gemstone

Blue-green polished gemstone, likely turquoise

Turquoise, hydrated copper aluminum phosphate: CuAl₆(PO₄)₄(OH)₈·4H₂O

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Typically opaque blue to blue-green with waxy luster; Mohs hardness 5–6, triclinic crystal system, and indistinct cleavage. The image is out of focus, so identification is provisional; it may also be dyed turquoise, chrysocolla, or blue glass.

Identified August 15, 2026More gemstone →

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At a glance

Common name: Blue-green polished gemstone, likely turquoise
Scientific name: Turquoise, hydrated copper aluminum phosphate: CuAl₆(PO₄)₄(OH)₈·4H₂O
Category: gemstone
Identified: August 15, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

$5–$30 for common stabilized or dyed pieces; $50–$500+ for attractive natural turquoise, with exceptional untreated material costing much more.

Not an official valuation

AI estimate for general interest only — not an appraisal. Actual value depends on condition, provenance, and market demand. Verify with a professional before buying, selling, or insuring.

This identification was generated by AI and may contain errors. Verify important details before relying on them — and never use an AI result to judge whether a specimen is safe to handle. Read the full disclaimer

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms as a secondary mineral in arid, copper-rich, aluminum- and phosphate-bearing rocks, commonly by groundwater alteration. Deposits are generally Cenozoic to older, with famous sources in Iran, the southwestern United States, China, Chile, and Egypt.

Uses & applications

Used for cabochons, beads, carvings, and ornamental objects; historically important in jewelry and ritual art. Lower-grade material is often stabilized with resin or reconstructed from powder.

Geological facts

Natural turquoise commonly has a porous, chalky texture and may show brown or black limonite matrix veining. Color can fade or change with heat, chemicals, oils, and prolonged wear.

Field identification & locations

Check for opaque color, relatively low hardness, a waxy surface, and natural matrix; glass is usually harder and more vitreous, while dyed howlite often shows dye concentrated in cracks. A gemological test is needed for certainty.