Spice Up That Jewelry Box, Part 2: My Love of Turquoise
Every time I go back to New Mexico to visit family, I always pick up a piece of Native American turquoise jewelry. When I lived there, I was tired of seeing it everywhere…to the point that I never bought any. Once I moved away, I grew to miss it and everything else about my home state. Those trips home are good for my soul! During my last trip home, I thought maybe the women of Alexandria would love some Native American jewelry. So, I found a wholesaler in Albuquerque -- and voila! -- Kiskadee now has a small assortment of handmade turquoise jewelry made by the Zuni tribe of New Mexico.The Zunis also include other semi-precious gemstones in their jewelry: coral, mother of pearl, and onyx are common. Some artisans will sign their jewelry. Those are my favorites pieces.
Storing and caring for turquoise jewelry can be tricky. Turquoise is a soft stone and thus cannot be immersed in silver cleaning solution. Our friends at Alx&Co. offered some helpful tips. Overall for turquoise, use a gentle, unscented soap and use sparingly so that the crevices don’t get gummed up. Once dry, keep it stored in a bag. I’ve been storing my turquoise in clear zipper jewelry bags but that’s not the best. They recommend storing your pieces in a soft felt or cotton bag because plastic can interact with and corrode metals over time.Don’t forget! Our wish list binder is ready and waiting for you to come and add your favorite pieces!
