All About Kingman Turquoise
One of my favourite varieties of Turquoise is from Kingman mine, Arizona, USA.
Kingman Turquoise is highly valued for its rare blue hues and distinct matrix patterns, making it a sought-after gemstone. High levels of copper in the rock formations surrounding the deposits create this particularly vibrant blue stone.
Turquoise has been found here for over a thousand years, starting with Native Americans who using the gemstone for ceremonial purposes and as a form of currency. In the 1880s, the mine became commercially established, leading to the growth in popularity of Kingman Turquoise in the jewellery and crafts industry.
Authentic Kingman Turquoise is distinctive by its vibrant blue colour, unique natural matrix patterns, and smooth texture. The naturally occurring stones can have matrixes which range from white, light golden brown, to black. They are found to have ‘freckles’ of pyrite, and sometimes quartz. Some of the rarest and most famous turquoise nuggets found at the Kingman mine are bright blue, with a distinct black matrix.
The best examples of Kingman are now found in vintage collections as what remains is largely found in seams and veins so producing smaller pieces from the still working mine. As a result, it is possible to find on the market and in much contemporary jewellery a composite of Kingman Turquoise called Kingman Matrix.
This is created using genuine Kingman Turquoise chips in a zinc composite, creating solid blocks which are often used by some of the larger scale creators of turquoise jewellery and artifacts.
When looking to own your own piece of genuine Kingman Turquoise jewellery it is important to ask the jeweller the origins of the stone. A reputable jeweller will be able to describe its lineage, and some can provide certificates of authenticity.
Like all turquoise, Kingman holds a special place in history and particularly of value to Native American culture in its origins and the spiritual significance of connectivity between the sky and oceans. Many cultures and belief systems have placed particular significance on the protective properties of Turquoise, and it is thought to hold powers to enhance wisdom and clarity of mind.
Whether you are a believer or not, it is undoubtedly one of earths greatest natural treasures and creates a sense of calm and connection with the ever-evolving world around us.
