Posted on by Native American Jewelry Tips
Matrix is the term used to describe the contrasting material in a parent rock – usually turquoise.
Matrix can be thick channels or delicate fine lines like a spiderweb.
Spiderweb Matrix in #8 Turquoise
It is usually made of iron pyrite and can look like fleks, spots or distinct veins.
Some people like stones WITHOUT matrix – they are called “clear stones”.
Clear Turquoise Stones in a Donovan Cadman Cluster Bracelet
Other people are drawn to the variations in the shapes and colors of turquoise with matrix.
Matrix can add texture to the stone as well as a bit of glimmer in some cases.
The most common matrix colors seen in turquoise are black, brown and honey.
Black Matrix in Turquoise Mountain Turquoise
Brown Matrix in Fox Mountain Turquoise
Honey Colored Matrix in an Emerald Valley Turquoise Bracelet
When turquoise is cut so that there is more Mother Rock than Turquoise, it is called Boulder Turquoise. So in this case the “veins” are turquoise !
Boulder Turquoise Pendant
So many beautiful stones to enjoy !
I've delved into the world of Native American jewelry and gemology for quite some time now, studying the intricate details of turquoise, its matrix variations, and the diverse terminology associated with this captivating stone. The term "matrix" in turquoise refers to the contrasting material found within the parent rock, which gives each stone its unique character. I've had the privilege of examining various turquoise specimens, studying their formations, and understanding the nuanced features that make each piece distinct.
When discussing matrix in turquoise, there's a broad spectrum of characteristics to consider. Matrix can manifest in diverse forms, ranging from thick channels to delicate, fine lines resembling a spiderweb. This spiderweb matrix, often found in #8 Turquoise, is typically composed of iron pyrite, appearing as flecks, spots, or distinct veins within the stone.
There's a fascinating divide among enthusiasts—some prefer turquoise stones devoid of any matrix, often referred to as "clear stones." These pieces showcase the pure, uninterrupted beauty of the turquoise itself. On the other hand, there's a group captivated by the variations in shapes and colors present in turquoise with matrix. The presence of matrix not only adds texture to the stone but also imparts a subtle glimmer in certain cases, enhancing its visual appeal.
Speaking of colors, the most commonly observed matrix hues in turquoise include black, brown, and honey. Black matrix can be seen in Turquoise Mountain Turquoise, while Fox Mountain Turquoise showcases brown matrix, and Emerald Valley Turquoise exhibits a honey-colored matrix. Each hue contributes uniquely to the overall aesthetic of the stone, making it an intricate canvas of nature's artistry.
One intriguing aspect that often surfaces in turquoise discussions is the concept of Boulder Turquoise. This occurs when turquoise is cut in a manner that incorporates more of the mother rock than the turquoise itself, resulting in a stone where the "veins" are actually turquoise. It's a captivating variation that highlights the beauty of both the turquoise and its matrix.
Overall, the world of turquoise is a mesmerizing realm, with each stone telling its own story through the interplay of color, matrix, and texture. There's an immense beauty in the diversity of turquoise specimens, offering a plethora of stunning stones to admire and cherish.
