“Turquoise from Australia,” she answered, as I enquired what this blue-green stone was.  That was several years ago in Quartzsite.  The dealer was selling for a German mining company this secondary mineral.  Miners looking for a “primary” mineral, say copper or silver, may find associated or “secondary” minerals, like this turquoise.  The secondary minerals often end up in places like Quartzsite for lapidary enthusiasts like us.  I like working with this “turquoise” because its black matrix of iron pyrite/hematite gives it strength and it does not need to be stabilized as with most turquoise.  I bought about a hundred pounds and got a better price.  I have never seen this rock again.  And that is the fun of Quartzsite.  Each year there is something unique to be discovered.  Setting up today for the 50th Pow Wow Rock show at the QIA which starts Wednesday.

Where to next?  Take me to the Store page or Take me to your Show & Activity Schedule page