The most sacred stone has become increasingly rare
FaniBlu natural turquoise sculptures have been sourced from the two finest mines in Hubei province in China, the Yungai mine and the Zhuxi mine. Both mines produced the finest natural turquoise. Unfortunately, they are now closed because the Chines government wanted to ensure environmental health maintenance. When the mining of precious gemstones was discontinued, and quality became limited, the value of existing natural turquoise sculptures soared. The closed mines and limited supply of large turquoise pieces make them rare and more valuable to collectors.
Sleeping Beauty Turquoise mine closure
Arizona is currently the most important producer of turquoise by value. Several mines exist in the state, two of them famous for their unique colour and quality and considered the best in the industry: the Sleeping Beauty Mine in Globe ceased turquoise mining in August 2012. The mine chose to send all ore to the crusher and to concentrate on copper production due to the rising price of copper on the world market. The price of natural untreated Sleeping Beauty turquoise has risen dramatically since the mine's closing.
Turquoise history and lore
Historical Gem
Turquoise is one of the world’s most ancient gems. Archaeological excavations revealed that the rulers of ancient Egypt adorned themselves with turquoise jewelry, and Chinese artisans were carving it more than 3,000 years ago. Turquoise is the national gem of Tibet, and has long been considered a stone that guarantees health, good fortune, and protection from evil.
Turquoise was a ceremonial gem and a medium of exchange for Native American tribes in the southwestern US. They also used it in their jewelry and amulets. The Apaches believed that turquoise attached to a bow or firearm increased a hunter’s or warrior’s accuracy.
Protection, Power
Turquoise is an opaque, light to dark blue or blue-green gem. The finest, most valued color is an intense blue. Not only is turquoise beautiful, it has also been attributed with powers thus promoting the wearers status and wealth: it was said to bring protection from evil and bring good luck. It is believed to bring peace, luck, safety and happiness, to ward off unnatural death and provides protection against evil, to promote mental and spiritual clarity to enhance trust, wisdom, kindness and understanding. Powerful attributes for agem that is also lovely to wear.