Turquoise Museum, Albuquerque

The Turquoise Museum in Albuquerque is a must-visit destination for those interested in turquoise, the vibrant blue-green gemstone. The museum boasts a vast collection of turquoise, sourced from over one hundred different mines, making it a globally recognized authority on the mineral.

The history of turquoise in New Mexico is long and rich, with the Santa Fe Trail bringing traders and settlers west and introducing the stone as a valuable commodity. Native Americans in the area have also been using turquoise for centuries in their art. The museum showcases this legacy through its displays, with the brightly colored stone taking on a variety of different shapes, forms, and histories.

Visitors to the museum can learn about the mining processes and techniques used to extract turquoise, as well as the natural geology and mineralogy of the stone. The highlight of the museum is a replica of a mine tunnel that leads to where the most precious and rare turquoise specimens are found. The main J.C. “Zack” Zachary collection features turquoise stones from 80 different locations around the globe, providing a diverse array of samples for visitors to admire.

Additionally, guests can see how the mineral is formed from a natural material into jewelry at a working lapidary shop. This experience provides a hands-on approach to learning about the process of turning raw turquoise into beautiful finished pieces.

A visit to the Turquoise Museum is an excellent opportunity to immerse oneself in the history, culture, and science of this beautiful gemstone. Whether you're a gemstone enthusiast or just looking for a unique and educational experience, the Turquoise Museum is sure to impress.