Turquoise Is Even Better When It’s Carved

By Brittany Siminitz | June 30, 2021

July has come upon us rather quickly as the season of summer continues to fly by. All month, you’ll likely hear plenty about ruby—it’s sort of the headliner where birthstones are concerned—but I find turquoise, an alternate choice for July birthdays, to be far more compelling.

Brent Neale turquoise hamsa — *Hamsa pendant in 18k yellow gold with carved turquoise, emerald, and blue sapphires, $7,750; Brent Neale*

Lydia Courteille turquoise earrings — *Earrings in 18k white gold with turquoise and diamonds, price on request; Lydia Courteille*

For starters, it’s a perfect representation of the month. Hot and sticky, and often filled with travel and adventure (in normal times at least, and perhaps some flying this year at last), July is the ideal month to wear turquoise because the gemstone reflects a carefree vibe we all cling to this time of year. Plus it positively pops against any color sundress! I also love it with a floaty white frock or an orangy-red top. And it’s a no-brainer for a little black dress or casual or cocktail attire.

LAtelier Nawbar turquoise lapis ring — *Ring in 18k yellow gold with carved turquoise, lapis lazuli, and diamonds, $2,050; L’Atelier Nawbar*

Jane Win carved turquoise butterfly — *Hand-carved butterfly necklace in 10k yellow gold with turquoise and pink tourmaline, $498; Jane Win*

Turquoise in any and all forms is glorious, and there are indeed many options to choose from. But lately what most excites me are the carved variations, reflecting a range of images and symbols that can be not only beautiful but also meaningful.

Cicada Jewelry scarab cuff — *Scarab bracelet in 18k yellow gold and enamel with carved turquoise and lapis lazuli, $40,850; Cicada Jewelry*

Turquoise has a rich, multicultural history, down to the ancient Egyptians using it to carve the body of the scarab beetle—a symbol to which I’ve been especially drawn as of late. Maybe it’s because I’ve been looking for it, but it feels like more jewelers are offering carved turquoise scarabs recently, and it’s a wonderful thing.

Cathy Waterman clover turquoise — *Clover charm in yellow gold with carved turquoise and pink sapphire, price on request; Cathy Waterman*

Irene Neuwirth Tropical turquoise earrings — *One-of-a-kind tropical flower earrings in 18k yellow gold with turquoise and diamonds, $8,800; Irene Neuwirth*

From ancient Chinese artisans to Native American tribespeople, turquoise—notably carved turquoise—was regarded as a powerful and treasured gemstone. The same can be said today: A turquoise gem carved into a meaningful talisman has more influence than ever, offering a colorful, eye-catching alternative to the gemstone-accented precious metal amulets that are widely in demand.

Retrouvai carved turquoise lion — *Lion signature padlock in 14k yellow gold with carved turquoise, $4,600; Retrouvaí*

Jacquie Aiche turquoise scarab ring — *Carved scarab ring in 14k yellow gold with turquoise, $5,375; Jacquie Aiche*

Of course, such carvings don’t necessarily need to be lucky charms or amulets to achieve admiration, as can be seen by some of the examples pictured here. Chances are, if it’s turquoise, it’s going to be good.

Top: Queen ring in 18k yellow gold with hand-carved turquoise and diamonds, $3,000; Dima Jewellery

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