Morenci Turquoise

Morenci Turquoise; Arizona Mine, Morenci, Clifton-Morenci District, Shannon Mountains, Greenlee County, Arizona, USA. An open pit copper mine located in the N1⁄2 Section 16, T4S, R29E (Clifton 15 minute topographic map), owned by Phelps Dodge Corp. Map Reference: 33°5'26"N, 109°21'58"W.

Morenci turquoise was mined in southeastern Arizona until approximately 1990. It is located very near the New Mexico border, and ranges in color from classic high electric blue to light azure. Prehistoric Indians who valued the stone for its deep blue color were the first to discover the deposit. These people adorned themselves with rough-hewn beads and carved talisman made from the mineral

Morenci is often associated with an unusual black matrix of irregular iron pyrite, which looks metallic when polished. Although they are rare, stones with unusual birds-eye patterns, red matrix and an occasional layer of silver have also been found. The Morenci name is derived from the large open pit copper mine owned and operated by the Phelps Dodge Corporation. Early examples of this striking turquoise were of the "lunch box" variety, meaning workers and miners carried them out of the mine.

Morenci is well known; it was one of the first types of American turquoise to find its way to the market and is always difficult to obtain because the mine was depleted so long ago. It is believed that the best Morenci ever produced was discovered in the late 1960's to early 70's. During this time period, the mine produced a high, electric blue variety with iron pyrite inclusions. Since Morenci is no longer being mined, and because of its striking color and unusual matrix combinations, high grade natural Morenci is a valuable, highly collectible mineral.

USGS; Arizona.--In Arizona turquoise ranks first in terms of value of production and is also the best known of its gem materials. Nearly all-important deposits of turquoise are located near copper occurrences or in copper deposits in arid desert regions of the world. Thus, the world famous turquoise deposits associated with certain of the large Arizona copper deposits are to be expected.

Turquoise is, or has been, mined from a number of these copper mines as a byproduct, usually by outside contractors. The financial and operating terms of the collecting contracts vary from mine to mine. Some of the operations are little more than the efforts of individual commercial collectors; some are essentially full-scale mining operations that are simultaneous with, but separate from, the regular mining operations; and still others operate on an on-call basis as turquoise is uncovered by the regular copper mining operation. Regardless of the size or sophistication of the initial mining or recovery operation, the actual turquoise is recovered by careful extraction using hand method.

About the artist:

Allison Lee - Navajo Silversmith:
Speaking of the silver and gold jewelry he hand crafts, Allison Lee's captivating voice is sincere when he says, "One time my uncle told me that everything we build comes from the earth, like the silver that comes from the earth, or the turquoise that comes from the earth. That is a lot of energy. You put it together and you put your heart and mind into a piece. Then sometimes a certain piece of jewelry- I believe- it is made for a certain person. I usually have a ring, or something, that stays with me for about two or three years, until the right person comes along. And then that person buys that piece. I believe that every piece of jewelry that I make is made for somebody out there- it's made for somebody special. Whoever might be having problems, or something like that. In essence, that energy helps that person get help, by wearing pieces that we make. That is the way I look at it.

See full biography

Related legends:

Silversmith Work

When and how the Navajo acquired the art of working metals is unknown but there are reasons for supposing that it was introduced among them, or at least more developed and improved upon by them, since the time they have occupied their present country?

More about this legend

Certificate of Authenticity

About the artist:

Allison Lee - Navajo Silversmith:
Speaking of the silver and gold jewelry he hand crafts, Allison Lee's captivating voice is sincere when he says, "One time my uncle told me that everything we build comes from the earth, like the silver that comes from the earth, or the turquoise that comes from the earth. That is a lot of energy. You put it together and you put your heart and mind into a piece. Then sometimes a certain piece of jewelry- I believe- it is made for a certain person. I usually have a ring, or something, that stays with me for about two or three years, until the right person comes along. And then that person buys that piece. I believe that every piece of jewelry that I make is made for somebody out there- it's made for somebody special. Whoever might be having problems, or something like that. In essence, that energy helps that person get help, by wearing pieces that we make. That is the way I look at it.

See full biography

Related legends:

Silversmith Work

When and how the Navajo acquired the art of working metals is unknown but there are reasons for supposing that it was introduced among them, or at least more developed and improved upon by them, since the time they have occupied their present country?

More about this legend

Certificate of Authenticity

We offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee on every purchase.

Kingman Turquoise

Kingman Turquoise comes from a large open-pit copper mine in the Mineral Park Mining District, northwest of Kingman, Arizona and was one of the largest turquoise mines in this country. The area lies in high desert country at an elevation of 3,345 feet and is surrounded by three mountain ranges. The mining district around Kingman, Arizona has always been a large producer of turquoise, at one time the world's largest. First mined by Indians, this area was home to the most extensive prehistoric workings found in Arizona.

