Turquoise is a gemstone that has been prized for thousands of years by various cultures around the world. However, Persian turquoise, in particular, has captured the attention of collectors and enthusiasts alike for its exceptional qualities. It is known for its unique blend of blue and green hues, which are said to be reminiscent of the colors of the ocean. This striking coloration is due to the presence of copper in the stone. Additionally, Persian turquoise is harder than other types of turquoise, making it more durable and less prone to damage. Its matrix, or the pattern of veins and markings on the stone, is also highly sought after by collectors. Finally, Persian (Iranian) turquoise is quite rare, as it can only be found in certain mines in Iran. All of these factors combined make Persian turquoise a highly prized gemstone that is coveted by many.

In this article, we will explore the world of Persian turquoise and delve into why it is considered to be of high quality compared to other types of turquoise.

What exactly is Persian turquoise?

Turquoise is a stunning gemstone that has captivated people’s hearts for centuries. The blue-green color of the gemstone is truly unique, and it is one of the most sought-after gems in the world. Persian (Iranian) turquoise, in particular, is known for its one-of-a-kind blue-green hue. Collectors from all over the world travel to Iran to get their hands on this exquisite gemstone. The color of Persian (Iranian) turquoise ranges from sky blue to deep green, depending on the amount of copper and iron in the stone, and the gemstone’s beauty is further enhanced by its unique matrix.

In addition to its stunning appearance, Persian turquoise is also highly valued for its rarity. It is mined in Iran, primarily in Khorasan, Kerman, and Neyshabur provinces, and it is only found in certain locations in these areas, making it difficult to obtain. The gemstone’s dark matrix is another distinguishing feature, consisting of complex patterns of black or brown veins that flow through the gemstone. The matrix is formed by the host rock in which the turquoise forms, which is a process that takes millions of years.

The geography of Iran plays a significant role in the quality and uniqueness of Persian turquoise. The mineral deposits are located in the arid regions of the country, where the high altitudes and dry climate create ideal conditions for the formation of the gemstone. The mines are often located in remote areas, and the gemstones are extracted by hand, making the process even more challenging. However, the end result is worth the effort, as Persian turquoise is a true masterpiece of nature, with its unique color, matrix, and rarity. It is no wonder that collectors from all over the world are willing to pay a premium price for this exquisite gemstone.

Colour

Persian turquoise is a gemstone that is highly appreciated for its stunning and unique hue. The rich, brilliant, deep, and strong blue-green color of Persian turquoise is due to the presence of copper in its composition. This gemstone has a distinctive tint that is produced by copper reacting with other minerals in the stone, making it one of the most sought-after blue colors among collectors and turquoise enthusiasts.

The color constancy of Persian turquoise is another reason why it is so highly valued. The hue is consistent throughout the stone, which contrasts with other types of turquoise that may have color variations inside a single stone. This consistency makes Persian (Iranian) turquoise a favorite among jewelers and designers who want to create beautiful and unique pieces of jewelry that showcase the beauty of this gemstone.

The closest color to Persian blue (robin egg blue) is the Sleeping Beauty turquoise from America, but the problem with those American ones is that they are mostly stabilized. In contrast, Persian turquoise from the Nishapur mine is still producing and the quality is mostly so high and does not need to be stabilized. This makes it an excellent choice for jewelers who want to use natural and valuable gemstones in their creations.

There is ample evidence to support the fact that Persian turquoise is a highly prized gemstone. In fact, it has been used in jewelry and decorative objects for thousands of years, and was even worn by royalty in ancient Persia. The quality and beauty of Persian (Iranian) turquoise is truly unmatched, and it is no wonder that it continues to be in high demand among collectors and jewelry enthusiasts today.

Hardness

Persian turquoise is one of the most sought-after gemstones, and its premium hardness is one of the reasons. Unlike other types of turquoise stones from regions like the USA, China, and Egypt, Persian (Iranian) turquoise is not typically stabilized, making it a rare and valuable find. The legendary Nishapur mine, located in northeastern Iran, produces the hardest turquoise stones in the world, known for their rich blue-green color and fine-grained composition.

In contrast, turquoise stones from other regions tend to be more brittle, with a lower Mohs hardness rating. For instance, American turquoise often has a Mohs rating of 4 to 6, while Chinese turquoise has a hardness rating of 3 to 5. This means that these stones are more susceptible to scratches, chips, and other damage, making them less suitable for everyday wear. In contrast, Persian turquoise’s Mohs rating of 5-6 indicates that it is a reasonably robust gemstone that can endure typical wear and tear, making it an excellent choice for crafting everyday jewelry.

