{"title":"December Birthstone: Turquoise","description":"The birthstone for December is \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/dakotastones.com\/collections\/turquoise-gemstone-beads\"\u003eTurquoise\u003c\/a\u003e. An ancient gemstone, one of the first known to humans. Believed to be a stone of purification, as well as an anti-inflammatory and pain reliever. An alternative birthstone is \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/tanzanite\"\u003eTanzanite\u003c\/a\u003e.\n\u003ca href=\"\/collections\/turquoise\"\u003eSHOP ALL TURQUOISE\u003c\/a\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"hubei-turquoise-2mm-light-blue-round-faceted-aa-grade-15-16-inch","title":"Hubei Turquoise 2mm Light Blue Round Faceted AA Grade - 15-16 Inch","description":"\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHubei Turquoise is sourced from Hubei Province in Northern China, one of the most recognized turquoise-producing regions in the world. This material is known for its vivid blues, rich greens, and bold black spiderweb matrix—creating highly distinctive, one-of-a-kind beads.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis collection features material sourced from the Joo-shahn County mines, including the Chin-goo 808 Mine, known for producing turquoise with strong color contrast and dramatic natural patterning. Each strand reflects the unique mineral composition of the region, where copper contributes to blue tones and iron introduces green variations.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eTurquoise is one of the oldest known gemstones, used by ancient cultures including the Egyptians and Aztecs for adornment and ceremonial purposes. It forms over long periods as mineral-rich water moves through aluminous rock, depositing copper and other elements that gradually develop into turquoise. Due to its natural porosity, most turquoise is stabilized to improve durability and usability in jewelry design—learn more about \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eturquoise treatments and care.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDue to its natural porosity, most turquoise on the market is stabilized to improve durability, making it suitable for jewelry design while maintaining its natural appearance.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eEach strand is unique, with natural variations in color, matrix, and pattern. No two are exactly alike.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Dakota Stones","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41644161695893,"sku":"TQS2RD-F-AA-LT","price":28.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0514\/6420\/8533\/products\/TQS2RD-F-AA-LT-001.jpg?v=1642016937"},{"product_id":"hubei-turquoise-4mm-round-faceted-aa-grade-15-16-inch","title":"Hubei Turquoise 4mm Round Faceted AA Grade - 15-16 Inch","description":"\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHubei Turquoise is sourced from Hubei Province in Northern China, one of the most recognized turquoise-producing regions in the world. This material is known for its vivid blues, rich greens, and bold black spiderweb matrix—creating highly distinctive, one-of-a-kind beads.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis collection features material sourced from the Joo-shahn County mines, including the Chin-goo 808 Mine, known for producing turquoise with strong color contrast and dramatic natural patterning. Each strand reflects the unique mineral composition of the region, where copper contributes to blue tones and iron introduces green variations.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eTurquoise is one of the oldest known gemstones, used by ancient cultures including the Egyptians and Aztecs for adornment and ceremonial purposes. It forms over long periods as mineral-rich water moves through aluminous rock, depositing copper and other elements that gradually develop into turquoise. Due to its natural porosity, most turquoise is stabilized to improve durability and usability in jewelry design—learn more about \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eturquoise treatments and care.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDue to its natural porosity, most turquoise on the market is stabilized to improve durability, making it suitable for jewelry design while maintaining its natural appearance.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eEach strand is unique, with natural variations in color, matrix, and pattern. No two are exactly alike.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Dakota Stones","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41644161728661,"sku":"TQS4RD-F-AA","price":62.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0514\/6420\/8533\/products\/TQS4RD-F-AA-001.jpg?v=1642016937"},{"product_id":"hubei-turquoise-5mm-blue-green-round-faceted-aa-grade-15-16-inch","title":"Hubei Turquoise 5mm Blue Green Round Faceted AA Grade - 15-16 Inch","description":"\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHubei Turquoise is sourced from Hubei Province in Northern China, one of the most recognized turquoise-producing regions in the world. This material is known for its vivid blues, rich greens, and bold black spiderweb matrix—creating highly distinctive, one-of-a-kind beads.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis collection features material sourced from the Joo-shahn County mines, including the Chin-goo 808 Mine, known for producing turquoise with strong color contrast and dramatic natural patterning. Each strand reflects the unique mineral composition of the region, where copper contributes to blue tones and iron introduces green variations.