Turquoise Museum

I don’t understand some of these one star reviews or some of the other complaints. I bought my timed ticket easily and arrived 10 minutes before my scheduled time slot. You receive an email that gives you all the details you need. My guess is that people don’t read it. Using google maps to find the museum was easy in my opinion. There is a decent sized sign that says Turquoise Museum parking so I’m not sure why people have trouble finding the place. This is a private museum and they can make all the rules they want. It’s basically a private collection. If you don’t like the rules, don’t go. Anyway, I loved walking around the rooms. There’s a lot of information on turquoise itself and many displays of jewelry made of turquoise. I roamed around for over an hour. I forgot the names of the owner and proprietor but they were extremely helpful when I had wanted to get a necklace evaluated for their $35 feet (there are other options). They were honest and didn’t charge me as my necklace wasn’t worth evaluating. I stayed for quite a while talking to staff. It was worth visiting in my opinion.

This museum has it all when it comes to Turquoise. ALL. Order tickets ahead and be ready when it's time to enter. Don't get miss your appointment.

I’m a huge crystal, rock, and mineral nerd since I was a kid, and I found the museum delightful. The mansion it’s housed in alone is a sight worth seeing, and it’s enchanting. The turquoise collection went above and beyond my expectations. It had everything—from art to fashion, from ancient to contemporary, from artifacts to raw and polished specimens. There was even a collection of imitation turquoise. You learn how it’s gathered and mined and treated. There was so much in the museum that was impressive, breathtaking, really artful, or just worth seeing, like the George Washington Stone. They had specimens with history from many mines, so I even left with an idea of what my favorite locales and quality of turquoise are. There’s history and art with turquoise all around the world. There’s so much cool art in this museum. It was well worth admission price. I learned a lot. I also like how it was organized. You watch a short orientation video in the beginning that shows you where to go, then you’re on your own to wander. They have QR codes, but I prefer reading plaques, which they had plenty of. I thoroughly enjoyed all the different rooms and exhibits. Then there’s the gift shop, which also exceeded expectations. They have expensive, impressive high quality specimens and jewelry. They also have affordable pieces, antique jewelry, and even imitation pieces. The man working in the gift shop, Mario, was really knowledgeable and friendly. The stuff they had was so good, so I was very indecisive! But I ended up with two beautiful raw specimens and an antique ring. The owners and staff were all very welcoming and I think they’ve made this private museum a really lovely, informative, interactive museum. If you love art, history, minerals, jewelry, fashion, or architecture, this museum has something to impress you. A really fun experience. I’d definitely come again, both to spoil myself in the gift shop and soak up more of the museum and learn more. There was plenty to see and learn.

I was on the fence about this based on some comments. My husband and I LOVED this museum! We spent 4 hours here and could have stayed longer. Curators were on site and so helpful. Loved watching the polishing/cut. Learned a lot, and the inventory is thoughtfully displayed, interesting, and vast. We enjoyed it enough that we would consider returning.

Critique: Have to show up 10 minutes beforehand, opened 8 mins beforehand. Immediately in the gift shop. Corralled outside so you are kind of punished for being timely. The lady came out 4 minutes past. For a company that will void your ticket if you are late, it seems these rules do not apply to themselves. Forced to watch an unnecessary museum explanation video that leaves one tired after seeing it. Terrible use of space. They've filled up someone's testament to wealth with even more tat to the point of it being tawdry. You don't get to see the entire castle. It is human to want to see the highest view and they don't make that available. There are some good example pieces but there's nothing that one can't see at Gertrude Zachary or the Palms. The price is UNTENABLE. Explanation: There's so much opportunity to make this space more lovely and it is being squandered. The roses in the gardens are cut down to the wick, taking no account of cane growth. Theres giant planters, empty. Make the castle grand, it's a castle. I don't need it to be filled with antiques. I just need it to be filled with turqoise. Re-do the signs so it doesn't seem like you used Microsoft PowerPoint in 2010. Light the "mine tunnel" with under lighting. Make it so I can't see the light chords go into the display case for the Washington Stone. Don't leave soda cans everywhere. Use the dead space, make it more human where you can see something new each time by wandering. Put up false backing over the stove and dishwasher in the science room.