The hardness of Persian turquoise also makes it ideal for cutting and engraving. The fine-grained composition of the stone allows it to be polished to a high shine, increasing its beauty and value. In contrast, other types of turquoise stones can be more challenging to work with due to their lower hardness and brittle nature. In conclusion, Persian turquoise’s premium hardness and fine-grained composition make it a highly desirable gemstone, prized for its beauty, durability, and versatility.

Matrix

Persian turquoise is a stunning gemstone that is recognized for its vibrant blue-green color and intricate web-like patterns that are formed around the gemstone due to its natural development process. The host rock in which a gemstone is located is called the matrix, and Persian turquoise is commonly found in a dark brown or black host rock, such as iron pyrite, limonite, or quartz.

The matrix of Persian turquoise is highly appreciated for the complex and unique patterns it creates around the gemstone, making each stone one-of-a-kind. These patterns result from the gemstone’s natural development process, in which minerals seep into the surrounding rock. As a result, the matrix of Persian (Iranian) turquoise adds to the gemstone’s visual attractiveness and value.

The contrast between the turquoise’s blue-green color and the black matrix gives the gemstone a distinctive and eye-catching look that makes it stand out from other gemstones. The existence of a matrix can also impact the value of the gemstone, with more detailed and well-defined patterns demanding higher prices.

Moreover, Persian turquoise has been a highly prized gemstone for centuries due to its unique beauty, cultural significance, and historical importance. In Iran, the production of turquoise dates back to over 2,000 years ago, and it has been used in jewelry, decorative objects, and amulets. The gemstone was also highly valued in ancient Egypt, where it was believed to have protective properties against evil and harm.

In addition, Persian turquoise has been associated with healing properties and is believed to have a calming effect on the mind, body, and soul. It is also believed to promote communication and creativity, making it a popular gemstone among artists and writers.

In conclusion, the matrix of Persian turquoise is a beautiful and unique feature that adds to the gemstone’s value and attractiveness. The contrast between the blue-green color of the gemstone and the black matrix creates an eye-catching and distinctive look that makes it stand out from other gemstones. Furthermore, the cultural significance and historical importance of Persian (Iranian) turquoise add to its allure, making it a highly sought-after gemstone among collectors and jewelry enthusiasts.

Rarity

Persian turquoise is a highly prized and valuable gemstone due to its rarity and unique properties. The rarity of high-quality Persian turquoise is one of the primary factors that contribute to its high value. While there are various sources of turquoise worldwide, Persian turquoise is considered the most sought-after and expensive. This is partly due to the scarcity of high-quality Persian turquoise on the market today.

In addition to the political challenges, mining Persian turquoise is a difficult and time-consuming process. The best-quality turquoise is found deep within mountains, and the mining process requires a high level of skill and expertise. The veins of turquoise are often thin and intermixed with other rocks, making it challenging to extract the gem without damaging it. As a result, the cost of mining Persian turquoise is high, adding to the rarity of the gemstone in the marketplace.

According to reports, the demand for high-quality Persian turquoise has been increasing in recent years. Collectors, jewelry makers, and enthusiasts are willing to pay a premium for rare specimens of this gemstone. The unique color, hardness, and matrix of Persian (Iranian) turquoise make it a highly sought-after gemstone. However, the scarcity of high-quality Persian turquoise is expected to continue to increase, making it even more valuable in the future.

Tradition and History

Iranian turquoise, also known as Persian turquoise, has a rich and fascinating history that spans thousands of years. This precious gemstone has been mined in Iran, formerly known as Persia, since ancient times and was highly prized by various civilizations, including the Persian Empire, ancient Egypt, Mesopotamia, and China.

Turquoise has long been associated with good fortune, safety, and wealth in Iranian culture. It has been used in traditional jewelry, such as rings, bracelets, necklaces, and ornamental art, as well as in architecture. The intricate shapes and patterns incorporating Persian turquoise have become synonymous with traditional Iranian art and culture, which is evident in the designs of historic places like the Golestan Palace in Tehran.

Persian turquoise has left an indelible mark on the world of jewelry design. It has been favored by many famous jewelers throughout history, including Fabergé, Cartier, and Tiffany & Co. In fact, the world-famous Tiffany Blue color is said to have been inspired by Persian (Iranian) turquoise. Additionally, the gemstone has been used in the creation of many iconic pieces of jewelry, such as the 17th-century Crown of Great Britain and the 19th-century Peacock Throne of Iran.

