Sleeping Beauty Turquoise: Uncover the Gemstone That Never Sleeps!

Dive into the azure depths of the enchanting Sleeping Beauty Turquoise, the gemstone that never sleeps, and unravel the allure that’s been captivating hearts for centuries. In a world brimming with stunning jewels, discover how this timeless treasure stands out, whispering tales of mystique from the rugged mountains of Arizona.

Prepare to be awed by nature’s masterpiece as we embark on a journey through its vibrant history, illustrious charm, and the unspoken secrets that make this turquoise the crowning glory of gem enthusiasts and fashionistas alike. Join us as we reveal what makes the Sleeping Beauty Turquoise not just a stone, but a storied symbol of eternal beauty.

Sleeping Beauty Turquoise History

Sleeping Beauty turquoise is one of the most highly valued and sought-after types of turquoise in the world, known for its consistent, bright sky blue color with minimal veining or webbing. The history of this precious stone is deeply entwined with the history of the American Southwest where it was mined.

The Sleeping Beauty turquoise comes from the Sleeping Beauty Mine, which is located near Globe, Arizona. The region’s history with turquoise goes back centuries; the indigenous peoples of the Southwest, including the Navajos, Apaches, and Zunis, have long held turquoise to be a sacred stone with spiritual significance, and they have been mining and utilizing turquoise in their artwork and rituals for hundreds of years.

It wasn’t until the 20th century that the Sleeping Beauty Mine began operations as a gold and copper mining site. Turquoise was initially considered a byproduct of these mining efforts. However, as its unique qualities became known, the turquoise from this mine began to accrue significant value in the gem market.

As for the name, the mine got its whimsical title because the mountain where it is located resembles a woman lying down, and is thus reminiscent of the fairytale character Sleeping Beauty.

The Sleeping Beauty Mine has produced a large amount of high-grade turquoise throughout its years of operation from the 1960s to 2012. The consistent color and quality of the stones, together with the relative scarcity of veining, have made this turquoise particularly popular in jewelry, especially in pieces that do not require any additional color stabilization or treatments, a rarity in the turquoise market.

In August 2012, the Sleeping Beauty Mine closed its turquoise mining operations permanently. This was largely due to a combination of factors, including the rising cost of mining, the exhaustion of economically recoverable turquoise, and the switch in the mine’s focus to copper extraction. Since the closure, the pre-existing stocks of Sleeping Beauty turquoise have become even more valuable as the new material is no longer being mined, making the stone a highly sought-after commodity for collectors and jewelers worldwide.

Sleeping Beauty turquoise remains a staple in Southwestern jewelry design and is a testament to the long history of turquoise use and appreciation in the region. With the mine now closed, the existing pieces and raw stones from the mine are likely to increase in value as they become more rare and sought after.

Where is it Mined Sleeping Beauty Turquoise

Sleeping Beauty turquoise is a highly sought-after variety known for its solid, light blue color with little to no matrix. The Sleeping Beauty turquoise mine was located near Globe, Arizona, USA. The mine got its name because from a distance, the mountain under which it lies resembles a sleeping woman with her arms crossed.

The Sleeping Beauty Mine was one of the largest turquoise mines in North America and had been in operation for decades before it was closed to turquoise mining in August 2012. Despite its closure, the turquoise that was extracted continues to be sold and is still highly prized in the jewelry industry today due to its pure color that is perfect for use in jewelry designs where uniformity and consistency are desired.

As of my knowledge cutoff date in early 2023, there have been no reports of the mine reopening for turquoise mining. With the existing stockpiles diminishing, Sleeping Beauty turquoise has become even more valuable and rare, making it a treasured gem for collectors and enthusiasts.

What Makes It Valuable Sleeping Beauty Turquoise

Beauty is a highly subjective concept that can refer to a wide range of topics, from aesthetic appeal to personal grooming. However, since you’ve referenced “Sleeping Beauty turquoise,” it’s clear you’re asking about what makes this particular type of turquoise valuable.

