FAQs About Shopping For An 18-Inch Turquoise Pendant Necklace

Are you shopping for the perfect pendant? Whether you're buying a gift for someone special in your life or just treating yourself, take a look at what you need to know about a turquoise pendant necklace. 

What Is Turquoise?

You know turquoise as the vibrant blue-green that is often set into Native American or Southwestern American jewelry. But what else should you learn about the gemstone before you invest in a turquoise large pendant necklace? 

Turquoise isn't a new trend in jewelry. People have worn this stone for more than 5,000 years, according to the International Gem Society (IGS). The IGS notes that the ancient Egyptians mined and used turquoise as far back as 3,000 BCE. The ancient cultures of China, Persia, and medieval Europeans also used this stone. 

While turquoise is traditionally known as a blue-green stone, the color of each gem can vary. Some turquoise jewelry boasts deeper blue or blue-violet colors. But others have greener or yellowish-green stones. Turquoise mined in America usually has the characteristic green-blue hue, according to the IGS. Along with color variations, turquoise may also vary in pattern. The stones may have a pure, uninterrupted hue or a brownish-black matrix pattern. 

Why Choose A Pendant Necklace?

Turquoise stones are set into different types of pieces of jewelry. This means you have plenty of choices, including pendant necklaces. Even though pendants and necklaces are often used interchangeably, the two pieces are not the same. A necklace is a round, rope-like chain, strand, or string that goes around your neck. The pendant is an item that hangs on (and down from) the necklace. 

There isn't one universal reason to choose a pendant-style necklace. Different people have different jewelry preferences, making pendants a top selection for some—but not for others. If you've noticed your friend, significant other, or family member wearing similar types of drop necklaces, a turquoise pendant is an option to explore. Likewise, if you like the look of a dangling necklace, the pendant style is the right aesthetic match.

Which Length Is the Best Choice?

Why choose an 18 in turquoise pendant necklace? Again, like with the decision to add a pendant to the necklace, you won't find a one-size-fits-all answer to this question. The length of the necklace is also a personal preference. Other factors that go into choosing the length of the item also include the size of the person who will wear the piece and the occasion. 

A longer necklace may not sit correctly on a person with a shorter neck, torso, or overall frame. A smaller necklace may seem lost or have a less noticeable look on someone who is taller or has a longer torso and neck.