Identifying & Valuing Rare Rattlesnake Turquoise from Nevada

Question

Turquoise   QUESTION: I have inherited a large quantity of cut & polished turquoise.  It was mined near Mina, NV in the 1950s or 1960s.  I was told it is called Rattlesnake Turquoise and is extremely rare.  I can't find any reference to this type of turquoise.  Can you tell me anything about it, or can you point me to someone who may be able to help.  I have provided a photo to help.  Thank you!

ANSWER: Hi Liz,


Yes indeed that is what is called "Rattle Snake" Tourquise. The distinctive snake skin pattern in the stones is what gives it it's name. In the quality you have it is rare. I don't know where you are but in the Southwestern U.S. they would go nuts for this material. In Tucson in Febuary  there is a gem show and if you could get there you would see more Turquoise than you will ever see. And it's fun. That is the place to go. There is a smaller show in September also. Amazon.com will have some books for you too on this subject, take look. thanks

Peter

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QUESTION: WOW !  Thanks Peter.  Do you know how I would go about selling the stones?  Can you give me a guestimate on how much they could be worth?  I have 26 cut & polished stones, with the samllest about the size of a dime, the largest about as big a a silver dollar.  I will probably keep one stone and have something made for myself though.  We are in Southern California.

Answer
Hi Liz,

I am so out of touch with the turquoise prices right now I could not venture a guess. But you are in the heart of the market in So.Cal. Arizona is the top market. You need to get to some local gem and mineral shows and see the pricing. Depending on the availablity of this type of Turquoise will dictate the price. If you see a dealer who is selling almost exclusively Turquoise jewelry Those are the folks to approach. Just tell them what you have and show them a piece. Then watch their face to see the reaction. And talk to as many as possible to get a good price. If you can get to Tucson in The first week in September (better check this date) that would be a great show to try. Good Luck

Peter