Turquoise, with its captivating blue-green hues, has adorned jewelry and artifacts for millennia, captivating cultures around the world. As one of the oldest gemstones known to humanity, turquoise continues to hold significant cultural, historical, and aesthetic value. However, not all turquoise stones are created equal, and the gem’s worth can vary significantly based on its color. In this article, we delve into the fascinating world of turquoise and explore the most valuable color of this cherished gemstone.
Turquoise’s Color Spectrum
Turquoise derives its name from the French word “turquois,” meaning “Turkish stone,” as it was historically traded through Turkey. Its color spectrum ranges from vibrant sky blues to deep greenish-blue shades. These variations in color are influenced by the presence of trace elements, such as copper, iron, and aluminum, as well as the level of water content and other minerals present during its formation.
Factors That Determine Turquoise’s Worth
Several factors contribute to the value of turquoise, with color being one of the most significant considerations. Other essential factors include clarity, cut, size, and origin. In this article, we focus on the color element and its impact on the gemstone’s overall value.
What color does turquoise have
Turquoise is a blue-green color. It is a blend of blue and green, often described as a vibrant and soothing hue. The name “turquoise” is derived from the gemstone of the same name, which is known for its distinctive blue-green color. The color turquoise can vary in intensity and shade, ranging from light and pale to deeper and more saturated tones. It is a popular and widely recognized color used in various contexts, including fashion, interior design, art, and jewelry. The calming and refreshing qualities of turquoise make it a favorite choice for many applications, and its unique and alluring appearance continues to captivate people of all ages.
What is the Most Valuable Color of Turquoise?
Among the myriad hues of turquoise, the most prized and valuable color is the iconic “Robin’s Egg Blue.” This hue features a bright, vivid blue with a slight greenish undertone, reminiscent of the blue eggs found in the nests of certain bird species, including robins. Gems displaying this vivid and evenly saturated color command the highest prices in the turquoise market.
See Also: Revealed: What Makes Turquoise Valuable
Pattern presented by turquoise
Turquoise stones can exhibit intriguing patterns caused by the presence of matrix, which refers to the host rock in which turquoise forms. When matrix and turquoise interact, they create unique patterns that enhance the gemstone’s allure. One particularly sought-after pattern is the “Spiderweb” matrix, characterized by fine lines resembling the intricate web of a spider. When paired with the desirable Robin’s Egg Blue color, turquoise featuring spiderweb patterns becomes exceptionally valuable to collectors and jewelry enthusiasts alike.
Turquoise shades
Turquoise, as a blue-green color, encompasses a range of shades that vary in intensity and tone. Here are some common turquoise shades:
1. Light Turquoise:
Similar to robin egg blue but may have slightly stronger blue or green undertones.
2. Medium Turquoise:
A more balanced mix of blue and green, creating a classic turquoise color often associated with gemstones.
3. Dark Turquoise:
Deeper and richer in color, leaning more towards green or blue, depending on the specific shade.
The difference between robin egg blue and other shades of turquoise
Robin egg blue and other shades of turquoise are both within the same color family, but there are distinct differences between them in terms of hue and appearance.
1. Robin Egg Blue:
Robin egg blue is a specific shade of turquoise that resembles the color of a robin’s egg, which is a pale and soft blue with a slight greenish tint. It is a delicate and pastel-like color, often associated with spring and a sense of tranquility. Robin egg blue has a subtle and soothing presence, and it can evoke feelings of innocence and nostalgia.
2. Other Shades of Turquoise:
Turquoise is a broader color category that includes a range of blue-green hues. Turquoise shades can vary from lighter to deeper and more intense tones. Some turquoise shades may have a stronger blue or green component, leading to more vibrant or subdued appearances.
The difference between robin egg blue and other turquoise shades lies primarily in their specific undertones and levels of saturation. Robin egg blue tends to be a softer and lighter hue, while other turquoise shades may have a broader range of intensity and depth. Each shade of turquoise offers its own unique charm and can create different visual impacts and emotional associations.
What should I look for when buying turquoise?
When buying turquoise, look for a vibrant and evenly distributed color, preferably the prized “Robin’s Egg Blue” hue. Check for good transparency without significant cloudiness or impurities. Consider the presence of matrix or unique patterns like spiderweb, depending on personal preference. Verify the origin, as it can impact the gemstone’s value and characteristics. Inquire about any treatments or enhancements, and ensure transparent disclosure from the seller. Purchase from reputable sources and be cautious of unusually low prices. By considering these factors, you can make an informed and satisfying purchase of genuine and high-quality turquoise.
Investing in Turquoise
While turquoise can hold significant value, it is essential to approach investing in gemstones with caution. The gemstone market can be volatile, and value is subject to fluctuations based on supply and demand dynamics. As with any investment, diversification and expert advice are essential components of a well-balanced portfolio.
Conclusion:
Turquoise, a gemstone revered throughout history for its vivid blue-green hues, presents a diverse range of colors, each contributing to its allure and value. From the prized Robin’s Egg Blue to the captivating green varieties, turquoise captivates with its beauty and cultural significance.
As the gemstone market evolves, so too will the preferences and value of turquoise. Whether you seek to invest in this alluring gem or merely appreciate its beauty, the charm of turquoise endures, connecting us to the ancient civilizations that cherished this precious gemstone for centuries.
FAQs
1.Is darker turquoise more valuable?
Generally, darker shades and less green tint in blue colors add more value to turquoises. Of course, consumers who appreciate matrix patterns would consider their beauty crucial to determining their value.
2.What is high quality turquoise?
High Quality Turquoise is rich in color and above a 5 in hardness on the Mohs’ hardness scale. Typically, when mining Turquoise there is a lot of overburden or host rock where Turquoise is found, it has to be removed to get to the medium quality stone that is usable in its natural state.
3.What makes turquoise rare?
Government restrictions and the high costs of mining have also impeded the ability to find gem-quality turquoise. Very few mines operate commercially and most of today’s turquoise is recovered as a byproduct of copper mining.
