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WEB EXCLUSIVE
Turquoise
Joe Dan Lowry and Joe P. Lowry
www.gibbs-smith.com
Turquoise is the gemstone most commonly associated with Western and Native American jewelry. But that’s just one facet of a fascinating history that extends far beyond the U.S. border. Turquoise adorned jewelry in ancient Egypt as far back as 4,700 B.C. In Asia it was believed to have medicinal qualities; in the Middle East, the stone was used to ward off the evil eye curse. The gem is even mentioned in the poetry of John Keats and in Shakespeare’s The Merchant of Venice. And in America, it’s closely linked to the history and mythology of Native American culture.
Two of the world’s top turquoise experts, Joe P. Lowry and his son Joe Dan Lowry, have created Turquoise, which unearths the science, superstition, and remarkable beauty of these blue-green stones. The work also explores the history of turquoise mining and through hundreds of photos chronicles its decorative use in different global cultures, from the most common pieces found in Southwest tourist shops to priceless museum artifacts, including the 6,888 carat George Washington Stone. Turquoise even reviews the booming market in fake turquoise and how more than a few tourists have been conned by remarkable look-alikes. This hefty and lavishly illustrated coffee table book is worth tracking down for anyone interested in the mystery and allure of one of the most unique gems on earth.
