The Complete Guide To Turquoise Jewelry

Types of Turquoise

When purchasing turquoise it's important to know all of your different options. The appearance, value, and price of turquoise depend on many factors. Some people like turquoise with a matrix, while others like a solid color. Turquoise from certain mines can be very expensive, while reconstituted turquoise offers a similar look for a more affordable price. Below are some of the most common types of turquoise and what to expect when purchasing them:

Matrix vs. Solid Turquoise

When turquoise is formed in the ground, it is sometimes veined with other minerals. This is called the "matrix," and adds a very unique look to turquoise that most other stones do not have. While some shoppers love matrix stones because of their distinctive aesthetic, others prefer a solid color. The value of turquoise is not determined by the presence or absence of a matrix - this is solely a personal preference but an important one if you are buying turquoise jewelry as a gift.

Kingman Turquoise

Kingman turquoise is one of the most well-known types of turquoise in the modern jewelry market. It comes only from three claims in Arizona, collectively called the Kingman mine. It is a brilliant robin's egg blue with an occasional white spider web matrix. This is one of the most coveted forms of turquoise and is a staple in the Ross-Simons collection.

Sleeping Beauty Turquoise

Sleeping Beauty turquoise is another bright blue turquoise variety found only in Arizona. It is typically found without matrix, making it a favorite for simple gemstone pieces or bold designs that require pure color. Ross-Simons also offers a variety of Sleeping Beauty turquoise pieces for every style.

Jewelry Settings

Turquoise can be used as a centerstone or as an accent stone and pairs well with a variety of precious, semi precious or opaque stones. Our collection offers a selection of both–whether you wish to have a statement piece of turquoise that stands alone, one that accentuates other stones for a multi-colored treasure or one that takes center stage among other stones, you'll find the perfect piece in our extensive collection.

Turquoise Jewelry

Turquoise jewelry is coveted throughout the world because of its rare, mesmerizing colors and richness. The black, white, and copper matrices found in these stones create one-of-a-kind looks that make your piece of turquoise unlike no other. With the variety of turquoise bracelets, necklaces, earrings, and rings in our jewelry collection you are guaranteed to find something you love in our catalog.

Turquoise jewelry is typically polished and cut in a cabochon shape. It can be set in sterling silver, gold over silver or gold, and comes in a variety of sizes from petite rings to statement beaded pieces and ornate drop earrings. It is also commonly paired with other stones, such as jade, lapis, or topaz for depth and contrast of color.

Another great find is vintage turquoise jewelry. Add flair from the roaring 20's with spirited earrings, bold statement turquoise rings or fancy and colorful pins. These intricate designs will brighten your outfit and your evening.

Finding the right piece of turquoise jewelry is a personal choice, but you should always shop from a quality jeweler. Low-quality turquoise, whether it is reconstituted poorly or comes from a low-quality source, will not stand the test of time. We choose only the best stones for our handcrafted designs and guarantee longevity with proper care.

How To Clean & Care for Turquoise

Proper handling and care, in addition to choosing a quality piece, will go a long way toward making your jewelry last. Turquoise stone is soft and prone to color change if it is not taken care of. Below are 4 tips to keep your turquoise looking beautiful for a lifetime:

• Keep it away from kitchen counters, bathroom sinks, or other messy areas. This should be a general rule of thumb with all fine jewelry. Grease from food, excess water, and spills can all cause damage to your turquoise and its setting over time. Your jewelry can also go down the drain too easily in the kitchen or bathroom, so avoid setting it out in these areas of the home.<
• Clean your skin and avoid direct contact with perfume or makeup. Turquoise can change colors from chemical reactions. This includes reactions from makeup, perfume, chemical cleaners, or any other synthetic ingredient. When you wear turquoise, be sure to spray perfume on a different area of the body, and keep makeup close by (such as near the ears) to a minimum.
• Store it away from sunlight. Sunlight can also cause your turquoise to fade or change colors if you're not careful. We recommend storing it in a beautiful jewelry storage box.
• Clean turquoise jewelry. Most gemstone jewelry will need occasional cleaning with a soft cloth. This keeps contaminants from staining or discoloring your turquoise and will help maintain the setting. This can be done after every time you wear your turquoise piece; once a month is recommended for pieces you wear daily.

Ross-Simons is your place for turquoise jewelry of all styles. Click on the links to shop our bracelets, necklaces, earrings, and ring collections.