What is White Buffalo Gemstone?
The White Buffalo Stone, an extraordinary gemstone, is exclusive to a single location. Don't be deceived by its nickname, "White Turquoise," because this stone possesses distinct qualities that make it exceptional. Its enchanting allure has made it highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts around the globe. According to legend, the revered white buffalo, a symbol of abundance, hope, and spiritual potency in Native American traditions, inspired the gem's name. With its striking black-and-white appearance, this stone is a favored option for Native American jewelry.
Determining White Buffalo Gem Value
The exquisite white buffalo gemstone is highly coveted by designers who seek to create one-of-a-kind jewelry pieces that capture the imagination. When assessing the value of this gem, three key factors come into play: color, cut, and clarity.
- White Buffalo Color
The white buffalo gem is a combination of calcite and quartz, which is typically found alongside black chert. Some specimens may have a black matrix with blotches or spider-web-like patterns, while others have distinct and well-defined areas of black and white. The unique vein of matrix found in the white buffalo gem is considered one-of-a-kind worldwide. However, no two white buffalo stones are exactly alike.
- White Buffalo Clarity
The clarity of white buffalo gemstones varies depending on the specimen, but generally, it has an opaque appearance. As a result, the clarity of the white buffalo gemstone can affect its value, with the most prized specimens exhibiting clear delineations between the black matrix and the white background. These well-defined patterns can give the gemstone a striking appearance, making it a popular choice for jewelry making.
- White Buffalo Cut
White buffalo stones can be cut into calibrated cabochons or free-form shapes to highlight their unique qualities. Then, skilled artisans carefully shape and polish each piece to create a work of art that showcases the natural splendor of the stone.
- White Buffalo Carat
White buffalo gemstones are available in larger sizes, and most stones are cut into cabochons at jewelry stores such as Shop LC. However, the gemstone is highly coveted by collectors due to its unique beauty. It's worth noting that the carat weight of white buffalo gemstones can vary significantly, ranging from as low as 0.25 carats up to as high as 15 carats.
White Buffalo Treatment
White buffalo gems can undergo stabilization to enhance their properties. This process improves the gemstone's hardness, density, and color to bring out its brilliance. Stabilization also reduces porosity, ensuring the gemstone retains its stunning appearance for years. So, whether you're a collector or appreciate the beauty of gemstones, a stabilized white buffalo gem will surely mesmerize you with its enduring allure.
Caring For White Buffalo
White Buffalo, with a Mohs hardness of 5 to 6 and relatively good toughness, requires proper care to maintain its beauty and durability. Standard gem and jewelry care is the best way to care for your stone. First, gently cleanse your gem using a soft-bristled brush; use warm water to clean it, then dry it with a soft cloth. Avoid ultrasonic or steam cleaners, as these devices can damage the stone and lead to external abrasions. Likewise, avoid heat or harsh chemicals, which can also damage gems’ appearance.
Store your white buffalo jewelry in a clean and dry place in a fabric-lined jewelry case or box with compartments and partitions to prevent jewels from scratching each other. Despite its moderate hardness and toughness, always handle your white buffalo gemstone carefully to avoid any potential damage or wear over time.
Who Can Wear White Buffalo Gem?
The white buffalo stone is a unique gemstone in a striking black-and-white color. This gemstone best suits statement pieces such as necklaces, pendants, and bracelets. Its bold appearance makes it a vital choice for those seeking to make a statement with their jewelry.
Due to its neutral color scheme, the white buffalo stone pairs well with various outfits and styles. It complements casual and formal attire, making it a versatile gemstone for any occasion. Pair the white buffalo stone with darker black, navy, or burgundy colors for a more dramatic look. Pair it with pastel shades or lighter colors such as pink, blue, or yellow for a softer and more feminine look.
The white buffalo stone's distinct appearance and symbolic significance make it a unique and meaningful choice for anyone who wants to add spiritual and cultural importance to their jewelry collection. In addition, its beauty ensures that it will be cherished for years.
How Does White Buffalo Compare to Other Stones?
White Buffalo Stone is a striking black-and-white gemstone with unique and bold patterns. In contrast, White howlite is a white or off-white gemstone with grey veining, resembling the appearance of natural white marble.
Furthermore, white howlite is often used as a substitute for other expensive white gemstones, such as white jade and even White Buffalo! In contrast, white buffalo stone is a unique gemstone, and is often used in Santa Fe Style jewelry.
Where Does White Buffalo Come From?
In 1993, the Otteson family, who had been prospecting for turquoise in the Dry Creek Mine in Tonopah, Nevada, for over five decades, stumbled upon something unexpected. It was a stone with a unique veiny property they had never seen before. At first, they assumed it was just a variation of turquoise, but upon closer inspection, they realized that they had unearthed something genuinely remarkable. This was the first discovery of what would later become known as the white buffalo stone, a gem of unparalleled beauty. During one of these expeditions, they stumbled upon a peculiar mineral that would change their lives forever.
How is White Buffalo Mined?
The white buffalo Stone, an exquisite gemstone, is typically mined through open pit mining and blasting in mines. An extensive excavation is made to access the gemstone deposits beneath the surface in open pit mining. This method is preferred when the deposits are close to the surface and can be accessed easily. On the other hand, blasting in mines involves drilling into the ground and inserting explosives to break up the rock and access the gemstone deposits. This method is typically used when the deposits are deeper underground and require more extensive excavation. Both methods require careful planning and execution to ensure workers' safety and preserve the gemstones' quality. Despite the challenges of mining this gemstone, the allure of the white buffalo Stone continues to captivate collectors and enthusiasts alike.
White Buffalo Gem Properties
What Does White Buffalo Gem Mean?
White buffalo stone is believed to possess several properties, making it a popular choice among those seeking spiritual and emotional healing. First, the gem is said to have purifying qualities that can help clear negative energy, making it a powerful strengthening stone.
Historically, it has been used as an amulet for protection, thanks to its ability to absorb negative energy with its pure properties. In addition, the gem is said to aid communication, making it a valuable tool for those looking to improve their interpersonal relationships.
Finally, white is traditionally associated with purification and symbolizes new beginnings and forgiveness, which many people hold dear. Overall, the white buffalo stone is a unique and highly valued gem that has captured the attention of those seeking to improve their well-being on multiple levels.
Disclaimer: Use of any stone or mineral is not a substitute for professional medical care or treatment, and nothing herein constitutes medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Information provided should not be used to treat any illness, injury, medical condition, or ailment without consulting a qualified health professional.
Is White Buffalo A Birthstone?
Unlike most gemstones, the white buffalo gem has not been assigned to any month, making it a unique and versatile choice for jewelry designers and enthusiasts. Its beauty has captured the attention of many, regardless of their birth month or astrological sign.
White Buffalo Facts
- Ranks 3.5 to 4.5 on the Mohs scale of hardness.
- The gemstone is characterized by its white and black matrices, with no two identical stones.
- The primary source of white buffalo gems is Nevada, USA.
- Stabilization is a standard treatment method to enhance the stone's durability and appearance.