The Turquoise Bug

The elusive Godber Burnham Turquoise Bug. Photo Arland Ben.

Many have asked how I became interested in turquoise. While my initial interest came from the Bisbee cab I bought in Durango in the mid 70's my interest did not become serious until, on a visit to the southwest following my retirement from a thirty year career as a financial planner and investment advisor I got bit by a bug, the turquoise bug.

Beware that bite because, while my symptoms have only been very pleasant, you may find your self obsessed with this beautiful and magical stone. Pictured is the actual bug that bit me. Oh I know it looks like a happy turquoise fly flittering about with no care in the world but behind that bite lies a dedication to creating a collection of turquoise, the Callais Collection, learning how to cut turquoise, taught by the master cutter Bruce Mead, and the motivation to, with Philip Chambless, research, write and publish the only comprehensive history of turquoise, Turquoise in America Parts 1-3 covering 130 years of turquoise in America. Oh yeah, did I mention creating a library of over 180 videos and articles on turquoise?

Well if you have to get bit by a bug I can't imagine a better one than the turquoise bug.

Mike Ryan II

Santa Fe

July 2024