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eTurquoise is one of the oldest known gemstones, used by ancient cultures including the Egyptians and Aztecs for adornment and ceremonial purposes. It forms over long periods as mineral-rich water moves through aluminous rock, depositing copper and other elements that gradually develop into turquoise. Due to its natural porosity, most turquoise is stabilized to improve durability and usability in jewelry design—learn more about \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eturquoise treatments and care.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDue to its natural porosity, most turquoise on the market is stabilized to improve durability, making it suitable for jewelry design while maintaining its natural appearance.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eEach strand is unique, with natural variations in color, matrix, and pattern. No two are exactly alike.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Dakota Stones","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41644161794197,"sku":"TQS5RD-F-AA-BG","price":73.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0514\/6420\/8533\/products\/TQS5RD-F-AA-BG-001.jpg?v=1642016937"},{"product_id":"hubei-turquoise-4mm-blue-matrix-round-faceted-a-grade-15-16-inch","title":"Hubei Turquoise 4mm Blue Matrix Round Faceted A Grade - 15-16 Inch","description":"\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHubei Turquoise is sourced from Hubei Province in Northern China, one of the most recognized turquoise-producing regions in the world. This material is known for its vivid blues, rich greens, and bold black spiderweb matrix—creating highly distinctive, one-of-a-kind beads.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis collection features material sourced from the Joo-shahn County mines, including the Chin-goo 808 Mine, known for producing turquoise with strong color contrast and dramatic natural patterning. Each strand reflects the unique mineral composition of the region, where copper contributes to blue tones and iron introduces green variations.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eTurquoise is one of the oldest known gemstones, used by ancient cultures including the Egyptians and Aztecs for adornment and ceremonial purposes. It forms over long periods as mineral-rich water moves through aluminous rock, depositing copper and other elements that gradually develop into turquoise. Due to its natural porosity, most turquoise is stabilized to improve durability and usability in jewelry design—learn more about \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eturquoise treatments and care.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDue to its natural porosity, most turquoise on the market is stabilized to improve durability, making it suitable for jewelry design while maintaining its natural appearance.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eEach strand is unique, with natural variations in color, matrix, and pattern. No two are exactly alike.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Dakota Stones","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41644162285717,"sku":"TQS4RD-A-MX","price":43.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0514\/6420\/8533\/products\/TQS4RD-A-MX-001.jpg?v=1642016937"},{"product_id":"hubei-turquoise-4mm-cube-faceted-aaa-grade-15-16-inch","title":"Hubei Turquoise 4mm Cube Faceted AAA Grade - 15-16 Inch","description":"\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHubei Turquoise is sourced from Hubei Province in Northern China, one of the most recognized turquoise-producing regions in the world. This material is known for its vivid blues, rich greens, and bold black spiderweb matrix—creating highly distinctive, one-of-a-kind beads.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis collection features material sourced from the Joo-shahn County mines, including the Chin-goo 808 Mine, known for producing turquoise with strong color contrast and dramatic natural patterning. Each strand reflects the unique mineral composition of the region, where copper contributes to blue tones and iron introduces green variations.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eTurquoise is one of the oldest known gemstones, used by ancient cultures including the Egyptians and Aztecs for adornment and ceremonial purposes. It forms over long periods as mineral-rich water moves through aluminous rock, depositing copper and other elements that gradually develop into turquoise. Due to its natural porosity, most turquoise is stabilized to improve durability and usability in jewelry design—learn more about \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eturquoise treatments and care.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDue to its natural porosity, most turquoise on the market is stabilized to improve durability, making it suitable for jewelry design while maintaining its natural appearance.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eEach strand is unique, with natural variations in color, matrix, and pattern. No two are exactly alike.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Dakota Stones","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41644162318485,"sku":"TQS4CUB-F-AAA","price":67.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0514\/6420\/8533\/products\/TQS4CUB-F-AAA-001.jpg?v=1642016937"},{"product_id":"hubei-turquoise-2x3mm-light-blue-rondelle-faceted-aaa-grade-15-16-inch","title":"Hubei Turquoise 2X3mm Light Blue Rondelle Faceted AAA Grade - 15-16 Inch","description":"\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHubei Turquoise is sourced from Hubei Province in Northern China, one of the most recognized turquoise-producing regions in the world. This material is known for its vivid blues, rich greens, and bold black spiderweb matrix—creating highly distinctive, one-of-a-kind beads.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis collection features material sourced from the Joo-shahn County mines, including the Chin-goo 808 Mine, known for producing turquoise with strong color contrast and dramatic natural patterning. Each strand reflects the unique mineral composition of the region, where copper contributes to blue tones and iron introduces green variations.