mineral

Turquoise

Hydrated phosphate of copper and aluminium [CuAl6(PO4)4(OH)8·4H2O]

Hardness: 5-6 (Mohs scale); Color: Sky blue to blue-green; Luster: Waxy to subvitreous; Crystal structure: Triclinic; Cleavage: Perfect; Specific gravity: 2.6-2.9.

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

Identified March 20, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 5-6 (Mohs scale); Color: Sky blue to blue-green; Luster: Waxy to subvitreous; Crystal structure: Triclinic; Cleavage: Perfect; Specific gravity: 2.6-2.9.

Formation & geological history

Formed as a secondary mineral in the oxidation zone of copper deposits through the percolation of acidic aqueous solutions. It is typically found in arid climates within volcanic or sedimentary rocks.

Uses & applications

Primary use is in jewelry and lapidary arts as cabochons, beads, and inlay work. Highly valued as a collector's gemstone and used in traditional Southwestern and Middle Eastern ornamentation.

Geological facts

Turquoise is one of the oldest gemstones in human history, mined by the Egyptians as early as 3000 BCE. Its name comes from the French 'turquois' meaning 'Turkish', as the stone first reached Europe via Turkey.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its unique sky-blue hue and lack of transparency. In the field, look for thin veins or crusts in desert environments near copper mines. Common locations include the Southwestern USA (Arizona, Nevada), Iran, and China.

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