Natural Turquoise vs. Arizona Turquoise: A Complete Guide

For centuries, turquoise has been cherished for its stunning blue and green hues, its natural textures and patterns and the fact that its beauty has never gone out of fashion. Whether you're creating a simple pendant or a bold statement ring, this gemstone will make a difference in your jewelry collection. When picking out turquoise jewelry, however, you might find two terms: natural turquoise and Arizona turquoise. They are similar but there is a difference that can help you select one that fits your style and preferences.

Let's go through some of the lessons included in this guide about natural turquoise, turquoise from Arizona, some of the differences, and some of the things to consider when choosing a turquoise for your jewelry.

What Is Natural Turquoise?

Natural turquoise is a crystalline gemstone that has been formed naturally over thousands or even millions of years. It forms when water, with copper, aluminum and other minerals, reacts with the surrounding rocks. For these natural conditions, turquoise is the familiar blue, blue-green, and green.

The most attractive aspect of natural turquoise is its characteristic markings. Some stones are bright sky blue and others are darker blue/green. Many also have dark veins or web-like patterns, called matrices, that are produced by the surrounding host rock.

Natural Turquoise is never the same turquoise two times. This natural variation creates an exceptionally appealing gemstone for jewelry with a sense of uniqueness.

Natural turquoise is employed in rings, earrings, bracelets, necklaces, pendants etc. Its vibrant hues complement silver, gold plated, and other metals, making it an ideal choice for everyday wear or special events.

What Is Arizona Turquoise?

Arizona turquoise is the turquoise that is mined from the state of Arizona in the U.S. Southwest, where turquoise has been found and mined historically.

Several famous types of turquoise have been found in Arizona: Sleeping Beauty, Kingman, and Morenci turquoise. Color patterns, colors and appearance may differ among varieties.

For instance, Sleeping Beauty turquoise is known for its relatively consistent sky blue color and lack of matrix. Kingman turquoise comes in a variety of blue colors, and can sometimes have a desirable dark or brown matrix. Morenci turquoise with blue colors is famous and can sometimes have pyrite inclusions which give the turquoise an interesting metallic effect.

Back in the day, the history of turquoise from Arizona and the identifiable styles of turquoise made it popular among jewelry designers and turquoise collectors.

Remember, there is no such thing as Arizona turquoise, it's just natural turquoise. Instead, the name refers to turquoise that comes from a specific geographic area.

Natural Turquoise vs. Arizona Turquoise: Key Differences

The distinction between natural turquoise and Arizona turquoise is in the meanings of the two. Natural turquoise refers to the natural process by which the gem stone is formed, whereas Arizona turquoise is the geographic area of origin.

1. Origin

Turquoise is a natural gemstone that may be found in the United States, Iran, China and other areas. Turquoise from Arizona is called Arizona turquoise.

2. Color and Appearance

Natural turquoise can be found in a range of shades of blue and green and can have varying patterns as a result of the minerals it contains and the surrounding rock. There is also some variation in the appearance of the Arizona turquoise, depending on the stone and the mine from which it came.

There are varieties of Arizona with a clear blue color and others with spectacular matrix patterns and mineral inclusions.

3. Rarity and Price

The color, quality, origin, rarity, size and treatment are all considerations in determining the value of turquoise. Some of the varieties grown in Arizona can be more valuable due to their reputation, scarcity or collecting interest.

But not all stones in Arizona turquoise are more expensive than the stones of turquoise from other regions. Authenticity and quality is more important than the name.

4. Treatments

To make the colour of turquoise more uniform and create a more durable piece, some turquoise is stabilized with resin. Other materials can be dyed, re-made or simulated with other substances.

The treatments can take place in turquoise from several sources. Thus, natural turquoise, and Arizona turquoise do not necessarily indicate that a stone has not been treated. Always inquire about the gemstone's treatment and authenticity from the seller.

How to Choose the Right Turquoise Jewelry

The decision of choosing turquoise jewelry depends on your particular style, budget and the manner in which you will use it.

If you're a fan of vibrant, uniform blue hues, keep an eye out for stones that have the color you're seeking, like some Sleeping Beauty turquoise varieties. For those who prefer earthy information and unusual designs, an earthy stone with a visible matrix might be a more suitable choice.

Also take the setting of the jewelry into account. Silver settings have a traditional southwestern style and gold-plated pieces provide a contrasting warm touch to blue and green turquoise.

When wearing it every day, opt for something of high quality, solidly set in place, and ask if the gemstone has been stabilized. This is a relatively soft gemstone, which means that it is best treated with care.

If purchasing a higher value turquoise, ask for the clear information regarding the source of the stone, the treatments and any documents available. In a seller's description, the name should be complemented by a description of the stone known to the seller.

How to Care for Turquoise Jewelry

Turquoise is a delicate gem that needs to be handled with care. Do not expose it to perfumes, hairsprays, household cleaners, and harsh chemicals. Take off turquoise jewelry when swimming, showering or engaging in physical activity.

Wear jewelry and then touch the stone with a soft non-scratching dry cloth. Don't use ultrasonic cleaners, steam cleaning or extended soaking, particularly when the turquoise is stabilized or no treatment information is available.

Keep more soft turquoise pieces away from harder gemstone to minimize the possibility of scratching.

Final Thoughts

Natural turquoise (also known as Arizona turquoise) have the same basic mineral composition, but the names refer to different things. Natural turquoise is all about the process of formation of the turquoise, and Arizona turquoise emphasizes its geographical origin and association with the American Southwest.

Some Arizona turquoise has a smooth blue hue, others are patterned; the most important thing is the stone you like and can afford.

Turquoise jewelry designs can add a touch of color, character, and enduring style to your individual style at Joolora Jewelry. Understanding the origin, quality, and maintenance of gemstones will help you to make an informed decision and enjoy your jewelry for years to come.