One of the most historic gemstones in the world, Turquoise, is not limited to greenish blue color, but this mineral has been mined in hues of blue, green, and yellow. Just like diamonds, they are valued in different grades, hardness, clarity, origin, and whether they are light, dark or framed with matrix from the host rock.

Raw natural turquoise is found in dry climates all around the world. Although the turquoise from Iran was always known for the most valued turquoise, collectors are finding the turquoise made in the Southwest to be the most valued in the world. Natural turquoise is a hydrous phosphate formed through a chemical reaction from minerals that leak into the cracks of the rocks and turn into a clump of turquoise. Different minerals make up different colors of turquoise. The copper is what gives turquoise a blue color and the green is associated with the iron content. If the turquoise contains the mineral zinc, it becomes a yellowish color.

There’s no evidence when turquoise was first discovered but there are many beliefs, habits and folklore developed throughout history of mankind. Turquoise relates to good luck like a rabbits foot and has become a person or tribe’s symbol of origin, happiness, power, safety, or wealth.