What Is Sleeping Beauty Turquoise?
Named for the mine it comes from, sleeping beauty turquoise is a vivid sky blue with no matrix.
It's beauty is quite outstanding and makes a wonderful stone for jewelry. The mine, located in Arizona is one of the largest in North America and still produces turquoise today. Sleeping beauty turquoise is favored by the Zuni Pueblo silver makers who use it in jewelry inlay and needlpoint.
When buying sleeping beauty turquoise, as with any other gem stone, one must be aware of certain manufacturing practices and "fakes". It is normal for turquoise to be put through some sort of process to stabilize it and make it useful for jewelry. Sometimes it is impregnated with resins and dyes.
Reconstituted turquoise is really pulverized turquoise powder and pieces that are mixed with resin and molded to form a "stone" and some untrustworthy dealers try to pass off other stones as turquoise, the most common of which is dyed howlite.
If you buy from a reputable dealer like those we promote on this site, you can be assured you are getting the real thing!
Sleeping beauty turquoise is very porous and can change color to a greenish hue. To keep it in it's beautiful blue state, you must care for it properly. Never clean it in a ultrasonic cleaner or use chemicals on it. Avoid exposure to any lotions, perfumes or sprays you wear by putting your jewelry on after apply them. It is natural for turquoise to turn green over time even if it is only exposed to skin oils. Some of the most sought after turquoise jewelry is vintage from the 1940's that has aged to a mellow greenish patina from years of loving use.
Other Interesting Articles:
The History Of Turquoise Beads
Making turquoise beads as well as other stone beads is an old craft and integral part of Native North American history
Akoya Pearls
Akoya pearls, one of the first pearls to be cultured, have been harvested in Japan since the 1920's.
Multi Strand Turquoise Necklace
Bold and trendy, the multi strand turquoise necklace brings visions of jeans and tie dyed shirts.
What To Look For In A Quality Handcrafted Necklace
Wearing a handcrafted necklace can really set you apart from the crowd and be a great way to express your individuality.
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