Turquoise, a semi-precious gemstone that has been highly valued for centuries, is found in many parts of the world. However, not all turquoise is created equal, and some varieties are much more valuable than others. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the most expensive turquoise in the world, exploring its unique properties, origins, and cultural significance.
Introduction: The allure of turquoise
Turquoise has been cherished by civilizations around the world since ancient times. In Native American cultures, it was believed to have healing powers and was used in jewelry, masks, and other decorative objects. In ancient Persia (now Iran), turquoise was considered a symbol of wealth and prosperity, and was often incorporated into royal jewelry and architecture.
Today, turquoise remains a popular gemstone in modern jewelry design. Its vibrant blue-green color complements a wide range of metals and settings, making it a versatile choice for everything from elegant necklaces to casual bracelets. But while many types of turquoise are readily available on the market, the rarest and most prized varieties can fetch astronomical prices.
The four most expensive types of turquoise
Persian turquoise
Persian turquoise is widely considered to be the finest and most valuable type of turquoise in the world. Its deep blue-green color, combined with a distinct spiderweb matrix pattern, makes it instantly recognizable to collectors and connoisseurs. Persian turquoise is mined exclusively in Iran, where it has been prized for thousands of years. It was a favorite of ancient Persian royalty, and was also highly sought after by European monarchs during the Renaissance.
Compared to other types of turquoise, Persian turquoise is relatively scarce, which contributes to its high price tag. Top-quality specimens can cost thousands of dollars per carat, and large, flawless stones can fetch millions at auction.
Sleeping Beauty turquoise
Sleeping Beauty turquoise is another highly sought-after variety, named after the Sleeping Beauty Mine in Globe, Arizona, where it was originally discovered. It is known for its intense blue color, which is often free of any matrix or veins. This clean, uniform appearance makes it a popular choice for contemporary jewelry designs, as it provides a striking contrast to metals and other gemstones.
Due to the limited supply of Sleeping Beauty turquoise (the mine closed in 2012), prices have risen dramatically in recent years. Top-quality specimens can now fetch up to $5,000 per carat, making it one of the most expensive types of turquoise on the market.
Lander Blue turquoise
Lander Blue turquoise is a rare and highly prized type of turquoise that was mined in Lander County, Nevada, during the 1970s. What sets Lander Blue apart from other varieties is its unique deep blue color, combined with a distinctive spiderweb matrix pattern. The mine produced only a small amount of high-quality material before it was depleted, making Lander Blue one of the rarest and most valuable types of turquoise in the world.
Today, Lander Blue turquoise is extremely difficult to find, and top-quality specimens can fetch up to $10,000 per carat. Due to its scarcity and historical significance, it is considered one of the ultimate prizes for serious turquoise collectors.
Royston turquoise
Royston turquoise is a type of turquoise that is found in the Royston mining district of Nevada. It is known for its wide range of colors, which can include shades of green, blue, and brown, as well as a distinctive dark matrix pattern. Royston turquoise is highly valued by jewelry designers, as it offers a unique and versatile palette for creating one-of-a-kind pieces.
While Royston turquoise is not as rare as some other varieties, top-quality specimens can still command high prices. Depending on the size and quality of the stone, Royston turquoise can sell for anywhere from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars per carat.
What is the most valuable color of turquoise?
The value of turquoise can depend on several factors, including the quality, rarity, and demand for a particular color or shade. Generally speaking, the most valuable color of turquoise is considered to be a bright, intense blue with minimal veining or matrix. This color is often referred to as “Persian blue” and is highly sought after by collectors and jewelry makers alike. However, values can vary widely depending on the specific piece and the market conditions at the time of sale.
What does high grade turquoise mean?
High-grade turquoise refers to a type of turquoise that is considered to be of exceptional quality, in terms of both its color and texture. High-grade turquoise is typically characterized by a deep, vivid blue or green color, often with minimal veining or matrix. In addition, high-grade turquoise is prized for its hardness, durability, and ability to take a high polish.
When evaluating the quality of turquoise, experts look at a variety of factors, including the color, consistency, texture, hardness, and origin of the stone. High-grade turquoise is typically rare and more valuable than lower-grade varieties, as it is more difficult to mine and extract from the earth in large, consistent quantities. Some examples of high-grade turquoise include stones sourced from mines in the Southwest United States, such as the Sleeping Beauty mine in Arizona or the Blue Moon mine in Nevada.
Conclusion: The cultural significance of turquoise
Turquoise has played an important role in cultures around the world for thousands of years. From ancient Persia to modern-day America, it has been prized for its beauty, rarity, and perceived spiritual powers. Today, the most valuable varieties of turquoise continue to captivate collectors and investors, offering a unique glimpse into the history and culture of this beloved gemstone. Whether you’re a serious collector or simply a lover of beautiful jewelry, the allure of turquoise is as strong today as it was centuries ago.
