Kingman Turquoise Mine
Prehistoric Roots: The site was first mined by prehistoric Native American tribes (such as the Hohokam) as early as 600 A.D.. Early miners used stone tools and fire-setting techniques (heating rock with charcoal, then quenching with water) to extract the turquoise.Commercial Mining: Modern commercial operation began in the late 1880s. It is one of the last remaining, consistently operating commercial turquoise mines in the United States.Production: The mine is considered one of the highest-producing mines in America, occasionally yielding large, valuable nuggets, which are rare in most other mines.The Colbaugh Family: The mine has been under the stewardship of the Colbaugh family since the 1960s. S.A. "Chuck" Colbaugh secured the mining contract in the early 1960s, and his family continues to operate it today
Artist/Author: Riverside May 6, 2026 |
