BISBEE TURQUOISE

“Bisbee Blue” is a name given to turquoise that originates from the Bisbee Mine, near Bisbee, Arizona, in Cochise County, USA. The term refers to the turquoise that comes from copper mines in this region. Turquoise from the Bisbee mine has a reputation as a hard, finely webbed stone with high blue color, ranging from sky blue to a dark lavender blue. The matrix patterns vary a great deal, but can be characterized by the deep chocolate brown to black webbing. Bisbee turquoise is perhaps one of the most valued and best types of turquoise ever produced. Having only ever been actively mined by one independent miner for a short 2 year period from 1972-1974, the turquoise is primarily a by-product of the large copper mining operation owned by the Phelps-Dodge company. The best material came from the area known as the Lavender Pit. Ranging from medium to dark blue the turquoise is accented by red, black or brown matrix, often called "smoky Bisbee". Green shades have also been found. The turquoise is quite hard, takes an outstanding polish and is one of the most expensive on the market today.