The modern production of turquoise dates back to the early 1880’s when James Haas rediscovered these ancient Kingman area mines. Much of the turquoise occurred as seams, masses and veins. The color of natural Kingman turquoise can range from light blue to very dark blue and sometimes tints of green. The matrix is from white, light brown to black and frequently flecked with pyrite and times quartz. The mine became famous for its rounded, bright blue nuggets with black matrix. Few turquoise mines produced nuggets, especially of this quality. In its high-grade form it has always been considered among the top quality American turquoise. With so many thousands of pounds of good quality turquoise produced in the Kingman area over the last one hundred years it is hard to believe that today very little high-grade Kingman turquoise is available.

Other names for Kingman turquoise: Ithaca Peak, The Wall, Tiffany, Courtland, Az., Gleeson

Most desirable: Deep Blue with molybdenum pyrite; Real blue with pyrite; Bird's eye; Water Web; Nuggets

About the artist:

Allison Lee - Navajo Silversmith:
Speaking of the silver and gold jewelry he hand crafts, Allison Lee's captivating voice is sincere when he says, "One time my uncle told me that everything we build comes from the earth, like the silver that comes from the earth, or the turquoise that comes from the earth. That is a lot of energy. You put it together and you put your heart and mind into a piece. Then sometimes a certain piece of jewelry- I believe- it is made for a certain person. I usually have a ring, or something, that stays with me for about two or three years, until the right person comes along. And then that person buys that piece. I believe that every piece of jewelry that I make is made for somebody out there- it's made for somebody special. Whoever might be having problems, or something like that. In essence, that energy helps that person get help, by wearing pieces that we make. That is the way I look at it.

See full biography

Related legends:

Silversmith Work

When and how the Navajo acquired the art of working metals is unknown but there are reasons for supposing that it was introduced among them, or at least more developed and improved upon by them, since the time they have occupied their present country?

More about this legend

Certificate of Authenticity

We offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee on every purchase.

Lone Mountain Turquoise

The Lone Mountain turquoise mine is located near Tonapah, in Esmeralda County, Nevada. Since it is known for producing a high percentage of gem-grade turquoise, it is often referred to as a "sweet heart" mine. Originally established in 1920 by Lee Hand, the claim was initially called the Blue Jay Mining Lode. Later, after noting that so many other mines had been named Blue Jay, Hand changed its name to Lone Mountain.

In 1927, at a depth of about 40 feet, Bert Kopenhaver, who had leased the mine from Hand, found the beautiful spider web turquoise that made Lone Mountain one of the top mines in the Southwest. Although it has change hands several times over the years, the mine still produces a small amount of quality material. The Lone Mountain claim is currently owned by Gene Wadell and operated by Chris Lott.

Also known for exquisite, deep blue stones, the mine has historically produced some of the highest quality spider web turquoise in the world. "Fossil turquoise" has also been found in the mine. This was formed when ancient plants and seashells dissolved, leaving only cavities that were later filled with turquoise deposits. Additionally, turquoise nuggets in moss agate have been found. Because of its extraordinary hard nature, Lone Mountain turquoise has the ability to retain its rich color and is therefore a valuable addition to any jewelry collection.

About the artist:

Allison Lee - Navajo Silversmith:
Speaking of the silver and gold jewelry he hand crafts, Allison Lee's captivating voice is sincere when he says, "One time my uncle told me that everything we build comes from the earth, like the silver that comes from the earth, or the turquoise that comes from the earth. That is a lot of energy. You put it together and you put your heart and mind into a piece. Then sometimes a certain piece of jewelry- I believe- it is made for a certain person. I usually have a ring, or something, that stays with me for about two or three years, until the right person comes along. And then that person buys that piece. I believe that every piece of jewelry that I make is made for somebody out there- it's made for somebody special. Whoever might be having problems, or something like that. In essence, that energy helps that person get help, by wearing pieces that we make. That is the way I look at it.

See full biography

Related legends:

Silversmith Work

When and how the Navajo acquired the art of working metals is unknown but there are reasons for supposing that it was introduced among them, or at least more developed and improved upon by them, since the time they have occupied their present country?

More about this legend

Certificate of Authenticity

We offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee on every purchase.

Morenci Turquoise

Morenci Turquoise; Arizona Mine, Morenci, Clifton-Morenci District, Shannon Mountains, Greenlee County, Arizona, USA.  An open pit copper mine located in the N1⁄2 Section 16, T4S, R29E (Clifton 15 minute topographic map), owned by Phelps Dodge Corp.  Map Reference: 33°5'26"N, 109°21'58"W.

