Turquoise Cabochons: A Cultural Connection

Turquoise cabochons have a profound connection to Native American heritage and symbolize the timeless beauty of this culture. At High Spirits Flutes, we celebrate this legacy by incorporating genuine turquoise into our flute designs.

So, what exactly is a cabochon? In the world of jewelry, a cabochon refers to a gemstone that has been shaped and polished into a smooth, rounded, and convex form, without any facets, or sides. The lack of facets allows the gem to showcase its natural colors and patterns.

 When it comes to turquoise, it's important to distinguish between genuine and fake variations. We are committed to using real turquoise in our craftsmanship. Unfortunately, Howlite is often dyed blue or green and sold as fake turquoise. Howlite – a lovely stone in its own right – is naturally white with grey veining.

Real turquoise is a gemstone formed over millions of years from the interaction of copper, aluminum, and phosphorus with water and minerals. Its blue and green hues vary due to the presence of other elements and minerals in the surrounding rock.

Turquoise holds a special place in the history of Native Americans, dating back thousands of years. This sacred stone was prized for its spiritual significance and adorned ceremonial objects, jewelry, and even weapons. Native Americans believed turquoise to be a symbol of protection, wisdom, and immortality. To this day, turquoise remains an important aspect of Native American culture, representing a connection to the earth and a link to their ancestors.

The popularity of original handmade Native American turquoise designs has surged in recent times. The craftsmanship and cultural significance has captured the hearts of art enthusiasts worldwide. 

As a company rooted in Tucson, we are proud to be part of a community known for its gem shows. The annual Tucson Gem & Mineral Show is one of the largest events of its kind, attracting visitors and vendors from across the globe. It takes place every winter and fall, featuring a collection of gem and mineral shows held at various locations throughout Tucson.

In fact, the Fall Gem & Mineral Show is just around the corner, taking place from August 31st to September 3rd. The larger and more famous Winter show kicks off during the final week of January and continues through the middle of February every year. It's a must-see event with a wonderful display of gemstones and fossils, authentic Native American turquoise regalia, and artifacts from other cultures around the world.

People from all around the world cherish this gemstone for its beauty and symbolism. Understanding its cultural significance connects people from diverse backgrounds and enhances our appreciation for this beautiful gemstone.