Turquoise was among the first gems to be mined, and many historic sites have been depleted, though some are still worked to this day. Pre-Columbian Native Americans mined deposits in New Mexico and likely California, the best turquoise coming from the fabled, now closed Sleeping Beauty and (still operating) Kingman Mines in Arizona. Since the First Dynasty (3000B.C.) it was used by the Egyptians and mined in the Sinai. Iran has been ana important source of turquoise for at least 2000 years and old Persian pieces were often engraved and inlaid with gold. Turquoise was also extensively used in China, since the Shang Dynasty, and in Tibet and Mongolia. Several turquoise artefacts have also been found in Greece, dating to the Mycenaean era, around 1500B.C.
There are many myths surrounding turquoise and most of the are involved with predicting danger. and hope. Thie turquoise in this charm comes from the Sleeping Beauty mine and has the prized robin's egg blue color. The size makes it ideal for daily wear as a charm or amulet.
Handmade using recycled 22k gold and Arizona turquoise (2.33ctw). Length approximately 24mm, W 9mm (L .95in W 0.35in).
Made to order, please allow 4-6 weeks.