Editor’s Note
The closure of Arizona’s legendary Sleeping Beauty turquoise mine marks a significant shift in the gemstone world. This article explores the end of an era for this iconic source of pure sky-blue turquoise and its profound implications for the global market.
The world of gemstones and minerals has always thrived on the ebb and flow of unique sources, but few mines have left as profound an imprint as the Sleeping Beauty turquoise mine in Globe, Arizona. As of 2025, this legendary mine—famed for producing some of the purest, sky-blue turquoise—has officially ceased operations. The news of the Sleeping Beauty turquoise mine closure has not only shifted global supply and demand but also fundamentally altered the gemstone sector’s landscape. This pivotal closure is marking a significant turning point for miners, collectors, jewelers, and artisans worldwide, with reverberations expected through 2026 and beyond.
The immediate and long-term implications span economic, cultural, environmental, and market domains—impacting everything from global turquoise availability and pricing models to industry practices and indigenous heritage.
The Sleeping Beauty turquoise mine, located in Globe, Arizona, has long been celebrated for its unique geological attributes and cultural resonance in the gemstone world. Opened in the early 1970s, it quickly became a staple among global collectors, jewelers, and artisans due to the consistently high quality and stunning color of its turquoise. The mine’s historical roots run deep, not only as a resource of premium mineral material but as a symbol of Southwestern heritage and the American turquoise tradition.
The name “Sleeping Beauty” arises from the shape of the mountain above the mine, which resembles a sleeping woman. This romantic association helped its turquoise become iconic, with its clean, bright sky-blue hue seen as the ideal form of turquoise and emblematic of the American Southwest. Over decades, the mine significantly contributed to the local economy, supporting families, artisans, and indigenous communities. The premium turquoise from this mine was shipped worldwide, cementing its place as one of the finest sources in the global gemstone industry.
Sleeping Beauty turquoise stands apart due to its remarkable visual purity. Unlike turquoise from many other deposits, which often have heavy veining, matrix patterns, or mixed colors, the Sleeping Beauty variety is known for its solid, uniform blue appearance with minimal inclusions.
This distinct color and clarity made it a staple in Native American jewelry and contemporary gemstone design. The solid and clean turquoise was ideal for inlay work, cabochons, and statement pieces, fitting seamlessly with both traditional and modern aesthetics.
For decades, these unique characteristics meant that Sleeping Beauty turquoise set the gold standard in the gemstone industry, supporting not only designers but entire business models tied to Southwestern and Native American heritage and cultural importance.
The closure has reduced global turquoise supply by approximately 20%, resulting in increased prices, a shift toward alternative sources like the White Buffalo turquoise mine, and a surge in demand for vintage and recycled turquoise.
Supply has contracted, while the profile of vintage and recycled turquoise has soared. Artisans and collectors are emphasizing the provenance of their stones, driving a renaissance in recycled turquoise and vintage American jewelry. Pieces using certified Sleeping Beauty material have become investment assets, increasingly promoting recycled turquoise.
Vintage and recycled turquoise, including old-stock and sustainably sourced gemstones, are now seen as investment assets. As new design aesthetics, recycled materials, and technology-driven stewardship take hold, the legacy of Sleeping Beauty turquoise continues to inspire evolution and innovation. For communities, businesses, and market leaders, embracing responsible practices and diversifying both supply and design will be keys to navigating the future of the turquoise and broader gemstone market.