Turquoise, one of the most cherished gemstones, has captivated people for centuries with its stunning blue to green hues. Known for its spiritual significance and decorative use, turquoise has been revered by ancient civilizations, including the Egyptians, Native Americans, and Persians. Today, this remarkable gemstone continues to be popular in jewelry and ornamental pieces. But did you know that there are numerous types of turquoise, each with its own unique characteristics? In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the most well-known types of turquoise, their origins, and distinctive features.

One of the most iconic types of turquoise, Sleeping Beauty Turquoise, is known for its pure and even blue color, which resembles the clear sky. This variety originates from the Sleeping Beauty Mine in Arizona, USA. Its soft, sky-blue hue, devoid of much veining, makes it one of the most sought-after turquoise varieties for jewelry, particularly for those looking for a more uniform appearance.

The Kingman Turquoise, originating from Arizona, is a versatile gemstone. Its color can range from deep blues to bright greens, often with veins running through the stone that add to its character. Kingman Turquoise is well-loved for its mix of blue and green shades, making it a beautiful addition to any collection.
3. Turquoise Matrix

Turquoise Matrix is a type of turquoise characterized by its prominent matrix—a network of veins that run throughout the stone. The matrix often appears in shades of black or brown, contrasting with the blue and green hues of the turquoise itself. This pattern gives the stone a distinctive look, and it’s found in various regions worldwide.
4. Blue Water Turquoise

Blue Water Turquoise, hailing from Nevada, USA, is known for its rich blue color, sometimes with a touch of green. The stone is often flecked with intricate matrix patterns, adding to its unique aesthetic. This variety is prized for its intense, vibrant color and makes a bold statement in any jewelry piece.

Another turquoise variety from Nevada, Candelaria Turquoise is recognized for its soft blue color with a significant amount of matrix. The dark matrix patterns contrast beautifully with the stone’s lighter blue tones. This turquoise is frequently used in both traditional and contemporary jewelry designs.
6. Chinese Turquoise

Chinese Turquoise is known for its light blue to greenish hues and is often softer than its American counterparts. Despite being less vibrant than some other types, Chinese Turquoise is cherished for its unique matrix patterns and affordable price, making it a popular choice for affordable yet stylish jewelry.
7. Spiderweb Turquoise

Named for the web-like matrix that runs through the stone, Spiderweb Turquoise is recognized for its intricate and striking patterns. The matrix often appears in black, brown, or gold, making a stark contrast to the blue and green background. This variety is found in various regions worldwide and is a favorite among collectors for its artistic, natural look.
8. Number 8 Turquoise

Known for its striking, high-quality appearance, Number 8 Turquoise comes from Nevada, USA. Its color ranges from sky blue to greenish-blue, and it is often free from visible matrix. This variety is considered one of the rarest and most valuable types of turquoise, prized for its vibrant color and smooth texture.

Royston Turquoise, also from Nevada, is known for its blue and green hues, often accompanied by unique matrix patterns. The colors are vibrant, and the matrix can range from dark brown to golden tones, creating a beautiful contrast that makes each stone unique. Royston Turquoise is highly sought after by jewelers and collectors alike.
10. Bisbee Turquoise

Originating from Arizona, USA, Bisbee Turquoise is renowned for its deep blue color, often with fine matrix. This variety is highly regarded for its rich, intense hue, making it one of the most prized types of turquoise in the world. Its beauty and rarity have made it a favorite for high-end jewelry.
11. Egyptian Turquoise

Egyptian Turquoise holds historical significance, as it was prized by ancient Egyptian royalty. Known for its light to medium blue color, Egyptian Turquoise often has minimal matrix, giving it a clean, smooth appearance. This type of turquoise continues to be a symbol of luxury and status, even in modern times.
12. Persian Turquoise (Iranian Turquoise)

Often considered the finest turquoise in the world, Persian Turquoise, or Iranian Turquoise, is known for its bright, vibrant blue color. Found primarily in Iran, this type of turquoise has been cherished for centuries for its beauty and rarity. Its color is unparalleled, and its smooth, unblemished appearance makes it highly valuable in the gemstone market.
13. Pilot Mountain Turquoise

Pilot Mountain Turquoise, from Nevada, is known for its light to medium blue color, occasionally featuring a rich brown matrix. This turquoise variety is highly collectible, especially when it displays a high-quality, smooth appearance with minimal matrix.

Lander Blue Turquoise, a rare variety from Wyoming, USA, is highly sought after for its rich, vibrant blue hue and smooth texture. The stone is prized for its uniform color and lack of matrix, making it one of the most coveted types of turquoise in the market.
15. Morenci Turquoise

Originating from Arizona, Morenci Turquoise is one of the most famous types of turquoise, known for its blue color with copper veining. The vibrant blue hue, combined with the copper matrix, makes Morenci Turquoise a unique and highly valued gemstone in the jewelry world.
Conclusion
Turquoise is a gemstone that offers a vast range of colors, patterns, and origins. Whether you’re drawn to the deep blue hues of Sleeping Beauty Turquoise or the matrix patterns of Spiderweb Turquoise, there is a variety to suit every taste. Each type of turquoise tells its own story, making it not only a beautiful gem but also a piece of history. Whether you’re a collector, jeweler, or simply an admirer of beautiful stones, understanding the different types of turquoise enhances your appreciation for this timeless gemstone.