The mines of Cerrillos, New Mexico produce a particularly beautiful blue/green variety of turquoise, so stunning in fact that they have been mined for roughly the last 3,000 years! Chemically, it is a phosphate of aluminum carrying small quantities of copper and iron and a green mineral, variscite. These give the gemstone its color as well as its value and beauty. This is the only phosphate that is considered a precious stone.
Learn more about Turquoise, New Mexico’s State Gem! 