Absolutely had a great time here!!! Not a place you can go once and see/ know even a quarter of the history behind turquoise, mining, artifical, etc. I definitely plan to come back and do a bit more!!! They are very QR code based so try to ensure your phone is charged and your camera can read codes lol. I didn't mind that aspect as it did leave a lot of room for more jewelry and displays. So much to learn there and worth the trip. Yes you do pay online for a ticket and need to arrive at least 10 minutes before your time, but you can stay as long as you want till closing so honestly it's worth it to me.

If you like turquoise or jewelry this museum is probably a five-star for you. They have a fairly unfriendly online requirement ticket policy and only unlock the doors for a few minutes to let people inside. They say everyone must watch the 10-minute video and it is only shown every 30 minutes. They can only sell as many tickets as seats in the room with the TV for the video. If you are not there when the video starts you miss your spot and are out your money. Overall: huge collection and too much to learn. A poor method of dealing with potential customers. If you think you will leave with the knowledge of how to identify natural turquoise, you will not.

Worth it! The whole reason I went to the turquoise museum was to see the inside of that mansion! I didn’t really know anything about turquoise. I was surprised when the tour was top notch. The guide was a miner, super knowledgeable. It was a treat. I thought I would be board, I was not! Guide was excellent and fun. The history was awesome. House was cool too. A must do. Wait till you get upstairs, wow! I did drool on the jewelry case. Nice!

This is a comprehensive, family owned museum all about turquoise! The collection is vast with a multi faceted view of turquoise across time and the world! I really appreciated the opportunity to visit this museum and learn more about turquoise and more.

Absolutely fascinating! Truly every thing to to about all the different kinds of turquoise. There were a lot of fantastical pieces of art and sculpture to see and a lot of knowledge to gain. I can now tell real turquoise from fake. A great skill to acquire. This place is really a must see. Probably the most interesting museum I've been to.

We were here with Fantasy RV tours. The museum was so interesting and all the staff were so knowledgeable and nice. Lots to see and lots to learn.

Amazing experience at the Turquoise Museum! I always loved turquoise growing up because of Tibetan Buddhism's influence on my upbringing, and I was happy to learn more about the turquoise mine, trade, their presence in different cultures, and even more, about how non-natural turquoise is made, all from the museum. The museum's collection is extensive, and one could easily spend hours immersed in the beauty and stories behind these treasures. In the end, I also select a piece of jewelry for myself from their gift shop. The Turquoise Museum is a must-see for both turquoise enthusiasts and those interested in the cultural and historical significance of this precious stone.

I arrived at 2:02 pm for a 2 pm tour. I had purchased my ticket online in advance. The executive director indicated the doors were locked at 2:01 pm, and I would not be allowed in the museum. I could transfer the ticket to the next day, but I was flying home. NO consideration was given to me to allow me to meet my group. My ticket is now void, and no refund will be issued. Watch the fine print on this museum's ticketing site, and don't ignore the email they send you. Bottom line, DON'T BE LATE - not even one minute!!

Tried to go check this place out, google said it was open. This guy (who I assume is the owner) barricaded our truck in his lot without telling us anything at all. I rolled down my window to see what the heck was going on and asked if everything was okay. He then threatened us that we "better get the hell off his property. I asked him politely why he didn't just ask us to leave instead of barricading us in, because apparently the store was being remodeled. He proceeded to tell us to get the hell of his property and acted as if we were directly attacking his business and that we saw the signs that it was private property and that we shouldn't be there. But the signs said that it was private property for the turquoise museum! which is where we were trying to go. I was able to convince him to remove the barricade so he could let us "leave his damn property." The whole thing was very weird. Would not recommend unless you're into hostage situations. 1/10

Truly trippy. This place is one of a kind and so incredibly beautiful. It's extremely educational and perfect for the museum goer who wants something fresh. I love the turquoise museum and will be returning.

First, you see the spectacular castle in all of its glory, built by Gertrude Zachary as her main residence. Second, as you approach the front door, a young dapper gentleman dressed in top hat and tails greets you. He happens to be the executive director of the museum! You walk in and have escaped into another world of beautiful architecture, I want to say, of early 1900s French Colonial style, loads of turquoise, and many chandeliers. Right up front, they showcase the Hope Diamond of turquoise -- George Washington Stone -- which is quite spectacular in size and beauty. There's a beautiful goblet jeweled in turquoise. They have a face bust made of turquoise. They have a small room filled with fake turquoise and show you the differences to look for. It's an impressive collection exhibited in a beautiful space. It's one place that should be on your shortlist of things to see in Albuquerque.