Sleeping Beauty turquoise comes from the Sleeping Beauty Mine located in Globe, Arizona, which is known for yielding a highly coveted variety of turquoise. This mine has been closed to turquoise mining since August 2012, which greatly contributes to the stone’s value due to its increasing rarity.

Here are some key factors that contribute to the value of Sleeping Beauty turquoise:

1. Color: Sleeping Beauty turquoise is revered for its solid, light blue color with little to no veining or webbing. This even, robin’s egg blue hue is highly sought after and considered by many to be the hallmark of high-quality turquoise.

2. Purity: The turquoise from the Sleeping Beauty Mine is known for its lack of matrix, which is the host rock within which the turquoise is formed. Many collectors and jewelers desire stone that is free of inclusions, and Sleeping Beauty turquoise often offers a clean, uniform look that’s perfect for fine jewelry.

3. Historical Significance: The mine has a long history of turquoise production, and the name itself adds a certain mystique and romance to the stone.

4. Rarity: Since the mine has closed, the availability of genuine Sleeping Beauty turquoise is limited to existing stock, making it more rare and desirable for collectors and jewelers.

5. Demand: There is a strong market demand for Sleeping Beauty turquoise among jewelers, collectors, and consumers who appreciate its beauty and recognize its scarcity.

6. Authenticity: Authentic Sleeping Beauty turquoise is often certified, and stones can be matched to the unique characteristics associated with this specific mine.

7. Versatility: The uniform color and hardness of Sleeping Beauty turquoise make it versatile for use in various jewelry settings, including rings, necklaces, bracelets, and earrings. Its appeal spans both contemporary and traditional designs.

Keep in mind that the value of gemstones like Sleeping Beauty turquoise can also be influenced by current fashion trends, economic factors, and the overall state of the gemstone market, as well as the specific quality of individual stones, such as their size, cut, and overall craftsmanship in finished pieces.

How to Tell if It’s Real for Sleeping Beauty Turquoise

Sleeping Beauty turquoise is a highly sought-after variety of turquoise known for its pure sky blue color, with very little to no veining or webbing. It comes from the Sleeping Beauty Mine, located in Globe, Arizona, which is now closed, making this variety of turquoise increasingly rare and valuable.

When shopping for Sleeping Beauty turquoise, it’s important to be able to distinguish between the real gemstone and imitations or treated stones. Here are some tips on how to tell if Sleeping Beauty turquoise is real:

1. Color and Consistency: Genuine Sleeping Beauty turquoise is known for its consistent sky blue color without the presence of black or brown veining that’s common in other types of turquoise. If the stone has a greenish hue or significant veining, it may not be a true Sleeping Beauty.

2. Texture and Hardness: Real turquoise has a waxy luster and is relatively hard; however, since Sleeping Beauty turquoise is often treated to enhance its color and durability, it may be reconstituted (mixed with resins) which can affect the texture and hardness. Still, if the stone feels very lightweight or too fragile, it may be an imitation such as dyed howlite.

3. Price and Availability: Due to its rarity and demand, genuine Sleeping Beauty turquoise is quite expensive. If a deal seems too good to be true, it might be. Also, because the mine is closed, large quantities of this turquoise are not available; vendors claiming to have a large supply of new “Sleeping Beauty” turquoise may be selling an imitation.

4. Vendor Reputation: Purchase from reputable dealers or galleries that specialize in genuine gemstones and that provide certificates of authenticity. Be wary of unknown online marketplaces which may have counterfeit products.

5. Stabilization: A large amount of turquoise, including the Sleeping Beauty variety, is stabilized. This process improves its durability and color, and it does not mean the stone is fake. However, a stabilized stone should still be sold as such and priced accordingly.

6. Expert Evaluation: When in doubt, consult with a jewelry expert or a gemologist who can analyze the stone and provide a professional opinion. They can often detect imitations or artificial treatments that are not visible to the untrained eye.

7. Magnification: Under magnification, real turquoise may have a spider web-like matrix or imperfections. These inconsistencies often indicate a natural stone, as synthetics and imitations are usually too perfect.

Remember that because the Sleeping Beauty mine is no longer producing, pieces containing this material are considered more collectible and valuable, and proper verification when purchasing is highly recommended.

