This article is for anyone new to the world of turquoise. This article is not for avid turquoise shoppers. I say this because every turquoise buyer develops their own opinion of what is required for a nugget of perfect turquoise. These are just a few tips to help novice turquoise shoppers.

Matrix

Matrix is that black or brown webbing that you see mixed up with the turquoise color. Matrix can be mistaken as a bad thing. After all, turquoise is bought for its color; who wants turquoise beads with black or brown splotches all over it? But matrix can be good thing because it gives the turquoise a natural, genuine appearance. Try to avoid turquoise that's covered all over with brown matrix, since black is most desirable in the market right now. Turquoise without matrix is fine, but usually it is color treated or reconstituted and not as valuable.

All of this true unless you're buying Sleeping Beauty turquoise—in that case it shouldn't have any matrix whatsoever. You'll know if you're looking at Sleeping Beauty turquoise because it'll have a unique sky-blue color and there will be signs everywhere that say "Sleeping Beauty".

Natural Turquoise

Natural unstabilized turquoise is valuable and rare. Turquoise out of the mine is little more than chalky powder. To make it suitable for jewelry, the turquoise is stabilized with wax or resin. Most of the turquoise that's hard enough to be used without stabilization has already been snatched up, but that doesn't mean natural turquoise is impossible to find. When you're looking for it don't ask, “Is this turquoise natural?” Some people have their own opinions of what makes gemstones “natural”. Some consider a little polish harmless. Some will say yes just because it's a rock, and they don't know better. Ask specifically what treatments the turquoise has had.

Color

Color ranges from bright blue to dark green. The bright blue variety is worth more, but it all comes down to which you prefer. Turquoise comes in hundreds of different shades, so take your pick.

Appeal

Buy what you like! Turquoise is a stone you're meant to enjoy. Visual appeal is the most important factor in determining the value. Don't buy “ugly” turquoise just because someone insists it is worth it. Buy what excites you and feel confident in your decision.