gems, turquoise, Iran, Persia, Nishapur

The turquoise mine of Neishabur, Iran, is the most important turquoise mine in the world. It is located in the southern part of the Binalud Mountains, 58 km away from the town of Neishabur in Khorasan Province, northeast Iran. The mine has an old history dating back 1000 years. Turquoise from Neishabur is of three colors: blue, bluish-green, and green. All these colors may be found in one specimen. The luster of the mineral is earthy or vitreous, waxy or pearly when it is polished. In Iran, the turquoise used in jewelry is classified into three types according to whether it is nodular, massive, or compact. Of every type, the blue variety, the purest, is considered the most precious. After cutting and polishing, the turquoise is used in necklaces, bracelets, watchbands, and clasps of handbags, etc.