Campitos Turquoise Heart Earrings FJE2048

CLUSTER Used for many generations this style of arranging stones is common within Native jewelry. Clusters are typically arranged in a sunburst or "flower" pattern with smaller, evenly spaced stones encircling a larger center stone. However, clusters can also be random, showcasing the stone's natural shapes.

OXIDIZED STERLING SILVER is sterling that has been darkened using a surface treatment. This process helps to give the metal a "tarnished" look and is often used to provide contrast within jewelry pieces.

RAINDROPS are seen frequently throughout Native American jewelry. Sterling silver drops or "raindrops" are a traditional design element. They can be smooth and highly polished or they can be starlike and oxidized.

CAMPITOS TURQUOISE is derived from the Spanish word "campo" meaning "field" or "countryside". Mined in Mexico from the Pino Chueco and Cananea mines in Sonora, Campitos is a favorite for jewelry artisans. Campitos is unique in several ways. It grows in clay as free-form nuggets, rather than in veins typical of many North American turquoises. Its color resembles Sleeping Beauty Turquoise's color and ranges from light to medium blue with no matrix. Occasionally you may find pyrite inclusions, which give it a little bit of sparkle.