Just as diamonds have their 4 C’s (carat, cut, color and clarity), turquoise also has properties that help determine its value:
Size. Large pieces are rarer and more valuable.
Color. Sky blue or robin’s egg blue is ideal.
Inclusions. These are the other minerals that produce the stone’s pattern and, in general, stones with no inclusions or inclusions in a regular or spider-web pattern tend to be best.
Finish. In general, look for stones that are shiny, dense and hard with few rough spots or chips and a nice cut and polish.
Origin. All things being equal, turquoise from famous mines is going to be more valuable. Prestigious mines include Kingman, Bisbee, Lander and Cerillos.
Of course, the most important factor is to make sure you are purchasing real turquoise in the first place. With depleting turquoise sources, don’t be surprised to find some unscrupulous types trying to pass off fakes as the real thing. And don’t be surprised to find the best turquoise pieces gaining value as the laws of supply and demand kick in.
Which is just one more reason to grab today’s VPOD now.
Produced in the 1970s, this vintage turquoise cuff bracelet combines many of the best turquoise properties to produce a stunning piece of jewelry. Crafted with heavy silver, its beautifully polished stone measures a hefty 3.25 inches.
It’s a terrific turquoise find for a vintage fashionista!
Available at Beladora2.com.
(To receive the VPOD via email along with detailed size, price and purchase information, sign up for my growing email mailing list here. Your information will never be sold or shared and you can easily unsubscribe at any time.)
