Turquoise stones for sale are the prime collectors’ choice because they are colorful, and the color is between blue and green. This mineral is very old, but its beauty lasts only if it is well taken care of. Knowing the polishing methods makes it easier to keep the turquoise for a long time without having to resell it.
Understanding Turquoise Hardness Scale Basics
On the Mohs turquoise hardness scale, turquoise is rated from 5 to 6. The average rating indicates that the gem can be scratched without much effort. It’s necessary to clean it gently. For daily cleaning, soft rags are the most suitable. Do not use aggressive chemicals even if the stone is resistant to them.
The reason why turquoise should be handled with care is that it is a very porous stone and can quickly absorb oils and other liquids. Hence, the skin’s natural oils can discolor it over time. So, make sure you don’t unnecessarily touch your pieces.
Essential Turquoise Polishing Guide Steps
Before polishing, make sure the stones you intend to polish are clean and dry. The first buffing should be done with a clean and soft microfiber cloth. Lightly work the area you are polishing. The phase of polishing should be done by the fingers and in a circular motion.
Use signs that will help polish softer gems only when testing the extreme one. To turquoise, cerium oxide is a very good choice. Water should be mixed with it so as to make a thin paste. If you must apply it in crevices, do it very sparingly.
Continue smoothing the polish patiently until the polish is brilliant. Wash carefully with tepid water. Wipe dry right away with a soft fabric towel. Don’t ever put turquoise jewelry in ultrasonic cleaners.
Key Turquoise Value Factors to Consider
The first thing that comes into the mind of one who wants to know about the price of turquoise is the depth of the color of the stone. Those who have been lucky enough to find a turquoise of a very deep blue cause it to be priced much higher. The pattern of the matrix has an impact on the value differently. There are people that like stones with a clean surface and others that consider spider-webbing beautiful.
The place where the turquoise comes from is the most important factor that determines the value of turquoise. The turquoise from Persia is still very attractive to the buyers. However, the quality of the stones from US mines is also great. The Sleeping Beauty turquoise is a good example of pure blue coloring.
If the stones are stabilized with the help of some treatments, then their value changes accordingly. Compared to treated ones, natural stones are always more expensive. When evaluating turquoise stones for sale, size is very important. Pieces that are large and do not have major defects are the ones that can bring high prices.
Finding Quality Gemstones for Sale
Before placing your order, try to find dealers who have a good reputation. Choose a seller who issues a certificate of authenticity. Although online marketplaces are easy to use, you must be very careful there. Ask for the pictures that show not only the matrix but the color as well.
With physical stores, you have the opportunity to look at turquoise stones for sale and decide whether to buy them or not. Check if the coloring is uniform and the surface is stable. Inquire about the treatment and the origin of the product. You can also compare prices by visiting different stores.
Estate sales are a good place to find turquoise vintage jewelry of high quality. Such pieces are usually made of the best quality stones. A gem show can be a good place where you can meet the dealers face to face. You can bargain, and ask questions regarding the correct manner of usage, which is a great advantage.
Storage and Long-Term Maintenance
Keep turquoise away from other hard gemstones for sale. Use soft pouches to store them and thus prevent scratches. Do not forget to keep your pieces in a place that is free of sunlight. Over time, heat can cause the color to fade.
Do not wear turquoise when swimming or bathing. The stone’s surface will be attacked by chlorine and baking soap. Polish your jewelry once every year if you want it to keep its shine. In order to make sure that your pieces last for a long time, take them to professional cleaners.
By frequent examination you find a problem before it becomes big. Check if any of the parts are loose or there are cracks on the surface. Do not let the damage go too far – repair it on time.
Final Thoughts
If you take good care of your turquoise, it will keep being beautiful. Abide by these polishing instructions in a strict manner. The output of the input is lasting brilliance and preserved value, in every piece of your collection. Are you looking for stones that will go well with where to buy rhodochrosite? Find out where to get rhodochrosite from certified dealers who specialize in rare collector gemstones.