We really enjoyed the museum. We did the self guided tour and you can really spend 45 mins (as we did) or a day. The museum starts in an old blacksmith building then you head over to the "castle" - a beautiful home of it's own right. There is a recreated mine and more examples of stone and Jewely than you can imagine. Staff (really the owners) are lovely and ensure questions are answered. It was a nice visit.

I'm sorry, I tend to keep a sunny attitude but today was just bull!! I can't review the museum itself, but I can express our frustration with its logistics. We've been wanting to go to the Turquoise museum for some time now. Not only is turquoise my natural birthstone, I'm familiar with various source locations in AZ. My brother and an uncle are silversmiths too. So today was finally a chance to visit the museum. I checked online for the hours for today (Saturday), making sure it was open. We drove all the way down from RR. Got there and the door was locked. I checked the info on maps, 5:00 listed for closing today. I thought this is odd, maybe we're at the wrong door. We see a sign for "Showtime entrance times" and that tickets had to be purchased before. WTF!! Never saw anything about this. No, I didn't go to their website, why would I? It's a freaking museum not a sideshow or immersion event. It's quite common to just go to a MUSEUM and just buy admission to the building. Easy Peasy!! Its privately owned which makes sense that it's so ridiculous. Just hope they do something so others don't have the same disappointment that we experienced.

I loved this museum! The history and the information that's provided is exceptional. It's family owned and operated and they are very informative beyond information displayed at each exhibit. Highly recommend attending!

More like a Turquoise Temple, than a Museum. Turquoise is a gem that most in America associate exclusively with the Native American culture. Here you learn that is in fact a gemstone that is admired and used throughout the world. Additionally, its use and value as a gemstone dates back to the beginnings of using gems in jewelry to adorn ourselves. A visit to the Turquoise Museum is a an immersive education in this beautiful material. Lots of 'tutorial' and informative descriptions and tales are sprinkled throughout this quirky and illuminating place. The experience will dissolve what you think you know about Turquoise! Highly recommend a visit!

My daughter and I have been road tripping together and we look for interesting places to experience and explore. The Turquoise Museum is one of those stops. Joshua and his 5 generations family story is amazing. The exbit is over 3 tons of Turquoise from all over the world. Truly if you take your time thru the museum you will learn so much. At the end of your like me I needed a certified piece to take home. Enjoy the gift shop, you won't be disappointed

Every summer as a child we would visit Arkansas and we would stop at the Mule trading post. My sisters and I had save money throughout the year so we could purchase a turquoise ring. So I drug my husband to this place and he loved it. Very knowledgeable staff and they had lots to display.

Beautiful building. A lot to look at. You start off my watching a video then you are left to explore. 4/5 stars due to the price. $20/person is a little too steep for me.

Love love love love this place!! Yelp doesn't typically get things wrong. But for whatever reason this Museum is misrepresented. Visit this location. I promise it is worth the entrance fee and is far better than any reviews you may have read. First of all, it is located in a fabulous house in downtown Albuquerque. The house is beautiful on its own, but the fact that it is filled with beautiful and informational turquoise displays makes it that much better. The house includes beautiful chandeliers, staircases, and stained glass. The turquoise displays teach the viewer about the world, culture, and of course turquoise. There are also interactive exhibits throughout the museum that allow a visitor to touch the turquoise. I found this really interesting and enjoyable - I didn't know there would be so many ways to actually engage with the turquoise. As you walk around you become entranced by the beautiful jewelry and cultural pieces. You almost can't help but wish to own a piece. There is a super fun gift shop with unique turquoise pieces and very helpful staff. I don't know if I would feel driven to revisit the museum unless I was bringing guests. But I could imagine visiting the gift shop again. Further, I am already planning to give my significant other a list of items I liked in the gift shop. Ha!

Wonderful museum, engaging and educational. Quite a collection and the castle is beautiful!!