Morenci turquoise was mined in southeastern Arizona until approximately 1990.  It is located very near the New Mexico border, and ranges in color from classic high electric blue to light azure.  Prehistoric Indians who valued the stone for its deep blue color were the first to discover the deposit.  These people adorned themselves with rough-hewn beads and carved talisman made from the mineral

Morenci is often associated with an unusual black matrix of irregular iron pyrite, which looks metallic when polished.  Although they are rare, stones with unusual birds-eye patterns, red matrix and an occasional layer of silver have also been found.  The Morenci name is derived from the large open pit copper mine owned and operated by the Phelps Dodge Corporation.  Early examples of this striking turquoise were of the "lunch box" variety, meaning workers and miners carried them out of the mine.

Morenci is well known; it was one of the first types of American turquoise to find its way to the market and is always difficult to obtain because the mine was depleted so long ago. It is believed that the best Morenci ever produced was discovered in the late 1960's to early 70's.  During this time period, the mine produced a high, electric blue variety with iron pyrite inclusions.  Since Morenci is no longer being mined, and because of its striking color and unusual matrix combinations, high grade natural Morenci is a valuable, highly collectible mineral.

USGS; Arizona.--In Arizona turquoise ranks first in terms of value of production and is also the best known of its gem materials.  Nearly all-important deposits of turquoise are located near copper occurrences or in copper deposits in arid desert regions of the world. Thus, the world famous turquoise deposits associated with certain of the large Arizona copper deposits are to be expected.

Turquoise is, or has been, mined from a number of these copper mines as a byproduct, usually by outside contractors.  The financial and operating terms of the collecting contracts vary from mine to mine.  Some of the operations are little more than the efforts of individual commercial collectors; some are essentially full-scale mining operations that are simultaneous with, but separate from, the regular mining operations; and still others operate on an on-call basis as turquoise is uncovered by the regular copper mining operation. Regardless of the size or sophistication of the initial mining or recovery operation, the actual turquoise is recovered by careful extraction using hand method.

About the artist:

Allison Lee - Navajo Silversmith:
Speaking of the silver and gold jewelry he hand crafts, Allison Lee's captivating voice is sincere when he says, "One time my uncle told me that everything we build comes from the earth, like the silver that comes from the earth, or the turquoise that comes from the earth. That is a lot of energy. You put it together and you put your heart and mind into a piece. Then sometimes a certain piece of jewelry- I believe- it is made for a certain person. I usually have a ring, or something, that stays with me for about two or three years, until the right person comes along. And then that person buys that piece. I believe that every piece of jewelry that I make is made for somebody out there- it's made for somebody special. Whoever might be having problems, or something like that. In essence, that energy helps that person get help, by wearing pieces that we make. That is the way I look at it.

See full biography

Related legends:

Precious Stones
Turquoise; Precious stones have symbolic implications. For example, turquoise if a "collective term for all the precious stones, wealth, or mixed offerings. Good fortune is attributed to this stone." Both white shell and turquoise are emphasized in Kinaalda? More about this legend

Certificate of Authenticity

Blue Gem Turquoise

Blue Gem turquoise occurs in argillized quartz monzonite cut by two limonite-stained sheer zones, one trending N 35 o W and dipping 75 o NE, the other trending N, 25 o E and dipping 55 o NW. An extensive breccia zone about 10 feet wide is developed between the two bounding sheers. Exceptionally good quality turquoise forms veins up to three-quarters of an inch thick along the shears. Pyrite-bearing quartz veins are closely associated with the turquoise.

The Blue Gem mine was at one time located deep underground, accessed by tunnels as deep as 800 feet. This is of interest because the Blue Gem Mine and the Bisbee Mine in Arizona are the only two mines (of which we are aware) that turquoise was found that deep in the earth. The Blue Gem mine was once developed in extensive underground workings and open stoops. An audit several hundred feet long on the main structure connected to numerous shorter tunnels and several open stoops. Directly above the main audit was a glory hole some 100 feet long.

Duke Goff first noted the Blue Gem deposit in 1934. It was subsequently leased from the Copper Canyon Mining Co. by the American Gem Co. of San Gabriel, CA., owned by Doc Wilson and his sons, Del and William. The company operated the property until 1941 when the outbreak of the war caused a shortage of experienced miners. Both Del and William Wilson were called into the Army for the duration of the war, and this compelled the closing of the mine. Consequently, the lease was allowed to lapse and work was abandoned. In 1950 Lee Hand and Alvin Layton of Battle Mountain leased the mine.

Production of turquoise at the Blue Gem lease in the early days of the operation was enormous. Although there is no exact information, it is reported that the output amounted to nearly

$1 million in rough turquoise. The mine is still active, although Duval Corp is currently in the center of a major copper deposit developing it.

