The word turquoise, which dates to the 16th century, is derived from an old French word for "Turkish", because the mineral was first brought to Europe from Turkey, where they had mines in the historical Khorasan Province of Persia.

Turquoise forms when water percolates through rocks that contain copper, aluminum and other minerals. A chemical reaction takes place that results in deposits, now known as "turquoise".

This pendant is made using real turquoise beads, directly from the Sleeping Beauty Mines in Globe, Arizona. The Sleeping Beauty Mountain was originally mined for copper and gold, but for over a decade they have been mining it for some of the most brilliant-hued natural Turquoise in the world. In fact, Arizona is currently the worlds most important producer of high-quality Turquoise.  The "true blue" color, sometimes referred to as "Persian Color",  is what makes this kind of turquoise vein so sought after. The Sleeping Beauty Mine is one of the few mines in the world that produces turquoise with high enough quality that no alterations to the color are needed. This turquoise is 100% natural, and has not been treated or enhanced.

The beads we used were purchased from this mine and then we used real 14k gold wire to form them into a Cross shaped pendant. Although this is priced and sold for the pendant, we threw in a gold-filled modern-styled chain so it is ready for wear. You can keep it on this chain or use your own, either way it is a simply beautiful Cross. 

THIS NECKLACE IS EXCLUSIVE TO SHOP CURIO.

Use care when handling this pendant. Turquoise is not the hardest of stones, and may scratch if placed together with something abrasive. Keep it away from chemicals and perfumes or oils and if needing to clean it, use mild soapy water and then dry immediately. Avoid commercial jewelry cleaners.  

PLEASE  E-MAIL OR CALL IF YOU HAVE ANY FURTHER QUESTIONS ABOUT SIZE OR CONDITION.