Today, the four turquoise bracelets are protected by the Cairo Museum. Three of the turquoise bracelets featured beads of amethyst, gold, and lapis lazuli. It was obvious to the ancient artisans that turquoise harmonizes well with many other gemstones. The fourth bracelet was a little bit different. There were 14 turquoise and 13 gold little plates that alternated with each other. The beauty of the four Egyptian bracelets probably inspired variations of turquoise gold bracelets and turquoise cuff bracelets.
The Legend of the Navajos
The Navajos are Native Americans who have a colorfully rich culture. One legend, which was retold by Terri Cohlene for modern day readers, was about the Turquoise Boy. His father was the Sun Bearer and his mother was Changing Woman. He set out on a journey to achieve a noble goal, which is to make the lives of hardworking people more convenient. He met Mirage Man and the Talking Gods, visited the Turquoise Mountain, crossed a rainbow bridge, and eventually succeeded in creating a special gift for the people.
Obviously, there is no rainbow bridge, but Turquoise Mountain probably refers to an ancient turquoise mine. The success of the legendary Turquoise Boy inspired the Navajos to master craftsmanship. And to honor the noble Turquoise Boy, the Navajos will often include turquoise in their jewelry, particularly in their bracelets. There were also Navajo turquoise bracelets and other turquoise jewelry found in numerous burial sites.
Today, the fine craftsmanship of the Navajos in creating turquoise bracelets remains legendary. With the discovery of gold and silver mines in the 18th and 19th centuries, the Navajos incorporated these two precious metals with their favorite gemstones. They created silver turquoise bracelets and gold turquoise bracelets that remain gorgeous and valuable.
The Legend of You
Legends can still be created during these modern times. And it can begin with you and your turquoise bracelet! Your legend need not be about king Djer's healing powers, but it can include the luxurious elegance of designs of cuff bracelets made of turquoise. Your legend need not take you to a long journey, but it can demonstrate your sense of creativity in obtaining a sterling silver turquoise bracelet or a turquoise nugget bracelet that exemplifies your style and personality.