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eTurquoise is one of the oldest known gemstones, used by ancient cultures including the Egyptians and Aztecs for adornment and ceremonial purposes. It forms over long periods as mineral-rich water moves through aluminous rock, depositing copper and other elements that gradually develop into turquoise. Due to its natural porosity, most turquoise is stabilized to improve durability and usability in jewelry design—learn more about \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eturquoise treatments and care.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDue to its natural porosity, most turquoise on the market is stabilized to improve durability, making it suitable for jewelry design while maintaining its natural appearance.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eEach strand is unique, with natural variations in color, matrix, and pattern. No two are exactly alike.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Dakota Stones","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41644163170453,"sku":"TQS2X3RL-F-AAA-LT","price":45.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0514\/6420\/8533\/products\/TQS2X3RL-F-AAA-LT-001.jpg?v=1642016937"},{"product_id":"hubei-turquoise-4mm-matrix-blue-green-black-cube-faceted-a-grade-banded-15-16-inch","title":"Hubei Turquoise 4mm Matrix Blue\/Green\/Black Cube Faceted A Grade Banded - 15-16 Inch","description":"\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHubei Turquoise is sourced from Hubei Province in Northern China, one of the most recognized turquoise-producing regions in the world. This material is known for its vivid blues, rich greens, and bold black spiderweb matrix—creating highly distinctive, one-of-a-kind beads.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis collection features material sourced from the Joo-shahn County mines, including the Chin-goo 808 Mine, known for producing turquoise with strong color contrast and dramatic natural patterning. Each strand reflects the unique mineral composition of the region, where copper contributes to blue tones and iron introduces green variations.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eTurquoise is one of the oldest known gemstones, used by ancient cultures including the Egyptians and Aztecs for adornment and ceremonial purposes. It forms over long periods as mineral-rich water moves through aluminous rock, depositing copper and other elements that gradually develop into turquoise. Due to its natural porosity, most turquoise is stabilized to improve durability and usability in jewelry design—learn more about \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eturquoise treatments and care.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDue to its natural porosity, most turquoise on the market is stabilized to improve durability, making it suitable for jewelry design while maintaining its natural appearance.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eEach strand is unique, with natural variations in color, matrix, and pattern. No two are exactly alike.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Dakota Stones","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41644163301525,"sku":"TQS4CUB-F-A-BGB-MX-B","price":54.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0514\/6420\/8533\/products\/TQS4CUB-F-A-BGB-MX-B-001.jpg?v=1642016938"},{"product_id":"hubei-turquoise-4mm-round-aa-grade-15-16-inch","title":"Hubei Turquoise 4mm Round AA Grade - 15-16 Inch","description":"\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHubei Turquoise is sourced from Hubei Province in Northern China, one of the most recognized turquoise-producing regions in the world. This material is known for its vivid blues, rich greens, and bold black spiderweb matrix—creating highly distinctive, one-of-a-kind beads.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis collection features material sourced from the Joo-shahn County mines, including the Chin-goo 808 Mine, known for producing turquoise with strong color contrast and dramatic natural patterning. Each strand reflects the unique mineral composition of the region, where copper contributes to blue tones and iron introduces green variations.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eTurquoise is one of the oldest known gemstones, used by ancient cultures including the Egyptians and Aztecs for adornment and ceremonial purposes. It forms over long periods as mineral-rich water moves through aluminous rock, depositing copper and other elements that gradually develop into turquoise. Due to its natural porosity, most turquoise is stabilized to improve durability and usability in jewelry design—learn more about \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eturquoise treatments and care.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDue to its natural porosity, most turquoise on the market is stabilized to improve durability, making it suitable for jewelry design while maintaining its natural appearance.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eEach strand is unique, with natural variations in color, matrix, and pattern. No two are exactly alike.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Dakota Stones","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41644295651477,"sku":"TQS4RD-AA","price":51.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0514\/6420\/8533\/products\/TQS4RD-AA-001.jpg?v=1642016937"},{"product_id":"hubei-turquoise-4mm-blue-green-round-aa-grade-15-16-inch","title":"Hubei Turquoise 4mm Blue Green Round AA Grade - 15-16 Inch","description":"\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHubei Turquoise is sourced from Hubei Province in Northern China, one of the most recognized turquoise-producing regions in the world. This material is known for its vivid blues, rich greens, and bold black spiderweb matrix—creating highly distinctive, one-of-a-kind beads.