Santo Domingo Handmade Natural Gem Grade Lone Mountain Turquoise Tiny Bead Necklace - Ray Lovato (#142)
$7,500.00
Artist: Ray Lovato
Total Length: 35"
Wrap: 6 1/4"
It has always been our quest to seek out stashes of top grade natural turquoise; whether it’s rough material or individual cabochons with unique color and character. In this case we stumbled upon some small but powerfully potent trimmings from larger stones found and cut from the Lone Mountain turquoise mine near Tonopah, Nevada. The trimmings were perfect for Ray Lovato to re-cut and shape into some of the most exquisite beads we have ever seen from this mine. One never knows where a treasure might be found and what might inspire an artist like Ray.
Lone Mountain
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:
The gift of humor is a blessing to those who have it, and to those of us exposed to the comic. From an early age, Steve and I have been blessed with the humor of Santa Domingo artist Ray Lovato. Not only does Ray create exceptional jewelry, he does it with wit and comedy. He always has an aura of happiness around him, and this attitude seems to spread, like a California fog, to those who know him. In addition to his artistic talents, Ray is also a gifted salesman. When he pulls up in front of the trading post we know that there is a good possibility that we will soon be parting company with our available cash.
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