Pyrite in Blue Gem is unusual to see but not unheard of. Very little large material ever came out of Blue Gem, the majority found was small 1-mm "bleeder" veins and tiny nuggets which was perfect for Zuni inlay and fine needlepoint, petit-point and snake-eyes jewelry. Blue Gem turquoise was very popular in the late 1930's and 40's and was commonly used in the Fred Harvey "tourist jewelry" that is so collectable today. Blue Gem turquoise is extremely hard and stands up well to the test of time.

Blue Gem turquoise is a rare, valuable and historic American treasure. Quality Blue Gem Turquoise has been gifted with a wide range and variety of color. Because Blue Gem turquoise is very hard, a high polish is associated with this stone, and unlike most turquoise, won't easily change color. This turquoise has a unique character and many different looks all of which are striking, full of wonder and pleasing to the eye.

Production of the mine started about 1934 and continued into the 1970's. Blue Gem Turquoise is still some of the finest turquoise ever found, and unlike most turquoise mines, (in which the majority mined is chalky and only usable if stabilized) most of the turquoise found there was of gem-quality. Today the Blue Gem mine is not viable; it sits in the middle of a huge mining operation. The emphasis is on precious metals and the extraction of turquoise is considered more of a hindrance in the mining process rather than an asset. Even the ever-popular "Dump Diving" for turquoise through the overburden is not tolerated due to the very real danger of becoming buried in a slide. Insurance factors, equipment hazards, high explosives and safety issues along with a lack of interest from the mining company keep Blue Gem turquoise unavailable to the world, at least for now.

About the artist:

Allison Lee - Navajo Silversmith:
Speaking of the silver and gold jewelry he hand crafts, Allison Lee's captivating voice is sincere when he says, "One time my uncle told me that everything we build comes from the earth, like the silver that comes from the earth, or the turquoise that comes from the earth. That is a lot of energy. You put it together and you put your heart and mind into a piece. Then sometimes a certain piece of jewelry- I believe- it is made for a certain person. I usually have a ring, or something, that stays with me for about two or three years, until the right person comes along. And then that person buys that piece. I believe that every piece of jewelry that I make is made for somebody out there- it's made for somebody special. Whoever might be having problems, or something like that. In essence, that energy helps that person get help, by wearing pieces that we make. That is the way I look at it.

See full biography

Related legends:

Silversmith Work

When and how the Navajo acquired the art of working metals is unknown but there are reasons for supposing that it was introduced among them, or at least more developed and improved upon by them, since the time they have occupied their present country?

More about this legend

Certificate of Authenticity

Morenci Turquoise

Morenci Turquoise; Arizona Mine, Morenci, Clifton-Morenci District, Shannon Mountains, Greenlee County, Arizona, USA. An open pit copper mine located in the N1⁄2 Section 16, T4S, R29E (Clifton 15 minute topographic map), owned by Phelps Dodge Corp. Map Reference: 33°5'26"N, 109°21'58"W.

Morenci turquoise was mined in southeastern Arizona until approximately 1990. It is located very near the New Mexico border, and ranges in color from classic high electric blue to light azure. Prehistoric Indians who valued the stone for its deep blue color were the first to discover the deposit. These people adorned themselves with rough-hewn beads and carved talisman made from the mineral

Morenci is often associated with an unusual black matrix of irregular iron pyrite, which looks metallic when polished. Although they are rare, stones with unusual birds-eye patterns, red matrix and an occasional layer of silver have also been found. The Morenci name is derived from the large open pit copper mine owned and operated by the Phelps Dodge Corporation. Early examples of this striking turquoise were of the "lunch box" variety, meaning workers and miners carried them out of the mine.

Morenci is well known; it was one of the first types of American turquoise to find its way to the market and is always difficult to obtain because the mine was depleted so long ago. It is believed that the best Morenci ever produced was discovered in the late 1960's to early 70's. During this time period, the mine produced a high, electric blue variety with iron pyrite inclusions. Since Morenci is no longer being mined, and because of its striking color and unusual matrix combinations, high grade natural Morenci is a valuable, highly collectible mineral.

USGS; Arizona.--In Arizona turquoise ranks first in terms of value of production and is also the best known of its gem materials. Nearly all-important deposits of turquoise are located near copper occurrences or in copper deposits in arid desert regions of the world. Thus, the world famous turquoise deposits associated with certain of the large Arizona copper deposits are to be expected.

Turquoise is, or has been, mined from a number of these copper mines as a byproduct, usually by outside contractors. The financial and operating terms of the collecting contracts vary from mine to mine. Some of the operations are little more than the efforts of individual commercial collectors; some are essentially full-scale mining operations that are simultaneous with, but separate from, the regular mining operations; and still others operate on an on-call basis as turquoise is uncovered by the regular copper mining operation. Regardless of the size or sophistication of the initial mining or recovery operation, the actual turquoise is recovered by careful extraction using hand method.

