The Truth About Turquoise Stabilization: What Every Jewelry Lover Should Know
What Is Turquoise Stabilization?
Let’s clear up a common question: What does it mean when turquoise is “stabilized”?
Simply put, most turquoise straight from the earth is soft—too soft for everyday jewelry. Stabilization strengthens the stone by filling its tiny pores with a clear resin, making it durable enough to wear and enjoy for years.
Why stabilize? Only about 5% of turquoise is naturally hard enough for jewelry. Most needs a little help to stand up to daily life.
What changes? The color and matrix (the natural pattern) stay true. The resin is invisible and doesn’t add color or sparkle—it just makes the stone stronger.
How Does Stabilization Work?
The process is straightforward but high-tech. Raw turquoise is placed in a vacuum chamber, air is drawn out of the stone’s pores, then a stabilizing agent (usually a clear resin) is introduced under pressure. This fills the microscopic gaps and hardens the entire stone from the inside out.
Result: Turquoise that’s ready for daily wear, resisting chips and stains.
Industry standard: This is a widely accepted practice—not a gimmick or shortcut.
Natural vs. Stabilized: Is One Better?
Natural, untreated turquoise does exist, but it’s rare—and often priced accordingly. Most turquoise jewelry (even from top Southwest artists) uses stabilized stones.
Why? It offers the same color, pattern, and beauty at a more accessible price point.
Natural turquoise: Rare, often softer, and requires extra care. Usually found in high-end collector pieces.
Stabilized turquoise: Durable, beautiful, and perfect for everyday jewelry. No shame, no secrets—just smart stonework.
How Does Stabilization Affect Jewelry Care?
Stabilized turquoise is durable, but still deserves gentle care. Here’s how to keep your piece looking its best:
Wipe with a soft, dry cloth after wearing
Avoid ultrasonic cleaners, harsh chemicals, and prolonged water exposure
Store separately to prevent scratches
Remove before swimming, showering, or applying lotions/perfume
How to Spot Quality Stabilization
High-quality stabilized turquoise should look and feel like natural stone—solid, with a consistent color and no plastic sheen. Watch for these signs of quality:
No bubbles or cloudiness
Natural-looking matrix and color
Feels cool and substantial, not lightweight or plastic
At Wildflower, we hand-select every stone for beauty, stability, and authenticity—always noting if a piece is natural or stabilized, and sharing the story behind each stone.
Bottom Line: Buy With Confidence
Stabilized turquoise is real turquoise—just made stronger for your everyday adventures. Whether you’re a collector or new to Southwest jewelry, you deserve to know what you’re buying.
At Wildflower, we believe in total transparency, clear care instructions, and celebrating the beauty of every stone.
Questions about turquoise or jewelry care? Reach out—we’re always happy to help.
Handmade · Sterling Silver · Turquoise · Santa Fe
