Number 8 Spiderweb Turquoise Pendant in Sterling Silver, by Martinez

Fine dark lines threading through soft powder blue, in a pattern that looks drawn on. This is Number 8 spiderweb turquoise, set as a square turned on point in a clean sterling bezel, and signed Martinez, sterling, on the back.

The Number 8 mine sits in the Carlin area of northern Nevada, and it is long since done producing turquoise. The area was later taken over by large-scale gold mining, so there is no going back for more. Every piece of Number 8 out there was already above ground, which is a big part of why collectors look for it by name.

What makes it worth chasing is the web. Spiderweb forms when the host rock fractures into a fine network and the turquoise fills it in, and it is the pattern collectors rank highest. This stone is a clear example of it, and the plain setting leaves the pattern to do the work.

The details

• Stone: Number 8 spiderweb turquoise, Nevada, powder blue with fine dark webbing
• Metal: sterling silver
• Hallmark: Martinez, sterling
• Setting: square set on point, clean bezel, wide flat bail
• Size: Exact dimensions are not listed yet. Message me and I will measure it for you.
• Chain: not included, hangs on your own
• One of a kind: yes, a single piece

How to wear it
On a simple sterling chain every day, or on a heavier chain or strand of beads when you want it to be the centerpiece. The powder blue sits well against white, navy, gray, and denim.

Care
Turquoise is porous, so keep it away from lotion, perfume, sunscreen, and cleaning products, and take it off before swimming or showering. Wipe it with a soft, dry cloth, use a silver polishing cloth on the metal only, and store it flat in a dry pouch.

This is the kind of pendant collectors keep for decades, and it is just as easy to put into everyday rotation.