Is most turquoise treated?

Yes, the majority of turquoise sold today has been stabilised, which means it has been impregnated with resin or a hardening agent to strengthen it and improve its colour. Natural, untreated turquoise commands a significant premium and should be disclosed as such.

What is the most valuable turquoise?

Sleeping Beauty turquoise from Arizona, now closed to mining, is among the most sought-after for its clean, even, robin's-egg blue with no matrix. Persian turquoise is also highly prized for its intense blue tone.

How do you care for turquoise jewellery?

Turquoise is porous and relatively soft, so keep it away from chemicals, perfume, lotions and prolonged sunlight, which can fade its colour. Clean it gently with a soft, damp cloth and store it separately from harder stones that could scratch it.

What is turquoise?

By Jared James · Last updated 21 May 2026

Definition

Turquoise is a blue-to-green phosphate mineral found in dry, copper-rich regions, and its colour ranges from vivid sky blue through teal to a yellower green depending on the iron and copper content of the stone. It is one of the oldest decorative stones in human history, worn in ancient Egypt and Mesoamerica for more than six thousand years, and it is the December birthstone. Most turquoise on the market has been stabilised with resin to harden it, and the stone often carries a grey or brown matrix.

Frequently asked questions

Is most turquoise treated?: Yes, the majority of turquoise sold today has been stabilised, which means it has been impregnated with resin or a hardening agent to strengthen it and improve its colour. Natural, untreated turquoise commands a significant premium and should be disclosed as such.
What is the most valuable turquoise?: Sleeping Beauty turquoise from Arizona, now closed to mining, is among the most sought-after for its clean, even, robin's-egg blue with no matrix. Persian turquoise is also highly prized for its intense blue tone.
How do you care for turquoise jewellery?: Turquoise is porous and relatively soft, so keep it away from chemicals, perfume, lotions and prolonged sunlight, which can fade its colour. Clean it gently with a soft, damp cloth and store it separately from harder stones that could scratch it.

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Tell us what you have in mind, even if it is only a budget and a piece of jewellery type, and we will help you weigh up the options. We reply to every enquiry, usually within one business day.

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