The turquoise circulating in the world can be broadly divided into two types: natural turquoise ( which is simply mined stones that have been polished and shaped) and artificial turquoise ( which has undergone secondary processing such as coloring and using hardeners to increase its hardness).We have explained here several times that both types are in circulation without knowing their exact origins .
It's not just enthusiasts who want to clearly understand whether something is natural or artificial , and it would be great if there was a clear way to tell the difference, but as this information remains ambiguous in circulation, it is not uncommon for people to hear that something is natural but end up buying something that is artificial.
Of course, both are undoubtedly turquoise, so there is no problem if you are not particular about that, but LFC, which is committed to using natural turquoise , receives many inquiries from people who want to ensure that it is natural.
This time I would like to talk about backing.
Backing is a process in which the back side of turquoise is flattened with a special solvent to make it easier to combine with precious metals , and also to increase the strength of the turquoise itself.
The backed turquoise has two layers on the back, and after this process it is attached to a bangle or ring.
You may not know this at first glance, but this is artificial turquoise. It has the beauty of the stone's color and matrix, but it is not natural turquoise.
When you look at turquoise from the side, you can see another layer of a different color on the back. This is the backing treatment, which uses a special resin to flatten the back and reinforce the stone.
The backing process makes the back surface flat, making it easier to set on precious metals. The solvent used for the backing is a special solvent that is a blend of resin and sand.
There is also a more detailed article below.
https://dig-it.media/lightning /article/518200/
Some people believe that such backing-treated turquoise is proof that it is natural turquoise , while others believe that backing treatment means that it is artificial turquoise. Some people seem to think that this is one of the indicators to look for .
However, this backing process is merely a process for setting the stone in precious metals and for increasing its strength when set, and it is a method used for both natural turquoise and artificial turquoise.
At LFC, we are committed to using natural turquoise and are attracted to the unique appeal of natural turquoise. We are also well versed in the process and reinforcement methods used when turquoise is used in jewelry, which allows us to confidently certify our products as "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.