About the artist:

Allison Lee - Navajo Silversmith:
Speaking of the silver and gold jewelry he hand crafts, Allison Lee's captivating voice is sincere when he says, "One time my uncle told me that everything we build comes from the earth, like the silver that comes from the earth, or the turquoise that comes from the earth. That is a lot of energy. You put it together and you put your heart and mind into a piece. Then sometimes a certain piece of jewelry- I believe- it is made for a certain person. I usually have a ring, or something, that stays with me for about two or three years, until the right person comes along. And then that person buys that piece. I believe that every piece of jewelry that I make is made for somebody out there- it's made for somebody special. Whoever might be having problems, or something like that. In essence, that energy helps that person get help, by wearing pieces that we make. That is the way I look at it.

See full biography

Related legends:

Silversmith Work

When and how the Navajo acquired the art of working metals is unknown but there are reasons for supposing that it was introduced among them, or at least more developed and improved upon by them, since the time they have occupied their present country?

More about this legend

Certificate of Authenticity

Morenci Turquoise

Morenci Turquoise; Arizona Mine, Morenci, Clifton-Morenci District, Shannon Mountains, Greenlee County, Arizona, USA. An open pit copper mine located in the N1⁄2 Section 16, T4S, R29E (Clifton 15 minute topographic map), owned by Phelps Dodge Corp. Map Reference: 33°5'26"N, 109°21'58"W.

Morenci turquoise was mined in southeastern Arizona until approximately 1990. It is located very near the New Mexico border, and ranges in color from classic high electric blue to light azure. Prehistoric Indians who valued the stone for its deep blue color were the first to discover the deposit. These people adorned themselves with rough-hewn beads and carved talisman made from the mineral

Morenci is often associated with an unusual black matrix of irregular iron pyrite, which looks metallic when polished. Although they are rare, stones with unusual birds-eye patterns, red matrix and an occasional layer of silver have also been found. The Morenci name is derived from the large open pit copper mine owned and operated by the Phelps Dodge Corporation. Early examples of this striking turquoise were of the "lunch box" variety, meaning workers and miners carried them out of the mine.

Morenci is well known; it was one of the first types of American turquoise to find its way to the market and is always difficult to obtain because the mine was depleted so long ago. It is believed that the best Morenci ever produced was discovered in the late 1960's to early 70's. During this time period, the mine produced a high, electric blue variety with iron pyrite inclusions. Since Morenci is no longer being mined, and because of its striking color and unusual matrix combinations, high grade natural Morenci is a valuable, highly collectible mineral.

USGS; Arizona.--In Arizona turquoise ranks first in terms of value of production and is also the best known of its gem materials. Nearly all-important deposits of turquoise are located near copper occurrences or in copper deposits in arid desert regions of the world. Thus, the world famous turquoise deposits associated with certain of the large Arizona copper deposits are to be expected.

Turquoise is, or has been, mined from a number of these copper mines as a byproduct, usually by outside contractors. The financial and operating terms of the collecting contracts vary from mine to mine. Some of the operations are little more than the efforts of individual commercial collectors; some are essentially full-scale mining operations that are simultaneous with, but separate from, the regular mining operations; and still others operate on an on-call basis as turquoise is uncovered by the regular copper mining operation. Regardless of the size or sophistication of the initial mining or recovery operation, the actual turquoise is recovered by careful extraction using hand method.

About the artist:

Allison Lee - Navajo Silversmith:
Speaking of the silver and gold jewelry he hand crafts, Allison Lee's captivating voice is sincere when he says, "One time my uncle told me that everything we build comes from the earth, like the silver that comes from the earth, or the turquoise that comes from the earth. That is a lot of energy. You put it together and you put your heart and mind into a piece. Then sometimes a certain piece of jewelry- I believe- it is made for a certain person. I usually have a ring, or something, that stays with me for about two or three years, until the right person comes along. And then that person buys that piece. I believe that every piece of jewelry that I make is made for somebody out there- it's made for somebody special. Whoever might be having problems, or something like that. In essence, that energy helps that person get help, by wearing pieces that we make. That is the way I look at it.

See full biography

Related legends:

Silversmith Work

When and how the Navajo acquired the art of working metals is unknown but there are reasons for supposing that it was introduced among them, or at least more developed and improved upon by them, since the time they have occupied their present country?

