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Macro shots of rough turquoise, slabs, and finished cabochons

How Turquoise Cabochons Are Made: From Rough Stone to Heirloom Jewelry

November 14, 20251 min read

Ever wondered how a raw piece of turquoise becomes the centerpiece of your favorite Wildflower ring or cuff? Here’s a behind-the-scenes look at our handcrafted process—from mine to masterpiece—and why it matters for collectors and everyday wearers alike.

Sourcing the Stone

Every Wildflower cabochon begins with a story.
We source turquoise directly from our own King’s Manassa and White Buffalo mines, along with trusted partners who share our commitment to quality and ethics. Each stone is chosen for its color, matrix, hardness, and natural character—no shortcuts, no mass-produced stones.

Close-up shots of raw turquoise from King’s Manassa and White Buffalo

About Our Stones

Slabbing & Backing

Once selected, Greg—our resident lapidary (and my husband)—uses a precision diamond saw to cut the rough turquoise into slabs. For stability and longevity, each slab is professionally backed, ensuring your jewelry stands the test of time and daily wear.

Shaping & Grinding

Each cabochon is hand-shaped using diamond wheels to refine the dome, symmetry, and clean edges. This stage is where artistry meets precision, balancing the natural beauty of the stone with the high standards collectors expect.

Artistic shot of multiple half-shaped cabochons

Polishing

After shaping, the stone is polished by hand.
No harsh chemicals. No shortcuts. Just patience, skill, and the dedication to bring out the stone’s natural depth and glow.

Polishing tools on the bench with finished cabs nearby

Setting in Sterling Silver

Once polished, the cabochon is ready to meet its setting. Our silversmiths set every stone in .925 sterling silver, each piece stamped with the maker’s hallmark for authenticity and provenance. No two pieces are ever alike—each one is crafted to be worn, loved, and passed down.

Silversmith’s tools on the bench with turquoise ready to be set

This process isn’t just tradition—it’s your guarantee of authenticity, quality, and true heirloom craftsmanship.

When you wear Wildflower, you’re not just wearing jewelry; you’re carrying a story from the Southwest and the hands that shaped it.

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Kimberly Cordova

Kimberly Cordova is the founder and creative force behind Wildflower, where timeless design meets authentic storytelling. Drawing from her roots in leadership and her love for meaningful journeys, Kimberly brings a unique perspective to the art of jewelry curation. Each Wildflower piece reflects her passion for craftsmanship, heritage, and the stories that connect us through real stones and real silver.

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