Top 5 Most Expensive Varieties and their Influence on Native American and SouthwesternJ ewelry

Turquoise, a captivating gemstone with a history dating back thousands of years, has been highly cherished by cultures worldwide for its beauty and spiritual significance. Among the various turquoise varieties, some stand out for their rarity, exquisite color, and unique characteristics, making them the most sought-after and expensive gems in the market. In this blog, we will explore the top 5 most expensive turquoise varieties, their distinctive features, and their influence on the creation of Native American and Southwestern jewelry. Join us on this journey through the opulence of turquoise and its enduring presence in the world of artisanal jewelry.
 

Carico Lake Turquoise is prized for its unique, light green color with shades ranging from pale blue-green to bright mint green. The presence of golden brown or black matrix enhances its appeal, making each stone a work of art. This turquoise variety is rare, as the Carico Lake mine, located in Nevada, yields limited quantities of high-quality stones.
 

Carico Lake Turquoise is beloved for its vibrant color and versatility in jewelry designs. Artisans skillfully use this gemstone in a wide range of pieces, from dainty earrings to elaborate squash blossom necklaces. The gem's delicate green shades and matrix patterns allow for both traditional and contemporary interpretations, making Carico Lake jewelry a symbol of beauty and artistry.
 

Lander Blue Turquoise is one of the rarest and most sought-after turquoise varieties in the world. Its distinct deep blue color, combined with a vibrant red spiderweb matrix, sets it apart from other turquoise stones. The Lander Blue mine, located in Nevada, was a small-scale operation that yielded limited quantities of this exceptional gem.
 

Lander Blue Turquoise is a gemstone of choice for master artisans and collectors alike. It is often used in one-of-a-kind jewelry pieces, where its exceptional color and spiderweb matrix serve as the focal point of the design. From statement necklaces to intricately detailed rings, Lander Blue Turquoise jewelry pieces exude timeless elegance and are revered for their historical and cultural significance.
 

Bisbee Turquoise, named after the mine located in Bisbee, Arizona, is renowned for its rich blue color and striking chocolate brown matrix. This variety has a remarkable history, as the Bisbee mine was one of the largest and most prolific turquoise producers in history, making high-quality Bisbee Turquoise increasingly scarce today.
 

Bisbee Turquoise is a favorite gemstone among Native American and Southwestern jewelry artisans due to its striking color and matrix patterns. Jewelry pieces featuring Bisbee Turquoise often display an exquisite blend of traditional craftsmanship and contemporary design. The gemstone's deep blue hue against silver or gold settings creates captivating contrasts that make each piece truly exceptional.
 

Sleeping Beauty Turquoise, sourced from the Sleeping Beauty mine in Arizona, is known for its brilliant sky-blue color with little to no matrix. This consistent color and clean appearance make it a favorite choice for contemporary jewelry designs.
 

Sleeping Beauty Turquoise has become a staple in modern Native American and Southwestern jewelry. Its vibrant blue color creates a striking contrast against various metals, making it an ideal choice for minimalist designs, stackable bracelets, and delicate pendants. This turquoise variety embodies a sense of purity and tranquility that resonates with wearers worldwide.
 

Royston Turquoise, mined in Nevada, comes in a spectrum of colors, ranging from light blue to deep green. The stone's distinctive matrix patterns, which can include brown, black, or gold, add to its allure. Royston Turquoise is relatively more abundant compared to other expensive varieties, but high-quality Royston stones with intense color and interesting matrix remain highly valuable.


 

Royston Turquoise is a favorite among jewelry artisans for its versatility and wide range of colors. The gemstone is often used in an array of jewelry styles, from traditional Native American pieces to modern and contemporary designs. It's vibrant colors and intricate matrix patterns add depth and character to jewelry pieces, allowing artisans to create captivating and expressive works of art.

Turquoise has been treasured throughout history for its captivating beauty and spiritual significance. The top 5 most expensive turquoise varieties, including Carico Lake, Lander Blue, Bisbee, Sleeping Beauty, and Royston Turquoise, have captivated the jewelry world with their exceptional color, matrix patterns, and rarity. These gemstones have become highly sought-after by Native American and Southwestern jewelry artisans, inspiring them to create stunning and culturally significant pieces that celebrate the beauty of turquoise and the rich heritage of Indigenous cultures. As we continue to appreciate the opulence of turquoise, let us cherish its enduring presence in the world of artisanal jewelry and honor the traditions and craftsmanship of Native American and Southwestern artisans and ensure that the timeless beauty of turquoise continues to shine bright for generations to come.