Just like diamonds and other gemstones, turquoise has a value standard called a grade , and its value changes depending on that . There are four factors that determine its value.
① Condition
②Source
③Color
④ Matrix
These four are the four major factors that determine the value of turquoise, but let's start by explaining the first factor, condition, which distinguishes whether it is natural or man-made.
As I have written before , even if the base is a natural stone, if it has been artificially colored or hardened with chemicals, it is not natural, so no matter how beautiful the color, it cannot become valuable turquoise .
The next place of origin is the mine where the turquoise was extracted . If the mine is closed or has low production, the value will be higher .
The third element is color. The unique color of turquoise becomes darker the harder and denser the stone itself, so when comparing stones from the same mine, darker colors are considered higher grade. Artificial turquoise is artificially colored to make it closer to higher grade stones and increase its value .
These are all natural turquoise stones from the same mine, but the color gets darker from right to left. They meet the conditions and origins, so the grade gets higher as you go to the left.
The fourth and final element is the matrix. The matrix is the pattern on the surface of the turquoise , and is usually expressed as dots and lines formed by inclusions such as iron oxide. How evenly and beautifully this matrix is arranged is also an important factor in determining the grade. *This is a value standard limited to mines that contain matrix.
These are similar turquoise stones that meet the criteria of condition, origin, and color, but the matrix in the stone is completely different. This is where the final judgment is made, and stones with distinctive and beautiful matrix are judged to be of a higher grade.
The grade of turquoise is determined and its value is determined based on a comprehensive assessment of the above factors . The first and most important factor is its condition. It is quite difficult to determine this unless you have a lot of knowledge .
LFC is committed to natural turquoise, and to that end, we focus on natural turquoise that has been produced over a long period of time, based on the appraisal by Joe Dan Lowry, who is also the director of the Turquoise Museum and has been in the turquoise business in the United States for generations .
The colour and matrix may be more subdued than that of artificial turquoise, but we at LFC value the original natural brilliance of turquoise and as a brand that promotes the good qualities and fun of turquoise, we intend to continue to stick to natural turquoise.
If you want to know more about turquoise, click here!
This is a unique book that allows you to learn about not only natural turquoise but also imitation turquoise. The section that shows turquoise from gem grade to low grade by mine is overwhelming.
