Bisbee turquoise is one of the most sought-after stones in the world of Southwestern jewelry, known for its deep blue or green color and smoky matrix. At SilverTQ, we offer a remarkable collection of Bisbee turquoise pendants, all handmade by respected Native American silversmiths. Each piece tells a story, combining the natural beauty of the materials with traditional design elements. In this collection, you will find different pendant styles that reflect the culture and the spirit of the people who created them.
Understanding the Cultural and Historical Significance of Bisbee Turquoise Pendants
Bisbee turquoise has a long and meaningful history, both geologically and culturally. It was mined from the copper mines near Bisbee, Arizona, until 1974, and became highly prized for its intense color, which ranges from deep blue to greenish blue with a chocolate brown to red matrix. Native American tribes have used turquoise for centuries, believing it to be a stone of protection, good fortune, and spiritual clarity.
For the Navajo, the Zuni, and the Hopi, turquoise symbolizes sky and water and is often worn to bring harmony and balance. Pendants made with Bisbee turquoise are cherished not only for their beauty but also for their spiritual significance. Today, this heritage continues as Native American silversmiths preserve their traditions, creating pendants that celebrate both identity and artistry.
Explore Our Bisbee Turquoise Pendants
We showcase a diverse selection of Bisbee turquoise pendants handmade by notable Navajo and Zuni artists, each one featuring a unique form and stone.
Natural Bisbee Shadowbox Pendants
The shadowbox pendant is a well-established style in Native American jewelry, and our Bisbee turquoise shadow pendants beautifully reflect that tradition. This technique involves creating a recessed setting for the stone, which adds visual depth and gives the pendant a bold look. Navajo and Hopi artists often use oxidized silver to create contrast between the stone and the frame. These pendants stand out for their strong visual presence and rich textures.
Natural Bisbee Turquoise Naja Pendants
The naja is one of the most symbolic shapes in Native American jewelry, particularly within the Navajo culture. Naja pendants are traditionally incorporated into squash blossom necklaces, and they also work beautifully as standalone pendants. Bisbee turquoise Naja pendants highlight the stone’s vibrant color within the curved, crescent-like form. These pieces can feature a focal stone or multiple stones, along with fine silver detailing.
Other Natural Bisbee Turquoise Pendants
We also carry a number of one-of-a-kind Bisbee turquoise pendants that feature other traditional forms. From teardrop and oval shapes to abstract designs, you will find pendants that pair Bisbee turquoise with silver stamping, twisted wire borders, and inlay techniques. Every pendant in this collection is handmade, celebrating both the rarity of the stone and the artist’s personal style.
Featured Artisans
Each Bisbee turquoise pendant in the collection is handmade by Native American artists who bring their heritage and passion into every piece. Here are some of the silversmiths behind the pendants.
Calvin Martinez
Calvin Martinez is a well-known Navajo artist who uses ingot silver techniques to create timeless pieces. He is recognized for his commitment to historical styles, often using hand-rolled silver and deep stamping patterns to give his jewelry an antique feel. Calvin frequently works with natural Bisbee turquoise, allowing the stone to shine in traditional settings. His dedication to old-school techniques and the authenticity of the materials make his pendants especially meaningful.
Raymond Delgarito
Raymond Delgarito, a skilled Navajo silversmith, is known for his bold and symmetrical designs. His pendants often feature thick silver borders, sharp stamp work, and rich patinas that contrast with the vivid blue of Bisbee turquoise. Raymond’s work reflects balance and precision, and his pieces are highly sought after by collectors. Each pendant he makes shows deep respect for tradition and his attention to proportion.
Kathleen Livingston
Kathleen Livingston is a talented silversmith from the Navajo tribe who creates elegant pendants with a soft yet confident style. Her pieces often feature graceful silver shapes paired with high-grade turquoise stones. Kathleen’s designs are known for their flowing lines and carefully shaped bezels. Her work brings a feminine energy to traditional silversmithing.
Jeff James Jr.
Jeff James Jr. is a Navajo artist with a bold and modern approach to traditional jewelry. He often combines clean lines with large, natural stones to create a striking visual effect. Jeff is known for his shadowbox techniques and strong silverwork that enhance the beauty of Bisbee turquoise. His pieces are a celebration of individuality and heritage, making them perfect for anyone who values artistry with meaning.
Styling Tips for Bisbee Turquoise Pendants
It is essential to understand both the value of Bisbee turquoise and how to wear it in a way that enhances your style. Here are a few tips to guide you.
- Look for natural and untreated stones to find the most authentic pieces.
- Choose a silver chain or a leather cord that complements the pendant without overpowering it.
- For formal occasions, consider wearing pendants with bold stamp work or the shadowbox design for added elegance.
- Everyday outfits pair well with simple bezels and single-stone pendants.
- Match your pendant with other turquoise jewelry, but avoid wearing too many statement pieces at once.
- If you are giving a pendant as a gift, choose a shape and a color tone that suit the recipient’s style and personality.
Shop Bisbee Turquoise Pendants at SilverTQ
Are you looking for something unique, meaningful, and beautifully handmade? At SilverTQ, we are proud to bring you authentic Bisbee turquoise pendants, created by Native American silversmiths who continue to honor centuries-old traditions. Explore our stunning collection today and discover a piece that resonates with your style and story.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How should I care for my Bisbee turquoise pendant?
To care for your Bisbee turquoise pendant, avoid exposing it to chemicals, lotions, or direct sunlight for extended periods, as these can damage the stone. Always remove your pendant before swimming or bathing. Gently wipe it with a soft, dry cloth to remove dust and oils.
Do the pendants include the chain?
Our Bisbee turquoise pendants are sold as standalone pieces.
How should I store my pendant?
To preserve your Bisbee turquoise pendant, store it in a dry, cool place, away from direct sunlight and humidity. Use a soft pouch or a lined jewelry box to prevent scratches and to minimize exposure to air, which can oxidize the silver.
Do you restock sold-out Bisbee turquoise pendants?
Since each Bisbee turquoise pendant is handmade and features a unique natural stone, most pieces are one-of-a-kind and are not restocked once sold. However, we frequently update the collection with new pendants from renowned artists.
