Most noteworthy, just South of Santa Fe, is the town of Cerrillos. As a matter of fact, it is a famous area for Cerrillos turquoise. Moreover, it is accessible from State Highway 14. To say nothing of, people refer to the Highway as “The Turquoise Trail”. In addition, Cerrillos is on the scenic road from Santa Fe to Albuquerque. Consequently, it is closer to Santa Fe. Ironically, it was once seriously considered as the capitol of New Mexico. Furthermore, today Cerrillos, with its dirt streets, is a reminder of the Old West. In addition, there are artifacts indicating that Indians find turquoise in this area at the Mount Chalchihuitl site. 

Most relevant, Mount Chalchihuitl dates back to 900 AD and work is  extensive during 1300-1400’s AD. It is the oldest turquoise property in the Cerrillos Hills.

   

Antique shop in the old town in New Mexico

The rock Opera House in Cerrillos, New Mexico. Correspondingly, Stephen B Elkins builds this building to encourage the development of his new town. Notably, it prior to 1884 William C. Hurt acquires the opera house. Consequently, he is an ex-confederate soldier from Tennessee who comes to New Mexico for his health. Finally, Sarah Bernhardt is among the many who performed at Hurt’s Hall.

Cerrillos Turquoise from the source. Again, it is a light blue/green turquoise in light to rust color host rock.

In conclusion, this is a large specimen of Cerrillos Turquoise. Consequently, I purchase this specimen from a friend who had lives in Santa Fe, New Mexico in the 1970’s.  As a matter of fact, he  purchases this impressive specimen from “Indian Fred” who was a famous local character around Santa Fe, New Mexico back in the day.

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