Lesson 1105: Turquoise in the Southwest - In The Americas with David Yetman

For millennia, turquoise has been the gemstone of choice for jewelers of the Southwest, a tradition that continues, even as the sources dwindle.

Learning Objective

Students will learn about the history and importance of turquoise in the Southwest United States.

People, Places & Environments: G, K

How do you become an expert in turquoise? What knowledge, skills, and training might you need and why?
What did you learn about turquoise mining from the video? What are the benefits of being a turquoise miner? Why or why not? Support your reasoning.
In your opinion, why has turquoise been precious to Native American tribes. What does the color signify and why is it important to them?
If you were selected to be the artist-in-resident, what would you want to make out of turquoise and why? What would your art symbolize?

Select one of the places mentioned in this video (Albuquerque, Bisbee, Tucson) and create a visitor’s guide. Tell where visitors might find turquoise and share highlights of the place.
You are a tour guide at the Arizona State Museum and have been asked to give a tour of the turquoise displayed at the museum to a small group of important visitors who do not live in the area. Create a speech with five facts about turquoise in the Southwest.
Research the mining industry in Bisbee including the Lavender Pit. Create a flow chart that shows the steps of how miners make turquoise.
You are a turquoise collector and would like to showcase your products. Create a display that includes at least five different products made from turquoise. Provide background information for each product including how it’s made and what makes it special.