First of all, a Blue Bisbee Turquoise Cabochon begins as conglomerate rock bearing turquoise from mining district of Bisbee, Arizona. These rocks are consequently cut into slabs with a rock saw. Next, the slabs are cut into smaller oval slabs known as “pre-forms”. These smaller oval slabs are then transformed into dome shapes through sanding with various grit coated wheels. These wheels start with an aggressive grit and end with a fine grit. 

Consequently, the cabochon “dome” is the typical shape that silversmiths use to create turquoise jewelry. The back of the dome is sanded flat to form a surface for jewelry mounting. Often the cabochon has a steel epoxy added to the flat surface. Most noteworthy, this backing adds strength and stability to the turquoise for years of durability.

Finally, backing can be a positive feature, but it adds weight to the cabochon. Consequently, the price of turquoise cabochons is determined by their weight. The majority of the Bisbee Turquoise that we sell typically includes tan to chocolate brown conglomerate host rock. It is a strong indicator of true, authentic Bisbee Turquoise.

Photography of the turquoise on this website is taken to the best of our ability.
We compare the photograph to the specimen to try and match the true color.
The size of the pictures are expanded to show detail. They are not the actual size.
Dimensions are given with each cabochon. For comparison, a U.S. dime’s diameter is .70 inches or 17.91 mm. 
We guarantee all the turquoise on this website is AUTHENTIC BISBEE TURQUOISE!