More about this legend

Certificate of Authenticity

Blue Gem Turquoise

Blue Gem turquoise occurs in argillized quartz monzonite cut by two limonite-stained sheer zones, one trending N 35 o W and dipping 75 o NE, the other trending N, 25 o E and dipping 55 o NW. An extensive breccia zone about 10 feet wide is developed between the two bounding sheers. Exceptionally good quality turquoise forms veins up to three-quarters of an inch thick along the shears. Pyrite-bearing quartz veins are closely associated with the turquoise.

The Blue Gem mine was at one time located deep underground, accessed by tunnels as deep as 800 feet. This is of interest because the Blue Gem Mine and the Bisbee Mine in Arizona are the only two mines (of which we are aware) that turquoise was found that deep in the earth. The Blue Gem mine was once developed in extensive underground workings and open stoops. An audit several hundred feet long on the main structure connected to numerous shorter tunnels and several open stoops. Directly above the main audit was a glory hole some 100 feet long.

Duke Goff first noted the Blue Gem deposit in 1934. It was subsequently leased from the Copper Canyon Mining Co. by the American Gem Co. of San Gabriel, CA., owned by Doc Wilson and his sons, Del and William. The company operated the property until 1941 when the outbreak of the war caused a shortage of experienced miners. Both Del and William Wilson were called into the Army for the duration of the war, and this compelled the closing of the mine. Consequently, the lease was allowed to lapse and work was abandoned. In 1950 Lee Hand and Alvin Layton of Battle Mountain leased the mine.

Production of turquoise at the Blue Gem lease in the early days of the operation was enormous. Although there is no exact information, it is reported that the output amounted to nearly

$1 million in rough turquoise. The mine is still active, although Duval Corp is currently in the center of a major copper deposit developing it.

Pyrite in Blue Gem is unusual to see but not unheard of. Very little large material ever came out of Blue Gem, the majority found was small 1-mm "bleeder" veins and tiny nuggets which was perfect for Zuni inlay and fine needlepoint, petit-point and snake-eyes jewelry. Blue Gem turquoise was very popular in the late 1930's and 40's and was commonly used in the Fred Harvey "tourist jewelry" that is so collectable today. Blue Gem turquoise is extremely hard and stands up well to the test of time.

Blue Gem turquoise is a rare, valuable and historic American treasure. Quality Blue Gem Turquoise has been gifted with a wide range and variety of color. Because Blue Gem turquoise is very hard, a high polish is associated with this stone, and unlike most turquoise, won't easily change color. This turquoise has a unique character and many different looks all of which are striking, full of wonder and pleasing to the eye.

Production of the mine started about 1934 and continued into the 1970's. Blue Gem Turquoise is still some of the finest turquoise ever found, and unlike most turquoise mines, (in which the majority mined is chalky and only usable if stabilized) most of the turquoise found there was of gem-quality. Today the Blue Gem mine is not viable; it sits in the middle of a huge mining operation. The emphasis is on precious metals and the extraction of turquoise is considered more of a hindrance in the mining process rather than an asset. Even the ever-popular "Dump Diving" for turquoise through the overburden is not tolerated due to the very real danger of becoming buried in a slide. Insurance factors, equipment hazards, high explosives and safety issues along with a lack of interest from the mining company keep Blue Gem turquoise unavailable to the world, at least for now.

About the artist:

Allison Lee - Navajo Silversmith:
Speaking of the silver and gold jewelry he hand crafts, Allison Lee's captivating voice is sincere when he says, "One time my uncle told me that everything we build comes from the earth, like the silver that comes from the earth, or the turquoise that comes from the earth. That is a lot of energy. You put it together and you put your heart and mind into a piece. Then sometimes a certain piece of jewelry- I believe- it is made for a certain person. I usually have a ring, or something, that stays with me for about two or three years, until the right person comes along. And then that person buys that piece. I believe that every piece of jewelry that I make is made for somebody out there- it's made for somebody special. Whoever might be having problems, or something like that. In essence, that energy helps that person get help, by wearing pieces that we make. That is the way I look at it.

See full biography

Related legends:

Precious Stones
Turquoise; Precious stones have symbolic implications. For example, turquoise if a "collective term for all the precious stones, wealth, or mixed offerings. Good fortune is attributed to this stone." Both white shell and turquoise are emphasized in Kinaalda? More about this legend

Certificate of Authenticity

We offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee on every purchase.

About the artist:

Allison Lee - Navajo Silversmith:
Speaking of the silver and gold jewelry he hand crafts, Allison Lee's captivating voice is sincere when he says, "One time my uncle told me that everything we build comes from the earth, like the silver that comes from the earth, or the turquoise that comes from the earth. That is a lot of energy. You put it together and you put your heart and mind into a piece. Then sometimes a certain piece of jewelry- I believe- it is made for a certain person. I usually have a ring, or something, that stays with me for about two or three years, until the right person comes along. And then that person buys that piece. I believe that every piece of jewelry that I make is made for somebody out there- it's made for somebody special. Whoever might be having problems, or something like that. In essence, that energy helps that person get help, by wearing pieces that we make. That is the way I look at it.

