mineral

Turquoise

Hydrated copper and aluminum phosphate (CuAl6(PO4)4(OH)8·4H2O)

Hardness: 5-6 (Mohs scale); Color: Sky blue, blue-green, apple green; Luster: Waxy to subvitreous; Crystal Structure: Triclinic (usually massive or cryptocrystalline); Cleavage: Perfect (rarely seen); Specific Gravity: 2.6–2.9

Hardness: 5-6 (Mohs scale)
Color: Sky blue, blue-green, apple green
Luster: Waxy to subvitreous

Identified March 27, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed by the percolation of acidic aqueous solutions during the weathering and oxidation of pre-existing minerals. It is a secondary mineral usually found in arid climates within volcanic or sedimentary host rocks, often associated with copper deposits.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as a gemstone/ornamental stone in jewelry (rings, necklaces, bolo ties). Occasionally used in inlaid carvings and decorative objects.

Geological facts

Turquoise is one of the oldest gemstones in history; it was mined by Ancient Egyptians as early as 3000 BCE and held deep spiritual significance for Native American tribes in the Southwest US.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its unique 'robin's egg' blue color and dark spider-web patterns (matrix). In the field, look for thin veins in weathered aluminum-rich rocks in desert environments like Arizona, Nevada, Iran, or China. Beware of 'Howlite' dyed to look like turquoise.

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Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)

Arenite (SiO2 based)

sedimentary

Epidote

Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)

metamorphic

Nephrite Jade

Nephrite

Mineral/Rock

Banded Gneiss (River Rock/Pebble)

Gneiss (specifically a banded variety often found as a river rock)

Metamorphic Rock

Green Apatite on Albite

Fluorapatite [Ca5(PO4)3F] on Albite [Na(AlSi3O8)]

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Epidote

Epidote - Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)3(SiO4)3(OH)

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