mineral

Decorated turquoise-like bead or mineral pendant

Likely turquoise [CuAl₆(PO₄)₄(OH)₈·4H₂O], possibly dyed composite or blue-green jasper

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

A small polished, cylindrical blue-green specimen with brown/black matrix and a glossy surface; apparent gold-colored metal fittings are human-made. Turquoise has Mohs hardness 5–6, waxy to subvitreous luster, cryptocrystalline structure, and no visible cleavage.

Identified September 14, 2026More mineral →

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At a glance

Common name: Decorated turquoise-like bead or mineral pendant
Scientific name: Likely turquoise [CuAl₆(PO₄)₄(OH)₈·4H₂O], possibly dyed composite or blue-green jasper
Category: mineral
Identified: September 14, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $5–$30 for common treated jewelry pieces; approximately $50–$300+ for authenticated natural turquoise, depending on origin and quality.

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

Natural turquoise forms as a secondary copper-aluminum phosphate in arid, oxidized zones of copper deposits, commonly millions of years old; the pictured item appears shaped and assembled as jewelry. Exact identification and age cannot be established from the photograph.

Uses & applications

Used for beads, cabochons, carvings, and jewelry; lower-grade material is often stabilized, dyed, or reconstructed.

Geological facts

Blue-green color with dark matrix is characteristic of turquoise, but similar appearances occur in dyed howlite, chrysocolla, variscite, and composite materials.

Field identification & locations

Check for natural irregular matrix, moderate softness, and a warm waxy luster; avoid destructive tests because coatings and treatments are common. Major sources include Iran, the southwestern United States, Mexico, and China.