Native americans have prized turquoise since the time of the aztecs who mined it in new mexico. The map in stewart smith s monograph shows dozens of worked stones throughout the hilltop complex. The natural variations that occur in turquoise are part of their appeal and beauty. It helps the wearer release their anxiety and fear and replace it with confidence and leadership. For centuries turquoise was mined in the southwest making it the stone most commonly associated with native american jewelry but the closing of many turquoise mines and the modern global market which introduced new stones to native american jewelry makers has resulted in multi colored jewelry that incorporates a variety of fine gemstones.
The color comes from high amounts of iron and or graphite. It is the perfect gem for those who want to make a change in their life. It is becoming more popular in native american inlay jewelry as a replacement for black jet due to its hardness and high luster. The following is a list of native american gems and minerals listed in our database. Other native american tribes still hold precious stones especially turquoise azurite and phenakite sacred.
Peridot chrysolite is a transparent green variety of the mineral olivine that is used as a popular gemstone. Black jade has a hardness of 6 on the moh s scale which makes it a very durable stone. Pen shell heishi is commonly used by native american artists either by itself or as spacers with other materials such as turquoise coral and spiny oyster. Click the pictures to get full data click the x to remove the gem from the list. All over the world turquoise has been worn to give strength and health and jaspers have long been believed to provide strength and calm.
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A gemstone ruby is thought to speed the healing of body mind and spirit. The stones quarried and shaped using the percussion fire pecking and abrading methods attest to the fact the native american activities at the site went far beyond a mere hunting camp. Bloodstone is a member of the chalcedony group. It is believed to aid in psychic development while it energizes. A gemstone ruby is thought to speed the healing of body mind and spirit.It is believed to aid in psychic development while it energizes. Peridot chrysolite is a transparent green variety of the mineral olivine that is used as a popular gemstone. The color comes from high amounts of iron and or graphite. Native americans have prized turquoise since the time of the aztecs who mined it in new mexico.
