Turquoise is one of the oldest gemstones known to man. It has been used for jewelry and other decorative items for centuries. Turquoise is a beautiful blue-green color and is found in many different shades. There are various types and colors of turquoise, and it can be difficult to tell the real thing from a fake. In this blog post, we will discuss the history of turquoise jewelry, how to identify real turquoise jewelry and the different types and colors of turquoise.
Native American Turquoise Jewelry
Of all the different cultures that have used turquoise in jewelry, the Native Americans are perhaps the most well-known. Turquoise was an important part of many Native American cultures and was used in everything from ceremonial objects to everyday items. Turquoise jewelry was often given as a gift and was thought to bring good luck.
The southwestern United States is home to some of the most well-known Native American tribes, and turquoise jewelry is still a big part of their culture. Turquoise is often used in traditional Navajo and Zuni jewelry. The Hopi tribe also has a long history of making turquoise jewelry.
Navajo Turquoise Designs
There are many different types of turquoise, and each type has a different color. The most well-known type of turquoise is Navajo turquoise, which is a blue-green color with a black matrix. Another popular type of turquoise is Sleeping Beauty turquoise, which is a sky-blue color with no matrix.
The Hopi Tribe
The Hopi tribe has long been famous for its turquoise jewelry. The Hopi are a Native American tribe that lives in the southwestern United States. The Hopi tribe is known for its beautiful turquoise jewelry, as well as its pottery and kachina dolls.
The Early Use of Turquoise
Turquoise has been used in jewelry for centuries. It was first used by the ancient Egyptians, who mined it in the Sinai Peninsula. Turquoise was also popular in ancient Persia and was often used in ornate jeweled items. The stone fell out of favor during the Middle Ages, but regained popularity during the Renaissance and has been a staple of Native American culture and craftsmanship.
Contemporary Turquoise
While turquoise has a long and rich history, there are also many contemporary designs that use the stone. Turquoise is a popular choice for modern jewelry and is often used in minimalist designs. The stone is also popular in art deco and bohemian-inspired jewelry.
How to Identify Real Turquoise Jewelry
There are a few things you can look for to tell if a piece of turquoise jewelry is real or fake. First, real turquoise will always be a blue-green color. If the stone is any other color, it is likely fake. Second, real turquoise will have some imperfections. If the stone is perfectly smooth and uniform in color, it is probably fake. Finally, real turquoise will be slightly translucent. If the stone is opaque, it is most likely fake.
Common tests for real turquoise jewelry might include the following:
-Breath test: real turquoise will fog up when you breathe on it, while fake turquoise will not.
-Float test: real turquoise will sink in water, while fake turquoise will float.
-Scratch test: real turquoise is relatively soft and can be scratched with a knife, while fake turquoise is harder and will not be scratched as easily.
Types and Colors of Turquoise
Turquoise comes in a variety of colors, from light blue to dark green. The most prized color of turquoise is a deep blue, known as “robin’s egg” turquoise. Other popular colors include green, yellow, and orange. Turquoise can also be found in a variety of different shapes and sizes.
Turquoise is cut into a variety of shapes, including cabochons, beads, and inlays. The most popular shape is the cabochon, which is a smooth, rounded stone. Turquoise can also be found in jewelry settings such as rings, earrings, bracelets, and necklaces.
Why Native American Turquoise Jewelry is a True Collector’s Item
Of course, real turquoise jewelry is a collector’s item because it is so rare and valuable. But Native American turquoise jewelry is a true collector’s item for a few reasons. First, it is handmade by skilled artisans using traditional techniques. Second, it is often made with natural materials like feathers, leather, and wood. Finally, Native American turquoise jewelry is often made with stones that are mined in the United States.
All of these factors make Native American turquoise jewelry a true collector’s item. In fact, a lot of Native American turquoise jewelry is passed down from generation to generation. Other pieces may be found in museums, for the preservation of the precious jewelry and its history.
How to Care for Real Turquoise Jewelry
Real turquoise jewelry is a beautiful and precious investment. Here are a few tips on how to care for your real turquoise jewelry:
-Store your real turquoise jewelry in a cool, dry place.
-Avoid exposing your real turquoise jewelry to chemicals like perfume, lotion, or hairspray.
-Clean your real turquoise jewelry with a soft, dry cloth.
-Do not wear your real turquoise jewelry while swimming or doing other activities that could damage the stone.
Ensuring Your Purchase is Real Turquoise
Unfortunately, there is a lot of fake turquoise on the market. If you’re not careful, you could end up spending a lot of money on a piece of jewelry that’s not real. Here are a few tips to ensure you’re getting the real thing:
-Do your research: learn about the different types and colors of turquoise so you can identify a real piece of jewelry.
-Check the seller: make sure you’re buying from a reputable source.
-Get a certificate of authenticity: this will guarantee that your purchase is real.
With a little bit of research and care, you can be sure you’re getting the real thing when you purchase turquoise jewelry.
Shop for Real Turquoise Jewelry Online at Palms Trading Company!
Whether you are looking for a piece of real turquoise jewelry or just want to learn more, Palms Trading Company is a great resource. We specialize in Native American jewelry and carry a wide selection of turquoise jewelry. Browse our website today!