We were looking for something to do this weekend other than just hanging out. We had never been to the museum before so decided to schedule a visit. We booked the 0930 Saturday tour on Friday evening. Our tour had 3 people participating. Jacob led our tour and was absolutely delightful- engaging, funny and knowledable. We will definitely be back and will bring out of town company to the museum. Highly recommend for both people who live in the area as well as those visiting. Educational, interesting and Engaging.

Great museum. Gives in depth information into how turquoise is found, where and how to tell real from fake. Some very beautiful jewelry is on display from all over the world. Be prepared to spend a couple hours there

Absolutely loved the museum! Joe Dan was incredibly kind and gracious, and made this experience truly memorable for me and my partner Daniel. One of a kind, that stirred both my heart and my spirit. I will never forget my time there. Mario in the gift shop was amazing and super helpful. I was guided to this "hidden gem" and recommend Turqouise Museum as a must experience.

A great place to visit with well designed galleries and a lot of turquoise to see! A friendly family-owned business. The museum is in a beautiful historic building. There is also a gift shop with a lot of beautiful turquoise jewelry too.

When I came to this museum in its last location (they moved in 2018, apparently), it was super interesting, quirky, and certainly worth a visit. Now, however, they require you to buy advanced tickets and only pay the last visitors come at 2 pm (even though it says it is open). I saw others expressing frustration, and would make two additional comments: if the owners have not gotten Apple to change their maps listing for 10 years, they have not tried very hard, it's an easy process in my experience. Lastly, they need to change the name: it's not a museum, it's a show or an experience if someone needs to buy tickets in advance and there are only certain show times. Change the name, improve your listing, and stop making it so difficult for people to enjoy! Big big big disappointment!

I knew nothing about turquoise going in and feel like I know even less now, but that's just because I have a new understanding of how complex this gemstone actually is. This museum is unusual, but fascinating. It's family run and you'll meet members of the family and learn their 5-generation turquoise history while you're there. An enjoyable way to spend an hour or two (or lots more if you want to dig really deep into the subject).

Very interesting as overview of turquoise Lots of displays of turquoise from around the world and no it is not all the same Good value

We toured the museum last week with our group of 58 people. Everyone raved about the collection and we're fascinated by the building. The collection has no rival in the world. The information about turquoise as a precious stone is vast so you can learn as much as you want or as little. Jacob is the most gracious host and the whole Lowry family welcomes you with open arms. Highly recommend the museum be one of your first stops on any tour of the southwest if you plan to buy turquoise jewelry while here. Oh did I say they have a great gift shop where you can rest assured that you know what you are buying.

We were very pleasantly surprised by the quality of the exhibits and the customer care. The owner of the business was on-site with great information about the turquoise industry, the science and the uses of turquoise over the year and around the globe. I recommend.

The only turquoise museum in the US. If' an amazing experience to see stones from all over the world. The owners are very friendly and knowledgeable. Great place to take visitors.

Cool building. Interesting displays. If you have any interest in geology, jewelry, or New Mexico history, this is a great place to spend a couple of hours, and a few hundred bucks! They also have an excellent "gift" shop with lots of great turquoise jewelry. Once you've been through the museum and attended a workshop, you'll have the knowledge you need to make a smart purchase.

If you are at all interested in Turquoise (the stone), you've got to visit this museum! Here you will see more turquoise, classified primarily by mine, than you've ever seen in one place before. The home that houses this vast collection is very interesting as well although I must admit my eyes rarely moved away from the many cases of beautiful turquoise and fabulous pieces of jewelry fashioned from it! And you will have one of the worlds most prominent turquoise authorities, Joe Dan Lowry, right there to answer all your questions! What more could you ask for??? I strongly recommend this museum!

Okay so my experience had expectations and I was underwhelmed. Honestly the house was more impressive than the museum and the cost of it. $20.00...why? When doing the 6 minute informational video there was a clear direction of don't touch this don't touch that don't do this or that. In a room filled with chairs and pamphlets I settled in. During a break, walking around the room looking at items I saw convent/monastery seats hand carved and without a sign or posting don't touch. Plus it hand pamphlets all over them. I picked up the pamphlet and lifted the foldable seat. After all again it was not restricted in any away and in a sitting room. All of a sudden one of the owners walked in and gave me a scolding that was uncalled for. Especially considering it wasn't restricted plus it was in a sitting room. Anyhoo I followed directions again and did the tour. But was then later approached by the same man in the museum with a comment of are you touching anything again? Was that necessary? Do you know me like that? No and no. And I'm not sensitive to rules but I don't know you like that and you don't know me like that. Moving on. Overall and okay experience.

