Matrix is the host rock that turquoise forms inside, and whether you want it is the first real decision in buying feroza. Some buyers pay more to avoid it and want an even, unbroken face. Others pay more to have it, because the brown webbing is proof the stone came out of the ground rather than out of a mould. This is the most heavily matrixed stone we carry, and it is unapologetic about it.

This stone's numbers

9.60 carats, which is 10.55 ratti. Rs. 7,200, about Rs. 750 per carat — the highest rate per carat in our feroza range. Reference GS-00025. Origin: Iranian. One piece, as photographed.

What the measurement says

We measured the photograph rather than describing it loosely. Brown matrix covers about 35% of this stone's face — more than a third, and the most of the four feroza we list, where the others run 8% to 27%. The turquoise itself is the least green of our stones: it reads −19 on the blue-minus-green scale, against −41 on our greenest. In plain terms this is the most blue-leaning feroza we have, though like all natural turquoise of this type it still sits on the green side of the scale rather than the pale blue end.

Why this one costs the most per carat

Colour, mainly. It is the cleanest, most evenly turquoise body in our range, and the matrix is attractive rather than muddy — distinct tan and brown webbing with definition, not a smeared brown wash. Across our feroza the rate runs from about Rs. 298 to Rs. 750 per carat, and this stone sits at the top of it.

What to look at when buying feroza

1. Colour evenness. Patchy, chalky areas are the commonest fault. An even body reads far better once it is set.
2. Matrix, as a preference not a fault. Decide whether you want it. Neither answer is wrong, but it changes what you should pay.
3. Hardness. Feroza rates 5 to 6 on the Mohs scale, which is soft. It needs a protective setting and a careful owner.
4. Whether it is turquoise at all. Dyed howlite and magnesite, reconstituted turquoise powder and plain plastic are all sold under this name.

Treatment — what we know and what we do not

This stone has not been tested, and the specification sheet says exactly that. The treatment to understand in feroza is stabilisation: a clear resin worked into the pores so the stone is harder and holds its colour. It is common, it is accepted when declared, and it is not the same thing as dyeing. What is not acceptable is dyed howlite sold as turquoise, or reconstituted powder pressed into a block. Independent laboratory testing can be arranged before dispatch — ask us and we will organise it.

Care, which matters more than most people expect

Feroza is porous. It absorbs skin oils, perfume, soap and cosmetics, and over years that can change its colour. Put it on after perfume and lotion, not before. Take the ring off to wash. Clean it with a soft dry cloth only — no ultrasonic cleaner, no steam, no hot water, no household chemicals.

More on feroza

The feroza quality guide covers matrix and colour grading, the real or fake guide covers the imitations, and the price guide explains the rates. Feroza is among the most worn of the Islamic gemstones, and the feroza page covers the tradition. The rest of the range is on the feroza collection page.

Ordering

One piece only. Flat Rs. 500 delivery anywhere in Pakistan by insured, tracked courier, dispatched in one to two working days. Cash on Delivery — open the parcel and look at the stone before you pay — and seven days to return it unused. Dimensions have not been recorded; message us on WhatsApp at +92 308 887 3888 and we will measure it before you order.

This particular stone

This listing is one natural feroza with a weight of 9.6 Carat. Its price is Rs. 7,200 — roughly Rs. 750 for each carat. Origin: Iran. Treatment: treatment not tested. Quote reference GS-00025 when you message us about it. The photographs show this exact stone, so what arrives at your door is the piece you chose on screen.

From six carats up a stone becomes the centre of attention. It wants a broader shank or a secure claw setting and suits an occasion ring, a signet or a centre pendant. Clean natural material of this size turns up far less often, and the per-carat rate reflects that.

On the Mohs scale feroza rates 5 to 6. That makes it soft for a gemstone, better suited to pendants, earrings and rings for special occasions than to a daily ring. Keep it away from perfume, cleaning products, steam and ultrasonic cleaners, and polish it with a dry, soft cloth after wear.

Whoever you buy feroza from, make sure of three things: the stone is natural rather than lab-grown, glass or glass-filled; any treatment is stated in writing; and the weight quoted is the weight of the finished stone. We check every feroza for those three points before it is listed, a certificate is available on request, and because you pay on delivery you can look at the stone — or have it tested — before any money changes hands.

We sell natural stones only and inspect each one before it is listed. Treatment for this stone: Treatment not tested. Certificate available on request. As general background (not a statement about this stone): Most turquoise (feroza) is stabilised with resin to harden it; natural, unstabilised feroza is rarer and costs more. Ask us on WhatsApp and we will tell you what we know about this exact stone; independent lab testing is available on request.

A certificate of authenticity is available on request for this stone, and independent laboratory testing can be arranged. Because you pay on delivery, you can also take the stone to a lab of your choice within the 7-day return window. Read more on our authenticity page.