A natural polished raw turquoise gemstone hand set in a sterling silver sawtooth bezel. There is a tiny sterling moon and star attached to the stone. This comes with a 20 inch 925 silver snake chain. The stone is approximately 20x15mm.

Turquoise was among the first gems to be mined, and while many historic sites have been depleted, some are still worked to this day. Turquoise is often recovered as a byproduct of copper mining operations. It is mined mostly in Iran, the Sinai Peninsula, China, Mexico, and the Southwestern United States.

Turquoise has long been prized by Native Americans and holds strong symbolism for them. Mt. Taylor in New Mexico, also known as Turquoise Mountain, is called “Tso odzil” by the Navajo. Legend says that this sacred mountain was fastened to earth with a stone knife and covered with a blue sky blanket decorated with turquoise.

The Sleeping Beauty turquoise mine is in Globe, Arizona, and it has produced some of the most highly prized turquoise in the world. The mine was closed in 2012 and turquoise will no longer be mined there. The company that owns the rights to the property decided not to renew the lease.

The Sleeping Beauty mine started more than 50 years ago when the ores originally mined were gold and copper. When viewed from a distance the mountains resemble a lady lying on her back, and thus the name Sleeping Beauty.

Turquoise has been used since ancient times as a talisman and a protection amulet. In many cultures it symbolized wealth and prosperity. Turquoise can bring peace and good fortune to your household. A gift of turquoise to a friend can protect them from negative energy and harmful intentions. As one of the oldest known gemstones, it carries timeless wisdom and age-old truths.

Turquoise protects against accidents and is considered a traveler’s stone. It is good for increased awareness and verbal skills. Some say it brings good fortune and renewed health. It symbolizes honesty and self worth. Turquoise works well for a vision quest.

Turquoise can fade in bright sun and is affected by the sweat and oil from your hands. Stones listed as natural, raw, or rough may have some imperfections and inclusions. Be sure to check all photos, including the zoom feature, for details about a particular stone. Please see photo with ruler for size. Colors may vary with individual monitors.

Many stones are susceptible to fading, and they should be kept out of direct sunlight. Do not use hot water or salt water to clean them. Stone properties and descriptions are for informational purposes only and do not offer any guaranteed outcomes. Also, they are not intended as a substitute for medical care.