1.20 Ct. Cabochon Turquoise from Persia(Iran)

From the high, wind swept slopes of an ancient landscape, this turquoise begins its story as a whisper of color within host rock. In the arid folds of Persia, Iran, copper rich waters percolated through limestone over countless seasons, laying down the soft, bluish green mineral that has been loved for millennia. The people of this region held turquoise as a symbol of protection, status, and connection to the earth, and many of the early mines yielded stones with a quiet, enduring beauty that spoke to the slow work of geology. I have walked those thinking roads in conversation with miners and lapidaries, and that patient, natural genesis is what gives this gem its soul. When you hold it, you are holding a fragment of a long natural process, one that predates modern borders and speaks to craftsmanship and history alike.

When this particular piece arrived at our studio, it was selected for its honest, even tone and a surface that promised a brilliant polish. It is a one point two zero carat piece, an elegant oval shape that measures nine point eight five x five point zero four x three point four eight millimeters. The cabochon cut was chosen to respect the stone’s opaque character, to enhance the gentle domed silhouette, and to let the bluish green color play across the top in a soft, luminous way. Color intensity reads as medium, a hue that balances freshness with depth, and the surface achieves an excellent polish that catches light with a soft sheen rather than harsh glare. Importantly, this gem has no enhancement, it is presented in its natural state, a true Persian turquoise that retains all of the original qualities bestowed by its geological origin. At The Natural Gemstone Company we document each step of a stone’s life, from mine to market, and this turquoise carries that transparent provenance.

The story of a gem is not only about where it comes from, but how it is given new life in design. As a salesperson and a lover of stones I picture this cabochon set into warm metals that echo its earthy origins, a fine yellow gold bezel that warms the bluish green, or a bold silver mount that brings forward the stone’s classic Persian heritage. Its compact dimensions make it ideal for a refined ring, a delicate pendant, or as a central focal in a custom bracelet where the oval silhouette can sit comfortably against skin. Because it is untreated, the color will respond naturally to its environment and to the care it receives, and that makes it a trusted choice for someone seeking authenticity rather than synthetic perfection. The even polish and pleasing dome allow light to glide across the surface, revealing subtle tonal shifts that reward close viewing, a quiet complexity that collectors and designers both appreciate. In my experience, pieces like this become heirlooms, not because they are fleet with fashion, but because their origin story and graceful presence invite repeated wearing.

At The Natural Gemstone Company we stand by the integrity of every stone we present, and this Persian turquoise is accompanied by our commitment to ethical sourcing, careful handling, and clear communication about its nature. If you are considering this gem for a custom commission, I will personally assist in suggesting metal choices, setting styles, and design proportions that honor its size and character. For everyday wear care, keep it away from harsh chemicals and prolonged exposure to perfumes or cosmetics, clean gently with a soft cloth and mild soap, and store it separately to preserve its excellent polish. There are pieces that feel like a discovery when they arrive, and this one is such a find, offering both a tangible link to ancient lands and a versatile, wearable form. If you would like further details, additional photos, or design ideas, I am here to guide you through the possibilities, and to ensure that this little piece of Persian earth finds the design that will carry its story forward.