It’s easy to see why people love turquoise. That beautiful blue-green color is just incredible, isn’t it? But if you’ve ever shopped for it, you’ve probably noticed a huge range in prices.
It makes you wonder, what’s the most valuable type of turquoise used in jewelry? The answer isn’t simple, as value comes from rarity, color, and the mine it came from. Some types are just in a league of their own.
Lander Blue Turquoise
When people talk about the “holy grail” of turquoise, they’re often talking about Lander Blue. This stuff is incredibly rare. It was discovered in Nevada in 1973, and the mine produced less than 110 pounds of it. What makes it stand out is its deep, almost electric blue color with a tight, black spiderweb matrix. Because there’s so little of it, a piece with genuine Lander Blue is one of the most collectible types you can find.
Bisbee Turquoise
Straight from Arizona, Bisbee turquoise is famous for its hard, brilliant blue stone and a unique chocolate-brown matrix. The mine it came from was actually a copper mine, and the turquoise was just a bonus find. The mine’s been closed for decades, so no new Bisbee is coming to the market. That scarcity, plus its signature smoky matrix, makes it a prize for collectors and jewelry lovers.
Number 8 Turquoise
Here’s another one from Nevada that’s a real fan favorite. The Number 8 mine produced some truly unique turquoise, known for its golden-brown and black spiderweb matrix set against a light blue or dark blue stone. The mine is depleted, so just like Bisbee, what’s out there is all there is. This rarity has driven its value way up over the years. You’ll find it’s a popular choice for statement pieces.
Kingman Turquoise
Kingman turquoise is one of the oldest and most recognized types in North America. The mine in Arizona produces a wide range of colors, from light blue to a deep, vibrant blue. The most valuable Kingman has a dark, web-like matrix, often with hints of pyrite that give it a little sparkle. Its history and consistent quality keep it in high demand, and it’s a staple in southwestern jewelry. In fact, turquoise bracelets are treasured by Native American tribes like the Hopi because the stone is seen as a symbol of protection, health, and a connection to the natural world.
Picking Your Favorite Gem
Picking out a piece of jewelry is way more fun when you know the history behind the stone. Whether you love the intense spiderweb look of Lander Blue or the clear, electric blue of Sleeping Beauty, you now know what the most valuable type of turquoise used in jewelry is. Keep an eye out for these specific names, and you’ll know you’re getting something truly special.
