2.5 Hour Turquoise Collecting Tour

Turquoise has long captivated the hearts and minds of jewelry enthusiasts. Now, travelers to Arizona can enjoy the world of this alluring gemstone with a 2.5-hour turquoise collecting tour. Led by a skilled artist, you will uncover the fascinating transformation of turquoise from raw mineral to stunning adornment. With behind-the-scenes access and the chance to collect their own treasures, this intimate tour offers a truly unique experience. What secrets will the Arizona landscape reveal about this captivating stone?

Key Points

• This 2.5-hour tour offers participants a behind-the-scenes look at the turquoise transformation process, including a demonstration by a turquoise artist.
• Participants will receive 10 pieces of turquoise to take home, highlighting the tour’s hands-on experience.
• The tour takes place in Arizona, USA, and requires a moderate level of physical fitness, including 1-1.5 miles of hiking and a 400-foot elevation gain.
• The tour operates on Monday from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM and Tuesday-Sunday from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM, with a maximum of 8 travelers per tour.
• The tour is highly rated, with a 5.0 rating from 7 reviews on Viator and Tripadvisor, and is priced from $60.00 per person.

Tour Overview

The Turquoise Collecting Tour offers a 2.5-hour experience in Arizona, USA, priced from $60.00 per person with a maximum of 8 travelers.

Participants will attend a 30-minute demonstration by a turquoise artist on cutting, polishing, and preparing the gemstone.

They’ll learn how turquoise transforms from a mineral to jewelry or art, and gain behind-the-scenes access to a jeweler’s studio.

Each person will leave with ten pieces of turquoise.

The tour has received 7 reviews with a 5.0 rating on Viator and Tripadvisor.

Experience Details

What can participants expect during the Turquoise Collecting Tour? The experience begins with a 30-minute demonstration by a turquoise artist on cutting, polishing, and preparing the gemstone.

Guests will learn how turquoise transforms from a raw mineral into jewelry or art. The tour also provides behind-the-scenes access to a jeweler’s studio.

The key highlights include:

1. Observing the intricate process of transforming turquoise into finished products.

2. Gaining an understanding of the geological and artistic aspects of turquoise.

3. Receiving ten pieces of turquoise to take home as a memento of the tour.

Meeting Information

Participants meet at 11724 N Ghost Town Trail, Elfrida, AZ 85610, USA.

They park uphill at the Courtland Ghost Town Visitor Center and Turquoise Gallery.

The tour returns to the meeting point upon completion. The meeting point and end point are the same location.

This tour operates on a Monday schedule from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, and a Tuesday through Sunday schedule from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM.

Tour dates are available from January 17, 2025, to February 19, 2026, subject to confirmation within 48 hours of booking and availability.

Tour Schedule

Confirmation of the tour is provided within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability.

The tour operates with the following schedule:

• Monday: 09:00 AM – 04:00 PM

• Tuesday – Sunday: 12:00 PM – 04:00 PM

• Tour dates: 1/17/2025 – 2/19/2026

This information provides potential travelers with clear expectations about tour availability and booking confirmation.

The consistent hours and extended tour dates offer flexibility for visitors to plan their turquoise collecting experience.

Physical Requirements

Although a moderate physical fitness level is required, the tour involves approximately 1 to 1.5 miles of moderate hiking round trip with a 400-foot vertical elevation gain.

The tour takes place at an elevation of about 5,200 feet, so visitors should be prepared for higher altitudes.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but service animals are allowed.

It’s not recommended for travelers with back problems or serious medical conditions.

Guests should have a moderate level of physical fitness to fully enjoy the tour’s activities and experiences.

Nearby Attractions

While on the Turquoise Collecting Tour, visitors can explore the nearby Courtland Ghost Town, which offers a glimpse into Arizona’s mining history.

Visitors to the Turquoise Collecting Tour can explore the nearby Courtland Ghost Town, offering a glimpse into Arizona’s mining past.

This once-thriving community, now preserved as a living museum, provides a unique opportunity to step back in time.

Visitors can:

1. Wander through the remnants of old buildings, saloons, and stores, imagining the bustling activity that once filled the streets.

2. Visit the Turquoise Gallery, housed in an authentic adobe structure, to learn more about the region’s rich mineral deposits.

3. Immerse themselves in the rugged beauty of the Chiricahua Mountains, where the tour takes place.

What to Bring

Visitors are advised to bring a few essential items for the Turquoise Collecting Tour. Comfortable, closed-toe hiking shoes are a must, as the terrain can be uneven.

A lightweight backpack or day bag is recommended to carry personal items and the turquoise specimens collected during the tour. Sun protection, such as a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen, is essential given the Arizona sun.

Bringing a reusable water bottle is advised, as hydration is crucial during the moderate hike. Finally, a small pouch or container to safely store the turquoise pieces is recommended.

With these items, visitors can fully enjoy the turquoise collecting experience.

Booking and Cancellation

Booking the Turquoise Collecting Tour is a straightforward process. Customers can easily reserve their spot by selecting their desired tour date and time on the website. Payment is secure and can be made online with a credit card.

The tour operator will send a confirmation email within 48 hours, subject to availability.

Some key details about booking and cancellation:

1. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour.

2. The tour operates on a set schedule, with availability Monday through Sunday.

3. Confirmation is provided within 48 hours, ensuring a seamless booking experience.

The Sum Up

The 2.5 Hour Turquoise Collecting Tour provides a unique opportunity to take in the art of turquoise jewelry-making. With a hands-on experience, travelers can learn about the transformation of this gemstone and take home their own collection of turquoise pieces. This intimate tour combines education, adventure, and creativity in the beautiful Arizona landscape, making it a must-visit for jewelry enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.