All that you need to know about Antique Turquoise Bead Jewelry

One of the most adored gemstones, turquoise jewelry has gained a huge spot in the hearts of people from all over the world. Made from opaque, blue-to-green mineral, the stone has been maintaining its popularity over the decades through use in many jewelries. Ranging from bracelets to necklaces, finding these stones embedded in many jewelry types has now become a common occurrence.

However, unfortunately, their popularity has also led many frauds to pop up claiming to be offering genuine Native American turquoise necklaces, while simply selling colored stones that too at expensive prices. So, to help you out with your next turquoise purchase, we have compiled some must-know things about the gemstone. Let’s have a look at them.

How are they formed?

Unlike traditional superstitions, these gemstones are no divine elements emerging from the sky. They are rather the gifts of nature provided to humanity by chemical reactions between copper and aluminum undergoing layers and layers below us. Depending upon various factors, they generally have a bluish-green appearance and a smooth texture, however certain transmutations are always possible.

In this regard, it is also important to know about their various colors and their cultural importance so that you can make a good purchase for yourself. Let’s get started.

How many colors does turquoise have?

Apart from arriving in their beautiful bluish colors, turquoise gemstones also have a variety of other mesmerizing colors to look forward to. Generally, depending upon the components within the metals, they are found in a range of hues. Some of these include bright green, yellow-green, sky blue, deep blue, blue-green, vivid green, and much more. Every single color is associated with a deep meaning and makes a great addition to almost any kind of attire.

What is the cultural importance of turquoise beads?

Similar to every culture, the Native Americans also used to categorize the stone as one of the most sacred and divine materials on the Earth. Commonly referred to as the ‘Heaven’s tears’ sporting these stones was considered to be beneficial for the overall wellbeing of an individual. The stone was perceived as the combination of water and sky and was hence thought to be the bringer of happiness, wealth, harvest, and all things good.

Many ancient Navajo paintings have also been found where warriors were portrayed to be using turquoise heishi necklaces on their weapons and vests. It was believed to enhance the accuracy of the weapon while simultaneously ensuring the wearer’s safety.

Now comes the main aspect- how to separate the wheat from the chaff?

How to recognize real from fake turquoise beads?

There are a few steps that can come in handy if trying to find the real deal whilst shopping for genuine Native American turquoise necklaces. 

• Always give a thorough examination of their color and texture, Given their natural creation process, turquoise is not always smooth and bears a spider webbing pattern. Therefore, if the stone looks too smoothly textured or has no spider web patterns, be aware that might be a fake.
• Never forget to check for their physical attributes. Turquoise no wonder arrives in many hues and are expensive gemstones. Thus, if some site or dealer is handing out the stone at unbelievably cheap prices, that is a definite red flag. It is better to shop from certified Native American turquoise heishi necklace suppliers only.
• Every ancient tribal jewelry comes marked with a specific trademark without which its value is as similar to its cheap imitations. Therefore, before clicking on the purchase option, it is essential to check for their embedded trademark and CoA. 

Tips to care for your turquoise bead jewelry

No matter if it is beaded turquoise jewelry or an intricately designed turquoise heishi necklace, proper care is a must for their long life. They need to be properly cleaned and cared for within regular intervals.

• Always keep the stone away from direct prolonged sunlight, excessive heat, chemical contact, and perspiration.
• Make sure to wipe the stone with a soft damp cloth every once in a while. You can also use a mild soap solution for more satisfactory results.
• To dry it out properly, follow up the cleaning process with a smooth wiping of the surface.

Conclusion:

Turquoise heishi necklaces are no surprise one of the most beautiful and appealing wonders of nature. So, if you are looking for genuine and certified Native American turquoise beaded jewelry, New Mexico Gems might be your best bet. Working as one of the most reputed and reliable dealers of Native American pieces and Navajo paintings, the company claims to have the largest collections of tribal arts and jewelry. For more information, check their website today!