoise for jewelry making is a dual investment – artistic and financial. The beauty of the turquoise is what proper care is all about and it will last for generations. The piece of advice is to avoid any type of harsh chemicals and excessive heat. Putting apart the pieces is also important as it prevents scratches.
Use soft, damp cloths to clean turquoise. Ultrasonic cleaners should never be used. Jewelers doing the work can give the old pieces a fresh look but in a careful manner.
A good turquoise is what time will be its friend. The rarer it is, the more it will be valuable when the mine is getting less and less.
If you want to diversify your collection with other beautiful gems, go for Buy rhodochrosite with its pink color.
