mineral

Turquoise

CuAl6(PO4)4(OH)8·4H2O (Hydrous phosphate of copper and aluminium)

Hardness: 5-6 (Mohs scale), Color: Sky blue to apple green, Luster: Waxy to subvitreous, Crystal structure: Triclinic (usually cryptocrystalline), Cleavage: None/Perfect (rarely seen), Specific gravity: 2.6-2.9.

Identified April 6, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Secondary mineral formed by the action of percolating acidic solutions during the weathering and oxidation of pre-existing minerals. Typically found in arid regions in veins or pipes traversing altered igneous rocks.

Uses & applications

Predominantly used as a gemstone in jewelry (beads, cabochons, carvings) and for ornamental purposes. It has significant cultural use in Native American and Middle Eastern crafts.

Geological facts

Turquoise is one of the oldest known gemstones, used by Ancient Egyptians as early as 3000 BCE. Its name comes from the French 'turquois' meaning 'Turkish', as it was historically brought to Europe through Turkey.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its distinctive blue-green color, lack of transparency (opaque), and characteristic brown or black matrix veins. In the field, look for it in arid climates near copper deposits. Commonly found in Southwestern USA, Iran, and China.

Other mineral specimens

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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)]

mineral

Epidote

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

mineral