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis collection features material sourced from the Joo-shahn County mines, including the Chin-goo 808 Mine, known for producing turquoise with strong color contrast and dramatic natural patterning. Each strand reflects the unique mineral composition of the region, where copper contributes to blue tones and iron introduces green variations.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eTurquoise is one of the oldest known gemstones, used by ancient cultures including the Egyptians and Aztecs for adornment and ceremonial purposes. It forms over long periods as mineral-rich water moves through aluminous rock, depositing copper and other elements that gradually develop into turquoise. Due to its natural porosity, most turquoise is stabilized to improve durability and usability in jewelry design—learn more about \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eturquoise treatments and care.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDue to its natural porosity, most turquoise on the market is stabilized to improve durability, making it suitable for jewelry design while maintaining its natural appearance.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eEach strand is unique, with natural variations in color, matrix, and pattern. No two are exactly alike.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Dakota Stones","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41644363612309,"sku":"TQS4RD-AA-BG","price":51.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0514\/6420\/8533\/products\/TQS4RD-AA-BG-001.jpg?v=1642016937"},{"product_id":"hubei-turquoise-2mm-microfaceted-round-blue-green-limited-editions","title":"Hubei Turquoise 2mm Microfaceted Round Blue Green - 15-16 inch","description":"\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHubei Turquoise is sourced from Hubei Province in Northern China, one of the most recognized turquoise-producing regions in the world. This material is known for its vivid blues, rich greens, and bold black spiderweb matrix—creating highly distinctive, one-of-a-kind beads.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis collection features material sourced from the Joo-shahn County mines, including the Chin-goo 808 Mine, known for producing turquoise with strong color contrast and dramatic natural patterning. Each strand reflects the unique mineral composition of the region, where copper contributes to blue tones and iron introduces green variations.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eTurquoise is one of the oldest known gemstones, used by ancient cultures including the Egyptians and Aztecs for adornment and ceremonial purposes. It forms over long periods as mineral-rich water moves through aluminous rock, depositing copper and other elements that gradually develop into turquoise. Due to its natural porosity, most turquoise is stabilized to improve durability and usability in jewelry design—learn more about \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eturquoise treatments and care.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDue to its natural porosity, most turquoise on the market is stabilized to improve durability, making it suitable for jewelry design while maintaining its natural appearance.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eEach strand is unique, with natural variations in color, matrix, and pattern. No two are exactly alike.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Dakota Stones","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41803107532949,"sku":"TQS2RD-F-AAA-BG","price":23.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0514\/6420\/8533\/products\/TQS2RD-F-AAA-BG-001.jpg?v=1649441944"},{"product_id":"sleeping-beauty-turquoise-6mm-heishi-limited-editions-dspremier","title":"Sleeping Beauty Turquoise 6mm Heishi - 17-18 Inch","description":"\u003cp\u003eDakota Stones’ Sleeping Beauty Turquoise is from the Sleeping Beauty mine in Globe, Arizona — famous for the outstanding robin’s egg blue color and quality of their rough. The Sleeping Beauty mine ceased producing Turquoise in 2012, so only a finite amount of rough material remains. With only limited amounts of this highly sought-after material remaining, natural Sleeping Beauty Turquoise continues to rise in value.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTurquoise is one of the oldest known stones in human history, often used as a talisman by kings, shamans and warriors. Turquoise beads found in Iraq date back to 5000 BCE, and Egyptians were mining the stone as early as 3200 BCE. King Tutankhamun’s death mask was studded with Turquoise, and it is known to have been widely used in Aztec and Native American cultures.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo help strengthen and preserve our Sleeping Beauty Turquoise it is processed using the Zachary Process.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat Is the Zachery Process you ask?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJames E. Zachery, a turquoise trader and an electrical engineer, discovered a way to improve the quality of turquoise in the 1980's.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBy soaking the stone in a non-toxic chemical solution, it makes it easier to polish and brings out the vibrant colors. No one knows what’s in the solution because this is a proprietary and guarded process, though treated stones have more potassium in them than before.