The significance of Persian turquoise extends beyond just its aesthetic and cultural value. It is believed to possess healing properties and has been used in traditional Iranian medicine for centuries. The gemstone is thought to alleviate stress, depression, and anxiety, and many Iranians believe that wearing turquoise can bring good luck and protect against evil.

Despite its long and storied history, the mining and production of Persian turquoise have faced challenges in recent times. Environmental concerns and the rise of synthetic turquoise have impacted the industry, leading to a decline in the quality and availability of natural Persian turquoise. However, the gemstone remains highly valued and sought after by collectors and jewelry designers worldwide.

In conclusion, Persian turquoise is a true testament to the beauty and cultural significance of gemstones. Its rich history, cultural importance, and impact on the world of jewelry design make it a truly unique and valuable gemstone.

Persian Turquoise: How to Spot the Authentic Ones

With the rising demand for Persian turquoise, it’s critical to distinguish genuine stones to avoid buying imitations or fakes. These are some crucial characteristics to look for when determining genuine Persian turquoise:

Colour: Persian turquoise is distinguished by its distinctive blue-green hue caused by copper and iron in the gemstone. Persian turquoise should have a constant shade with no streaks or colour variances.

Matrix: As previously said, the matrix of Iranian turquoise is highly regarded for its exquisite and one-of-a-kind patterns. The matrix should be dark in colour, with intricate and well-defined patterns that are natural and not artificially created.

Hardness: Persian turquoise is relatively hard, with a Mohs hardness rating of 5-6. This hardness level makes it excellent for cutting, engraving, and typical wear and tear.

Source: Authentic Persian turquoise is mined in the Iranian regions of Khorasan, Kerman, and Neyshabur. Stones from these places are highly sought after and fetch high prices in the market.

Takeaway

For generations, Iranian turquoise has captured people’s hearts and thoughts. Its one-of-a-kind mix of colour, hardness, matrix, rarity, and cultural importance makes it highly unique. Persian turquoise is a must-have in every gemstone collection, whether you are a collector, jewellery maker, or simply a fan of gemstones.

When it comes to purchasing Persian turquoise, it is essential to distinguish genuine stones from imitations or fakes to avoid being scammed. One of the most crucial characteristics to look for when determining authentic Persian (Iranian) turquoise is its unique blue-green hue, which is caused by copper and iron in the gemstone. Persian turquoise should have a constant, uniform hue with no streaks or color variances. The uniqueness of the Persian blue color is what makes it stand out from other types of turquoise.

In addition to its distinctive color, Persian turquoise is also known for its exceptional hardness. In fact, Persian turquoise is considered a gem-grade turquoise and is of the highest quality and hardness. With a Mohs hardness rating of 5-6, Persian turquoise is relatively hard, making it excellent for cutting, engraving, and typical wear and tear. This hardness level also makes it less prone to damage and chipping, which is why it is a popular choice for jewelry and other decorative items.

When it comes to sourcing authentic Persian turquoise, the Nishapur mine is considered the best quality turquoise mine in Iran. The stones from this mine are highly sought after and fetch high prices in the market. While Kerman also has turquoise mines, the quality of the turquoise from these mines is not as high as the legendary Nishapur mine turquoise. Additionally, Kerman turquoise often has pyrite inclusions, which reduce its quality. Damghan also has turquoise, but it is not allowed to be mined, and the quality of the turquoise that is sometimes found there is usually not as high as the world-famous Nishapur mine. In some cases, the turquoise found in Damghan is a by-product of copper mining.

In conclusion, when looking to purchase Persian turquoise, it’s important to keep in mind its unique characteristics, including its color, hardness, and sourcing. By paying attention to these details and being careful, you can ensure that you are purchasing genuine Persian (Iranian) turquoise and not an imitation or fake.

Discover the beauty and enchantment of Persian turquoise by visiting Amitis Art today. Our commitment to authenticity, quality, and client satisfaction is unmatched, and we are proud to be a direct supplier of Persian turquoise. Our extensive collection of Persian turquoise jewelry and gemstones, sourced directly from Nishapur mines, is sure to add a touch of grandeur to your collection. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to own real and high-quality Persian turquoise. Visit Amitis Art today and experience the magic of this stunning gemstone for yourself.

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Author: Sohrab Jamarani

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