Metaphysical and Healing Properties for Sleeping Beauty Turquoise

Sleeping Beauty turquoise is a highly sought-after variety of turquoise that is prized for both its stunning sky-blue color and its relatively few inclusions. This type of turquoise comes from the Sleeping Beauty Mine, which is located in Globe, Arizona, USA. The mine was one of the largest in North America and was a significant source of turquoise before it closed to turquoise mining in August 2012.

In the realm of metaphysical beliefs and alternative healing, turquoise, in general, is considered a stone with a long history of use for its perceived healing properties. Sleeping Beauty turquoise, with its pure and consistent color, is particularly valued for these purposes. Below are some of the metaphysical and healing properties that are commonly attributed to Sleeping Beauty turquoise:

1. Spiritual Connection: Turquoise is often associated with the sky and water elements, symbolizing the connection between the physical and spiritual worlds. Wearing or carrying turquoise is said to enhance spiritual attunement and enhance communication with the spiritual realms.

2. Throat Chakra Activation: It is believed that turquoise can activate and balance the Throat Chakra, which is related to communication and self-expression. This can promote clear communication and articulation of one’s deepest wisdom and truth.

3. Protective Talisman: Turquoise has been considered a protective stone for centuries. It is said to offer protection from negative energy and is sometimes carried when travelling or placed in homes to guard against theft, accidents, or any form of harm.

4. Emotional Balance: The stone is reputed to have a calming effect that can contribute to emotional stability and peace of mind. It is said to promote serenity and help alleviate feelings of stress, anxiety, or depression.

5. Physical Healing: People who practice crystal healing sometimes use turquoise to address various physical ailments. It is associated with anti-inflammatory and detoxifying effects and is purported to benefit the respiratory, skeletal, and immune systems.

6. Inner Strength: Sleeping Beauty turquoise is considered to empower its wearer, imparting resilience and helping to overcome shyness or social anxieties by instilling a sense of inner calm and assertiveness.

7. Empathy and Harmony: As a stone of empathy, Sleeping Beauty turquoise is thought to foster understanding and encourage kindness and mutual respect in interpersonal relationships.

8. Good Fortune and Prosperity: Some believe that turquoise attracts good fortune, abundance, and success. It is sometimes used in rituals or carried as a charm to enhance wealth and professional opportunities.

Please note that these metaphysical and healing properties are based on spiritual beliefs and are not backed by scientific evidence. The effectiveness of crystals and gemstones as a form of alternative therapy remains a matter of personal belief and is not recognized by conventional medicine. If you are experiencing physical or emotional issues, it is important to consult with a qualified healthcare professional.

Conclusion for Sleeping Beauty Turquoise

Sleeping Beauty turquoise has long been celebrated for its striking sky-blue color, which often appears without the veining common to turquoise. Sourced from the Sleeping Beauty Mine in Arizona, this particular turquoise has garnered a reputation for having a clean and vibrant color highly sought after in jewelry and ornamental pieces.

As we draw a conclusion on Sleeping Beauty turquoise, it’s essential to recognize its place in the gemstone world. Not only is it prized for its aesthetic appeal, but its relative rarity and the closure of the Sleeping Beauty Mine in recent years have enhanced its value and collectibility. Artisans and jewelry enthusiasts continue to treasure this variety of turquoise for its pure, consistent color and its ability to be cut and shaped with ease, thanks to its lack of a matrix.

Additionally, it’s worth noting that Sleeping Beauty turquoise holds a deeper significance beyond its physical beauty. It carries cultural and historical importance, with strong ties to Native American art and tradition. As an embodiment of the cultural heritage of the American Southwest, this gemstone is more than a mere adornment; it’s a storyteller, evoking the rich narratives of the peoples that have long treasured it.

In sum, the conclusion for Sleeping Beauty turquoise is that it stands out as a gemstone of exceptional quality and significance. Whether regarded for its unique aesthetic, increasing rarity, or cultural impact, Sleeping Beauty turquoise remains a timeless embodiment of natural beauty and a beloved treasure in the world of gemstones.