Beautiful museum with great layout, all types of turquoise, knowledgeable staff. Well worth at least two hours of your time. Even if you don't have time to visit, check out the amazing mural outside.

An amazing experience! The Turquoise Museum is so well curated, it is a dazzling feast for the eyes. Gem grade turquoise for the discerning eye and beautifully displayed, throughout this stunning museum. Turquoise is a subject very dear to my heart and I purchased a yearly membership because I could not take it all in, during one visit. The Lowry Family has created a world class exhibit worthy of the finest museums. Jacob Lowry, the museum's executive director, is so knowledgeable and happy to answer any of your questions! This will be a delightful afternoon, for your out of town guests. I know I plan on entertaining many friends here, on their next visit! 5 Stars

Super neat and interesting place to visit. The gift shop is a great place to window shop around in to after your self guided tour. I wish that the price for a professional style camera permit wasn't sooo pricey but otherwise it's a neat little visit. Also has some great shooting spots around the area if you are willing to pay the permit price.

With 'Museum" in the name, I was expecting more of a, you know, museum. The Turquoise Museum seems to be more showroom than museum. The folks that run the place are clearly turquoise experts as the book they've written is here and on sale along with quite a lot of turquoise and silver jewelry. The stuff on sale is a bit more expensive than you'll find in the Old Town gift shops but the difference is that these folks have a reputation to maintain. Expect the quality to be there and there will not be fakes. I opted not to tour the turquoise museum. We looked about and considered making a purchase but instead, we left.

Nice place to see in Albuquerque. The tour guide was very knowledgeable and semi funny. I learned a lot about turquoise that I didn't even know before. They only have 2 tours a day 11am & 1pm. This place is located in a strip mall so don't worry you are in the right place. Also depending the doors open 15 mins before the tour so you may see a blue curtain pulled if you get there early. Overall the tour was good... the only downside is that you can not take pictures during.

terrible service, honestly a waste of money and time. staff there is atrocious, would never come back to this establishment again.

Total learning experience. I had visited last yr when they were next to walgreen drug store. This new place is so engaging. The staff is extremely knowledgeable. The 30 min class was extremely helpful They give you a basic education on Turquoise. Learned much more then 1st time. Would have liked a little more info on castle. Like when it was built. How long did it take. Who designed it? I will return with friends again. Best is you can stay as long as u like. I give it 5 Stars.

This is a fun place if you enjoy Turquoise and from the many areas of the globe. I collect rocks. Some value huh? Turquoise is a favorite and some of the offerings are simply amazing. I also enjoyed the historic building. I believe I was told 132 chandeliers in the place. I believe it, they are everywhere and they are beautiful. My host loved having a Doris Day moment walking down the grand staircase. I took pics. Questions? Ask away as Michael is a most wonderful guide. Thank you Michael for the personal tour. I didn't mind the fee as I was interested in the minerals. A small cafe would be outstanding in the rear of the building near the pool and savor a grand lifestyle if even for only a moment. Coffee and a sweet. If you like blue rocks and I do, then you will enjoy this offering. Recommend. Thank you.

If you wanna go "play" in a castle, view turquoise from around the world, and learn how it's crafted.... this is the place to be! The castle alone is neat to see! Staff was friendly. You can purchase turquoise in their gift shop. Ticket were $20 each... which I think was too pricey. But, it is a beautiful place

Definitely a unique New Mexico experience. Enter through the gift shop, a less glamorous but more profitable access point than the sweeping front doors to the storied local mansion. Take the time to soak in the surroundings themselves as much as the abundance of information and examples of the Southwest's favorite stone. Some parts of the building are off-limits, but one is mostly free to roam around. There's nearly as much history about the first family of turquoise as there is about the stone itself, enough to satisfy the mildly curious and the history buff alike. A fun, if somewhat underwhelming way to experience a bit of indulgent architecture and local legend.

