Turquoise is a gemstone that has been appreciated for its beauty and significance for thousands of years. It is one of the oldest known gemstones, with evidence of its use dating back to ancient Egyptian times. Raw turquoise is a unique and stunningly beautiful stone that has captured the attention of jewelry makers, collectors, and enthusiasts alike.
In this article, we will explore what raw turquoise looks like, how it is formed, where it is found, and how it is used. We’ll also examine some of the different types of raw turquoise and how they differ from one another.
What Is Raw Turquoise?
Raw turquoise is a natural mineral that is typically blue or green in color. It is composed of hydrated copper and aluminum phosphate and is often found in association with other minerals such as iron pyrite and quartz. The exact composition of turquoise can vary depending on where it is found, but generally, it contains between 20-30% water by weight.
One of the distinguishing features of raw turquoise is its porous texture. It is a relatively soft stone, with a hardness rating of 5-6 on the Mohs scale. Because of its porosity, raw turquoise is often treated with wax or resin to improve its durability and prevent it from absorbing oils and other substances that could discolor or damage it over time.
What Does Raw Turquoise Look Like?
Raw turquoise comes in a range of colors, from light blue and green to deep, vibrant hues. The exact shade of turquoise can depend on a number of factors, including the presence of other minerals and the amount of copper and aluminum in the stone.
One of the most distinctive features of raw turquoise is its matrix. Matrix refers to the veins or patterns of other minerals that are present within the stone. These patterns can be quite intricate and add to the unique beauty of each individual piece of turquoise.
In general, raw turquoise has a somewhat rough and uneven texture. When cut or polished, it can have a slightly waxy appearance due to the treatments used to improve its durability.
Types of Raw Turquoise
There are several different types of raw turquoise, each with its own unique characteristics. Some of the most popular types of raw turquoise include:
Sleeping Beauty Turquoise: This type of turquoise is known for its bright blue color and lack of matrix. It is named after the Sleeping Beauty mine in Arizona, which is one of the most prolific sources of this variety of turquoise.
Kingman Turquoise: Kingman turquoise is found in Arizona and is known for its deep blue-green color and distinctive spiderweb matrix patterns.
Royston Turquoise: Royston turquoise is mined in Nevada and is known for its bright green and blue tones. It often contains a matrix of brown or black minerals that create interesting patterns within the stone.
Bisbee Turquoise: Bisbee turquoise is a rare and highly sought-after variety that was mined in Arizona until the 1970s. It is known for its rich blue-green color and complex matrix patterns.
Chinese Turquoise: Chinese turquoise comes in a range of colors, from pale blue to bright green. It often has a distinctive spiderweb matrix pattern and is highly valued by collectors.
Where Is Turquoise Found?
Turquoise is found in many parts of the world, including the United States, Mexico, Iran, China, and Egypt. Some of the most important sources of turquoise today include:
Arizona: Arizona is home to some of the most significant turquoise mines in the world, including the Sleeping Beauty and Kingman mines.
Nevada: Nevada is another major source of turquoise and is home to the Royston and Carico Lake mines, among others.
New Mexico: The Cerrillos mine in New Mexico is one of the oldest turquoise mines in North America and has been in operation for over 1,000 years.
China: China produces a significant amount of turquoise each year, with some of the most highly prized specimens coming from the Hubei province.
How Is Turquoise Used?
Turquoise has been used for centuries in jewelry making, art, and religious ceremonies. It is a popular stone for use in rings, necklaces, bracelets, and earrings, and can be found in a range of styles, from intricate Native American designs to modern minimalist pieces.
In addition to its decorative uses, turquoise is also believed to have healing properties. It has been used throughout history as a talisman to protect against harm and promote overall wellbeing. Today, many people still believe that turquoise has a calming and balancing effect on the mind and body.
Conclusion
Raw turquoise is a beautiful and unique stone that has captured the attention of people around the world for thousands of years. Its distinctive color and patterns make it a popular choice for jewelry makers and collectors alike, and its association with healing and protection adds to its allure.
