How To Style Native Turquoise Jewelry for Men

Turquoise is a vibrant blue-green stone that Native American artisans use extensively in their jewelry. For many Native American tribes, such as the Navajo and Pueblo, turquoise represents protection, healing, and wealth. This makes it a popular choice in jewelry for men who want to show off their status or carry a "good luck" charm believed to protect them from harm and bring prosperity.

But since turquoise is a fairly unique stone with a bold, distinctive look, it can be difficult to style. These tips for styling Native turquoise jewelry for men will help you incorporate this natural stone into your everyday attire.

Keep It Simple With a Statement Piece

You don't have to go overboard with turquoise; it stands out even in small doses. A single, eye-catching item like a turquoise ring or cuff bracelet can add a pop of color and personality to your outfit without overwhelming it. Going minimal lets the jewelry do the talking.

Consider a large turquoise stone set in sterling silver, which is a classic combination in Native American jewelry. The coolness of the silver complements the warmth of the turquoise, so the piece stands out. You can wear this statement accessory with a simple outfit, like a white T-shirt and dark jeans, to draw attention to it.

Layer Beads With Metals

Don’t be afraid to mix your beaded turquoise pieces with metals. Layering a turquoise bracelet with a silver chain or a leather band creates a textured, dynamic look. The contrast between the materials adds depth to your style.

For example, you could stack a slim turquoise bead bracelet next to a chunky silver watch. This combination balances the ruggedness of the stone with the sleekness of the metal. Or, you can try pairing a turquoise necklace with a simple gold or silver chain, which, by providing contrast, allows both pieces to shine without competing.

Match With Your Outfit's Color Palette

Turquoise pairs well with a variety of colors, especially earthy tones like brown, beige, olive green, and denim blue. These colors create a natural backdrop that allows the bright blue-green color of the stone to pop.

For example, a turquoise bolo tie would pair well with a chambray shirt and tan chinos. The harmonious colors create a cohesive and polished look. Similarly, a turquoise ring would look sharp against a dark brown leather jacket because the cool, vibrant blue of the turquoise creates a striking contrast with the warm, earthy tone of the dark brown leather. This color combination is visually appealing and sophisticated.

For metals, turquoise is most often set in silver, which beautifully complements its cool tones. But pairing it with warmer metals like gold or copper can create a deep contrast that adds a unique warmth and richness to the piece. Keep this in mind when selecting your turquoise pieces or pairing them with other jewelry.

Dress It Up for Formal Occasions

Turquoise jewelry isn't just for casual wear; you can absolutely incorporate it into your formal attire. If you want to showcase your personality while keeping things polished and professional, a small, well-chosen turquoise accessory can be the perfect statement piece.

For instance, turquoise cufflinks with a crisp white shirt and a navy suit can be a refined choice. The small flash of color on your wrists adds a point of interest to an otherwise traditional outfit. You could also choose a sleek turquoise tie bar, which keeps your look sharp while providing a pop of style.

Maintain Balance

When you're wearing multiple pieces of jewelry, you need balance. If you have a large, attention-grabbing turquoise necklace, you might want to stick to smaller, more understated pieces on your wrists and fingers. The goal is to create a look that feels intentional, not cluttered.

Suppose you're wearing a bold turquoise cuff on one wrist. You could balance it with a simple silver ring on the opposite hand. Or, if you're wearing a large turquoise bolo tie, you could pair it with a more subtle silver buckle on your belt. Pairing accessories this way keeps the look balanced and stylish, without overwhelming the eye.

Consider the Occasion

The type of turquoise jewelry you wear can depend on the setting. For a casual day out, a beaded turquoise bracelet or a pendant necklace works well. These pieces are laid-back and easy to wear.

For a business-casual environment, you might choose a more polished piece, like a sleek turquoise ring or a subtle bracelet. In more formal situations, as mentioned earlier, smaller accents like cufflinks or a tie clip provide a touch of refined elegance. Tailoring your jewelry to the occasion shows that you have a keen sense of style.

Embrace the Western Vibe

Native turquoise jewelry became a key part of Western American culture through trade networks between Indigenous tribes and settlers in the 19th century. As turquoise was seen as both a spiritual and protective stone, it gained popularity among cowboys, miners, and ranchers, becoming a symbol of the rugged Western identity.

You can lean into this aesthetic by pairing your jewelry with Western-inspired clothing, like denim shirts, leather boots, and suede jackets. For example, a classic turquoise and silver belt buckle paired with a good pair of jeans and a plaid shirt is a timeless Western outfit. You don’t have to go full cowboy, but incorporating a few Western elements can make your turquoise jewelry feel right at home.

Wear It With Confidence

Ultimately, the most important tip is to wear your turquoise jewelry with confidence. Your personal style is a reflection of who you are, so if you love a piece, wear it proudly. When you feel good in what you're wearing, it shows.

Bring It All Together

Native turquoise jewelry for men may seem difficult to style at first. It's a distinctive stone with a prominent color and strong presence, but with these tips, you can incorporate it into casual, formal, and semi-formal stylings with ease.

At John Henry Co., we carry men's Native American jewelry, including turquoise jewelry, for those who want powerful, meaningful accessories to wear. All our artisanal pieces are handmade by Navajo artists and have a rich and unique story behind them. Come and explore our collection, and don't hesitate to reach out if you'd like more information on any of our fine accessories.