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBecause it doesn't harden the stone, or subject it to pressure, the stones are closer to their natural state. In fact, Zachery-processed turquoise has similar gemological properties to untreated turquoise. To find out more about the process, check out\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003ca title=\"THE IDENTIFICATION OF ZACHERY-TREATED TURQUOISE\" href=\"https:\/\/image1.fmgstatic.com\/pdf\/The-Identification-of-Zachery-Treated-Turquoise.pdf\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eThe Identification of Zachery Treated Turquoise\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn 1987, a man named Sterling, who is a turquoise trader from Arizona, purchased the recipe of the Zachery treatment process from James E. Zachery. The Zachery Process is the only turquoise process technology out there that is recognized as a natural treatment by the GIA in the US as well as international gem standards.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhy Does Turquoise Need to Be Treated you ask? Good question!\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTurquoise is a naturally soft stone, so it fractures easily. It's also porous so it absorbs stains, leading to discoloration. It picks up a lot of sweat and grease when it's worn as jewelry.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePeople have treated turquoise for centuries using various treatment methods. Waxes and oils used to be the favorite method for improving its appearance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStabilized turquoise is the contemporary version of waxing. Specialists soak the stones in resin or liquid plastic to help harden them. It also helps to stop the white 'bloom' as minerals inside the stone leak out. When they're dry, the treated stones are cut, shaped, or polished.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Dakota Stones","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41931196072085,"sku":"TQSSBT6HI","price":191.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0514\/6420\/8533\/products\/TQSSBT6HI-001.jpg?v=1663787406"},{"product_id":"sleeping-beauty-turquoise-4x5mm-rondelle-limited-editions","title":"Sleeping Beauty Turquoise 4x5mm Rondelle - Limited Editions","description":"\u003cp\u003eDakota Stones’ Sleeping Beauty Turquoise is from the Sleeping Beauty mine in Globe, Arizona — famous for the outstanding robin’s egg blue color and quality of their rough. The Sleeping Beauty mine ceased producing Turquoise in 2012, so only a finite amount of rough material remains. With only limited amounts of this highly sought-after material remaining, natural Sleeping Beauty Turquoise continues to rise in value.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTurquoise is one of the oldest known stones in human history, often used as a talisman by kings, shamans and warriors. Turquoise beads found in Iraq date back to 5000 BCE, and Egyptians were mining the stone as early as 3200 BCE. King Tutankhamun’s death mask was studded with Turquoise, and it is known to have been widely used in Aztec and Native American cultures.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo help strengthen and preserve our Sleeping Beauty Turquoise it is processed using the Zachary Process.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat Is the Zachery Process you ask?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJames E. Zachery, a turquoise trader and an electrical engineer, discovered a way to improve the quality of turquoise in the 1980's.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBy soaking the stone in a non-toxic chemical solution, it makes it easier to polish and brings out the vibrant colors. No one knows what’s in the solution because this is a proprietary and guarded process, though treated stones have more potassium in them than before.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBecause it doesn't harden the stone, or subject it to pressure, the stones are closer to their natural state. In fact, Zachery-processed turquoise has similar gemological properties to untreated turquoise. To find out more about the process, check out\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003ca rel=\"noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/image1.fmgstatic.com\/pdf\/The-Identification-of-Zachery-Treated-Turquoise.pdf\" title=\"THE IDENTIFICATION OF ZACHERY-TREATED TURQUOISE\" target=\"_blank\"\u003eThe Identification of Zachery Treated Turquoise\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn 1987, a man named Sterling, who is a turquoise trader from Arizona, purchased the recipe of the Zachery treatment process from James E. Zachery. The Zachery Process is the only turquoise process technology out there that is recognized as a natural treatment by the GIA in the US as well as international gem standards.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhy Does Turquoise Need to Be Treated you ask? Good question!\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTurquoise is a naturally soft stone, so it fractures easily. It's also porous so it absorbs stains, leading to discoloration. It picks up a lot of sweat and grease when it's worn as jewelry.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePeople have treated turquoise for centuries using various treatment methods. Waxes and oils used to be the favorite method for improving its appearance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStabilized turquoise is the contemporary version of waxing. Specialists soak the stones in resin or liquid plastic to help harden them. It also helps to stop the white 'bloom' as minerals inside the stone leak out. When they're dry, the treated stones are cut, shaped, or polished.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Dakota Stones","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42797164069013,"sku":"TQSSBT5RL","price":467.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0514\/6420\/8533\/products\/TQSSBT5RL-001.jpg?v=1663789209"}],"url":"https:\/\/dakotastones.com\/collections\/december-gemstone-beads\/shape_heishi.oembed","provider":"Dakota Stones","version":"1.0","type":"link"}