What is stabilised turquoise?
By Jared James · Last updated 21 May 2026
Definition
Stabilised turquoise is genuine turquoise that has been treated with a colourless resin or polymer to fill its porous structure, which makes it harder, more durable and less likely to change colour or absorb oils and moisture over time. Much of the turquoise mined around the world is too soft or chalky in its natural state to be used in jewellery, so stabilisation is standard practice and widely accepted in the trade. Stabilised turquoise is real turquoise, though it is less valuable than untreated natural stone of the same appearance.
Frequently asked questions
- Is stabilised turquoise real turquoise?
- Yes. The stone itself is genuine turquoise; stabilisation simply fills the porous spaces with resin to make it workable. It is real turquoise that has been treated, not a synthetic imitation, though it should be disclosed as stabilised when sold.
- How can you tell if turquoise is stabilised?
- Natural, untreated turquoise is rare and often commands a premium. Most affordable turquoise jewellery uses stabilised stones. A gemmologist can test for the presence of resin, and reputable sellers should disclose treatment. Very uniform colour with no matrix variation can sometimes indicate stabilisation.
- Does stabilised turquoise change colour over time?
- Because the resin seals the porous surface, stabilised turquoise is far more colour-stable than untreated natural turquoise, which can fade or deepen significantly when exposed to oils and light. This is actually one of the main reasons stabilisation is done.
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