Turquoise is known for its vibrant blue-green hues and unique matrix patterns. It has been cherished by various cultures, including Native American tribes, throughout history, often symbolizing protection and good fortune. SilverTQ’s turquoise jewelry collection is handmade by skilled Native American artists. The collection features stunning pieces, including rings, bracelets, necklaces, and earrings, each reflecting the rich heritage and intricate designs of this treasured gemstone.
Understanding the Cultural and Historical Significance of Turquoise Jewelry
Cultures worldwide have admired turquoise's distinct colors and patterns since ancient times. The earliest evidence of turquoise gemstones comes from ancient Egyptian tombs containing elaborate jewelry dating back to 3000 BCE. Turquoise was also used extensively by ancient Persians and the Ancestral Puebloans, who believed in its protective properties. Historically, turquoise was highly valued in Native American trade, and it continues to hold profound cultural significance. It's considered a symbol of protection, healing, and spiritual growth.
Explore SilverTQ’s Turquoise Jewelry Collection
SilverTQ carries a curated collection of authentic turquoise jewelry designed and handmade by Native American designers and silversmiths.
Rings
The turquoise ring collection offered by SilverTQ features timeless pieces that reflect Native American heritage. Many of the rings are handmade of sterling silver and adorned with turquoise varieties, including Bisbee, Carico Lake, Kingman, and Lone Mountain. Various designs are offered, from statement pieces and inlay to cluster and multi-stone rings. Noteworthy ring designers and silversmiths include Aaron Anderson, Albert Jake, Calvin Martinez, Ella M. Linkin, and Robert W. Begay.
Bracelets
SilverTQ’s turquoise bracelet collection showcases elegant pieces that signify the traditional artistry of Indigenous communities. Many of the bracelets are made of sterling silver and adorned with genuine turquoise varieties, such as Bisbee, Carico Lake, Kingman, and Pilot Mountain. The bracelets come in many styles, ranging from stackable multi-color inlay and stone row pieces to clustered designs and triangulated bands. Each bracelet is designed and handmade by a Native American artist, including Alvin Yellowhorse, Harry H. Begay, Tyler Brown, and Darryl Dean Begay.
Necklaces
Elaborate necklaces are a big part of Native American cultures and traditional jewelry design. They often incorporate large, intricate, handmade pendants with heavy, multi-strand silver fabrication. SilverTQ carries a diverse range of turquoise necklace designs, including strands with turquoise side slabs, ceremonial pendants, inlay and naja designs, and bead necklaces, all featuring authentic turquoise stones. Renowned Native American necklace designers include Larry Pinto, Nestoria Coriz, Jeffrey Nelson, and Marie Yazzie.
Earrings
SilverTQ offers an impressive collection of Native American turquoise earrings handmade by skilled artists. These sterling silver or gold earrings feature intricate traditional designs and high-grade natural turquoise varieties, including Dry Creek, Kingman, and Cloud Mountain. Offered designs range from inlay and multi-stone pieces to raised cobblestone and freeform dangle earrings. The pieces are made by artisans such as Jerryson Henio, Gerard and Mary L. Calabaza, Daniel Coriz, and Cathy Webster.
Bolo Ties
Bolo ties are deeply rooted in the craftsmanship and artistry of Native American silversmiths. SilverTQ’s turquoise bolo tie collection features various designs, including vintage Navajo, inlay, cluster, and multi-stone pieces. Each bolo tie displays a timeless design made of sterling silver and is adorned with a genuine turquoise stone. Artists include Philander Begay, Charlie John, Harrison Bitsue, and Wilford Begay.
Featured Artisans
SilverTQ believes in authenticity and verifies the origin of each piece. Below are some of their noteworthy artists.
Delbert Gordon
Delbert Gordon was born in 1955. The self-taught Navajo silversmith is originally from Houck, Arizona, and grew up in Tohatchi, New Mexico. Delbert has been silversmithing since he was 17 and creates his own designs, establishing his reputation as one of the best designers who work in the traditional style. His stamp work in plain silver and use of natural turquoise contribute to the popularity of his beautiful designs.
Henry Morgan
Henry Morgan was born and raised on the Navajo reservation. He is a third-generation silversmith who has been making jewelry since 1991. Like his sister, Linda Marble, Henry often works in sandcasting, a technique where silver is poured into a custom mold made of sand. He usually applies an “old pawn” oxidized finish to his pieces, which he learned from his brother, Harry Morgan. Henry’s pieces showcase high-grade natural turquoise and his hallmark stamp, “M.”
Albert Jake
Albert Jake was born in 1959 on the Zuni Pueblo and now lives in Albuquerque, New Mexico, with his wife and two daughters. Albert learned silversmithing from his parents and sister and began making jewelry in 1987. He is an artist, sandpainter, and potter, but he specializes in traditional stone setting styles and cluster jewelry featuring intricate stamp work, showcasing designs from the 1930s and 1940s. Albert is known for his precise, exceptional execution of designs and incorporation of natural turquoise.
Cecil Ashley
Cecil Ashley is a respected Navajo master silversmith known for his quality craftsmanship and one-of-a-kind designs, making his creations unique collectible items. His pieces feature a variety of colors and inlaid materials, but he is best known for his mosaic inlay work. Cecil’s jewelry incorporates Navajo stamp work and classically set stones, and he is known for signing his work “CA.”
Tips for Styling Turquoise Jewelry
One of the many alluring aspects of Native American turquoise jewelry is that it’s beautifully distinct and exceptionally elaborate, making it timeless and a perfect companion to every outfit, whether formal or casual. Here are a few tips for styling turquoise jewelry in the best way.
- Play with color: Turquoise looks great with a variety of contrasting colors, including white, black, brown, and orange. Experiment with different colors to find your favorite look.
- Leverage versatility: Turquoise jewelry comes in various forms, from dainty earrings and chunky necklaces to statement bracelets and inlay rings. Before styling, select your outfit and choose the most suitable jewelry to complement it.
- Aim for balance: Aim for the perfect balance when you style your jewelry. If you’re wearing heavy necklaces, consider minimal earrings, and if you’re wearing a statement ring, choose a simple band bracelet to go with it.
- Keep your skin tone in check: Turquoise jewelry can accentuate natural beauty when paired with the right colors. Cool shades of turquoise look perfect on individuals with light or medium skin tones, whereas warmer shades complement olive or dark skin tones.
Shop Turquoise Jewelry at SilverTQ
Whether you are passionate about Native American jewelry or simply want to upgrade your accessories collection, turquoise jewelry features timeless designs that work as collectibles and are a perfect pairing for every attire. SilverTQ’s extensive collection of authentic turquoise jewelry offers various designs handmade by Native American artists. If you're looking for rings, bracelets, necklaces, or bolo ties, explore our page to find your ideal piece of jewelry.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I shower with turquoise jewelry on?
No, it is not recommended to shower with turquoise jewelry on because turquoise is a porous gemstone that can absorb water, leading to discoloration and damage.
How can I find the right ring size?
If you know your ring size, you can explore our page to find a ring that fits. Each product on our website includes its dimensions in the description. If you don’t know your ring size, it's recommended to measure your finger properly before ordering.
Is turquoise a birthstone?
Turquoise is considered one of the traditional birthstones of December, along with tanzanite and zircon.
Do you offer gift cards?
SilverTQ currently does not offer gift cards.
