Bisbee is one of the most popular varieties of turquoise, primarily known for its blue hues and a distinct brown-red matrix. This gemstone is one of the most desirable and collectible types of turquoise, as beautiful as it is rare. At SilverTQ, we present an extensive range of Bisbee turquoise rings, handmade by respected Native American artists.
Understanding the Cultural and Historical Significance of Bisbee Turquoise Rings
Bisbee turquoise derives its name from its place of origin in a mine near Bisbee, Arizona. The mine was originally established for copper extraction, and the stone was inadvertently discovered in waste rock. The mine is no longer open, and as a result, Bisbee turquoise has become increasingly rare. Bisbee turquoise is associated with protection and attracting love and success. The stone is often incorporated into a variety of jewelry, including rings.
Explore Our Bisbee Turquoise Rings
We feature a diverse collection of Bisbee turquoise rings, each piece meticulously handmade by notable Native American artisans. Learn more about their creations below.
Tufa Cast Rings
Tufa casting is a traditional jewelry-making technique pioneered by the Navajo. A design is carved into a porous volcanic stone known as tufa, and a metal, such as sterling silver or gold, is poured into this mold. Since tufa is delicate, the mold allows for only one or two castings, making each piece unique. We offer a variety of tufa cast, high-grade Bisbee turquoise rings, handmade by reputable Navajo silversmiths.
Other Collections
In addition to tufa cast pieces, we also carry other collections of Bisbee turquoise rings, featuring unique motifs and designs, such as arrowhead and thunderbird by Darryl Dean Begay, as well as cluster and statement rings by Tommy Jackson. In addition to sterling silver, the ring collection also includes 14K and 18K gold rings, as well as highly collectible vintage pieces. One of the most unique rings in the collection is an ingot ring, featuring dimpled, heavy-gauge sterling silver with raised inlay bars of 18K gold, Mediterranean coral, and Bisbee turquoise.
Featured Artists
Below are some notable artists who create Bisbee turquoise rings.
Tommy Jackson
Tommy Jackson was raised in Phoenix, Arizona, and learned silversmithing from his parents, Martha and Gene Jackson. The Navajo artist worked with gold, sterling silver, and various gemstones, including Bisbee turquoise. His diverse collection features both traditional and contemporary pieces, and his jewelry has been showcased in various exhibitions, including the Heard Museum Show and the Santa Fe Indian Market. Tommy passed away in March 2025 and is greatly missed.
Delbert Gordon
Delbert Gordon is a self-taught Navajo silversmith who has been creating brilliant jewelry since the age of 17. Delbert's Bisbee turquoise rings feature meticulously detailed stamp work, which makes each ring look like a statement piece. In addition to his exceptional talent, Delbert also teaches his skills to others, including his nephew, Derrick Gordon, keeping the art of Navajo silversmithing alive.
Darryl Dean Begay
Darryl Dean Begay is a renowned Navajo jewelry maker. Darryl often collaborates with his wife, Rebecca, and many of their pieces feature both of their hallmarks. He learned tufa casting, a traditional Navajo jewelry-making technique, in 1997. Darryl has won numerous awards, and his collection has been showcased in many major art exhibitions.
Calvin Martinez
The Navajo artist Calvin Martinez was born in 1960 and has been an active silversmith and jewelry designer for more than 30 years. Calvin is primarily a self-taught artist, but he learned the basics of silversmithing from his parents. Each of Calvin's pieces is made using traditional Navajo jewelry-making techniques, which is why his style of work is often referred to as "traditional revival."
Styling Tips for Bisbee Turquoise Rings
Bisbee turquoise rings can complement any outfit, and for collectors, they make a rare and highly prized addition to their collections. Here are a few tips for styling and maintaining Bisbee turquoise rings.
- Each ring is one of a kind and is available in only one size, so please ensure you purchase the correct size.
- Bisbee turquoise rings possess distinctive blue hues with a copper-colored matrix. Choose an equally unique outfit to complete the look.
- When wearing minimal jewelry and keeping your wrists bare, consider getting a statement ring to create a focal point. If you are wearing a lot of jewelry, a minimalist ring would look best.
- The pieces feature earth tones, so they pair best with outfits that have an equally earthy look, such as those made from suede, corduroy, and denim.
- These rings are particularly suited to pairing with other Native American jewelry, such as turquoise pendants and coral bracelets.
Shop Bisbee Turquoise Rings at SilverTQ
We offer an exclusive collection of Bisbee turquoise rings, all lovingly handmade by reputable Native American artists. Each ring is unique, so if you like one, make it yours while it's still available.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How should I care for my Bisbee turquoise ring?
Avoid exposing your Bisbee turquoise ring to moisture, prolonged sunlight, and chemicals like perfumes, lotions, and cleaners. To clean the stone, gently wipe it with a soft, dry cloth. Clean the sterling silver parts separately, using a clean cloth and silver polish. Keep your ring in its own soft pouch or a lined box to prevent scratches from other jewelry.
How can I verify the authenticity of a piece before buying it?
To verify the authenticity of a Bisbee turquoise ring, look for the distinctive characteristics of a natural stone. Prized Bisbee turquoise typically features bright blue or green hues with a copper or brown-red, veiny matrix. Legitimate suppliers will disclose the origin of the ring and the name of the artist. Additionally, look for the artist’s hallmark on the ring to ensure a reputable artist made it.
