When you choose Native American Indian turquoise jewelry for yourself or as a gift for another, it is important to know that you are getting the real thing. However, it’s also important to know that just because a stone is treated does not mean It isn’t real turquoise. In today’s market, about 97% of all turquoise is stabilized. This is done because un-stabilized turquoise gradually changes color as it absorbs oil from our skin. Additionally, turquoise is a very soft stone, stabilizing it allows jewelers to drill holes necessary for the crafting of necklaces and other pieces of jewelry. That being said, you still need to be very careful to protect yourself against buying turquoise that is not the real deal.
Turquoise has been a popular and valuable gemstone for centuries and remains a favorite material used for rings, necklaces, bracelets, and earrings. Turquoise jewelry never goes out of style, making it a wise investment as long as it is made from authentic stone, not plastic.
What Should You Look for in Native American Indian Turquoise Jewelry?
Turquoise is a natural, water-based stone that contains pieces of rocks from its original formation. Natural turquoise typically will require some sort of treatment process designed to harden the relatively soft stone and bring out the color to prepare it to be made into jewelry.
The natural color of the stone will vary in intensity and will look uneven and imperfect. The best way to spot a fake is that it will be too perfect. Sellers of turquoise jewelry are required to reveal whether their Native American Indian turquoise jewelry is authentic or not.
What are the Different Types of Turquoise?
Jewelers and artists use different types and variations of turquoise to make rings, bracelets, earrings, and necklaces. Depending on the process and materials used, turquoise jewelry can vary widely in cost, and it is important to understand the differences and how they should be priced.
Natural Turquoise
The stones remain in their natural state without an alteration or treatment. The most expensive kind of turquoise jewelry, using natural turquoise is likely to change color over time.
Stabilized Turquoise
Using epoxy or acrylic, the pores of natural turquoise are filled to harden the stone, preserving its long-term color. Stabilized turquoise creates great-looking jewelry at more affordable rates than natural turquoise.
Color-Enhanced Turquoise
Dye is added to the natural turquoise to bring out the color of the stone that gives turquoise a soft blue color. Color-enhanced turquoise is easily scratched, though typically a cheaper alternative to natural and stabilized turquoise jewelry.
Reconstituted Turquoise
Turquoise is ground into a powder and mixed with dyes and epoxy to be molded into form before it is custom cut for rings, bracelets, and more. These reconstituted gems look very much like natural turquoise at a fraction of the cost.
Simulated Turquoise
Faux jewelry that makes turquoise looking rings and necklaces from plastic is a cheap imitation that is often attempted to be passed off as the real thing. Generally categorized as costume jewelry, simulated turquoise is inexpensive and widely available.
Get Started at Palms Trading Company Today
Palms Trading Company buys directly from Native American artisans who use natural turquoise along with gems in sterling silver settings and Native American Indian turquoise jewelry that is timeless and beautiful. Browse our online inventory or come into the store to see our authentic Native American Jewelry or hire a personal shopper today.