Nishapur Turquoise:

Nishapur turquoise is widely regarded as the highest-quality turquoise in the world. Extracted from the Bozghan (Firoza) mines, it is celebrated for its vivid sky-blue colour, considered the most valuable and sought-after shade in turquoise. However, due to geological conditions, turquoise from Nishapur generally lacks thickness, often measuring under or around one millimetre. The stone is embedded in granite during its formation, which adheres to it and prevents it from creating a pure turquoise gem. Nishapur turquoise is also much more durable than Kerman turquoise, making it resistant to wear during cutting and polishing. This variety often features dark veins or matrix patterns, adding to its unique beauty. These stones are highly prized due to their centuries-old heritage.

The Bozghani mines in Nishapur, Iran, have been actively mined for thousands of years, possibly dating back to ancient Persia. These mines are recognised as one of the oldest sources of turquoise in the world, with some artifacts made from Nishapur turquoise dating back at least 7,000 years, making it one of the oldest gemstones.

The geological conditions in Nishapur produce turquoise with high copper content, contributing to the stone’s famous blue colour and distinguishing it from turquoise mined elsewhere. The mines in Nishapur, particularly the Ali-Mersai mine in Bozghani, are still active, although resources are carefully managed to preserve this historical gem. Throughout history, Nishapur turquoise has been prized by royalty and the elite, with many ancient artifacts and pieces of jewellery featuring this precious gemstone.

Kerman Turquoise:

Kerman turquoise is thicker and often called “meaty,” as it extends beneath the stone’s surface, unlike Nishapur turquoise. It usually comes in various pale shades, from blue to blue-green and green, with a chalky texture. Kerman turquoise is much less durable than Nishapur turquoise, making it more prone to cracking or wear during processing. This type of turquoise is often treated with resin to enhance its hardness and improve its colour, making it less natural than Nishapur turquoise.

Colour and Appearance: Nishapur turquoise displays a wide spectrum of shades with higher saturation and brilliance due to its composition. Kerman turquoise may lack the same vividness and can even appear dull in many cases. Additionally, the veining and matrix in Nishapur turquoise are generally more aesthetically pleasing.

Main Differences:

Value and Rarity: Nishapur (Nishapuri) turquoise has been mined for thousands of years, with the oldest turquoise relics found in Nishapur dating back 7,000 years, contributing to its high historical and cultural value. Due to its superior quality and established legacy, Nishapur turquoise is significantly more expensive than Kerman turquoise—often up to ten times higher for comparable pieces. The limited supply and high demand for Nishapur turquoise have driven its prices to record highs in recent years, making it a highly coveted investment for collectors and jewellery enthusiasts.

In summary, if you’re looking for high-quality turquoise with a vibrant blue colour and resilient structure, Nishapur turquoise is preferred. However, Kerman turquoise can be a more affordable option, featuring fewer inclusions and a thicker structure, which makes it suitable for various jewellery forms like prayer beads and general jewellery. When purchasing turquoise, it’s essential to work with reputable dealers who can authenticate the origin and quality of the stones, ensuring you are getting the best value for your investment.

If you’re searching for the finest Nishapur turquoise, Amitis Art offers a hand-selected range of top-quality natural Persian turquoise jewellery and gemstones sourced from the legendary Nishapur mine. Visit us at Amitis Art to explore our exclusive collection.

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Author: Sohrab Jamarani

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