Description
This is a striking Kingman turquoise and sterling silver pendant. Although Kingman turquoise is not extremely hard to find today what is different about this piece is that the turquoise was mined in the 1950s or early 1960s and came from a large nugget I obtained out of a collection from that era. Also rare is the fact that this piece has not been stabilized (see link below on turquoise for more information). Most turquoise coming out of this mine has been stabilized or hardened using a plastic resin. Most collectors seek out only natural or un-stabilized turquoise like this piece. It is also a large piece at over 50 cts and a real bargain at this price.
The turquoise has nice classic light blue color but also a pattern know as “water webbing” which is also sought out by collectors. It is cut into a thick, triangular cabochon and set on a shield-like silver base or back plate for the pendant. It may be hard to see in the photographs but there is an oxidized or dark gray finish on the silver because it is still highly reflective.
It is a larger-sized pendant that is just over 1 1/2” wide and about 1 5/8” tall (not including the attachment bale). See photo with older U.S. dime for size/scale.
Chain and coins shown in photos not included with item. It is pictured with an oxidized or antiqued silver chain which goes well with the oxidized finish on the pendant back plate. I think it looks great with this chain but gold chains would also look nice picking up the gold from the bezel setting.
Learn more about Carico Lake Turquoise and other turquoise at this link.