A Little About Turquoise

• Turquoise is a mineral, a hydrated phosphate of copper and aluminum.

• "Turquoise" is derived from the French word "turquois" and means Turkish, as the stone is believed to have arrived in Europe via Turkey, originating in Iran (Persia).

• Turquoise was used as a gemstone as early as 6000 BC, in Egypt's Sinai peninsula. Jewels from the Ottoman empire often feature turquoise, and have influenced designers from famous jewelry houses to incorporate it into their designs over the centuries.

• Turquoise has been mined all over North America for hundreds of years, most notably in Arizona and Nevada, but other western and southwestern states as well.

• Many people associate turquoise with a bright blue color. The most sought after turquoise is intensely medium blue and an even color, most commonly known as Persian Blue, regardless of whether it comes from Iran or not. However, the color of turquoise ranges from the palest blue to the brightest green, with yellow and tan also making an appearance. While some turquoise lovers favor a consistent-color stone, others prefer the brown or black spiderweb patterns and still others fancy a ribbon of color surrounded by browns, tans or black. There are thousands of colors and patterns to tempt your turquoise palette!

The bottom line is the most sought after turquoise is the one YOU like the most! Where our suppliers identify the mine or region from which a stone is sourced, we disclose that to you so you can keep an eye out for complementary pieces should you find a favorite!