Where to buy cheap turquoise?

[tealover34]

Does anyone know of where I could buy large, inexpensive turquoise? I want to try laser engraving some pieces and I'm predicting a lot of mess-ups. Any suggestions/links would be much appreciated! (or suggestions for other material to try laser-engraving, maybe large cheap amethyst?)

 

[T L]

Most turquoise is stabilized (impregnated with resin so it fills micro cracks and other cracks). It usually full of veins and cracks, so I’m not sure how well turquoise would hold up to carving or engraving . It’s often dyed as well, That being said, try Etsy or eBay for turquoise cabochons or rough material.

 

[2Neezers]

Local Rock & Mineral shows have lots of turquoise and amethyst and also have misc slabs. If you are in the US here is a list of upcoming shows. You can narrow it down by state at the top of the page http://www.rockngem.com/ShowDatesFiles/ShowDatesDisplayAll.php?ShowState=ALL