Meet Süleyman: The Turquoise Guy

Meet Süleyman, the turquoise guy.  Süleyman, or Solomon as English speakers would call him, opened his store in Cappadocia 10 years ago.  He is an artisan who creates silver settings for turquoise stones. 

Turquoise derives its name from the French turquois, which means “Turkish.”  During the Ottoman Empire the stone was mined in Persia (modern-day Iran) and transported through Turkey to Europe. (For more information about turquoise and its history, you can consult the experts at this website.) Süleyman told us that he buys his stones from Istanbul because there are machines there that cut the stones.  He said they break easily if you try to cut them by hand.  After receiving his order from Istanbul, he designs the settings for the stones.

My friend purchased a ring from Süleyman and he was able to adjust the size on the spot. I have purchased several pieces of jewelry from Süleyman over the years and they have all been wonderful.  If you find yourself in Cappadocia looking for a gift for someone or souvenir for yourself, I recommend you stop in at the Cappa Turca Souveneir Shop and ask for Süleyman the turquoise guy.

TO OUR FRIENDS IN THE WEST, KEEP LOOKING EAST!

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Leslie Connors

Leslie is a co-founder of West2East.  Originally from Tennessee, Leslie has called Turkey home for the past eight years.  To read more about her, click here.