Hi. I was told this large (2-inch long) stone pendant might be variscite. The initials on the back are JS. Any thoughts on it being variscite, ot maybe some other stone? Ideas on artisan? The setting isn’t particularly great but the stone is an eye catcher.
Also, not the section for this question, I know, but if it is variscite any ideas on the value of a large stone like this?
Thanks much.
My thought is that this is turquoise. The bluish color of turquoise is due to the presence of copper, which is not present in variscite. Due to the absence of copper, variscite is greenish. The more copper present the bluer the turquoise. The greener turquoise has less copper and more zinc or iron. I’m no expert, I’m going by what ice learned over the years.
Per Hougart, there are 3 Native American artists using the JS
Good information to know. Thank you.
You mention Hougart’s book, so am guessing you believe it is a Native American piece? My own guess is Navajo.
Thanks again.
I have a James Shay cuff which has a similar hallmark. The letters are a bit closer and offset (J is higher than the S). I am also only familiar with his cuffs, which are nicely done.
