Number 8 Turquoise

Number 8 turquoise is a rare and highly sought-after gemstone, revered for its striking beauty and historical significance in the world of fine jewelry. Known for its bright, vibrant blue colors and unique matrix patterns, this turquoise has a storied past and a reputation that sets it apart from other varieties. In this article, we will explore the origins, characteristics, mining methods, and growing demand for Number 8 turquoise, as well as the stabilization process that helps preserve its allure. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this gemstone so special and why it continues to captivate collectors and jewelers alike.

Origins of Number 8 Turquoise: Where is it Found?

Geographic Location: Number 8 turquoise is primarily mined at the Number 8 Mine, located near Ely, Nevada, in the United States. The mine was discovered in the early 20th century and has since become one of the most famous and historic turquoise sources in the world.

Historical Significance: The Number 8 Mine, named after its claim number, produced turquoise of such exceptional quality that it became one of the most celebrated turquoise sources in American jewelry history. The mine was actively worked from the 1920s through the early 1970s, and although it is no longer in operation today, the stones from this mine remain highly prized.

Limited Availability: Number 8 turquoise is considered quite rare, as the mine is no longer operational, and the availability of new material is extremely limited. This scarcity contributes to its high demand and the value it holds in the market today.

The Colors of Number 8 Turquoise

One of the defining characteristics of Number 8 turquoise is its vibrant and striking color range. Here’s a breakdown of what makes the color of Number 8 so special:

Bright, Vibrant Blue: Number 8 turquoise is known for its rich, robin’s egg blue color, often described as one of the most intense and striking blues of any turquoise variety. The blue color tends to be uniform and bright, with a clarity that many turquoise collectors and jewelers find highly appealing.

Greenish Variations: While blue is the dominant color, Number 8 turquoise can also exhibit soft greenish hues, particularly in areas where the stone contains more copper than aluminum. This gives the turquoise a lovely range of color, from blue to green, often within the same specimen.

Consistent and Bright Colors: The uniformity and brightness of the turquoise make it stand out compared to other varieties, where colors can be more muted or irregular. Number 8 turquoise is prized for its clarity and vibrant color, making it ideal for use in high-end jewelry designs.

The Matrix of Number 8 Turquoise: A Signature Feature

The matrix is a key feature that makes Number 8 turquoise unique. The matrix refers to the host rock that surrounds and intersperses the turquoise veins. Here’s what makes the matrix of Number 8 turquoise distinct:

Spiderweb Matrix: One of the most notable characteristics of Number 8 turquoise is its spiderweb matrix, where intricate, fine veins of darker minerals (usually brown or black) create delicate patterns that resemble a spider’s web. This adds complexity and texture to the stone, making it visually intriguing.

Creamy or Golden Matrix: In some pieces, the matrix takes on a creamy, golden hue, which contrasts beautifully with the blue and green turquoise, giving the stone a soft yet striking appearance. This matrix is one of the reasons Number 8 turquoise is so desirable.

Distinctive Veining: The matrix in Number 8 turquoise can range from tight, intricate lines to wider, more irregular patterns. No two stones are exactly alike, making each piece of Number 8 turquoise a one-of-a-kind gemstone.

Does Number 8 Turquoise Need to Be Stabilized for Jewelry?

Softness of the Stone: Like most turquoise, Number 8 turquoise is relatively soft, ranking 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale of hardness. This softness makes the stone prone to scratching and damage, especially when used in rings or bracelets that are exposed to frequent wear.

Stabilization Process: Because of its softness, Number 8 turquoise is often stabilized before it is used in jewelry. Stabilization involves the infusion of a resin or polymer into the porous turquoise to harden it, making it more durable and less likely to suffer damage from everyday use.

How Stabilization Works: The process begins by placing the raw turquoise in a vacuum chamber, where a resin is introduced under pressure. This resin fills the natural cracks and pores in the turquoise, strengthening the stone without altering its appearance. After the stabilization process, the turquoise is much harder and more resilient, making it suitable for high-quality jewelry.

Natural vs. Stabilized: While stabilized Number 8 turquoise is common in modern jewelry, untreated Number 8 turquoise—especially pieces that have been preserved in their natural form—remains highly valued, though it is more delicate and requires more careful handling.

