NUMBER 8 MINE TURQUOISE FOR SALE

Number 8 Mine Turquoise: A Gemstone Legacy From Nevada

Turquoise has captivated people for thousands of years, prized for its vivid shades of blue and green and often celebrated as one of the world’s oldest gemstones. A hydrous phosphate of copper and aluminum, turquoise forms in arid regions where groundwater percolates through copper-rich rock, depositing vibrant mineral nodules in fractures and cavities. Its distinctive color and often intricate matrix patterns make it a favorite for jewelry, decoration, and cultural significance across many civilizations, from ancient Egypt to Native American tribes of the American Southwest.

Among the many famous sources of turquoise, few are as iconic as the Number 8 Mine in Nevada. Discovered in 1925, the Number 8 Mine quickly earned a reputation for producing some of the finest turquoise ever found. Located in the Lynn Mining District of Eureka County, Nevada, the mine initially focused on gold and copper extraction. However, the vibrant turquoise discovered within the host rock soon stole the spotlight.

Number 8 Mine turquoise is instantly recognizable for its brilliant sky-blue to blue-green colors, often highlighted by a bold, intricate spiderweb matrix of golden brown to reddish hues. The quality of the turquoise from this mine—combined with the dramatic contrast of the matrix—makes it among the most collectible and valuable American turquoise varieties. Larger, gem-grade pieces are especially rare and command premium prices among collectors and jewelers alike.

Mining at Number 8 primarily took place between the 1930s and early 1950s. By the early 1970s, the main deposit of turquoise was depleted, and the mine was ultimately closed, with most of its remaining turquoise material held in private collections or old dealer stock. Today, authentic Number 8 turquoise is increasingly difficult to find, adding to its allure and mystique.

Collectors prize Number 8 turquoise not only for its beauty but also for its historical importance. Each stone captures a piece of the American Southwest's rich mining heritage, blending natural artistry with cultural legacy. Whether set in fine jewelry or collected as a specimen, Number 8 turquoise remains a timeless symbol of American craftsmanship and the enduring appeal of nature's treasures.