White Buffalo Cabochons

White Buffalo Stone is a naturally occurring combination of calcite, dolomite, and chert. Its high silica content gives it exceptional workability and a clean, lasting polish. We mine this material ourselves from our own claims in Nevada. White to cream body color with bold black and brown chert matrix and distinct patterning; not Turquoise, and not Magnesite, two distinctions that matter. A bold, high-contrast natural stone that silversmiths and jewelry makers reach for when they want something their customers will ask about by name.

Frequently Asked Questions About White Buffalo Cabochons

Is White Buffalo real turquoise?
Despite the nickname, White Buffalo is not turquoise. It is a magnesite-family stone from Nevada — closely related to magnesite or dolomite. Silversmiths work it the same way as turquoise and it pairs beautifully with turquoise for contrast, but mineralogically it is a different stone.
What is White Buffalo made of?
White Buffalo is a calcite-magnesite or calcite-dolomite stone. The white ground is the host mineral; the black, brown, or gold veining is the matrix. It is genuinely from Nevada — the source is sometimes called the White Buffalo mine.
Why is it called White Buffalo turquoise if it is not turquoise?
The name is a market convention from the Southwest jewelry tradition. The stone is found in turquoise-bearing regions, is cut by turquoise cutters, and is set by silversmiths who work primarily with turquoise. The 'turquoise' label is descriptive of its place in the jewelry world rather than its mineralogy.
Is White Buffalo valuable?
Yes. Genuine White Buffalo from Nevada is a collectible stone with a strong following. The contrast between the white ground and dark matrix creates a bold, graphic look that is distinct from any traditional turquoise. Quality pieces command meaningful prices.
What is White Buffalo good for?
White Buffalo pairs especially well with silver — the contrast highlights both the metal and the stone. Use it for statement rings, pendants, and pieces that need to read as something different from standard blue. It also works as a color contrast against turquoise in multi-stone designs.

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