mineral

Blue-green turquoise (probable)

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

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Opaque blue to blue-green, typically waxy to dull luster; Mohs hardness 5–6, cryptocrystalline aggregate, no obvious cleavage, and specific gravity about 2.6–2.8. The small rounded piece may be polished or tumbled; image-based identification is not definitive.

Identified August 15, 2026More mineral →

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At a glance

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

AI Estimated Value

About $2–$20 for a small common or stabilized piece; $50–$500+ for high-grade natural turquoise, depending on color, matrix, provenance, and workmanship.

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, phosphate-bearing weathering zones, commonly replacing host rock near copper deposits. Deposits range from tens to hundreds of millions of years old depending on locality.

Uses & applications

Used as a gemstone, cabochon, bead, and ornamental material; historically important in jewelry and religious objects. Stabilized or dyed turquoise is common commercially.

Geological facts

Natural turquoise often contains brown or black limonite/matrix veining, though some varieties are nearly uniform blue. Similar-looking materials include chrysocolla, dyed howlite, variscite, and synthetic turquoise.

Field identification & locations

Check for opaque blue-green color, waxy texture, moderate hardness, and a warm, nonmetallic appearance; avoid relying on color alone. Major sources include Iran, the southwestern United States, China, Egypt, and Mexico.