mineral

Blue-green turquoise-like stone

Turquoise, hydrated copper aluminum phosphate — CuAl₆(PO₄)₄(OH)₈·4H₂O; possibly dyed turquoise or chrysocolla

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness 5–6 Mohs; opaque blue-green color with a waxy to dull luster and cryptocrystalline structure. The irregular tumbled or rough fragment shows no obvious cleavage; exact identification requires testing because the image is inconclusive.

Identified August 15, 2026More mineral →

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At a glance

Common name: Blue-green turquoise-like stone
Scientific name: Turquoise, hydrated copper aluminum phosphate — CuAl₆(PO₄)₄(OH)₈·4H₂O; possibly dyed turquoise or chrysocolla
Category: mineral
Identified: August 15, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $5–$30 for a small common or treated fragment; $50–$500+ for attractive, confirmed natural turquoise, with exceptional provenance-grade material worth 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

Turquoise forms as a secondary mineral in arid, copper-rich environments through groundwater alteration of aluminum- and phosphorus-bearing rocks, commonly over millions of years. Major deposits occur in Iran, the southwestern United States, China, Egypt, and Chile.

Uses & applications

Used for cabochons, beads, carvings, and ornamental objects; lower-grade material is used for decorative stone. It is generally unsuitable for construction aggregate.

Geological facts

Natural turquoise often contains brown or black limonite/chalcedony matrix, while stabilized or reconstituted material is common in jewelry. Chrysocolla and dyed howlite can closely resemble it.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its blue-green opaque color, relatively low hardness, waxy texture, and copper reaction in specialized tests; avoid destructive testing on valuable pieces. Common sources include Arizona, Nevada, New Mexico, Iran, and China.