This is for the total douchebag who just approached us in the parking lot. Don't expect a warm welcome here. We just barely parked our car and were heading across the street to get coffee before going back to the turquoise museum. This idiot doesn't even give us the opportunity to do the right thing. Comes saying how this is a private parking lot and ONlY for patrons of the museum. We told him we were going to get a coffee and then we would be in the museum. As much as my wife loves turquoise at this point the attitude from little mr douche changed our mind completely. Obviously parking was at a high demand anyway, more than a dozen spaces and only 2 being used.

Don't waste your time. They've taken a couple of abandoned buildings in a dumpy part of Albuquerque and misrepresented them as old buildings, when in fact they are only a few years old. As for the displays, while they are nice...clearly one can see the emphasis is on the gift shop and jacking people for $20. Won't be back.

As a rockhound, I have a special appreciation for folks who really love rocks and these people are the real deal. The museum has lots of great history about a multi-generation love of turquoise. The specimens are from 40+ mines from the Southwest and abroad (Asia, Middle East, etc). Also great information for consumers about turquoise grading, jewelry, and authenticity. They offer two tours: 11am and 1pm (Mon-Sat). Reservations can be made on their website or you can call directly. The gift shop is also open before the tours to allow you to peruse a variety of turquoise (primarily from the Southwest).

When you read the reviews, it is important to understand that the museum has moved from a strip mall into a small castle in downtown ABQ and the experience is utterly changed. The house is as interesting as the turquoise -- the old chandeliers, furniture, books, etc. are in view and the setting for the turquoise display is amazingly open, easy to navigate. The turquoise is -- wonderful. We did not take the tour, but there were decent explanations of the geology, mining, etc. throughout, although some of the signs could have been printed in larger type (okay, I'm old). They did sort of jump into the world of semi-fake turquoise (stabilized, howlite, etc.) without a great deal of explanation as to how/why it all developed, but I am sure it was covered on the tour. This would be a perfect venue for an audio tour and I cannot wait until they finish the gardens. Well staffed, very enjoyable morning. We all loved it.

My ten year old daughter and I really enjoyed our visit to this small, but very informative and well thought out museum. Although she's young, she has a keen interest in gems, minerals, and geology. We both love turquoise. We planned to purchase a piece of turquoise jewelry on this trip. We looked into this museum prior to landing in Albuquerque. So glad we did! The displays in the museum were organized in a logical and entertaining format. The museum is small, however loaded with artifacts and numerous descriptions.one could spend hours if you wanted to thoroughly read everything in detail. We didn't have a lot of time. But we came away with so much information. Plus, we both bought lovely pieces of turquoise jewelry from their store. Jacob is a sweet young man. He is following in the footsteps of his grandfather in running the family business. More power to him! His parents should be proud of him. He did a great job. Thanks to Jacob and his mom. :)

If you ever buy turquoise jewelry, spending some time at this museum will can save you money for years to come. This is a multi-generation collection being shared with us in a private museum with the purpose of educating us. Don't miss it. We had our first (but not last) visit to the Turquoise Museum Friday and really enjoyed it. I knew a little bit about turquoise, and now I know a great deal more, thanks to the Museum displays and Jacob's discussion. We applied our new knowledge Saturday in Santa Fe and avoided spending $200 on jewelry worth less than $50. Besides learning how to watch out for overpriced stones, we simply enjoyed learning how turquoise forms, how varied it is, and how international the sources are. And the beauty. Such beautiful stones! More than I could take in within just one visit. Yes, we'll be back.

Incredible display of Turquoise as you would expect. Lots of historical information provided. Staff was extremely helpful answering lots of questions. Check out the chandelier on the second floor. Worth much more than the price of admission.

The turquoise museum has a new home perfectly appropriate for the quality, depth and breadth of the collection! It is worth visiting, browsing around, learning about turquoise and the history behind it. The new location is elegant and flows beautifully so that there are opportunities to absorb, admire and inquire in a relaxed environment. It's well worth visiting for anyone who had ever been curious about turqouise!

What a surprise. Definitely would recommend a trip to the museum if you have any interests in historic homes, antique jewelry, or museum quality gems and minerals. The staff were wonderful and an excellent compliment the museum. Look forward to coming back on my next trip.