A Guide to the Different Types of Turquoise: What Makes Each One Special

Not all turquoise is created equal. From the vivid sky-blue of Number 8 to the earthy greens of Sonoran Mountain, each variety of turquoise has its own personality, origin story, and collector following. If you've ever wondered what sets one turquoise apart from another, this guide is for you.

Turquoise Comparison Chart

Tip: Add a photo of each turquoise variety next to its row for maximum impact!

Variety	Origin	Color	Matrix	Rarity
Number 8	Elko County, Nevada	Bright sky blue, sometimes blue-green	Golden-brown spider web	Very rare — closed mine
Kingman	Mohave County, Arizona	Bright robin's egg blue to blue-green	Black or brown matrix, often minimal	Still actively mined
Kingman Mohave	Mohave County, Arizona	Vivid blue, purple, green — enhanced by copper	Copper web matrix, dramatic patterns	Specialty composite — widely sought
Sonoran Mountain	Sonora, Mexico	Rich blue-green to teal	Dark brown or black matrix, earthy	Increasingly rare
Paloma	Sonora, Mexico	Soft blue to blue-gray	Fine brown or tan matrix	Rare and highly collectible
Palomino	Nevada	Warm blue with golden undertones	Golden-tan matrix	Rare — limited production
White Water	Nevada	Pale blue, soft and milky	Light matrix, sometimes minimal	Rare and distinctive

Number 8 Turquoise

Mined in Elko County, Nevada from a now-closed claim, Number 8 is one of the most collectible turquoise varieties in the world. Its signature sky-blue color and dramatic golden-brown spider web matrix make it instantly recognizable. Because the mine is closed, every piece is part of a finite supply — making it a true investment stone.

Kingman Turquoise

One of the most prolific turquoise mines in the United States, the Kingman mine in Mohave County, Arizona has been producing brilliant robin's egg blue turquoise for over a century. Kingman is beloved for its clean, vivid color and is widely used in both traditional Native American jewelry and contemporary Southwestern designs.

Kingman Mohave Turquoise

A stunning specialty stone created by combining Kingman turquoise with copper, Kingman Mohave displays an extraordinary range of colors — electric blues, purples, and greens — woven through a dramatic copper matrix. Each stone is a miniature work of art, with patterns unlike any other turquoise variety.

Sonoran Mountain Turquoise

Sourced from the mountains of Sonora, Mexico, Sonoran Mountain turquoise has a rich, earthy character all its own. Its deep blue-green to teal tones and dark matrix give it a grounded, organic beauty that pairs beautifully with sterling silver and copper settings.

Paloma Turquoise

Also from Sonora, Mexico, Paloma turquoise is prized for its soft, subtle blue-gray coloring and refined matrix. It has a quiet elegance that makes it a favorite among serious collectors who appreciate understated beauty over bold statement stones.

Palomino Turquoise

A Nevada-origin turquoise with warm blue tones and a distinctive golden-tan matrix, Palomino lives up to its name — it has the same warmth and richness as its namesake horse. It's a rare variety that adds depth and warmth to any jewelry piece.

White Water Turquoise

With its soft, milky pale blue color, White Water turquoise has a dreamy, ethereal quality unlike any other variety. Its light matrix and gentle tones make it a striking contrast piece when set alongside more vivid turquoise stones — as seen in our multi-stone heart ring featuring five turquoise varieties.

How to Tell Them Apart

The best way to learn to identify turquoise varieties is simply to look at a lot of it! Over time you'll develop an eye for the differences in color, matrix, and character. When shopping for turquoise jewelry, always ask about the variety and origin — a reputable seller will know.

At Cactus Rose Jewelry, we identify the turquoise variety in every piece we sell, so you always know exactly what you're getting.