Rock Identifier
Carved turquoise arrowhead/pendant (Turquoise, hydrated copper aluminum phosphate — CuAl₆(PO₄)₄(OH)₈·4H₂O) — gemstone
gemstone

Carved turquoise arrowhead/pendant

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

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Blue-green, opaque to slightly translucent, waxy to subvitreous luster; Mohs hardness 5–6, triclinic structure, poor cleavage, and specific gravity about 2.6–2.9. The object appears carved and polished, with possible brown host-matrix or staining.

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Physical properties

Blue-green, opaque to slightly translucent, waxy to subvitreous luster; Mohs hardness 5–6, triclinic structure, poor cleavage, and specific gravity about 2.6–2.9. The object appears carved and polished, with possible brown host-matrix or staining.

Formation & geological history

Turquoise forms as a secondary mineral in arid, copper-rich, aluminum- and phosphate-bearing rocks through groundwater alteration, commonly during Cenozoic weathering. It is not possible to determine the specimen’s geological age from the image.

Uses & applications

Used for jewelry, beads, carvings, and ornaments; historically valued by many cultures. Inferior or stabilized turquoise is also common in commercial craftwork.

Geological facts

Its blue color comes mainly from copper, while green tones can reflect iron or dehydration. Color, hardness, and appearance can be imitated by dyed howlite, plastic, or composite materials.

Field identification & locations

Common sources include Iran, the southwestern United States, China, Chile, and Mexico. Confirm with testing: turquoise is opaque, softer than quartz, and should not scratch glass reliably; avoid destructive tests on a carved piece.