Turquoise is a gemstone that has been cherished for centuries for its unique color and cultural significance. Among the various types of turquoise, one that stands out is White Buffalo Turquoise. This gemstone, with its distinctive white color and black matrix, has a rich history and holds deep cultural significance for the Native American tribes of the American Southwest.
What is White Buffalo Turquoise?
White Buffalo Turquoise, also known as White Turquoise or White Buffalo Stone, is a rare and highly sought-after gemstone. Unlike traditional turquoise, which is known for its blue or green hues, White Buffalo Turquoise is predominantly white, with black or brown matrix running through it. This unique coloration is due to the absence of copper, which is the element that gives traditional turquoise its blue or green color.
The black or brown matrix in White Buffalo Turquoise is made up of various minerals, including iron oxide, manganese oxide, and zinc oxide. These minerals create intricate patterns within the stone, making each piece of White Buffalo Turquoise truly unique.
See Also: What is Orange Turquoise: A Quick Exploration
Characteristics of White Buffalo Turquoise
The following are the characteristics of white Buffalo turquoise:
1. Color:
The defining characteristic of white buffalo turquoise is its pale and often creamy-white base color. This base may range from pure white to soft shades of cream or pale beige.
2. Turquoise Veins:
While white buffalo turquoise is predominantly white, it is distinguished by its veins or inclusions of turquoise. These turquoise veins can vary in color from pale blue to light green and may appear in irregular patterns, creating a marbled or spiderweb-like effect.
3. Texture:
White buffalo turquoise is typically found in a relatively smooth and polished form, making it ideal for use in jewelry and carvings.
4. Hardness:
White buffalo turquoise shares the same mineral composition as traditional turquoise, primarily consisting of hydrated copper aluminum phosphate. This composition gives it a Mohs hardness rating of 5 to 6, making it relatively durable for jewelry and decorative items.
Origins of White Buffalo Turquoise
White buffalo turquoise is notably scarce compared to its blue and green counterparts. The majority of white turquoise is found in specific regions of the United States. Some of the most renowned sources include:
1. Tonopah, Nevada:
The Tonopah region in Nevada is famed for producing high-quality white buffalo turquoise. The mines in this area have yielded some of the most sought-after specimens.
2. Dry Creek Mine, Nevada:
The Dry Creek Mine, also located in Nevada, is celebrated for its exceptionally pure white buffalo turquoise with minimal matrix.
3. Golden Hills Mine, Kazakhstan:
A lesser-known source, the Golden Hills Mine in Kazakhstan, has produced white buffalo turquoise with distinctive spiderweb patterns.
Cultural Significance of White Buffalo Turquoise
Turquoise, in its various forms, has held profound cultural and spiritual significance for numerous civilizations throughout history. White buffalo turquoise, with its unique attributes, carries its own symbolic and cultural weight:
1. Spiritual Connection:
Many Native American tribes consider turquoise, including white turquoise, to be a sacred and spiritually significant gemstone. It is believed to hold protective and healing properties.
2. Purity and Peace:
The predominantly white color of white buffalo turquoise is often associated with purity, peace, and tranquility. It is thought to bring a sense of calm and serenity to those who wear or use it.
3 .Jewelry and Adornments:
White buffalo turquoise has been used for centuries in the creation of jewelry and ornaments, often incorporated into traditional Native American designs. These pieces are not only decorative but also carry cultural and spiritual significance.
4. Healing and Protection:
In various healing and alternative medicine practices, white buffalo turquoise is believed to have healing properties. It is thought to promote physical and emotional well-being while offering protection from negative energies.
See Also: What is blue turquoise good for: The Spiritual & Healing Power
The Allure of White Buffalo Turquoise: Why It’s Coveted
The allure of white buffalo turquoise lies in its rarity, unique appearance, and cultural significance. Here are some reasons why white turquoise is highly coveted:
1. Exceptional Rarity:
White buffalo turquoise is a rarity among gemstones, making it a prized collector’s item. Its scarcity adds to its desirability and value.
2. Elegance and Versatility:
The creamy-white base color of white buffalo turquoise gives it an elegant and neutral appearance that complements a wide range of styles and outfits. It can be used in both contemporary and traditional jewelry designs.
3. Cultural and Spiritual Appeal:
Many individuals are drawn to white buffalo turquoise for its cultural and spiritual associations. It is seen as a symbol of purity, peace, and positive energy.
4. Artistic Potential:
White buffalo turquoise’s unique appearance, with its marbled or spiderweb-like patterns, offers endless artistic possibilities. Jewelry designers and artisans can create one-of-a-kind pieces that showcase the gemstone’s beauty.
5. Healing Properties:
Some people are attracted to white buffalo turquoise for its perceived healing properties, believing it can bring physical and emotional balance.
What is the value of white buffalo turquoise?
The value of white buffalo turquoise varies significantly based on factors such as its quality, size, origin, and demand in the market. High-quality white turquoise with minimal matrix and vibrant turquoise veins can command prices ranging from $50 to $200 per carat for loose gemstones. White turquoise jewelry, particularly pieces created by renowned artisans or featuring unique designs, can be valued much higher, with prices ranging from hundreds to thousands of dollars. Rare specimens with exceptional purity and patterns may reach even higher values. Ultimately, the market value of white turquoise is determined by its rarity and aesthetic appeal, making it a sought-after gemstone for collectors and jewelry enthusiasts.
Is white buffalo turquoise worth investing in?
Investing in white buffalo turquoise can be appealing for collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate its rarity and unique aesthetic. However, it’s essential to approach it as a niche investment rather than a traditional financial one. White turquoise’s value is influenced by factors such as quality, origin, and demand, making it less predictable than more established investment assets. It’s advisable to research and buy from reputable sources, focusing on high-quality pieces with potential for appreciation. While white turquoise can offer both aesthetic pleasure and potential value, it should be considered more of a passion investment than a primary means of financial growth.
In Conclusion
White buffalo turquoise, with its distinctive and ethereal appearance, offers a captivating departure from the traditional blue and green turquoise varieties. This rare gemstone carries a sense of purity, serenity, and cultural significance that has made it highly sought after by collectors, jewelry enthusiasts, and those seeking spiritual connection and healing properties.
Whether you are drawn to white buffalo turquoise for its elegance, cultural appeal, or unique aesthetic, it stands as a testament to the enduring allure of gemstones and the rich tapestry of beliefs and traditions that surround them. As a precious rarity, white turquoise continues to inspire and captivate, reminding us of the profound beauty that can be found in the Earth’s treasures.
