Rock Identifier
Blue-green faceted gemstone, likely turquoise or treated turquoise (Turquoise: hydrated copper–aluminum phosphate, CuAl₆(PO₄)₄(OH)₈·4H₂O; exact identification is uncertain from the image) — gemstone
gemstone

Blue-green faceted gemstone, likely turquoise or treated turquoise

Turquoise: hydrated copper–aluminum phosphate, CuAl₆(PO₄)₄(OH)₈·4H₂O; exact identification is uncertain from the image

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Small polished/faceted stone with vivid cyan-green color and bright vitreous-to-waxy luster. Turquoise is Mohs 5–6, opaque to slightly translucent, cryptocrystalline, and lacks visible cleavage; the bright sparkle may indicate a coated or composite specimen.

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Physical properties

Small polished/faceted stone with vivid cyan-green color and bright vitreous-to-waxy luster. Turquoise is Mohs 5–6, opaque to slightly translucent, cryptocrystalline, and lacks visible cleavage; the bright sparkle may indicate a coated or composite specimen.

Formation & geological history

Natural turquoise forms in arid, copper-rich oxidation zones, commonly millions of years old, through alteration of aluminum- and phosphorus-bearing rocks. It occurs in veins, nodules, and matrix within weathered host rock.

Uses & applications

Used in jewelry, inlay, carvings, and ornamental objects. High-quality natural material is valued for even color, while stabilized, dyed, reconstructed, or coated turquoise is much less valuable.

Geological facts

The color ranges from sky blue to green depending largely on copper and iron content. Similar-looking alternatives include chrysocolla, dyed howlite, glass, and synthetic materials.

Field identification & locations

Common sources include Arizona, Nevada, New Mexico, Iran, China, and Tibet. Check for natural matrix, waxy texture, moderate hardness, and density; a gemological test is needed because the image cannot confirm composition.