Turquoise is derived from the French expression Pierre Turque, meaning Turkish Stone.   However, turquoise doesn’t come from Turkey.  While much turquoise was traded in Turkey, the items bought and sold probably originated in Iran or the Sinai Peninsula.  Turquoise has been found buried in Ancient Egyptian tombs, giving it the distinction of being one of the longest-loved gems in history. Where is Turquoise found? Turquoise is found in only a few places on earth. It …

Assay Office Birmingham were pleased to welcome so many visitors on its final general public Silver Visit of 2014.

It was great to meet the Chief Executive of LAPADA Rebecca Davies and Max Steigler, Membership Officer today at Assay Office Birmingham. [caption id="attachment_11157" align="aligncenter" width="403"] Rebecca was clearly keen to try out hallmarking at first hand! Carla then took both Rebecca and Max around the SafeGuard division, where they got the chance to find out how SafeGuard carries out valuations on customers’ jewellery, watches and silverware items. They also had a …