Campitos Turquoise, sourced from the Pino Chueco and Cananea mines in Sonora, Mexico, has a rich history of trade with Native American cultures, particularly the Toltecs and Aztecs, who valued this stone highly. Unique in its formation, Campitos turquoise primarily occurs as free-form nuggets in clay, making it distinct from many North American varieties that grow in vein structures. Its color closely resembles that of Sleeping Beauty Turquoise, featuring a range from light to medium blue, often with attractive pyrite inclusions that add sparkle. Since the 1980s, the mine has operated under strict government regulations that limit the use of heavy machinery, allowing for more artisanal methods; currently, around 400 to 500 pounds of turquoise are extracted weekly, with a workforce that can range from 50 to 200 workers based on demand. After extraction, the turquoise is cleaned in a mixer and, if necessary, by hand, depending on its hardness and dirtiness, making it a favored choice among jewelry artisans for its beauty and quality.