The availability of turquoise stones for sale in a way is a pact between present collectors and a history of human civilizations that spans thousands of years. The charming blue-green gem can be found in the inflamed of the kings, the armor of the warriors and the treasuries of the rich all over the world and over the ages.
Human fascination with turquoise as shown in the middle of the antiquities that were found has been the main theme of the narrative. Present market conditions have made it easy to get hold of both the old and the new turquoise stones.
Historical Turquoise Artifacts Through the Ages
As far back as 3000 BCE Egyptians were making fashionable jewelry out of turquoise. The mask of Tutankhamun has turquoise inlay work that is very detailed. The Persians put their blue domes on display, which were the result of turquoise being used. To Native Americans turquoise was a holy thing. Thus they produced ceremonial utensils which are still important in their culture.
Artisans in China produced lavish turquoise figurines during the Ming Dynasty. These historical turquoise artifacts were the source of power and prestige in the royal courts. Aztecs and Mayans used turquoise in their religious rites. They thought it was the link that joined earth and sky. The pace at which new archaeological finds are coming to light is fast and furious, and so is the number of pieces telling the tales of artisanal skills and cultural values of yesteryears.
Best Turquoise Mines Producing Quality Stones
The most desirable turquoise mines are spread over the continent of the world. For more than 2,000 years Nishapur of Iran has been the factory of the finest stock. Its characteristic robins-egg blue color is still unparalleled. The moment when Arizona's Sleeping Beauty mine was turned off was the end of pure blue turquoise coming from there. Although these legendary pieces are no longer available, enthusiasts will not stop seeking them.
Nevada is home to a long list of productive turquoise mines. The Royston district is the place where lovely green-blue varieties come from. The Number Eight mine turquoise is known for its spider-web patterns that are quite distinctive. Hardcore collectors recognize stones based on where they are mined.
Turquoise Stones for Sale: What Buyers Should Know
While browsing through turquoise stones for sale, the most important thing that a buyer should take into consideration is the authentication of the pieces. This is because natural turquoise is a type of gem that is becoming more and more rare. Stabilized or treated stones are what most sellers are selling. Although the processes make the stones more durable, they also decrease the value of the stones. A natural, untreated turquoise can be sold for a very high price.
One of the sure signs of a good quality turquoise is color uniformity. The very best pieces of blue are those which do not have any greenish toning. Value may be changed by the matrix patterns in the turquoise either by way of addition or subtraction. On the one hand, collectors seek those with fine spider-web patterns while on the other, they shun those with heavy matrices which may lower the price considerably.
The influence of size on price is enormous. A large and flawless turquoise can well serve as an investment-grade piece. Small pieces of turquoise are fine for the making of jewelry. Medium sized works are good for the production of pendant designs.
Gemstones for Sale Beyond Turquoise
The market of gemstones for sale is not limited to turquoise only. Collectors are not confined to one choice, but instead, they have a vast variety of alternatives to choose from. Lapis lazuli is an excellent alternative which has similar blue colors with the addition of golden pyrite. Chrysocolla is a mineral which gives you blue-green colors but they are softer than the ones from malachite. Malachite shows powerful green banding patterns.
In fact, every gemstone is a set of very different features. Hardness ratings are the ones that show which are suitable uses. Turquoise is rated 5-6 on the Mohs scale. This makes it perfect for jewelry that is in the protected setting. Thus, buyers having an understanding of these features will be better decision-makers.
Investing in Historical Beauty
Turquoise stones for sale are a triple win: visual, financial and status investments. Pieces that are of museum quality raise their price gradually and steadily. A documentation of the source is a value elevator by far. Firstly, the stones that come from the closed mines are very limited. Secondly, the collector's demand goes up with the price.
On the other hand, authentication certificates are like the shields that protect buyers. Good dealers not only sell but also educate their customers giving extensive data about the origin and the treatments. Trust is the word that defines seller-buyer relationships and through it one ensures he will always have access to the best specimens.
The lovely turquoise is a trend that goes beyond fashion. Its historical importance is what makes it stay relevant and you can be sure that it will always have value. It doesn't matter if you are buying historical turquoise artifacts or contemporary specimens, the beauty that never goes out of style is where you are putting your money. The brilliant blue that was the delight of the ancient pharaohs is still doing its charm on the modern collectors.
Collectors who are looking for pink tones should consider buy rhodochrosite as it will not only complement but also enhance your turquoise collection.
