All turquoise is not simply a pale blue...there are many varieties which encompass many shades from greens to blues (some even look black after many years of wearing). Turquoise is a French term applied to the blue stones that first came from Persia centuries ago. This stone made its way to Europe and China (especially Tibet) over time and was highly prized for its beauty.
But right here in North America's west and southwest back in the late 19th century, miners discovered the blue stone on this continent! There were many different mines and the product from each had their own unique character.
Native American artists began crafting jewelry from turquoise and silver in the later part of the 19th century and that tradition continues today. Making cuff bracelets, necklaces (often in "squash blossom" form), earrings, rings, pendants and more, examples of vintage pieces along with new can be found today.
Pictured are just three examples of jewelry set in silver using the famous stones from the "Lone Mountain" mine which is near Tonopah, Nevada. It was one of the leading producers of high quality stones since it was discovered in 1920. There are grades for this material from golden matrix, black matrix and spider web (which represents the unique veining in the blue stone).
Many people have acquired pieces of this type from their own or their families' travels to the southwest, bringing home their own piece of wearable art. While getting harder to find, there are examples at the DB Gallery in Glenview (1804 Glenview Road)...so drop by to see one of nature's treasures that was crafted by Native American artists into stunningly beautiful and unique jewelry.