Benefits of Stabilization: Stabilizing Number 8 turquoise allows jewelers to use it in pieces that will be worn frequently without the risk of the stone becoming scratched or damaged. Stabilization enhances the stone’s strength while maintaining its vibrant color and unique patterns.

Mining Techniques Used for Number 8 Turquoise

Historic Mining Methods: The Number 8 Mine operated primarily during the mid-20th century, and mining techniques at the time were fairly basic. Miners would extract turquoise by hand, using tools like picks and shovels to unearth the stone from the earth.

Open-Pit Mining: The Number 8 Mine utilized an open-pit mining method, where the earth was excavated to access the turquoise veins. This allowed for relatively easy extraction of turquoise from the surface, although the process was labor-intensive and involved removing large quantities of rock and debris.

Limited Production: Due to the mine’s relatively small size and the sporadic nature of turquoise deposits, production was limited, making Number 8 turquoise all the more rare and valuable. Over time, as the quality of the turquoise decreased and mining became less productive, the mine ceased operations.

Current Mining Status: Today, the Number 8 Mine is no longer in operation, meaning that new supplies of Number 8 turquoise are almost nonexistent. This has further contributed to the scarcity and high demand for existing Number 8 turquoise specimens.

The Demand for Number 8 Turquoise: How Does It Compare?

High Demand and Rarity: Due to the limited availability of Number 8 turquoise, the demand for it has remained high among collectors, jewelers, and turquoise enthusiasts. As other prominent mines, like the Sleeping Beauty Mine and Kingman Mine, have also seen a decline in production, Number 8 turquoise has become even more coveted.

Price Comparison: Number 8 turquoise can command higher prices than other turquoise varieties due to its rarity and distinctive beauty. Prices vary depending on factors like color, matrix, and size, but Number 8 turquoise is typically priced higher than more common turquoise varieties like Sleeping Beauty or standard Nevada turquoise.

Collector’s Item: Many collectors consider Number 8 turquoise a collector’s item due to its limited supply and unique characteristics. Pieces of high-quality Number 8 turquoise, particularly those with intricate spiderweb matrices and rich color, can be some of the most prized stones in the world of turquoise jewelry.

What Makes Number 8 Turquoise Unique and Desirable?

Striking Color and Clarity: The bright, robin’s egg blue color of Number 8 turquoise, combined with its clarity and uniformity, makes it one of the most visually stunning varieties of turquoise. Its color is vibrant and consistent, a feature that many turquoise enthusiasts seek.

Distinctive Spiderweb Matrix: The delicate spiderweb matrix that often accompanies Number 8 turquoise gives each stone a signature look. The contrast between the turquoise and dark matrix veins creates a mesmerizing effect that sets Number 8 apart from other turquoise varieties.

Rarity and Scarcity: Because the Number 8 Mine is no longer producing turquoise, the stone is extremely rare and in high demand. The scarcity of new material has increased the value of existing Number 8 turquoise, making it a precious commodity in the world of gemstones.

Historical Significance: The historical importance of Number 8 turquoise, especially its connection to Native American jewelry, gives it a unique place in the cultural heritage of the American Southwest. For collectors, owning a piece of Number 8 turquoise is not only about its beauty but also about owning a piece of history.

Versatility in Jewelry: Number 8 turquoise is incredibly versatile, lending itself beautifully to a wide variety of jewelry designs, from classic turquoise rings and necklaces to more contemporary, modern pieces. Its vibrant color and striking matrix ensure it can fit seamlessly into any jewelry collection.

Conclusion: The Enduring Allure of Number 8 Turquoise

Number 8 turquoise is a gemstone that has captivated the hearts of collectors, jewelers, and turquoise enthusiasts for generations. Known for its brilliant blue color, distinctive matrix, and rich history, this rare and beautiful stone continues to be highly sought after. Whether used in fine jewelry or cherished as a collector’s piece, Number 8 turquoise holds a special place in the world of gemstones. Its scarcity, beauty, and cultural significance make it an enduring symbol of the American Southwest, one that will continue to be admired for years to come.