The Truth About Stabilized Turquoise (And Why It’s Actually a Good Thing)

When you are shopping for turquoise jewelry, you will often see the word "stabilized" in the product description. If you are new to buying gemstones, that word might sound a little intimidating—or make you wonder if you are buying a fake stone.

Let’s clear up the mystery: Stabilized turquoise is genuine, mined turquoise, and its treatment is actually a huge benefit for jewelry lovers.

Here is exactly what stabilized turquoise means, and why it is the perfect choice for everyday wear.

Naturally, turquoise is a very soft, porous, and "chalky" mineral. In fact, less than 10% of all mined turquoise in the world is hard enough to be cut into jewelry without any help.

To make the other 90% usable, the raw stone undergoes a stabilization process. Clear, liquid resin or polymer is pressed deep into the microscopic pores of the genuine stone. As recognized by gemstone authorities like the GIA, this doesn't change what the stone is—it just fills in the empty spaces to make it structurally sound.

• It prevents cracking and breaking: Because natural turquoise is naturally fragile, an untreated stone can easily crack, chip, or shatter if you accidentally bump it against a table. Stabilization bonds the stone together from the inside out, making it tough enough to handle normal daily wear.
• It locks in the beautiful color: Untreated turquoise acts like a sponge. Over time, it absorbs skin oils, sweat, perfumes, and lotions, which causes the stone to chemically change color—often turning a dull, muddy green. The stabilization process seals the stone, protecting it from moisture so its gorgeous blues and greens stay vibrant forever. It does not protect the setting so please see our blog about "Don't Get Your Jewelry Wet!"
• It keeps real turquoise affordable: If jewelry makers only used rare, untreated stone, a single ring or pair of earrings would cost thousands of dollars. Stabilization allows us to use beautiful, genuine earth-mined stones at a price that fits your budget.

You might wonder: What about the turquoise that isn't stabilized?

That elite 10% of turquoise that comes out of the ground completely hard, dense, and naturally vibrant is known as natural high-grade turquoise.

Because high-grade turquoise doesn't need resin to survive the cutting wheel, it is left completely untreated. However, there are two important things to know when comparing the two:

• The Rarity and Price Gap: High-grade natural turquoise is incredibly rare and mostly sought after by serious collectors and investors. It commands luxury prices because the supply is so limited. Stabilized turquoise gives you that exact same vibrant look without the collector's premium.
• The "Living Stone" Factor: Even natural high-grade turquoise remains slightly porous. Over decades of direct contact with your skin's natural oils, a high-grade untreated stone will slowly change color, developing a unique patina. For some, this "living stone" transformation is a prized feature. But if you want a stone that is completely worry-free and guarantees its original sky-blue or crisp green color will never fade or change, stabilized turquoise is actually the superior choice for everyday wear.

It is important not to confuse stabilized turquoise with block turquoise:

• Stabilized Turquoise is a real, whole stone taken out of the ground that has simply been hardened.
• Block Turquoise is a completely manufactured composite made from crushed rock powder, heavy dyes, and plastic.

• Is stabilized turquoise considered "real" turquoise?
  Yes. It is 100% genuine turquoise that was mined from the earth. The stabilization process simply adds a clear hardening agent to make the natural stone strong enough for jewelry.
• Will my stabilized turquoise change color over time?
  No. Unlike untreated turquoise, which absorbs oils and sweat and turns green or darkens over time, stabilized turquoise is safely sealed. Its stunning color, provided it is protected from harsh chemicals or extreme heat can be locked in forever.
• How do I clean and care for stabilized turquoise jewelry?
  Because it is hardened and sealed, it is much easier to care for than fragile untreated stone. Simply wipe it down with a soft, damp cloth. Avoid harsh chemical cleaners, steam, or ultrasonic jewelry cleaners, as these can wear down the protective resin over time.
• Does stabilization lower the value of the stone?
  Stabilized turquoise is commonly used and more affordable than rare, untreated collector-grade turquoise. However, it holds excellent value for commercial jewelry because it is durable, beautiful, and built to last a lifetime.

When you buy stabilized turquoise, you are buying a piece of the earth that has been given a little extra armor. It ensures that the jewelry you fall in love with today will look just as stunning years down the road.