Totally Turquoise: The Vintage Favorite is Back In Style

Becky Ellis

For decades, turquoise has been riding the trend wave. One year it's all the rage for bold statement jewelry and eclectic accessories, the next it's seen as tacky and granola. If you loaded up on the stuff while it was in the trend valley, you'll be in good shape in 2010: Pantone named turquoise the color of the year. 

This trend isn't just vintage - turquoise has been a hot accessory since 5500 B.C. when it was worn by Egypt's Queen Zer. It has been found in ancient cultures from the Middle East, the Americas, Asia and Europe. Some scholars think that the robe worn by the high priest Aaron in the Bible was decorated in turquoise, and philosophers like Aristotle make mention of stones that must have been it as well. More recently, it came into fashion in the U.S. in the 1920s, when the Native American squash-blossom necklaces became popular souvenirs for those touring the southwest. This lasted until around 1940 when many craftsman stopped making them because of the amount of labor and turquoise they require. The 60s and 70s saw a resurgence of turquoise jewelry, and they became a favorite of the hippie-chic set. It went out of fashion again the in the prep-tastic Regan years. 

Now, turquoise is back again. Raid the jewelry boxes of your mother and grandmother and buy a few new pieces of your own; whether it's in or out at any given moment, it's clearly a trend with longevity behind it. And if wearing the latest looks isn't motivation enough, the Healing Power of Stones says that turquoise will help with depression and bestow the wearer with self-confidence. 

1. Jewelry from Egypt's Queen Zer
2. 1960s Vintage Native American Squash Blossom Necklace $759
3. Vintage Fine 14K Gold Turquoise Diamond Ring Band $389
5. 1940'S Vintage Turquoise 925 Sterling Silver Necklace $1163
6. Vintage Sterling Turquoise Bracelet Mexico $75