{Persian Turquoise}

Persian Turquoise is one of my all time favorite gems. Long before the United States became the world's largest supplier of turquoise, the finest turquoise was mined in Persia. During the 19th century it was a prized stone - thought to have healing properties and bring good luck and banish evil forces.

I have been on the hunt for a Georgian Persian turquoise brooch for a long while now and have finally found the perfect piece!

Georgian Domed Persian Turquoise Brooch with  a  Mine Cut diamond set in the center.
ca 1850

Natural turquoise is a porous stone. If untreated (like the brooch above) it will oxidize over the decades and mellow to a beautiful shade of green.

Sleeping Beauty Turquoise, mined in the Southwest United States closely resembles Persian Turquoise. Clear, blue turquoise with no matrix (veins). Absolutely gorgeous!

Two antique Persian Turquoise Rings in my collection.
Left: Georgian solid gold with gypsy set Persian Turquoise, circa 1850
Right: Victorian, warm rose gold with prong set turquoise, circa 1890

From top, clockwise:
(1) Oval turquoise and marcasite oval brooch, circa 1890
(2) Open faced glass locket jeweled with turquoise and seed pearls, circa 1880
(3) Georgian Persian Turquoise Heart Brooch, circa 1850
(4) Vintage Native American Sterling Cross Pendant set with Sleeping Beauty Turquoise stones
(5) Center: Victorian French Paste and Persian Turquoise lace pin, circa 1880