Turquoise

Turquoise is a very beautiful, opaque gem that ranges in color from greenish blue to green, often containing natural matrix.  Matrix refers to the natural host rock in turquoise.  The amount of matrix present in turquoise varies from none at all to very attractive, spiderweb patterning.

Turquoise is one of the first gems used for personal decoration, used by Egyptian rulers as far back as 5500 BC.  King Tutankhamen's funeral mask contained a turquoise inlay.

​Turquoise is used in all types of jewelry today, ranging from handmade Native American jewelry to top tier designer jewelry.