Royston Turquoise

Located near Tonopah, Nevada, the Royston mining district has been one of the most prolific sources of turquoise in the state since the early 1900s. Royston is actually a district made up of several claims, and today the material is mined and marketed by the Otteson family, longtime figures in the Nevada turquoise trade.

What makes Royston turquoise so recognizable is its color range. The same mine can produce everything from clear aqua blue to a deep, forest-like tone often called “military green,” all typically set against a warm golden-brown matrix. True blue material and, occasionally, spiderweb-patterned stones also come out of the district, making Royston one of the more visually varied American turquoise sources.

Because Royston has been mined continuously for decades and remains active today, it's one of the more accessible high-quality American turquoise varieties, which is part of why it shows up so often in old pawn and vintage Native American silver jewelry. Its dependable supply and beautiful color range have made it a longtime favorite among silversmiths working in both silver and gold.

If you're drawn to turquoise with warm brown matrix and a color that shifts between blue and green, Royston is a great variety to look for. Explore more American turquoise varieties in our Gemstone Guide.