This is an incredible vintage Navajo turquoise slab earrings. These earrings are so extremely rare as they are a solid thick slab of Blue Diamond turquoise. Blue Diamond is a very rare mine making these earrings that much more unique. Each earring of beautiful turquoise measures around 2¾ X 19mm Sterling silver. The earrings weigh around 11.0 grams. The Blue Diamond Turquoise mine, situated in the Royston mining district outside of Austin, Nevada, has a rich history and is known for producing high-quality turquoise stones. As the turquoise from this mine has become increasingly rare, it has also grown more valuable, making it highly sought after by collectors and jewelry designers alike. In addition to the deep blue hues and black chert (mangonese) matrix, Blue Diamond turquoise occasionally features subtle green or brown tones, which add to its uniqueness and charm. The distinct coloration of the gemstone is attributed to the presence of copper, iron, and other trace elements found within the mine. The Blue Diamond mine is believed to have been initially discovered by miners searching for gold in the region. Over time, it gained a reputation for producing high grade turquoise, with its stones quickly finding their way into Native American jewelry. Despite its small entrance, the Blue Diamond mine has a complex system of tunnels and chambers, where skilled miners extract the precious turquoise. The mining process is labor-intensive and requires the use of hand tools to carefully remove the gemstones without damaging them. As an interesting side note, the term “hat mine” comes from the practice of miners using their hats to cover the entrance of small, valuable mines in order to keep their locations secret from others. In recent years, the Blue Diamond mine has faced several challenges, including stricter environmental regulations and the depletion of its turquoise reserves. These factors have contributed to the decline in production, making Blue Diamond turquoise even more valuable and rare on the market. Overall, the Blue Diamond Turquoise mine is a fascinating and important part of Nevada’s mining history, and its turquoise continues to captivate and inspire jewelry designers, collectors, and enthusiasts around the world.