See full biography

Related legends:

Silversmith Work

When and how the Navajo acquired the art of working metals is unknown but there are reasons for supposing that it was introduced among them, or at least more developed and improved upon by them, since the time they have occupied their present country?

More about this legend

Certificate of Authenticity

About the artist:

Allison Lee - Navajo Silversmith:
Speaking of the silver and gold jewelry he hand crafts, Allison Lee's captivating voice is sincere when he says, "One time my uncle told me that everything we build comes from the earth, like the silver that comes from the earth, or the turquoise that comes from the earth. That is a lot of energy. You put it together and you put your heart and mind into a piece. Then sometimes a certain piece of jewelry- I believe- it is made for a certain person. I usually have a ring, or something, that stays with me for about two or three years, until the right person comes along. And then that person buys that piece. I believe that every piece of jewelry that I make is made for somebody out there- it's made for somebody special. Whoever might be having problems, or something like that. In essence, that energy helps that person get help, by wearing pieces that we make. That is the way I look at it.

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Related legends:

Silversmith Work

When and how the Navajo acquired the art of working metals is unknown but there are reasons for supposing that it was introduced among them, or at least more developed and improved upon by them, since the time they have occupied their present country?

More about this legend

Certificate of Authenticity

About the artist:

Allison Lee - Navajo Silversmith:
Speaking of the silver and gold jewelry he hand crafts, Allison Lee's captivating voice is sincere when he says, "One time my uncle told me that everything we build comes from the earth, like the silver that comes from the earth, or the turquoise that comes from the earth. That is a lot of energy. You put it together and you put your heart and mind into a piece. Then sometimes a certain piece of jewelry- I believe- it is made for a certain person. I usually have a ring, or something, that stays with me for about two or three years, until the right person comes along. And then that person buys that piece. I believe that every piece of jewelry that I make is made for somebody out there- it's made for somebody special. Whoever might be having problems, or something like that. In essence, that energy helps that person get help, by wearing pieces that we make. That is the way I look at it.

See full biography

Related legends:

Silversmith Work

When and how the Navajo acquired the art of working metals is unknown but there are reasons for supposing that it was introduced among them, or at least more developed and improved upon by them, since the time they have occupied their present country?

More about this legend

Certificate of Authenticity

We offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee on every purchase.

About the artist:

Allison Lee - Navajo Silversmith:
Speaking of the silver and gold jewelry he hand crafts, Allison Lee's captivating voice is sincere when he says, "One time my uncle told me that everything we build comes from the earth, like the silver that comes from the earth, or the turquoise that comes from the earth. That is a lot of energy. You put it together and you put your heart and mind into a piece. Then sometimes a certain piece of jewelry- I believe- it is made for a certain person. I usually have a ring, or something, that stays with me for about two or three years, until the right person comes along. And then that person buys that piece. I believe that every piece of jewelry that I make is made for somebody out there- it's made for somebody special. Whoever might be having problems, or something like that. In essence, that energy helps that person get help, by wearing pieces that we make. That is the way I look at it.

See full biography

Related legends:

Silversmith Work

When and how the Navajo acquired the art of working metals is unknown but there are reasons for supposing that it was introduced among them, or at least more developed and improved upon by them, since the time they have occupied their present country?

More about this legend

Certificate of Authenticity

About the artist:

Allison Lee - Navajo Silversmith:
Speaking of the silver and gold jewelry he hand crafts, Allison Lee's captivating voice is sincere when he says, "One time my uncle told me that everything we build comes from the earth, like the silver that comes from the earth, or the turquoise that comes from the earth. That is a lot of energy. You put it together and you put your heart and mind into a piece. Then sometimes a certain piece of jewelry- I believe- it is made for a certain person. I usually have a ring, or something, that stays with me for about two or three years, until the right person comes along. And then that person buys that piece. I believe that every piece of jewelry that I make is made for somebody out there- it's made for somebody special. Whoever might be having problems, or something like that. In essence, that energy helps that person get help, by wearing pieces that we make. That is the way I look at it.

See full biography

Related legends:

Arrows

To the Navajo, flint is a sacred stone. Arrowheads are said to resemble the tips of the fiery bolt thrown by Thunder. Arrows equal lightning and some of the old warrior tales tell of mortals who wear flint armor and look like Gila Monster. In other legends, when Elder Brother sings flint songs, his voice jingles with the sound of blue flint, thunder flint, water flint, talking flint?

More about this legend

Certificate of Authenticity

We offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee on every purchase.

