Types of Turquoise: A Comprehensive Guide to Their Unique Characteristics

Turquoise is a captivating and versatile gemstone, with its captivating shades of blue and vibrant green hues. Its beauty has captivated civilizations for centuries, making it a symbol of wealth, protection, and tranquility. From the ancient Egyptians to modern-day designers, turquoise has adorned jewelry, artifacts, and even architecture.

To help you navigate the diverse world of turquoise, we've compiled a comprehensive guide that delves into the types of turquoise chart and their distinctive qualities.

American Turquoise

American turquoise is the most well-known and widely used variety, prized for its deep blue color. Mined primarily in the southwestern United States, this turquoise is known for its high mineral content, which contributes to its durability and striking hue.

Characteristics	Color	Origin	Price
Opaque	Sky blue to deep blue	United States	$50-$500 per carat
Spiderweb matrix	Greenish-blue	United States	$100-$1,000 per carat
Cabochon cut	Light blue to robin's egg blue	United States	$20-$100 per carat

Persian Turquoise

Persian turquoise, originating from Iran, is renowned for its intense blue and pistachio-green color. Its high copper content results in a vibrant and luminous appearance, making it a coveted gemstone in the jewelry industry.

Characteristics	Color	Origin	Price
Opaque	Bright blue to greenish-blue	Iran	$100-$1,000 per carat
Matrix	Gold or brown	Iran	$200-$2,000 per carat
Bead cut	Sky blue to turquoise blue	Iran	$50-$500 per carat

Chinese Turquoise

Chinese turquoise, also known as Howlite, is a naturally occurring mineral that is often dyed to resemble turquoise. It is a cost-effective alternative, but lacks the durability and rich color of natural turquoise.

Characteristics	Color	Origin	Price
Porous	Chalky white (dyed)	China	$5-$20 per carat
Imitated turquoise	Blue or green	China	$10-$50 per carat
Cabochon cut	Light blue to dark green	China	$15-$75 per carat

Sleeping Beauty Turquoise

Sleeping Beauty turquoise, a rare and highly sought-after variety, is named after the turquoise-rich mine in Arizona. It is prized for its mesmerizing deep blue color and absence of matrix, making it ideal for jewelry designs.

Characteristics	Color	Origin	Price
Opaque	Deep blue to robin's egg blue	Arizona, USA	$500-$5,000 per carat
Irregular veins	Yellowish or white	Arizona, USA	$200-$1,000 per carat
Cabochon or facet cut	Light blue to vivid blue	Arizona, USA	$100-$500 per carat

Conclusion

The types of turquoise chart offer a diverse range of options for jewelry makers, artists, and collectors. From the deep blue of American turquoise to the vibrant green of Persian turquoise, there is a shade to suit every taste and style. By understanding their unique characteristics and origins, you can make informed decisions that will enhance the beauty and value of your turquoise pieces.

Types of Turquoise: A Comprehensive Guide to Their Unique Characteristics