Selling Turquoise

Jul 21, 2023

Did you know that turquoise is one of the first gemstones ever mined, dating back to about 6000 BC? Its vibrant color and unique matrix make it one of the most recognized stones worldwide, especially when used in jewelry. Many people adore turquoise jewelry, particularly Native American pieces, for their exceptional designs. What's even more fascinating is that each piece of jewelry tells a beautiful story and represents different spiritual beliefs and traditions within each tribe.

Identifying Jewelry from Different Native American Tribes

If you have a piece of jewelry like an old pawn necklace with large turquoise stones or a bracelet adorned with coral, lapis, malachite, and spiny oyster, or even a sterling silver belt buckle with hand-etched and hammered design, you might wonder which tribe crafted it. Here are some ways to identify the tribe your jewelry piece belongs to:

• HOPI: Skilled silversmiths, known for their overlay jewelry, often without stones. Their exquisitely etched and carved pieces have a multidimensional look, with oxidized interiors that bring out the carved design.
• NAVAJO: Masters of larger, staggering pieces of jewelry like squash blossoms, cuff bracelets, rings, and watch bands. They use not only turquoise but also black onyx, coral, and lapis.
• ZUNI: Known for their cluster work, precisely cut stones, and carved animal fetishes. Zuni artists create astounding needlepoint jewelry with finely carved turquoise in geometric shapes, and inlay work is popular in their pieces.
• SANTO DOMINGO: Also known as the "Kewa Pueblo," they are renowned for their rolled beaded necklaces called "heishi." The Santo Domingo tribe stands out for eye-catching mosaic inlay designs on shells, prized by collectors for their clean look. In the past, they made Depression necklaces from materials like plastic, dinnerware, and used car batteries.

Different Shades of Turquoise

Turquoise is often associated with a bright sky-blue color, but did you know that there are many shades of turquoise, some not even blue or green? Native American jewelry incorporates various turquoises with unique characteristics like webbed matrix, veins, or spiderwebs. Depending on the mine it originates from, the stone can have a distinct design. White Buffalo, also known as "White Turquoise," is quite different from others, featuring a white appearance with black marble matrix design.

Where to Sell Your Native American Turquoise Jewelry

At Precious Elements, we are here to help you turn your turquoise jewelry into cash. Our experienced staff will evaluate each piece and offer you a fair market price. If you are in the Phoenix area, visit our Chandler location or call 480-659-6984. For those in Dallas, stop by our Murphy location or call 469-366-9611. If you're not nearby, use our chat button, and we'll provide you with a prepaid shipping label to start the selling process.