mineral

Blue-green turquoise (probable)

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

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Opaque blue-green, typically waxy to dull luster with a cryptocrystalline aggregate structure; Mohs hardness 5–6, no obvious cleavage, and specific gravity about 2.6–2.9. The specimen may also contain matrix or resemble chrysocolla, so visual identification is provisional.

Identified August 15, 2026More mineral →

Explore Blue-green turquoise (probable) in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

At a glance

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

AI Estimated Value

About $5–$30 for a small common rough piece; $50–$300+ for attractive, natural, well-documented turquoise, with exceptional gem-grade material much higher.

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, oxidized copper deposits when phosphate-bearing groundwater alters aluminum-rich rock. Most turquoise is Cenozoic to relatively young geologically, commonly associated with copper mineralization.

Uses & applications

Used as a gemstone, ornamental material, cabochons, beads, and carvings; lesser-grade material is used for specimens and stabilized jewelry. It has substantial cultural importance in Southwestern Native American jewelry.

Geological facts

Common localities include Iran, the southwestern United States, China, Egypt, Chile, and Mexico. Natural turquoise is porous and is often stabilized with resin; dyeing and synthetic imitations are also common.

Field identification & locations

Look for an opaque blue-to-green color, low glassy reflectivity, soft surface, and brown or black host-rock matrix; a streak, hardness, or laboratory test is safer than appearance alone. Avoid prolonged water, chemicals, and oils.