About the artist:

Allison Lee - Navajo Silversmith:
Speaking of the silver and gold jewelry he hand crafts, Allison Lee's captivating voice is sincere when he says, "One time my uncle told me that everything we build comes from the earth, like the silver that comes from the earth, or the turquoise that comes from the earth. That is a lot of energy. You put it together and you put your heart and mind into a piece. Then sometimes a certain piece of jewelry- I believe- it is made for a certain person. I usually have a ring, or something, that stays with me for about two or three years, until the right person comes along. And then that person buys that piece. I believe that every piece of jewelry that I make is made for somebody out there- it's made for somebody special. Whoever might be having problems, or something like that. In essence, that energy helps that person get help, by wearing pieces that we make. That is the way I look at it.

See full biography

Related legends:

Silversmith Work

When and how the Navajo acquired the art of working metals is unknown but there are reasons for supposing that it was introduced among them, or at least more developed and improved upon by them, since the time they have occupied their present country?

More about this legend

Certificate of Authenticity

We offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee on every purchase.

Tyrone Turquoise

The Tyrone turquoise mining district is made up of a small cluster of mines in the Burro Mountains near Silver City, New Mexico. This group of mines is associated with the Tyrone Copper mine owned by Phelps-Dodge. Many turquoise historians believe that more high-grade, natural turquoise was produced in this area than any single American turquoise deposit on record. Turquoise mining in the Burro Mountains has been traced back to prehistoric times. Spanish colonists mined the workings in their own time. Mining artifacts such as stone and metal tools along with fragments of turquoise mined in this fashion were common at the sites.

An early mining engineer, named Zalenski, who visiting the mines in 1907, witnessed traces the "fire-fracture" process of extracting turquoise from the host rock. Zalenski also documented one forty-foot shaft though most of the workings. The main mining process was by way of following a vein through open trenching. Early miners and archivists mention ancient and historical Indian burial grounds in the area. The graves, most often, contained offerings of turquoise. These early excavations helped to determine the locations of some of the more modern claims. According to Pogue, John Coleman aka; "Turquois John" is credited with discovering the first modern mine in the area. While on a hunting trip in 1875, John, along with W.J. Foley and Nicholas Ransome of Silver City, are credited with discovering old excavations. The men were following up on a tip from local Indian traders. Turquoise was presumed present near the town and ancient workings were known to exist in the mountains. Their search of the Burro Mountains and surrounding area proved the rumors to be true.

The largest and most recognized mine of the Tyrone workings was the Azure. The Azure mine was initiated in 1891 and was located 10 miles southwest of Silver City. Pogue states in his 1915 classic; Turquoise, Memoirs of the National Academy of Sciences, wrote; "It has been operated in modern times more extensively than any other turquois mine in this country, and its stones are the equal of the Persian gems.” In 1893 the “Elizabeth Pocket” was discovered, which produced more high-grade turquoise than any single deposit on record. The Elizabeth Pocket was 100 feet long, 40 feet wide, and 40 to 50 feet deep. At the time it was believed to be the riches vein of turquoise ever discovered. Cabochons produced from this mine were marketed throughout the country with ads appearing in Harper and McClure’s magazines. Each gem was engraved with a circle on the back with the ad stating, "None genuine without the ring O on the reverse side.” Because of its extremely hard and durable nature Azure turquoise was guaranteed not to change color. Tyrone turquoise available on today's market is mostly from older collections. In its high-grade form Tyrone turquoise is a hard, translucent, brilliant or deep blue and is highly valued by collectors for it beauty and rarity.

About the artist:

Allison Lee - Navajo Silversmith:
Speaking of the silver and gold jewelry he hand crafts, Allison Lee's captivating voice is sincere when he says, "One time my uncle told me that everything we build comes from the earth, like the silver that comes from the earth, or the turquoise that comes from the earth. That is a lot of energy. You put it together and you put your heart and mind into a piece. Then sometimes a certain piece of jewelry- I believe- it is made for a certain person. I usually have a ring, or something, that stays with me for about two or three years, until the right person comes along. And then that person buys that piece. I believe that every piece of jewelry that I make is made for somebody out there- it's made for somebody special. Whoever might be having problems, or something like that. In essence, that energy helps that person get help, by wearing pieces that we make. That is the way I look at it.

See full biography

Related legends:

Precious Stones
Turquoise; Precious stones have symbolic implications. For example, turquoise if a "collective term for all the precious stones, wealth, or mixed offerings. Good fortune is attributed to this stone." Both white shell and turquoise are emphasized in Kinaalda? More about this legend

Silversmith Work

When and how the Navajo acquired the art of working metals is unknown but there are reasons for supposing that it was introduced among them, or at least more developed and improved upon by them, since the time they have occupied their present country?

More about this legend

Certificate of Authenticity